Fishing for Answers: the rarity of fish and fishhooks in the Late Chalcolithic of the southern Levant and the significance of copper fishhooks

Evidence of fishing is rare at most Late Chalcolithic sites in the southern Levant, reflecting the region's economy and preferences. The minimal incorporation of fish into the diet is striking especially as some sites are near the Mediterranean Sea, the Jordan River, the Sea of Galilee, the Hula swamps, and perennial streams. This article discusses the appearance of copper fishhooks, suggesting that these endorsed special significances beyond mere fishing gear and were not exclusively utilitarian items. These suggest that despite changing economic strategies and the limited representation in the archaeological record, fish and fishing still played a dietary role.