The special mass was held yesterdayat Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa, which was attended by fishermen who came along with their nets and other fishing equipment.

Biju Silva, a fishermen from Benaulim village, said that such a ritual is held every year as St Francis Xavier is a 'Saint of the fishing community'.

The 45-day annual fishing ban which came into effect on June 15 would end on July 30 and the mechanized trawlers would go out fishing in the sea from August 1.

During the period of the ban, when the monsoon is vigorous, only small traditional fishermen are allowed to fish who use their canoes fitted with small outboard motor and do not go too far in the sea.

During the praye rs today, the huge nets which are around 30-40 feet long were laid on the floor inside the Basilica, declared as a heritage site by UNESCO and were later blessed by the priest.

A fisherman Pascoal Crasto, living in Colva village, claimed that the last fishing season was bad.

"The last season was bad. We are now looking forward to the new season," he said.