Pulicat Lake is a well-known lagoon close to Chennai and also a legally notified bird sanctuary. However, what is not so well known about this lake is the link of the livelihoods and traditions of the local people with the lagoon ecosystem, people’s struggles and their consequent efforts to save their livelihoods, and thus the lagoon, from over-exploitation, pollution and developmental pressures. This case study is a small effort to bring out the aspirations and struggles of the local fisherfolk, which, if taken into account, could lead to long-term protection and conservation of the lake.