tunnistas

Tunnistas are a type of traditional Finnish fishing net designed specifically for catching whitefish (*Coregonus lavaretus*) and other freshwater fish species in the Baltic Sea and its tributaries. The name "tunnista" derives from the Finnish word *tunnistaa*, meaning "to recognize" or "to identify," which reflects the net’s role in selectively catching target fish while minimizing bycatch.

Tunnistas are characterized by their unique construction, featuring a series of vertical panels or "tunnels" that create a funnel-like shape. These panels are typically made of strong, durable twine or synthetic fibers, allowing water to flow through while trapping fish as they swim upward. The nets are often set vertically in shallow waters, such as river mouths or coastal areas, where whitefish migrate during spawning seasons.

Historically, tunnistas have been an essential tool for small-scale, sustainable fishing in Finland, particularly in regions like the Archipelago Sea and the Gulf of Bothnia. Their design helps reduce damage to fish populations by allowing smaller or non-target species to escape. Modern variations may incorporate materials like nylon or monofilament to improve durability and efficiency.

The use of tunnistas aligns with traditional ecological knowledge, emphasizing selective and low-impact fishing methods. While their popularity has declined with industrialization and the rise of larger fishing gear, they remain a culturally significant and environmentally friendly practice in some Finnish fishing communities. Today, they are sometimes employed in recreational or artisanal fishing to preserve heritage techniques.