Smithsonian magazine's 22nd Annual Photo Contest | Made possible through the support of MPB.com

22nd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Travel
Break Time

Intha fishermen take a dawn smoking break while enjoying the view of lilies on Inle Lake, Myanmar. Intha Lake fishermen, renowned for their distinctive technique, navigate the waterways with a remarkable leg-rowing style. Perched at the stern of their slender wooden boats, these skilled fishermen balance on one leg while the other is wrapped around the oar. With a synchronized motion, they propel the boat forward, their arms free to manage the intricacies of the conical nets. This unique technique, evolved over generations, allows them to navigate the lake's shallow waters, where reeds and floating gardens abound. Their dexterity extends to the handling of the conical nets, an artful craft passed down through ancestral knowledge. With precision and grace, they manipulate these nets using a circular motion, skillfully casting them into the water to ensnare the abundant fish that thrive in Inle Lake's rich ecosystem. The harmony between their rowing and net handling embodies a tradition that not only sustains their livelihood but also stands as a testament to their cultural heritage and intimate relationship with the lake.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 10.2023
Date Uploaded: 11.2024
Photo Location: inle lake, Myanmar
Camera: ILCE-7RM5
Copyright: © Barry Crosthwaite