Later Mesolithic Fishing Strategies and Practices in Denmark

Description

This book examines the strategies and practices involved in fishing during the Mesolithic in Denmark. Historical information is collated, and the problem of the chronology overcome by modern calibration methods. The material evidence, in particular shells, fish bones and fish-catching apparatus, is re-examined, together with ethnographic evidence and modern fishing practices. A range of fish species has now been identified. The eel is examined in detail as the evidence clearly indicates its importance. An intimate knowledge of this and other fish clarifies the strategies and practices that took place to catch them. Current knowledge and species availability indicates little has changed over the last six millennia. Historically, bait has been little discussed. The subject is explored here, suggesting examples and uses. Finally, the ‘arrival’ of agriculture in Denmark is discussed, and it is argued that fishing practices continued long after what has been previously described as the ‘change to farming’.