Fish harvest in South Bohemia, Czech Republic by David Sladek

Public Story

Fish harvest in South Bohemia, Czech Republic

Copyright David Sladek 2024

Date of Work Oct 2021 - Oct 2021

Updated Nov 2021

Location jižní čechy

Topics Black and White, Documentary, Fishing Traditions, Photography, Photojournalism

Thousands of fish ponds are scattered across the South Bohemian region of Czech Republic as a reminder of one of the oldest industries dating back to medieval times. Most fish harvests happen in the autumn, starting early in the morning and forcing fishermen deep in the cold water and mud regardless of weather. Some ponds are so large that the harvest may take a week to complete. Tons of mostly carp but also other fish are fetched for the Christmas market. Czech traditional Christmas dinner isn't a turkey as in many Western cultures, but a breaded carp with potato salad. Fish soup is also very common as a starter. In the past, many families would buy carp at the street markets and bring them home for the kids to play in the bath. Fathers would then take care of the killing and cleaning of he fish. Nowadays, most carp are killed by the street sellers and take home ready for cooking.

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David Sladek

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