This is one of our favorite and most exclusive tours in Bangladesh and leaves from Khulna. You’ll get to witness the unique experience of the fishermen catching fish in cooperation with others. For this tour we’ll leave Khulna at 9 AM and will arrive at the village near 11:30 to meet the fishermen, which have also been documented by BBC, National Geographic and other media. We’ll also have lunch here and will be back in Khulna in the late afternoon. 

Otter fishing is a traditional fishing method that has been practiced in Bangladesh for centuries. It involves the use of trained otters to catch fish in rivers and water bodies. Otter fishing is particularly popular in the southwestern part of Bangladesh, where the rivers and canals are abundant with fish.

The otters used for fishing are domesticated and trained by their handlers, who are known as “khalashis.” The otters are trained to chase and catch fish, and they are also trained to return the caught fish to their handlers. The khalashis use a special whistle to signal the otters to start fishing and to return to the boat once they have caught enough fish.

Otter fishing is not only an efficient way of catching fish but also an eco-friendly and sustainable fishing method. The use of otters eliminates the need for fishing nets and hooks, which can cause harm to other aquatic animals and damage the ecosystem.

However, the practice of otter fishing is declining due to various factors, including habitat loss, pollution, and the availability of alternative fishing methods. Efforts are being made to preserve this traditional craft and to promote sustainable otter fishing practices.