Caçadeira, early 20th century
Aveiro, Portuguese Republic

Fishermen have traditionally held a special social position among the rural population of Portugal, where fishing is highly respected occupation. Even as many fishing areas in southern Portugal became industrialized and motorized, many independent fishermen farther north continued to earn a living with their traditional boats.

In addition to fishing in the coastal lagoons around Aveiro, the caçadeira is used for hunting waterfowl and for transportation.