The Fish Market in Negombo is a fun local exploration of the sights and sounds of vibrant local markets in Negombo. It is the largest local fish market in the island (the government-built Peliyagoda Fish Complex is the largest). The local fish markets are often locally called “Lellama,” signifying a place where fisherman trade their fresh produce. Known far and wide as the region’s best place for fresh fish and good deals, the market attracts locals and wholesale merchants from nearby towns.
Negombo’s lagoon and ocean setting mean there are many options for hotels and locals to choose from. The wholesale fishing merchants usually supply the best fish to the area’s hotels, and the market gets the leftovers for retail sale to the town’s residents.
The market is divided into two parts: the Wet or Fresh fish market and the Dry Market, where dried fish options are available.
The wet fish market will feature fresh fish caught from the local ocean and lagoons, as well as fish such as large Sailfish and Trevally, usually caught off the coasts of Yemen and Africa. Popular items are generally sharks, prawns, crabs, yellowfin tuna, sardines and Spanish mackerel. You can even find varieties like sea chicken, barracuda, and other “exotic “varieties here.
The Dry Fish market usually has endless rows of fish on Hessian rugs to dry. Fish that cannot be sold fresh are applied with salt and laid out to dry in the hot sun. Dry fish is a popular part of the local cuisine, and many preparations, including dry fish curries and fry options, can be made with it.
Negombo Fish Market
Beach Road, Negombo (Near the Negombo Dutch Fort)
Open daily except Sunday. It’s open all Day, but early morning is the best time for the freshest catch!
