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Writer's pictureKaylee Mendelman

The Art of Eel Fishing

As we observe National Native American History Month, it is important to us at the Bridgehampton Museum to celebrate and acknowledge the rich indigenous history of the land around us. The Bridgehampton Museum is on traditionally Shinnecock and Montaukett land. Before European settlers arrived, this area was home to the Shinnecock and Montaukett peoples, who skillfully navigated its waters and land. Their profound connection with nature is echoed in our maritime room here at the museum where we house three five-prong eel spear heads, a nine-prong eel spear head, and four woven eel traps.


eel traps from the Bridgehampton Museum
Woven Eel Traps

Eel fishing holds deep significance in the cultures of tribes native to New England. The woven eel traps are not merely functional tools; they embody traditional knowledge passed down through generations. While the eel traps we have on display may not date back to the earliest colonial period, they represent weaving techniques that have been perfected over centuries, long before the arrival of European settlers.


The Shinnecock and Montaukett peoples have long maintained a symbiotic relationship with the environment, shaped by their sustainable practices and respect for nature. When European settlers first arrived in 1640, they encountered indigenous peoples that were remarkably skilled in maritime activities. The Shinnecock tribe traditionally harvested shellfish from the bay, fished for eels, and even hunted whales using small canoes.

Nine-prong eel spear head from the Bridgehampton Museum
Nine-Prong Eel Spear, c.1900s cast iron 13in.(33 cm) from mounting socket to tip center blade 11in.(27.9 cm) from edge of right barb to edge of left

In our maritime room we house three five-prong eel spear heads and one nine-prong eel spear head. Like other indigenous tribes, tribes local to Long Island relied on the harvesting of eels for sustenance. The design of the pronged spearheads found in our museum was introduced to native tribes by colonists, as cast iron was brought to America in the 17th century, enhancing the tools available for fishing. Since the colonial period, baymen and fishermen in America have trapped eels in the south shore estuary during the spring and fall. They are harvested for export

Five prong eel spear from the Bridgehampton Museum
Five Prong Eel Spear, c. 1900s cast iron 22 ½ in. (55.9 cm) from mounting socket to tip center barb 6 in. (15.2 cm) from edge of right barb to edge of left barb each spear mount measure 1 ½ in. (3.8 cm) dia.

to Asian countries, but also for local

markets throughout the south shore of Long Island. The spear heads were designed to plunge into the muddy habitat where American Eels tend to hide. Due to the slippery nature of the eels, even if one was not immediately impaled on a prong, they would often become entangled in the spear, showcasing the ingenuity of these traditional fishing methods.


During National Native American History Month it is crucial to reflect on the stories and histories that these items represent. They remind us not only of the past but also of the enduring connection between people and their environment. We invite you to explore these rich histories and the cultural significance behind our artifacts at the Bridgehampton Museum. By engaging with the stories of Long Island’s indigenous tribes, we honor their legacy and acknowledge the importance of preserving their heritage.

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