The New Wave of Water Sports: How Angling in Odisha is Merging Adventure with Conservation
Promoting sustainable fishing to boost tourism and preserve river biodiversity
For decades, the vast water bodies of Odisha were viewed primarily through the lens of livelihood. However, a quiet revolution is taking place across the state’s rivers and coastlines. Spearheaded by the Odisha Angling Club and the Angling and Adventure Company, the sport of recreational fishing is gaining significant momentum. This movement is not just about the thrill of the catch; it is a concerted effort to promote conservation, boost tourism, and redefine the outdoor lifestyle in the region.
The journey toward establishing a formal angling community began with humble roots. For the founder of the Odisha Angling Club, Abhijeet Das the passion was ignited in village kitchen ponds, assisting family members with basic bait and rod transportation. However, a trip to Goa in 2010 transformed this childhood curiosity into a professional pursuit. Witnessing the vibrant culture of lure fishing and receiving mentorship from the online community opened doors to competitive events, including a runner-up finish at a saltwater competition in Maharashtra. Plans to work as a professional guide in the Andamans were halted by an accident, but this setback proved to be a blessing for Odisha. It redirected the focus back home, leading to the creation of a local platform dedicated to high-quality tackle and angling trips.
Today, the core mission of the angling community in the state is clear: "Conservation through Angling." The club distinguishes itself from traditional fishing by emphasizing the "catch and release" method. This approach is vital for the health of Odisha’s river systems, which currently face immense pressure from pollution, industrial waste, and destructive illegal fishing practices like the use of dynamite and poison. By promoting sport fishing as a tourism asset, the club aims to prove that a fish is more valuable alive than dead, creating a sustainable economic model that benefits local communities without depleting biodiversity.
The perception of angling in Odisha has shifted dramatically. Once dismissed by locals as a waste of time, it is now recognized for its mental health benefits and connection to nature. WhatsApp groups dedicated to the sport have sprung up in almost every district, signaling a growing camaraderie among enthusiasts. Whether it is the pursuit of the mighty Mahanadi Mahseer, the elusive Goonch, or the challenging Barramundi in the estuaries, the state offers diverse experiences for every skill level.
For travelers, the Angling and Adventure Company curates unique itineraries that blend the thrill of the sport with immersive cultural experiences. These expeditions, which have already attracted tourists from Japan, Denmark, and the USA, might involve camping under the stars on a river island one night and staying in a heritage palace the next.
Despite the potential, challenges remain. The health of the Mahanadi River and other bodies of water has deteriorated due to habitat loss and pollution. The community is advocating for stronger government support, including the enforcement of habitat restoration laws and the potential creation of a dedicated fishing park in Bhubaneswar.
With 600 kilometers of coastline and a vast network of rivers, Odisha is poised to become a premier destination for anglers globally. As the local experts suggest, in these waters, every cast holds the promise of encountering a new species, making it a frontier waiting to be explored.
