Koggala Beach — Stick Fishing

The stick fishermen of Koggala — known locally as "stilt fishermen" — are one of the most iconic subjects in travel photography, balancing on a single pole driven into the reef to fish by hand line while the Indian Ocean breaks around them. Koggala's stilt positions are among the most photographed in Sri Lanka, set against the backdrop of Koggala Lake's mangrove fringe and the old seaplane base that hosted Second World War RAF flying boats.

Guests visit at dawn or dusk for optimal light and can engage directly with the fishermen, learning about the technique and its history from the practitioners themselves.

Shorta Tours arranges Koggala Beach — Stick Fishing as part of a tailored private itinerary, providing expert guides, comfortable private transfers, and hand-picked operators to ensure a seamless and truly memorable experience.

The stilt fishing tradition along this stretch of the south coast is believed to have developed during or shortly after the Second World War, when food scarcity drove coastal fishermen to exploit reef areas too shallow for boats. The stilts at Koggala are associated with specific fishing families whose use rights have been maintained through generations, and the positions are considered valuable assets passed from father to son.

The RAF Koggala seaplane base (operational 1941–1946), whose concrete slipways are still visible, adds a layer of wartime history to the site.

Today, Koggala Beach — Stick Fishing remains one of the highlights of visiting south coast, drawing guests from around the world who seek its unique combination of history, nature, and authentic Sri Lankan character.

Interaction with the fishermen is informal; a small payment in exchange for photography or a turn on the stilt is customary. The best light is 30 minutes after sunrise or before sunset.

Shorta Tours coordinates timing and introduces guests to specific families.

Essential items to pack: Camera, tripod if available, cash for tips, comfortable footwear..