Kayak Trip: we are indebted to Martin Bolger from Fisherhill for this wonderful account of a trip along the Manulla river, a fantastic facility that wanders quietly through the area. It is just one example of the natural resources available to residents and tourists alike here.
If canoeing or kayaking is your thing, then the Clydagh River is the place to be.
One of its source is Tucker’s Lake, justNorth of Castlebar. From there it meanders its way through theopen countryside to link up with the Manulla River inthe townland of Cashel, having been joined by tributaries running down from the Windy Gap and Shanvalley.
On its journey north, the Manualla riverfinally enters LoughCullen at the townlands of Fisherhill and Muckanagh.This section isslow-moving: it can be quiet still at times offering barely any current, bar following heavy rainfall.The river winds its way through unspoilt countrysideboth bog and grazing lands and is ideal for canoeing orkayaking as it takes you on a journey that is simplyunparalleled.
Frequenting the river regularly, I have come to naming particular stretches of the river and the journey issimply idyllic.The resting animals will cast a gaze on you that is spellbinding as you slowly pass them by and you willalways rise some wildlife which take to the wing in a flutter of excitement.You can come across kingfishers resting on an overhanging branch, and Herons stalking a meal in the shallows.
As the river was dredged many years ago the turf banks can in places rise up to two metres above thewater level, providing a natural bed for the beautiful vegetation and wildflowers.The river is abundant with trout, perch, pike and even migrating salmon and if you are lucky, you will get a glimpse of a PineMartin, Otter, or Mink.
A landmark on the river is the Muckanagh Bridge with its iconic arches and north of this, the river becomesshallow as it enters Lough Cullen, a large, shallow lake.The river is regularly frequented by swans and migrating duck, either resting or feeding on the shallowbeds of the lake.
These are just some peaceful images of the river on a sunny Sunday morning in July.
Come and enjoyour beautiful heritage, from any of the launch points along it.
Martin Bolger, July 2022.