Archaeologists in Krasnoyarsk have uncovered fishing equipment dating back as far as 10,500 years, shedding new light on the technological sophistication of early inhabitants of Yenisei Siberia.
Specialists from the Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography of Yenisei Siberia at Siberian Federal University announced that the artefacts, recently studied as part of ongoing research into prehistoric subsistence practices, range in age from 9,000 to 10,500 years.
The finds offer precious physical evidence of how ancient communities managed to survive in a hostile riverine environment in central Siberia.
All of the recovered fishing tackle was made of deer antler, a durable, workable material that was the primary tool material during prehistoric times. Among the biggest finds are hooks whose overall shape resembles that of modern fishing hooks.
Though similar in shape, their approach to line attachment differs substantially from today’s. Instead of a looped eye at their base, the ancient hooks have small carved notches. These were grooves in which the fishing line had to be held down to prevent slips and maintain its integrity during use.
Researchers say that detail reflects an advanced understanding of both materials and mechanical stress. A notched fastening system would have distributed tension effectively along the base of the hook, increasing reliability in fast-moving water conditions typical of Siberian rivers. Another significant artefact is a 27-centimetre-long harpoon, also made from deer antler.
According to archaeologists, its manufacture required considerable technical expertise and a carefully sequenced production process. The antler was first cut using a stone axe, then split lengthwise with burins—specialised chisel-like tools made of stone. From one half of the split antler, the craftsperson carved the harpoon’s teeth and socketed head, again employing burins for precision shaping. The final stage involved polishing the surface with abrasive stone to smooth irregularities and strengthen the finished implement.
High level of craftsmanship and accumulated technical knowledge among early Siberian populations were manifested in the manufacturing process, which is complex.
These ancient communities did not just fish, scientists stress, they also did it out of necessity — fishing itself was a survival skill. Without reliable pieces of equipment and extensive knowledge of fish behaviour, they would have simply lacked consistent food supplies. Newly studied artefacts highlight the ingenuity and adaptability that enabled human groups to thrive in the harsh climatic conditions of prehistoric Siberia.
Sources : Siberian Federal University
