Greenway set to reel in fishing tourists

A two-year-long project to develop a multi-purpose amenity area is expected to reap major rewards in the years ahead from angling tourism.

The Coachford Greenway was developed by Inniscarra Lake Tourism Development (ILTD) in association with the National Coarse Fishing Federation of Ireland and in partnership with the ESB, Inland Fisheries Ireland and Cork County Council.

Much of the work to establish the 2.8km linear park was carried out by volunteers, although funding was supplied for the project from a number of agencies including Avondhu Blackwater Partnership, the Coop Fund and the National Countryside Recreation.

The parkway will now be enjoyed by walkers, joggers, rowing spectators and, in particular, fishing enthusiasts. It is laid out in such a fashion it has opened up huge potential for angling competitions.

Last July, the National Coarse fishing Federation of Ireland hosted the 4th World Feeder Fishing Championships on Inniscarra Lake and welcomed teams from 25 different nations onto the Coachford Greenway.

“The event was an overwhelming success bringing in much welcomed revenue during the championships which showcased the magnificent facility to anglers worldwide,” said Tommy Lawton of ILDT.

“It was the first-ever world championship event held here and the venue is so attractive it’s likely to see more of these in the future.

“Ireland is to host the World Youth (Coarse Fishing) Championships in 2017 and we have already put in a bid to have it here. That will be even bigger as there will be three youth teams representing each of the countries taking part,” Mr Lawton said.

In August 2013 the ESB entered a 25-year licence agreement with Inniscarra Lake Tourism Development Ltd to facilitate the construction of the Coachford Greenway.