Nestled in the Shan Plateau of northern Myanmar, Inle Lake is the country’s second-largest lake, offering a tranquil escape with its cool climate and scenic beauty.
Known for its floating islands and Myanmar's largest floating market, the lake also boasts a mesmerizing fishing technique practiced by its fishermen: rowing with one leg while casting nets.
The incredible leg rowing fishermen of Inle Lake
Video by Notes of Nomads
The fishermen’s movements resemble a dance, showcasing the ingenuity of their daily lives. This distinctive rowing style involves balancing the oar against one knee, using one leg to row while freeing both hands for fishing. This technique not only enhances rowing speed but also enables multitasking, a skill often described as a "water ballet." It’s no wonder that the English edition of Lonely Planet Myanmar chose an image of Inle Lake’s one-legged fishermen for its cover, surpassing even iconic landmarks like the Shwedagon Pagoda and U Bein Bridge.
The name “Inle” translates to “four lakes,” as the lake originally consisted of four smaller bodies of water. Local folklore tells of celestial maidens enchanted by the lake’s beauty who descended to live there forever. Nyaungshwe, located at the northern end of the lake, serves as the main gateway for visitors. From here, travelers board narrow, colorful diesel-powered boats to explore the lake, as these boats are better suited for its shallow, weed-filled waters despite their noisy engines.
Once on the lake, the serene waters stretch into the horizon, framed by misty mountain ranges. Early risers are greeted by birds gliding across the surface and fishermen already at work. A typical scene features a man standing on the prow of a small boat, holding a conical fishing net while rowing with one leg. With a bamboo pole, he stirs the water within the net to drive fish into the trap. The fisherman’s silhouette against the shimmering lake creates a picturesque sight, akin to a live performance of elegant choreography.
For the people of Inle Lake, water is an integral part of life. From childhood, they master the art of rowing, using small boats as their primary mode of transportation. Whether for school, visits, shopping, or even monks collecting alms, rowing is a daily necessity. Men traditionally row with their legs while standing, while women typically sit to paddle. Scholars speculate that this unique rowing method evolved to balance physical development, while locals explain that standing allows fishermen to peer over the lake’s tall reeds. This approach is both efficient and practical, enabling fishermen to row and fish simultaneously, a tradition widely practiced among Inle’s fishing communities.
Fishermen display remarkable grace as they row, their movements fluid and harmonious with their boats. Every step, from rowing to casting nets, demands meticulous balance and years of training. This traditional technique, while captivating, also holds practical health benefits, ensuring that the fishermen maintain the functional use of their legs despite their water-bound lifestyle.
From August, the rainy season begins, bringing unpredictable weather to Inle Lake. While conditions can change rapidly, fishermen remain undeterred unless strong winds arise. Among their methods is the "netting cage" technique, using bamboo-framed conical traps to ensnare larger fish. Observing their keen focus and precision, one marvels at their ability to balance and work efficiently on small, unstable boats.
This fishing tradition has endured for centuries, preserving the lake’s ecosystem. The sustainable methods ensure that Inle Lake remains pristine, with thriving fish populations. Respecting nature, the fishermen demonstrate a harmonious coexistence with their environment, fostering a delicate balance that sustains both the lake and its people.
Occasionally, fishermen are seen slapping the water with long poles, a strategy to drive fish into nets rather than knock down them outright. Interestingly, rod fishing is uncommon here, possibly due to practical inefficiencies or cost considerations.
As the sun sets over Inle Lake, the fishermen’s silhouettes resemble one-legged cranes against the golden waters, their nets poised and ready. While tourists often capture these moments up close, it has become customary to tip the fishermen for their cooperation, blending the art of fishing with a touch of tourism.
Though some lament the commercialization of this once purely subsistence activity, many locals have adapted by incorporating tourism into their livelihoods. Over time, fishing demonstrations have become a service, showcasing Inle Lake’s unique culture to visitors who reciprocate with gratitude.
Beyond fishing, the people of Inle Lake engage in activities such as farming on floating islands, weaving, and silk production. Life here, though simple and resource-scarce, exudes a profound sense of peace and contentment.
Despite being one of Myanmar’s poorest regions, the enduring traditions and harmonious relationship with nature make Inle Lake a source of pride for its inhabitants. For these communities, the lake is both a livelihood and a gift from the heavens.
Under the vast skies of Inle Lake, where faith and daily life intertwine, time seems to stretch endlessly. Visitors often find themselves enchanted, as if caught in a timeless reverie they never wish to leave.
