Basis of subsistence of the Nanai, as well as other peoples of the Lower Amur, was a trade, which included fishing, hunting, and gathering. The Nanai’ traditional farming was complex, but depending on the settlement, the importance of individual economic components was different. Thus, in the Amur villages, the leading field was the catch of salmon and sturgeon species. The Nanai living along the tributaries of the Amur river were mostly engaged in hunting, leaving for a fur-bearing animal hundreds of kilometers into the taiga.
Fishing was of utmost importance in the livelihoods of the Nanai. In the Nanai calendar, five months named after fish, indicating the importance of fishing. A characteristic feature of the Nanai fishery is the high specialization of fishing gear. Hook tackles were widely used, as were various types of stocks and nets. Of the trap tools, the most widespread was the trap of the ventilator type. Locking fishing is represented by several types of rides.
Hunting once played a much greater role in the life of the Nanai than in the 19th century. In numerous folklore works, the heroes are mainly engaged in hunting. Hunting is also reflected in the economic calendar of the Nanai. The importance of this industry is evidenced by the developed hunting terminology. The Nanai hunted both for fur-bearing animals and for meat production. Ungulates were hunted with the help of trapping pits and spotting, crossbows, and bears - with loops made of thick elk skin, as well as a guide's spear.
