In Kerala’s Ernakulam district, the sight of the sign Munambam Fresh Fish is a definite way of luring in locals and visitors. The sign is a belief that people here will get the highest quality of fish, in comparison to other states. It also provides an assurance that the fish, especially Capelin, will be ammonia-free. Capelin fish is available at a premium price here and is considered to be a seafood delicacy. Munambam fishing harbour in Ernakulam is located on Vypin Island. It is considered to be one of the most notable of the nine fishing ports on the coastline of Kerala. At this fishing harbour, fresh fish, frozen fish, dried fish and many other fishes are available. Fishes like Herring, Tuna, Mackerel, Tilapia and Carp are sold in large quantities here. As per reports, fish are packed and preserved with ice in an extremely clean environment. The management functions seamlessly, which plays a major role in maintaining such high standards.
Munambam Fishing Harbour is one of the largest fishing harbours in Kerala. High-quality fish are exported in large quantities, especially to many European countries like Germany and Britain. As per the information available, the Munambam Harbour is the only harbour that has been approved by the Export Inspection Agency (EIA).
It is also one of the busiest fishing ports in the state. Munambam Harbour houses more than 500 vessels including 350 boats, 100 nets, and 50 traditional fishing boats. It is important to note that during the peak season, which is August to September, it can accommodate 100 boats at a time.
The harbour is also a source of livelihood for more than 4,000 fishermen and is filled with auctioneers in the early morning, where the freshest of the fishes are sold to the highest bidder. The harbour earns Rs 3 to 4 crore every day. To prevent birds and animals from entering the area, protection nets have been set up. The harbour is also a major source of other industries that depend on marine life, like fish oil, dried fish powder and fodder as well.