Havana | Lobster Fisherman on the Malecon

Lobster fishermen on Havana's seaside boulevard. They stand still against the stone wall, one hand holding the bunched fishing line, the other slowly releasing the line into the water. Despite their rough appearance, the fishermen's hands manipulating the fishing line are extremely elegant and dexterous, like the famous ballet dancers of Havana. Beside the fishermen lie several sea fish, which serve as bait for lobsters. Compared to lobsters, the value of sea fish in the market is too low, so individual fishermen usually only use them as lobster bait or for their family's dinner. Tourists have a great demand for lobsters, and a freshly caught live lobster is a hard currency, with a restaurant purchase price of up to five US dollars. This is a considerable price for Cubans, whose average monthly income is only 20 US dollars, and it drives people of all ages and genders to pursue the lobster-catching career. It is common to return empty-handed every day, and the stillness of solitude can wear away even more sharpness, but as long as there is a catch, the confidence of the whole family will face north with more determination. Havana Old Town