Archive · 13 Nov 2025
Kolkata Anglers Cast a New Net, Changing Perceptions of Fishing
Imagine a fun fishing competition happening by a lake.
People came to try and catch the biggest fish!
But it's more than just fishing; it's about changing how people think about it.
For a long time, some people thought fishing was just for grown-ups wasting time.
Now, more and more people, even kids, are learning to fish as a real sport.
They have rules like catching a fish and then letting it go back in the water to stay healthy.
Everyone from old folks to young kids enjoyed the day, sharing tips and cheering each other on.
The organizers hope this event helps everyone see fishing as a cool sport with exciting challenges and a way to care for nature.
They want more places where people can fish happily and learn about keeping the water clean.
The 14th Bengal Anglers' Forum tournament was held at Eco Park, attracting 56 anglers.
Sanjoy Roy won the heaviest catch prize with an 11.02 kg Pangas, but organizers highlight social acceptance as the real victory.
The Forum is working to change the perception of angling from a pastime to a legitimate sport with skill and conservation ethics.
The tournament emphasizes a catch-and-release policy, promoting sustainable fishing and custodianship of water bodies.
Despite growing enthusiasm, challenges like urban sprawl and pollution persist, requiring more public spaces and educational programs for angling.
- Who
- Anglers, families, and organizers of the Bengal Anglers' Forum.
- What
- The 14th edition of the Bengal Anglers' Forum tournament, aiming to promote angling as a legitimate sport and foster social acceptance.
- When
- Over a weekend in November, concluding on Sunday, 9 November.
- Where
- Eco Park, New Town, Kolkata.
- Why
- To challenge the historical stigma associated with angling, promote sustainable fishing practices, and build a community around the sport.
Traditional View
Modern Sporting View
Perception of Angling
Traditional View
Historically viewed as a time-wasting indulgence, associated with idleness or an 'addiction'.
Modern Sporting View
Considered a legitimate sport requiring strategy, skill, and conservation ethics.
Social Acceptance
Traditional View
Faced stigma, with people questioning what others would think of engaging in fishing.
Modern Sporting View
Gaining social acceptance, with an increasing number of families and younger generations participating and learning the sport.
Focus of the Activity
Traditional View
Seen primarily as a leisure activity for the very rich or a way to pass time.
Modern Sporting View
Emphasizes camaraderie, competition, and the meditative yet thrilling experience of sport fishing.
- Event
- 14th Bengal Anglers' Forum tournament (11th at Eco Park)
- Location
- Eco Park, New Town, Kolkata
- Date
- November (concluded on Sunday, 9 November)
- Heaviest Catch Winner
- Sanjoy Roy (11.02 kg Pangas)
- Entry Fee
- Rs 2,800
- Catch-and-Release Policy
- All fish caught must be returned to the water alive after weighing and documentation.
- Tournament Categories
- Heaviest single catch and multiple catch total weight