Fish Push Aqua Tourism Ahead In Kerala

Kerala is blessed with numerous water bodies that abound in fish, and these are now are being utilized to develop fish farms, the latest attraction for tourists in Kerala. The initiative was taken by Matsyafed, also known as the Kerala State Federation for Fisheries Development Ltd. Inspired by the fishing based tourism projects in West Bengal, Japan and the Philippines, Dr. Shobhana Kumar, Deputy General Manager of Matsyafed, convinced his organization that similar farms would be equally successful in Kerala as well. The Njarakkal Farm of Matsyafed was the pioneer in the field, and its success has led to the setting up of others too. Within a span of three years, fish farms have become very popular, as they offer economical and eco friendly alternatives to conventional tourism activities. Moreover, the pedaling and rowing of boats by the fishing tourists helps to replenish the dissolved oxygen in these water bodies, and improve the growth of the fish inhabiting them.
Tourists’ Delight
The fish farms of Kerala are a nature lover’s delight. Whatever the location, one thing is certain… every fish farm has a picture perfect setting, with breathtaking vistas of rippling water and swaying coconut palms. The entry fees are reasonable and cover a lazy day’s fishing, welcome drink and sea food lunch, as well as free pedal or row boat facilities. The guests can buy the caught fish at a highly subsidized rate, which is another great draw. There are eco friendly sheds for resting, and a canteen providing wholesome sea food. The farms stock five varieties of fish, which include pearl spot, prawns, and milk fish. The crowd pullers though are the milk fish that jump into the air at the slightest provocation. The fish population is maintained by seeds supplied by Matsyafed. The farms employ semi extensive pisiculture and use natural means to maintain the quality of water for improved breeding. Scientific rearing of the fish ensures that tourism does not affect aquaculture, the main purpose of the farms.
Investors Dream
Fish farms provide an exciting opportunity for investors, as interest in them snowballs among tourists. All that is needed is small plot of land – about 6 acres- a well constructed bund and implementation of healthy fish farming practices. The government encourages initiatives in this sector with subsidies, while Matsyafed provides technical assistance to investors. The relationship between aquaculture and tourism makes for a winning combination. The existing farms have reported almost double the profit after the tie up with tourism. The formula is simple- the tourist is given a boat, a simple fishing rod and the opportunity to spend the day lazing on the water…plus of course, some amazing sea food at very reasonable prices. The result? A happy tourist and a profitable investment in a venture that takes a different path from the much travelled houseboat, beach and hill station tourism circuit. Fish farms are indeed creating a splash in both the tourism and aquaculture sectors of Kerala today.