Leisure on our Canals

The Grand Canal experienced a rejuvenation programme in 1986 when
it was taken over by the Office of Public Works.
Their main aims were to:-

• retain the character of the Grand Canal
• exploit it for tourism
• exploit the area as a resource for all leisure activities
• provide maximum access for the public

  Today the Grand Canal has become a thriving recreational waterway where you may enjoy:-

  Fishing * Cruising * Canoeing * Walking* Nature Appreciation * Cycling * Sailing

  

Fishing

Fishing has become the largest recreational pursuit on the Grand Canal. There are many reasons for this: - There is an abundance of fish

• There is easy access to the Grand Canal
• It is suitable for match or pleasure angling
• There is a low disturbance factor
• No permit is required

For more information on fishing contact: Dublin Angling Initiative, Balnagowan, Mobhi Boreen, Glasnevin, Dublin 9.
You can telephone them at this number: 01 379209

Coarse Fishing Laws

It is illegal to use live fish as bait.
The only legal method to catch freshwater fish is by rod and line.
It is illegal to transfer live roach from one water to any other water.
A person may not fish with more than two rods.
It is illegal to take and kill more than one pike on any one day.
It is illegal to take or kill any pike exceeding 3 kgs in weight.

For more information on fishing by the Grand Canal go to the Fish Ireland website.

Cruising

Exploring by boat of one way of enjoying the Grand Canal with
its humpbacked bridges, aqueducts and secretive tunnels.
Here are some facts for planning a holiday afloat:-

• Speed limit is 4 m.p.h.
• It takes about 10 minutes to get through a lock
• One should expect to travel between 12 to 15 miles a day
• Make allowances for river currents, summer peak traffic
  and unforeseen delays like clogging the propeller

For more information on boat hire you may contact:-

Canalways Ireland (45 524646) * Bord Failte * I.W.A.I.

Walking

The towpath of the canal has been designated as a long distance footpath where the public may enjoy many walks.
Detailed walking guides may be obtained from Waterways Ireland or from the I.W.A.I.

To find the resources to go with this page click here.

To find the resources to plan a leisure trip click here.

Click on the first black button to hear the sound of water flowing through the canal.

Ms. Russell's 4th class provided the information for this page.