Where the River Slows Down, the Soul Follows: Fishing Along the Kundalika River

Flowing quietly from the Bhira dam, the Kundalika River carves its way through lush hills, remote villages, and fertile farmlands before finally merging with the Arabian Sea. While the river’s upper reaches are known for adrenaline-fueled rafting adventures, the lower stretches invite a different kind of engagement - the timeless practice of fishing.

Fishing here isn’t just a pastime it’s woven into the landscape’s rhythm. The river’s slower currents, the gentle sway of its banks, and the rich biodiversity beneath the surface offer a unique connection to nature that’s hard to find elsewhere.
 

Early Mornings on Kundalika: A Quiet Ritual

At daybreak, the river seems to hold its breath. A thin layer of mist drapes over the water, broken only by the subtle splash of a fish or the soft plunk of a fishing line hitting the surface. Birdsong replaces any human noise, setting a calm tone that draws anglers into a quiet focus.

This is not just about catching fish. It’s a moment to tune in - to the water’s flow, the sky’s light, and the subtle signs that tell you where the fish might be. The act of fishing here becomes a form of meditation, where patience is rewarded and every cast deepens your connection with the environment.
 

A Rich, Riverine Biodiversity

The Kundalika River supports a vibrant ecosystem, rich in freshwater fish species. Among the most common are:

• Tilapia
• Rohu and Catla
• Murrel (also called Snakehead)
• Indian Carp
• Various Barbs and Gourami

These species inhabit both the slower, sediment-rich bends and the smaller tributary inlets. The fish thrive in these habitats, where natural food sources abound and the water temperature fluctuates gently with the seasons.

Local anglers have honed their fishing techniques over generations. Traditional baits such as boiled rice, earthworms, and specially prepared dough balls flavored with local spices continue to be effective and preferred, reflecting a deep understanding of the river’s ecology.
 

Where to Cast Your Line on the Kundalika

For those planning a fishing trip, several spots along the Kundalika stand out:
 

• Kolad Region: Easily accessible, the riverbanks near Kolad offer convenience without compromising on the fishing experience. Several eco-resorts and riverside camps here include fishing gear and guided angling in their packages, making it a popular choice for novices and families.
• Bhira to Rawalje Stretch: This upstream section features deeper pools and quieter waters, ideal for anglers seeking a challenge. Post-monsoon months bring high water levels and increased fish activity, making this stretch especially rewarding.
• Tribal Fishing Villages:The river’s pulse is most authentic here. Encountering locals fishing from simple bamboo platforms or canoes gives visitors a glimpse into time-honored techniques. Occasionally, you might be invited to join or simply observe-learning the subtleties passed down through generations.

 

Nature Trails Resort: Your Riverside Basecamp

Among the accommodations that blend comfort with the wilderness spirit, Nature Trails Resort near Kolad stands out. This eco-friendly retreat offers well-appointed cottages and tents right on the riverbank, providing travellers with immediate access to prime fishing spots. Beyond fishing, the resort arranges guided nature walks, birdwatching sessions, and bonfire evenings-making it a perfect spot for those who want to immerse themselves fully in the riverside ecosystem. The staff are knowledgeable about local fish species and sustainable practices, ensuring your visit supports conservation efforts while enhancing your experience.
 

Angling with Awareness

Fishing in the Kundalika remains mostly unregulated, putting the onus on visitors to maintain sustainable practices:

• Opt for catch and release to help preserve fish populations.
• Avoid nets and fishing during spawning season (June to August) to protect breeding grounds.
• Respect the natural environment by avoiding litter, especially hazardous fishing gear like discarded hooks and lines.

Some eco-resorts actively collaborate with conservationists to offer eco-angling workshops. These sessions cover fish migration patterns, the river’s ecology, and sustainable harvesting-turning a simple fishing trip into an educational experience.
 

A Taste of the River: Culinary Traditions

For those who catch fish and wish to savor the fruits of their efforts, local culinary traditions offer fresh and robust flavors. The region’s signature dishes include:

• Spicy river fish curry, slow-cooked with regional spices
• Tangy sol kadhi, a refreshing kokum and coconut milk drink
• Freshly ground rice bhakri, the perfect accompaniment

Many resorts boast open kitchens or offer to prepare your catch in traditional style, infusing the dishes with coriander, kokum, and coconut tempering. Even if you’re not fishing, sampling these meals riverside-accompanied by the ambient sounds of flowing water-provides a memorable sensory experience.
 

Planning Your Fishing Escape

 

• Best Time to Visit: October through February, when the post-monsoon water levels stabilize and fish are most active.
• What to Bring:A collapsible fishing rod, biodegradable bait options, insect repellent, sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat for protection.
• Getting There:Kundalika lies roughly 120 km from Mumbai and about 100 km from Pune, with Kolad serving as the main gateway.
• Accommodation: Options range from rustic riverside cottages and eco-resorts like Nature Trails Resort to luxury glamping tents-all offering easy access to fishing spots.

 

Let the River Teach Patience and Presence

Fishing on the Kundalika River is more than a sport. It’s a practice in patience, attentiveness, and respect for nature’s pace. The fish don’t always bite immediately, but the river’s quiet flow offers a constant reminder: sometimes, the value lies not in the catch but in the calm and connection cultivated along the way.

Every cast holds a lesson; every ripple carries a story. For those willing to slow down, Kundalika is a place where the soul naturally follows the river’s gentle rhythm