The Ice House
Salmon Fishing has an ancient history in the area and with developing rail transport it became possible to ship fish further afield. Communities like Doochary relied on salmon fishing as a primary source of income and sustenance, with entire families participating in the seasonal harvest. The method of preservation within the Ice House meant fish could be preserved for shipment, as ice could stay frozen for up to three years using a method of layering straw and fish.
Fishing Techniques
Traditional salmon fishing in Ireland encompasses a variety of techniques. One of the oldest methods is net fishing, which involves setting nets across rivers or estuaries to intercept migrating salmon. These nets, often made from natural fibres such as hemp or linen, were meticulously crafted by skilled artisans and deployed with precision to maximise catch rates while minimising environmental impact.
In addition to nets and angling (fishing with a rod and line), traditional fish traps, known as weirs or fish gates, are used to capture salmon in rivers and streams. These structures consist of wooden or stone barriers that direct the flow of water, guiding salmon into holding areas where they can be easily harvested. Weirs were situated near the village bridge.
Gweebarra River
The Winning of the River
In 1906, village fishermen asserted their indigenous rights to net fish on the stretch of river between Doochary and Ballynacarrick, and were brought to court by the Marquis Conyngham, who claimed full fishing rights over the tidal portion. When the case was heard in the Four Courts in Dublin in February 1906, the local people lost and were ordered to pay costs.
However, they later appealed and won their case and the considerable costs were awarded against the landlord. When news of the victory came through, local people celebrated with bonfires on the hills and song and dance, to live music played by the local band. Local families continued to fish, packing salmon in green rushes to be shipped via lorry to Letterkenny where they were put on the Dublin train.
For many years the anniversary of “The Winning of the River” was annually celebrated on the 29th of June with fires and flutes and Gaelic song until more stirring themes brought more stirring times – for better or for worse. Yet the memory of those three steadfast men (one of whom has already gone to his heavenly reward) will long be cherished by the emancipated peasantry of the Gweebarra Glen.
From Dominic O’Kelly‘s ‘Give Back Gweebarra’ article in The Derry Journal, January 22 1937
Picnic Area and Fisheries Display
A display about the Salmon Fisheries can be found at the picnic area on the Gweebarra Riverwalk.