Slightly towards the inland of Sri Lanka in the heart of Moratuwa, the Bolgoda lake clutches about 374 square kilometres of land. It is a natural eco system with varieties of fish swimming in abundance among fresh and slightly blackish water, thickly sheltered by mangroves. Located 19 kilometres away from the city of Colombo, this is a natural wonderland attracting a great deal of tourists to observe the aesthetic beauty of the spot and to enjoy an adrenaline rushed fishing game.
Take a break from lazing off in the sun baked sandy beaches stretched along the western province of the country and go fishing in Bolgoda lake. If staying at a hotel in Wadduwa such as the Blue Water Hotel Wadduwa, it is 30 to 40-minute drive to the location and the brilliant fishing adventure is worth every second spent.
The lake is rich with popular varieties of fish like; Mangrove Jack, Barramundi, Bull Eyed Mackeral, Barracudas and Smaller Travilly.
It is significant that fisherman in Bolgoda lake use a unique, rather primitive form of fishing especially in catching prawns, commonly referred to as ‘Ja Kotuwa’. This is a kind of trap made by bamboo dividers erected in the middle of the lake, artificial lights and kerosin lamps are fitted in the area to avoid fisherman crashing in to this.
When engaging in a fishing excursion, you will be interacting with experienced fisherman. Tour operators will provide you with proper instructions and techniques of fishing. The boats are usually equipped with safety gear together with drinking water for your refreshment during the trip. It is recommended that these trips be carried out during the morning hours between 6.30 am to 10 am and evening hours between 2.30 pm to 6pm as it is the recorded peak for harvest.
Auburn Silver is a travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
