Kunstivoolu

Kunstivoolu is a fishing method originating from ancient Scandinavia. The term is derived from Old Norse, where "kunst" translates to art or skill, and "ivoolu" refers to the act of reeling in or hauling. This technique was commonly used by Viking fishermen to catch fish, particularly herring, in the coastal regions of Norway, Sweden, and Denmark.

Kunstivoolu involves setting up a series of lines or nets, known as "fleyke," which are suspended in the water and baited with fish innards or other lures. When fish take the bait, they become entangled in the fleyke, and the fishermen use a long-handled implement, called a "haust," to manually haul them in. This labor-intensive process requires great skill and physical strength, as the haust must be used to carefully lift the fish out of the water without damaging the catch.

The art of kunstivoolu was passed down through generations of Scandinavian fishermen and is still practiced today by enthusiasts seeking to connect with their heritage. While modern fishing methods have largely replaced kunstivoolu in commercial fishing, this traditional technique remains an important part of historical and cultural heritage in the region. The preservation of kunstivoolu also contributes to the conservation of traditional fishing practices and the understanding of the complex relationships between fishermen, their environment, and their cultural traditions.