Traditional Fishing in Cartagena

Along the shores of Cartagena Bay and in the fishing villages that surround it, artisanal fishing remains a living practice passed down through generations. Taking part in a traditional fishing outing means witnessing techniques inherited from Afro-Colombian and indigenous communities: hand-cast nets, wooden pirogues, and the ability to read currents. A genuine immersion in the local coastal economy, far from mainstream tourist circuits.

What You'll See

Outings typically begin early in the morning, departing from villages such as La Boquilla, situated north of Cartagena on the edge of the Ciénaga de la Virgen. Fishermen primarily use gill nets cast from oared or motorised pirogues. Common catches include snapper, mullet, and various lagoon species. Some families also practise line fishing or cast-net fishing.

History and Context

La Boquilla is one of the oldest fishing villages in the Cartagena region. Its predominantly Afro-Colombian population perpetuates fishing knowledge that predates Spanish colonisation, adapted to the unique environment of the ciénaga — a brackish lagoon separated from the Caribbean Sea by a narrow coastal ridge. These communities have faced mounting pressure from real estate development linked to Cartagena's tourism boom over the past several decades.

Highlights of Your Visit

The Net Cast

The most visually spectacular technique, the circular cast of a gill net demands years of practice. Fishermen often allow visitors to try, under their supervision. The precise movement, reading the wind and water surface are all part of the learning experience.

The Pirogue in the Ciénaga

Navigating the Ciénaga de la Virgen aboard a wooden pirogue allows you to observe the mangrove forest up close. The fishermen know the spawning zones, passages between the roots, and the bird species present — herons, frigatebirds, kingfishers.

Preparing the Catch

Some families offer to cook part of the day's catch on site, using local recipes such as grilled fish or seafood soup. This is often the part participants enjoy most.

Photography Tips

Light is optimal in early morning, when the sun is low over the lagoon. The net cast offers a striking silhouette against the light. Protect your camera from moisture and splashes — a waterproof case is recommended. Always ask the fishermen's permission before photographing them closely.

Location and Access

The village of La Boquilla lies about fifteen kilometres north of Cartagena's historic centre, accessible by taxi or shared bus from the Bocagrande terminal. Several local agencies and independent guides offer organised outings departing from Cartagena, with transport included. It is also possible to travel directly to the village and approach fishing families, though Spanish is essential in this case.

Access to the beach and lagoon is easy on foot from the village. The terrain is flat; climbing into a pirogue requires a minimum of agility.

Nearby Attractions

• Ciénaga de la Virgen — coastal lagoon bordered by mangroves, the direct setting for fishing outings.
• La Boquilla Beach — sandy beach frequented by locals, with fresh fish restaurants.
• Cartagena's Old Town — UNESCO-listed historic centre, about thirty minutes' drive away.
• Rosario Islands — coral archipelago accessible by boat from Cartagena, to extend your maritime experience.