Ancient Sea Fishing in Southern Primorye, Russian Far East, During the Neolithic and Early Iron Age

Abstract

AbstractFishing is one of the principal practices engaged in among ancient hunting and gathering economies. However, direct data pertaining to maritime activities among the Neolithic and Early Iron Age periods found in the Primorye territory are quite scarce. The earliest credible data found on fishing in the Peter Great Bay relate to the Neolithic (Boisman culture) and Early Iron Age (Yankovskaya culture), which have been obtained from shell mounds. The Neolithic inhabitants preferred coastal fishing during warm seasons of the year in shallow waters and lagoons. To capture aquatic prey, they often used such methods as hook-and-line fishing with lures, the use of spears and multi-component harpoons. During the Early Iron Age fishing was engaged in all year round, with the wide use of hooks and woven net gear in relatively open waters. Data recovered from burial complexes indicates the elevated of importance of fishing activities during the Early Iron Age.KeywordsPrimorye (Russia)Neolithic Boisman cultureEarly Iron Age Yankovskaya cultureFishingHarpoon headsSpear pointsFishhooksLures