Celebrating Galway’s Lost Tradition of Salmon Snatchin’

This five part radio documentary series broadcasts each morning on
The Keith Finnegan Show, Galway Bay FM – 97.4 FM @ 11.30 – 11.45am daily
Monday 23rd through to Friday 27th August 2010

Originated & researched by Peadar Browne
Presented and produced by Maud Hand
Engineered by Gráinne O’Malley

Polaroids on the Salmon Weir features retired snatchers, Fisheries Inspector Pat Gorman, bailiffs, solicitors, customers, spectators, writers and musicians, all of whom, have been touched or inspired in some way by this ancient form of fishing which flourished in Galway in the recent past.

    I didn't see salmon. I saw ten pound notes with fins
 
  The thrill of having a fish and he running on a handline is incredible
 

The series focuses on the fun and drama of the practice as the poachers pursued the salmon, the customers cajoled for cheap deals, the bailiffs chased the snatchers and the public looked on in glee at the eternal entertainment of the cat and mouse hi-jinks of those involved.

The broadcast coincides with Galway's Heritage Week in which the Galway Civic Trust hosts the city's only free festival. As part of the festival, Inspector Pat Gorman, who features in Programmes 3 and 5, gives a talk on Traditional Poaching in Galway City and County at 10.30am on Tuesday 24th August at the Galway Rowing Club in Woodquay. Check www.galwaycivictrust.ie

Check the PRESS RELEASE for Polaroids on the Salmon Weir

Enjoy the POLAROIDS PHOTO GALLERY