A remarkable catch made waves in the fishing community of Kuakata as a gargantuan ilish fish, weighing a hefty two and a half kilograms, found its way into the net of seasoned fisherman Idris. The exceptional catch eventually fetched Tk13,000 on Sunday.
Bashir Gazi, a local fishmonger, secured the extraordinary fish by outbidding competitors with a final offer of Tk12,039 through Samira Fees at Mayor Bazar.
Gazi swiftly resold the prized hilsa to another eager buyer, closing the deal at a round figure of Tk13,000.
When asked about his purchase, Bashir Gazi said: "An ilish of this caliber, weighing two and a half kilograms, is a rarity in our market. I seized the opportunity at the auction and successfully sold the fish for Tk13,000, securing a profit of 1,000 taka in the process."
The substantial catch has sparked optimism among local fishermen, with Kalapara Upazila Fisheries Officer Apu Saha emphasizing the positive impact of larger ilish in the region. Beyond deep-sea fishermen, coastal fishers are now reaping the benefits of encountering these sizable ilish specimens, heralding a promising future for the local fishing industry.
Ilish production in the country has increased considerably over the past few years. After a 65-day ban on fishing in the Bay ended on July 23, the market has been abuzz with the presence of fishermen, traders and workers related to ilish fish.
Bangladesh is the first among 11 countries in the world that harvest ilish. It is called the national fish and geographical indication product of Bangladesh. This also is widely popular not only in Bangladesh but also in many other countries for its unique taste and smell.
The smell and taste of ilish is different from other fish due to the high content of certain types of fatty acids. Sea ilish contain less of these fatty acids, as ilish fish consume a large amount of plankton after swimming up river to lay eggs.
About 700,000 people of Bangladesh are directly involved in ilish fishing, and 2-2.5 million people are indirectly involved by making nets and other netting equipment, ice making, transportation, marketing, sales, and other areas.
According to the official data, the production of ilish in the financial year 1999-20 stood at 219,000 tons, and it had increased to 567,000 tons in the last financial year 2021-22.
According to Bangladesh Fisheries Research Institute, the Maximum Sustainable Yield (MSY) of ilish is currently 702,000 tons.
Ilish schooling usually takes place in coastal areas, and the fish is available up to 1,200-1,300km upstream from the mouth of the sea, and up to 250 km from the coast.
At present, ilish is found in 100 rivers and streams of 38 districts, including the sea, estuaries and coasts of the country. However, six coastal districts of the country are known as ilish sanctuaries.
