By Mohamed El-Hebeishy FISHING is one of the human race's oldest practices, dating to the Mesolithic period, about 10,000 years ago. Mohamed El-Hebeishy explores the new age practice of recreational fishing. Depicted on tomb walls and papyrus drawings, the ancient Egyptians recorded their very early fishing as a source of food. From fishing with harpoons to setting sail in a reed boat and fishing with woven nets, they used various methods and tools to capture their prey. Looking for Nile perch, catfish and eels, the ancient Egyptians invented the first metal hook with barbs by the 12th Dynasty. By all means, fishing in its classical form has continued ever since as it provides food to millions of humans around the world. Nonetheless recreational fishing has been on the rise. Fishing with the relevant sports attire attracted many people and by 1939 the first related association was officially launched -- The International Game Fish Association. Setting a universal code of sporting ethics, the association encourages the study of game fishes for the sake of whatever pleasure, information, or benefit it may provide. As opposed to commercial fishing, recreational fishing, also referred to as angling or sports fishing, has only minor implications for the ecosystem. The most controversial code adapted by most anglers is the catch release, where captured fish are released back to the water. Animal rights advocates claim the act of fishing for fun to be a source of torture to the fish while recreational fishing advocates believe it to be of small significance as the majority of species feed on hard and spiky items, thus giving them numb mouths. Nowadays recreational fishing is on the rise in Egypt as a new aspect of tourism. With the length of coastal line, inner waterways and lakes, Egypt is ready to confirm its place on the list of avid anglers. Lake Nasser is grabbing attention with its well nurtured Nile perch, tiger fish and catfish. Due to the rich nutritional water of the lake, sparse human population and abundance of prey, the Nile perch has grown to gigantic sizes with the largest fished out of Lake Nasser weighing up to 176 kilogrammes. Lake Nasser Adventures, a Swiss-Egyptian based company in Aswan, organises small cruise boat rides and fishing and trekking safaris. For more information visit www.lakenasseradventure.com or call +20 012 10 40 255 or 0020 012 10 40 266. photo: Mohamed El-Hebeishy
