Grab the fishing rod, tuck into delicacies and have fun

Visitors take a boat ride in the backwaters
Visitors take a boat ride in the backwaters

KOCHI: The Kerala Matsyafed has scripted another success story as its renovated aqua fish farm at Njarakkal is attracting huge crowd. It offers them a blend of farm fishing, sight seeing and a variety of fish delicacies.Just a few days into its inauguration, the farm, situated in the middle of 45-acre backwaters  is buzzing, with nearly 600 visitors turning up on weekends. A bamboo hut, small bowl boats (kutta vanchi), cuisine package for visitors as well as angling opportunity for novices and experienced enthusiasts are some major attractions.


“The bamboo hut is intended for families who want to spend time in the middle of backwaters. At present, one can spend up to one hour inside the hut, but we’re planning to increase it to two hours. Currently, we’ve only one hut which can accommodate 40 persons, but another one will be opened by this weekend,” said farm manager P Nisha. The entry fee at the farm, which functions from 10am to 6pm, is Rs 200. “It includes charges for a welcome drink, 30 minutes’ bowl boat rowing, angling and fish-curry meals. Visiting the farm between 3 pm and 6 pm, however, will cost only Rs 100 per ticket, but food won’t be part of the package,” she said. Home-made snacks and tea are served at the evening restaurant, managed by an eight-member team from Souparnika self-help group.


Speed boating is also on offer. A five-member team can hire the boat for 10 minutes at Rs 20 per person. Eight male staff are out there to help visitors have a complete fishing/angling and boating experience. “Anglers can’t take their catch away for free as the fishlings are nurtured by us. They’ll have to pay a small amount based on the size of the fish. For the enthusiasts, we’ve dropped a variety of fishlings, including Thirutha (Grey Mullet), Karimeen (Pearl Spot), Poomeen (Milkfish) and Tilapia,” said Nisha. 
The farm is easily accessible from Kochi. Take the Vypeen route through Goshree Bridge to reach Njarakkal Hospital Junction and the farm can be located near the Arattuvazhi Beach.


“Food is a major attraction at the farm. Those who like to have extra delicacies can avail them through ordering. The special items include duck roast, beef, crab and squid delicacies, and fried fish items,” said Nisha. Entry passes are available at the farm’s counters.  Individuals and groups who want to book may call 9497031280 or 9526041209.

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