Fishing isn’t just a hobby—it’s a way of life, deeply rooted in tradition, nature, and smart observation. While modern fishing tools are helpful, the local desi methods passed down through generations can often catch more fish with minimal equipment.

In this article, we’ll explore the most effective desi fishing methods that can help you catch a lot of fish (ghani machhli) using simple, natural, and cost-effective tricks. These methods are widely used in Indian villages and have proven their worth over the years.
The Best Equipment For Fishing – For India
The Best Equipment For Fishing – For Other Country
Rustic Fishing Ideas
We have listed some rustic fishing ideas below.
1. Mahua Flower Bait – The Smelly Attraction
How it works: Mahua flowers (especially when fermented) have a strong smell that attracts freshwater fish. Villagers mix Mahua flowers with wheat flour and a little cow ghee to form small bait balls.
Where to use: Ponds, lakes, and river edges where the water is still.
Pro Tip: Let the bait sit in sunlight for a few hours to ferment before use. The stronger the smell, the better the fish attraction.
2. Earthworm from Cow-Dung Pits (Peepli)
How it works: Earthworms are a natural favorite of fish like Rohu, Katla, and even some catfish species. You can find them easily in wet cow-dung pits or under moist soil in the field.
Desi Trick: Use fresh, wiggling worms. Thread them properly on the hook to prevent easy escape.
Best Time: Early morning or late evening when fish are actively feeding.
3. Wheat Flour + Jaggery Dough Balls (Meethi Goli)
How it works: Mix atta (wheat flour), jaggery (gud), and a pinch of mustard oil. Shape into small soft balls. The sweet scent attracts fish from far distances.
Best For: Grass carp, Rohu, Silver carp, etc.
Extra Tip: Add a few drops of vanilla essence or crushed garlic for a stronger scent.
4. Night Fishing with Light Traps (Mashal Technique)
How it works: At night, use a mashal (torch or kerosene lamp) near the water surface. Insects gather around the light, attracting small fish. Big fish then come to feed on the small ones.
What to Do: Drop your net or throw your line near the light circle for a higher chance of big catches.
Best For: Rivers and lakes with calm water.
5. Traditional Circle Net (Jaal) with Chana Trap
Method: Throw soaked chickpeas (chana) in a small circle in the water and wait 15–20 minutes. Fish gather to feed. Then throw a circular fishing net (gol jaal) over them.
Why it works: Fish can’t resist chana soaked in garlic or asafoetida (hing) water.
Team Technique: One person throws the bait, and another stands ready with the net.
6. Bamboo Fish Trap (Tokri or Paand)
How it works: A traditional bamboo basket is shaped into a one-way trap with an entrance only. Bait (atta, gud, or insects) is placed inside. Fish enter but can’t exit.
Where to use: Shallow rivers, small streams, and pond edges.
Pro Tip: Cover the basket with mud to blend into the bottom of the pond. Leave overnight for better results.
7. DIY Fish Shelter Trap (Machhli ka Ghar)
What to do: In one corner of your pond, collect dry tree branches, leaves, or bamboo sticks and form a natural fish shelter. Sprinkle crushed feed or stale atta regularly.
What happens: Fish consider this spot safe and start gathering there. After 2–3 days, drop a net and pull it up with dozens of fish!
Works best in: Small ponds and village lakes.
8. Soap & Wheat Dough Mixture
Unusual but effective: A small piece of detergent bar (like Rin or Wheel) mixed into wheat flour dough forms a strange-smelling bait that fish love.
Why it works: The strong scent attracts fish curious for food.
Warning: Use only small amounts of soap—too much is harmful to aquatic life.
9. Ant Egg (Weaver Ants – Lal Keede ke Ande)
How it works: The eggs of red weaver ants are a rare but powerful bait used in Bihar, Jharkhand, and parts of West Bengal.
How to use: Wrap the eggs in cotton or plant fiber and attach to the hook. Their natural scent drives fish crazy.
10. Cooked Rice Mixed with Mustard Oil
Simple but effective: Take leftover boiled rice, add 2 spoons of mustard oil, and crush together. Make small balls and throw in the water or use directly on hooks.
Perfect for: Daily bait feeding and attracting fish to a specific area.
Conclusion
Desi fishing methods may look simple, but they are full of smart strategies that work naturally with the environment. Whether you’re using fermented Mahua flowers or homemade bait from flour and gud, these rural Indian techniques can help you catch plenty of fish without spending on expensive gear.
Try different methods and observe what works best in your area. Mix and match techniques—like bait traps with bamboo shelters or worm bait with nighttime light traps—for even better results..
So, the next time you go fishing in your village pond or river, leave the fancy equipment aside and go full desi—you’ll be surprised at how many fish you can catch!