Life on the Tigris: Ancient profession of fishing gets caught in net of war

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Europe

03:44

The Tigris River is arguably Iraq's most important waterway, connecting cities and nurturing people since the dawn of one of mankind's earliest civilizations. Fishermen used to be part of the scenery on the river. But a sudden decline in water levels, together with severe pollution, has caused this ancient profession to nearly disappear. Fu Xinrui reports.

AHMED HASSAN LILO FISHERMAN "I started learning fishing when I was 12. I got interrupted for some time and then made a living on it ever since. Now I am totally used to this profession."

Wild fish in the Tigris have always been a popular cuisine among Iraqi people. Although there are all kinds of imported fish on the market, for decades, Lilo managed to feed his family through fishing.

It requires both stamina and skill to be a good fisherman. The boat should be controlled with paddles instead of motors, so the fish won't be scared away by the noise. At the same time, the net should be spread in a curve to catch as many fish as possible.

After nearly an hour's effort, it's time to draw the net. In the past, there would be at least more than 10 per catch, but today the number is only one. Nevertheless, Lilo is grateful that he won't be going back empty-handed.

AHMED HASSAN LILO FISHERMAN "There's too little water in the river. Wild fish like carp swim up against the current by nature if there is not enough water. How can they manage to swim upstream."

The water level has fallen. Now it's only half what it once was – just 5-to-10 meters deep. Part of the riverbed is exposed and invaded by weeds. The deteriorating water quality is another problem, with garbage and sewage directly emptied into the water. The water turns black and smelly. Virtually no fish are able to live in it.

AHMED HASSAN LILO FISHERMAN "Before no one dared to toss even a piece of cardboard in here because the government would impose a fine. Now if you received a fine notice, you just give the person 100 dollars and he will leave you alone."

The modern fishing industry did not defeat the fishermen on the Tigris. Neither did years of warfare, but infrastructure and negligence did.

AHMED HASSAN LILO FISHERMAN "There used to be about seventeen fishermen in this area. Now there are only five."

For Lilo, fishing is not a means of making money any more. The reason he insists on fishing is to maintain this traditional skill. At the bottom of his heart, there is a strong emotional bond between him and the river.

AHMED HASSAN LILO FISHERMAN "The Tigris is so important to me. It's like my life. All of my emotions are tied to it. I hope it can return to its past glory."

When we asked him what if someday there were no fish in the Tigris? Would he try to do some other job?

AHMED HASSAN LILO FISHERMAN "If the fishing ever stops, I would feel very confused. Where would I go next? I leave it to God."