A SHORT HISTORY OF THE IRISH SEA HERRING FISHERIES DURING THE 18TH AND 19TH CENTURIES

BY

W. C. SMITH

(Curator of the Port Erin Biological Station)

INTRODUCTION

The facts and figures which provide the material for this short historical account of the Irish Sea Herring Fisheries have been acquired from records, informants, and personal observation when engaged investigating the local Sea-Fisheries. Official reports have been freely explored, and a list of Authorities consulted is appended.*

Fishermen and others connected with the Industry have given every possible assistance and advice, and I am greatly indebted to many of them for much valuable information.

In this respect I might specially mention Skipper F. Corris of Peel, Admiral of the Manx Herring Fleet, whose special knowledge of present day conditions has proved extremely helpful.

Mr. C H Shimmin, H.K., member for Peel in the Manx Parliament, kindly went through the MS., and his interest is greatly appreciated.

To Superintendent Holmes of the Cumberland Sea-Fisheries Committee thanks are due for much information and the granting of facilities for furthering investigation during numerous visits to his District.

* 1798. Report respecting the British Fisheries.
1837. Reports from Commissioners.-Irish and Manx Fisheries.
1864. Sea-Fisheries Commission.
1865. Reports of the Commissioners.-Sea Fisheries of United Kingdom.
1869. Report of Inspector of Irish Fisheries.
1879. Report of Sea Fisheries Commission.
1893. Select Committee on Sea Fisheries.
1889-1921. Annual Reports of Sea Fisheries (England and Wales).
1902-1920. Annual Reports of Sea-Fisheries (Ireland).
1874. Deep-sea Fishing and Fishing Boats. E. W. Holdsworth.
- A History of the Isle of Man. A. W. Moore.