Fishing Traditions on the Deatnu (Tana) River

Håvald Hansen is from Fanasgieddi in Tana. He is the director of the Sami Trade and Development Center, which focuses on Sami language and culture. He details fishing traditions that have been practiced from the 1970s to today, especially net fishing and spinning. Hansen believes that tradition is about the purpose behind fishing, not the methods. He believes practices like catch-and-release fishing are disrespectful. The Tana River, which is essential for salmon, has supported his family’s income through fishing. While fish farming negatively impacts traditional salmon fishing, they are still continuing. Legal rights to fish vary, but local management now controls fishing regulations. Even with many challenges, maintaining their fishing heritage is essential to maintaining their cultural identity and livelihoods.