Tuliasi

Tuliasi is a Polynesian word often used in Samoan culture. It generally refers to a type of fishing net or seine net used to catch fish, particularly in shallow waters. The term can also extend to the act of fishing with such a net. The construction of a tuliasi typically involves weaving netting from natural fibers, often coconut fiber, and attaching weights to the bottom edge to ensure it sinks and a flotation device to the top to keep it near the surface.

The use of the tuliasi is a traditional method of fishing that has been practiced for generations in Samoa and other Pacific Islands. It allows for the capture of schools of fish that are driven into the net. This method is often a communal activity, with multiple people working together to deploy and haul the net. The success of tuliasi fishing can depend on various factors, including the type of fish, water conditions, and the skill of the fishermen. While modern fishing techniques have been introduced, the tuliasi remains a relevant and culturally significant tool for sustenance and for maintaining traditional practices in some communities.