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Track Information

Original Track ID

SA1970.54.A1-A7

Original Tape ID

SA1970.054

Summary

Fishing in Islay.

The fishing of white-fish started in May, when fishing boats set out for Barra. They fished mainly for coalfish, and were generally away for six weeks. Fish was cured and dried, and used for barter trade with Northern Ireland. Horses and cattle were brought back. More trading was done with Ireland than with Glasgow. Local cod fishing was in July/August. The largest boats were built in Fraserburgh, Buckie and Leith, whilst the small ones were built locally. There were about seventeen large boats in the Porthaven/Port Wemyss fleet.

Mention is made of fishing taboos, food, and of how the catch was shared by casting lots.

Recording Location

County - Argyllshire

Island - Islay

Item Location

County - Argyllshire

Island - Islay

Language

Gaelic

Genre

Information

Collection

SoSS

Source Type

Reel to reel

Audio Quality

Good