Fishing has long been a big part of life in Galway, with historical fishing implements found here suggesting that the activity was carried out long before any written history of the region confirms it. Currently, there are a variety of ways of enjoying the fishing culture in Galway as part of our entertainment options.
Go Fishing and Enjoy Games
There are many games based on fishing, although few, if any, use Galway as a specific setting. An example of how this activity has reached new areas can be seen with Fishin’ Frenzy Megaways by Blueprint Gaming. This is a light-hearted six-reel video slot where the symbols are made up of fish and angling equipment. A special bonus round sees a fisherman collect fish with cash values on them.
If you prefer to head out to enjoy some real-life fishing in Galway, the village of Roundstone offers an intriguing way of doing so. It was recently named the most picturesque village in the country and has an active fishing industry as part of its traditional culture. Visitors can charter a fishing boat to go on a fishing trip or stay on shore to explore its famous beaches.
The Galway Tourism site explains some of the best fishing spots in and around the country, from lakes to the coast. Your preferred destination probably depends on what type of fish you want to catch, with Lough Corrib and Lough Mask having a lot of wild brown trout. If you want to catch salmon then the north and west of Galway provide ample opportunities to do this.
Watch Movies and TV Shows
Galway has been used to provide a memorable backdrop to many movies and TV shows over the years. While few of them focus specifically on fishing, the activity is so closely linked with this region that it often shines through. The Quiet Man is possibly the most famous movie filmed here and this 1952 film starring John Wayne has a section where Father Lonergan tries to reel in a salmon from the river.
North Sea Connection is a 2022 series based on a family who have fished in the waters off Roskillane in Galway for generations. Lydia McGuinness plays the role of skipper Ciara Kenny, with her ambitious brother Aidan played by Kerr Logan. This six-part series was first shown on RTE before it was acquired by BBC Four.
Man of Aran gives us another fascinating look at fishing in this part of Ireland. This 1934 fictional documentary shows the locals living in old-fashioned conditions and carrying out fishing from the rocks as well as hunting sharks at sea. Some of the activities featured were outdated at the time it was filmed but it’s still an interesting look at how fishing was carried out in Galway in the past.
All of these different types of entertainment are useful in letting us see how fishing plays a huge role in life in Galway. You simply need to choose the way of enjoying it that suits you best.
