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model of Wye coracle.

Ancient methods of catching fish survived for a long time in Wales, especially in Monmouthshire. Commercial fishermen in this area used coracles, lave nets, stop nets and woven basket traps (known as putts and putchers) to make a living. These methods were an effective and efficient way of catching fish. Sadly only the lave net has survived into the 21st century.

At one time the coracle was a familiar sight on the rivers Monnow, Usk and Wye. Local fishermen could earn a living using this ancient vessel. In 1782 a salmon weighing over 68 pounds was caught in a net on the river Usk. It was more common however for the coracle to be used for angling. After July 1866 it became illegal to fish from a coracle without a licence. All fishermen had to pay an annual fee of £2. Fishing using the coracle came to an end during the First World War.