Carrelet (cabin) on stilts at Sunset

These carrelet (cabins that take their name from the shape of fishing nets used - ie square) on stilts are proof of the importance of this fishing method that came about because of the migration, and large variety, of fish in this river (mullet, trout, salmon, carp and eels to name but a few). The eels in particular, leave the river to lay their eggs and die in the Sargesse Sea, whilst their young are fished in winter and exported to Spain. The 17th Century saw the start of dragnet fishing and shell collecting in the shallows. In fact, in 1896, the pearls from these shells gave rise to another small industry, which once again transformed the town.

(Original French text by Robert Orgé)