The use of fishing craft and gear in the Gandak and Ganga Rivers reflects the traditional knowledge and adaptive practices of local fishing communities. In addition, small-scale fishers employ region-specific crafts, such as flat-bottomed boats (plank-built/galvanized iron boats) and canoes, along with selective and eco-friendly gears that are appropriate for the dynamic flow and depth variations of these rivers. The current study explored six types of non-motorized fishing craft and two types of customized motorized crafts. In addition, 5 types of major fishing gears (gill net, falling gear, lift net, bag net, and drag net), including fishing gears line fishing (5 types) and traps (12 types) are recorded under 6 broad categories from the river Gandak and the central section of the Ganga. The different fishing methods relied on the seasonal availability of fish species and their behavioral patterns. The livelihoods of the local fishermen are greatly dependent on the traditional practices. However, regulating the use of gear, safeguarding habitats, and combining conventional practices with scientific management strategies are all necessary to guarantee long-term sustainability.