Snap Net Fishing: An Ancient Irish Tradition
When you move to Ireland, you quickly learn that history isn't just found in museums; it is often happening right in front of you.
If you travel south to the "Three Sisters" rivers, the Barrow, the Nore, and the Suir, you will find a fishing tradition that exists nowhere else in the world.
Today, we are looking at Snap Net Fishing, a skill so unique and culturally significant that it has been officially recognised on Ireland's National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
For those exploring their new home country, this is a perfect example of the "living history" that makes the Irish landscape so unique.
What is Snap Net Fishing?
Snap net fishing is an ancient method of catching salmon that dates back over 1,000 years. Unlike commercial trawling, this is a small-scale, artisanal craft that requires immense skill, patience, and teamwork.
It involves two traditional flat-bottomed wooden boats, known as "Cots," drifting down the river together.
The Net: A net is strung between the two boats.
The Snap: The fishermen hold the ropes, feeling for the vibration of a fish hitting the mesh. When they feel it, they must instantly coordinate to pull the top and bottom ropes together, "snapping" the net shut like a purse to trap the fish.
The Catch: It requires split-second timing. If they are a fraction of a second too slow, the salmon escapes.
A Tradition of the "Three Sisters"
This tradition is a defining feature of the river communities in counties Waterford, Kilkenny, and Wexford.
The "Cots" themselves are unique to this region. They are slim, elegant wooden boats, originally designed to navigate shallow tidal waters. For centuries, families in towns like Carrick-on-Suir and Cheekpoint have passed the skill of building these boats and reading the river currents down from father to son.
Why It Matters
In a world of industrial food production, Snap Net fishing stands out as a sustainable, community-based tradition. It is not just about catching fish; it is about a deep connection to the river and the tides.
The practice was nearly lost due to modern regulations, but thanks to passionate local communities, it has been revived and protected as a heritage skill. It serves as a reminder that in Ireland, the old ways often find a way to survive.
A Trip to the South East
If you are looking to explore more of the country, a trip to the sunny South East is highly recommended.
Visit: The beautiful town of Inistioge in Kilkenny or the historic quays of New Ross.
See: Keep an eye on the river for the distinct silhouette of two cots drifting in unison.
Experience: It’s a chance to see a part of Ireland that feels untouched by time.
Living in Ireland means having these incredible cultural treasures on your doorstep. At GoldGro, we love helping you discover the lifestyle that makes this country special.