Belgium is known for the sturdy draft horses bred there. The horses have a unique purpose in the small town of Oostduinkerke, Belgium, working in the shrimp industry. Horse fishermen ride the horses as they drag a chain and net across the sandy bottom of the North Sea. Vibrations cause shrimp to jump into the net. As the net fills, the fisherman takes his horse and catch to the shore.
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The horses, weighing more than a ton, wade into the cold waters as deep as their chests. Oostduinkerke is the only place in the world that still employs this method of shrimp fishing. UNESCO states that only 12 families work in this industry. The horse fishermen have harvesting the local catch this way for 500 to 700 years. There are approximately 19 horse fishermen still active (as of 2017).
This form of fishing is no longer economically viable but is partly supported by the tourism board. The practice was named to UNESCO’s Intangible Heritage List, Afloat, as it bears testimony to Belgium’s history. It is not all for show. Each day’s catch is available for purchase in the local market.
The horses rest between each “haul,” allowing the fisherman time to sort each net full and place the shrimp in the baskets carried by the strong horse. The fisherman’s job is difficult: he must know the fishing area well and trust and respect his horse.
In addition to being a tourist draw, the tradition plays a central role in the culture of Oostduinkerke. There is an annual Shrimp Festival with floats, street theater, and people in related costumes. The festival attracts up to 10,000 visitors.
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