Tokelauan fish hooks

Tokelauans are master Tautai (fishermen). They maintain traditional fishing practices that are deeply connected to their atoll environment, lunar calendar and fish migration patterns. Certain fish – like swordfish, turtles and whales – are considered sacred (Ika-ha), so a deep knowledge of traditional lore is vital.

Village fishing is done using the Inati system, a traditional community fishing and distribution method. Inati is still used today, preserving culture and sustainable fishing practices.

See fish hooks from Tokelauan in the collection below. Click on each image to view full screen and use the zoom functionality for more detail of each fish hook.