Ricardo M Sabogal-Suji

The Fishers and Surfers of Mother Ocean Ricardo M Sabogal-Suji

Traditional Peruvian fishermen-surfers from Huanchaco Beach have been surfing the waves of the Pacific Ocean and fishing from their caballitos de totora (reed fishing boats) since ancient times. To some, the near Apu Campana (tutelary mountain) protects the fishermen-surfers form the dangers of sea fishing. And according to the forensic iconographical (corresponding human remains and iconography) and ethnohistorical data, the fishermen-surfers or Huanchaqueros have been fishing and surfing in the waters for at least 2900 years. Huanchaco Beach's modern events such as The Sea Festival, The Salty Foot Contest, The Saint Peter Festival, and various surfing events are related to the Mama Kocha or Mother Ocean. Ancient divine beings like Ai Apaec and Takaynamo are also significant elements in the lives of the fishermen-surfers who are the descendants of the Mochica-Chimú people, and whose fishing and surfing activities revolve around the Mama Kocha's temperament.