🎣 Fishing and Sami life: traditions, methods and cultural influence

Fishing is an integral part of the Sami people's life and culture, forming an important part of their traditional way of life. In the harsh northern conditions, fish became a key source of food and livelihood for Sami communities. Traditional fishing methods and ways of preserving fish are closely linked to the culture, history and even spiritual practices of this people. In this article, we will discuss how fishing has influenced Sami culture, how it is preserved in modern life and what methods the Sami have used and continue to use to catch fish.

🌊 What role does fishing play in Sami culture?

Fishing plays a vital role in the lives of the Sami, especially those who live along coastal waters such as Lofoten and Finnmark. It was a key source of food alongside reindeer herding and hunting, providing the protein and fat necessary for survival in the northern climate. In addition, fishing is linked to many ritual practices and myths. The Sami believe that fish are a gift from nature and should be treated with respect. Fishing also strengthened ties between communities, as collective fishing methods were often practised and huts for storing the catch were important centres of life.

🧂 How do the Sami traditionally preserve fish?

Preserving fish was critical for the Sámi, especially during the winter when access to fresh food was limited. Traditional methods include salting and drying fish. Suovas is dried fish that can be stored for a long time and serves as a valuable source of food during the long winter. In addition, fish was often dried in the sun or in special rooms, such as ventilated huts, where the fish could be kept dry. The Sami also used a method of freezing fish to preserve it for long periods. In some regions, fish was also smoked, which added flavour and helped to preserve it for longer.

🎣 What fishing methods do the Sami people use?

Traditional fishing methods among the Sami varied depending on the area, but all were closely connected to nature and practised with great respect for the environment. One of the main methods of fishing was the use of nets. The Sami traditionally used large nets that were stretched along the banks of rivers and lakes to catch fish such as pike and salmon. In some regions, fish traps were used, such as the verk, wooden structures that allowed fish to be caught in rivers and lakes using natural water currents. The Sami also used fishing hooks made from bone, wood or metal. This method was particularly effective for catching large fish such as salmon.

🏞️ The influence of fishing on the life and culture of the Sami people

Fishing, like other traditional industries, is deeply integrated into the life and culture of the Sami people. It determined their daily existence and helped form social ties within communities. For example, collective fishing expeditions were an important element of socialisation, where elders taught young people traditional fishing methods. In addition, fishing influenced the symbolism and rituals associated with nature and mythology. Fish were often associated with guardian spirits, and fishing could be considered a sacred process requiring certain rituals. Inspiration from nature and respect for its gifts were also reflected in Sami art, where fish and other sea creatures often became images on fabrics, carvings and paintings.

Fishing is not just a means of obtaining food, but an important cultural practice that defines the Sami way of life and worldview. It is linked to a respect for nature and traditions passed down from generation to generation. The use of natural resources with deep knowledge and care is the basis of the Sami people's existence and continues to influence their way of life and culture. Today, traditional fishing methods are preserved and adapted to modern conditions, ensuring the continuity of cultural practices and the continuation of the historical tradition that connects the Sami people with nature.

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