We are working with the UK Men's Shed Association to introduce Sheds to coraclemaking, in order to increase the volume of coracles being built and used, and hopefully secure the future of coraclemaking in the UK, which is under threat as listed in the Heritage Crafts Association's Red List of Endangered Crafts.
Fishing update from the Carmarthen netsmen
11 May 2020
Following the change to the fishing by-laws, this year's coracle season for the Towy will commence on the 1st May (usually 1st March).
As we are classed as a commercial fishery, we are still permitted to fish but will obviously be practicing the self distancing guidelines (which is no problem when you’re on a big river!).
We had hoped the Welsh Government would have revised the licence fee to counteract the 2 month loss in our season, but unfortunately they have decided to keep the licence fee for the Towy, which is set at £555. This, we fear, will act as a deterrent for the current licence holders wishing to renew for 2020 and is another blow to ensuring the survival of our tradition.
Julie Rees - Carmarthen Coracle & Netsmen's Association