General Knowledge of Assam - Complete Guide
What Are Assamese Fishing Tools – Juluki, Poloh, And Sepa?
Fishing is an age-old tradition in Assam, where rivers, ponds, and wetlands sustain local livelihoods. The people of Assam have long relied on bamboo fishing tools that are eco-friendly and effective. Among the most widely used traditional devices are Juluki, Poloh, and Sepa.
Juluki: A bamboo fishing trap, Juluki is often placed in narrow streams or shallow water channels where fish naturally swim through. Once fish enter the trap, its design prevents them from escaping, making it a practical tool for passive fishing. Used for fishing in shallow waters and can be considered a smaller variation of the Poloh. Similar in shape to a Poloh but smaller in size.
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Poloh: A dome-shaped bamboo device, Poloh is pressed into muddy water or paddy fields to cover an area where fish may be hiding. Fishermen then scoop out the trapped fish by hand, making it a popular method during floods or in rice fields. Made from bamboo and cane slips.
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Sepa: A hand-thrown fishing net or woven trap, Sepa requires skill and timing. It is cast over water surfaces to catch fish directly and is commonly used during the monsoon season when fish are plentiful. An oblong-shaped trap designed to act as a cage. It features a valve through which fish can enter but cannot escape.
These tools are more than just instruments for fishing—they represent the traditional wisdom and sustainable practices of rural Assam. Even today, Juluki, Poloh, and Sepa remain part of everyday life, connecting people with nature and preserving Assamese cultural heritage.