Colva: A productive fishing season along the Salcete coast is benefiting traditional fishermen and local youth from non-fishing families.Several youngsters buy fish directly from fishermen at beaches and resell them at roadside stalls. For many, this has become a supplementary source of income.Fisherman Luis Fernandes said the trend has helped fishing families. “Earlier, people close to the coast would buy fish directly from us. Whatever remained had to be stored on ice and sold the next day in the market, or we had to depend on wholesalers. Now, locals who are not from a fishing background are buying from us and selling it at different places in the villages,” said Fernandes.“They take the fish from us directly so we do not have to worry as much about refrigeration or finding buyers for the remaining catch,” he said.“It is good to see the youth realising that there are opportunities to work hard and earn here in Goa itself, instead of only dreaming of going abroad and spending time and money in the process,” said fisherwoman Albertina Rodrigues.Customers have welcomed the availability of fresh fish closer to home. “It is a blessing. The fish is extremely fresh. Earlier, we depended mainly on traditional fishermen and established vendors,” said Hector Vaz, a customer.Prices have increased slightly despite strong demand. Around 20 mackerels are being sold for about Rs 200, while a full basket costs around Rs 2,000, though buyers say the freshness justifies the rates.
