Fish Traps on the River Fergus

River Fergus wooden fish traps AD1400-1430. Photo courtesy of Dr Aidan O'Sullivan of UCD

River Fergus wooden fish traps. AD1400-1430. Clarecastle fisherman, Flan Considine in view. Photo courtesy Dr Aidan O'Sullivan of UCD

River Fergus wooden fish traps. AD1400-1430. Photo courtesy of Dr Aidan O'Sulivan UCD

As long as the River Fergus has flowed through the parish and that people have populated its banks, the river has been a source of transport and a source of food in the form of fish. In 2004, a uniquely well-preserved complex of medieval fish-traps at Boland’s Rock* was investigated by a team from UCD University. Local fishermen had been aware of these traps that became visible at low tide but this was the first time that the wooden traps were scientifically examined. Radiocarbon dating of the timber used in the traps showed that they dated to AD1400-1430. These ancient yet fragile structures preserve unique information for ancient woodlands, technology and daily practices of fishing communities 600 years ago.

*shown on maps as Boorland’s Rocks but known locally as Boland’s Rock