Chinese Fishing Nets-colloquially known as Cheena vala is common sight in the backwaters of Kerala especially around Fort Kochi. It is the age-old equipment for fishing along the coasts. The elaborate net is a shore-operated system of fishing, operated by a team of up to six persons. It is thought that these nets were first introduced in Kerala in the years between 1350 and 1450. Made of teak wood and bamboo poles, Chinese nets work on the principle of balance.