Fishing for Memories

Clarecastle Fishing Tales captured by Eddie Lenihan and Cormac MacConnell.

June 2024 will mark 18 years since salmon fishing was ended in Clarecastle with the licences bought out by the Government to conserve stocks in the Fergus. A whole generation of young people has grown up with no memories of the boats going down the river. The population of Clarecastle has increased greatly in those years too and the new residents will not be aware of that tradition as they walk in the Quay area.   We have an ongoing appeal for photos and fishing memorabilia such as old licences etc. It is important to preserve that long history of fishing and boat-building. Early in 2024, we hope to interview the fishermen and record their stories. During Heritage Week 2024, we will launch a major exhibition of the fishing history in photos, artefacts and film.  Your contributions would add greatly to that.