Photo Feed Contest - Portrait Photography Round 138 ~Going Home Looking for Kerling Fish in the River

Hello....

In the PhotoFeed Contest - Portrait Photography Round 138 organized by @photofeed, I tried to share a photo of me returning home from looking for keureuling fish in the river. In a fast flowing river that divides the village of Ireu, Tangse District, Pidie, Aceh, a middle-aged man appeared with a cheerful face. His sturdy yet simple body combined with a sincere smile that broke out, depicting a zest for life and priceless happiness. He stood on a simple bridge that was built across the fast flowing current, a hereditary skill only possessed by those who have been familiar with the river since childhood.

This man has just returned from fishing for keureuling fish, a type of river fish known for its swift currents and deliciousness. Keureuling are not easy to catch, as they like to hide in crevices of large rocks at the bottom of the river. Catching them requires extraordinary courage, skill, and patience. Armed with only a traditional net, dexterity, and honed instincts, the fisherman must battle the swift currents.

This photo seems to capture the essence of both the struggle and the joy of a simple life. Amid the risks of crossing a fast-flowing river, the inland fisherman manages to smile broadly and give a thumbs-up. His expression radiates gratitude for the day's catch and pride in bringing home a living for his family.

The tradition of fishing for keureuling fish is not only about earning a living, but also part of the identity of riverside communities. It teaches courage in facing the currents of life, humility in accepting the results, and gratitude for every blessing that God has bestowed upon us through the swift currents of the river.

Looking at this photo invites us to reflect on the beauty of happiness born from simplicity, from sweat and effort, carried out with love. The keureuling fisherman returns home not only with a catch but also with a story of perseverance, tradition, and gratitude that never fades with time.

That concludes my post for this time. I hope you enjoy it. Thank you.