The Abor Adi tribe is one such community that lies in the valley between Siang and Dibang rivers in Arunachal Pradesh. Traditionally, all human activities depended on land and rivers for subsistence, and fishing is the most important facet of their livelihood. One of the main uses in fishing is the cast net, an effective, simple piece of fishing tackle which reflects skill and tradition. The traditional fishing net is made up of cotton thread, hand-knotting to produce a squarish-shaped mesh with the top tied with a rope to serve both as a handle as well as a drawstring to throw it outwardly in circular motion. It sinks in water when cast and when pulled back entraps fish within the folds of the mesh.
Natural cotton fiber is used to make the net which is non-biodegradable and environment-friendly, and this is because of the tribals' sustainable practices entailed in and their wholesome respect of nature. Such cast net fishing takes place mostly in shallow rivers, streams, and even ponds, typically done so during the dry season when water levels fall and fish can be seen more easily. More than being functional, this cast net also carries the indigenous knowledge of the tribe being passed from one generation to another. It will remain a cultural emblem and a means of survival in the lush, riverine landscapes of Arunachal Pradesh.