Tärkkellys

Tärkkellys is a traditional fishing weir in Finland. It consists of a network of interconnected fences made from thin branches and logs that are placed in a body of water to catch fish. The purpose of the tärkkellys is to limit the number and size of fish that can swim through the waterway, thereby preserving the local fish population and allowing some to grow in size.

A tärkkellys typically includes several features, such as side weirs, crossover bays, and kilks. Side weirs are channels that run from the main waterway to the surrounding area, while crossover bays are sections where the water flows to one side or the other. Kilks are sections where the water flows slowly, allowing fish to swim upstream.

The construction of a tärkkellys requires a good understanding of the local fish population, the layout of the waterway, and the materials needed. Typically, the tärkkellys is built from local materials such as birch and willow branches. The structure is generally rectangular in shape, but can also be circular or square, depending on the specific design.

Maintenance of a tärkkellys is also crucial to its effectiveness. A strong river current or heavy rainfall can cause the structure to become weakened or damaged. Therefore, regular inspections are necessary to ensure that the tärkkellys continues to work efficiently. Overall, tärkkellys continue to play an important role in the traditional fishing practices of communities in Finland where the weirs are built and used. They provide a localized method of conserving fish populations.