Gyotaku prints originated about 100 years ago in Japan. These prints were originally used by fisherman to record the size and species of their catches prior to the camera. After catching a fish, Japanese fisherman would apply a non-toxic paint or ink directly to the side of the fish and press a piece of rice paper or fabric onto its side to create a print. Once the print was completed, the fish would be washed and prepared to eat. Today, Gyotaku prints have become a popular art form all around the world. Prints are no longer plain black outlines, but colorful reproductions of various species of fish.