What’s Hiding on This Irish Island?
March 10, 2025
Source: Reddit
Scattered along the rugged coastline of Co. Donegal, remnants of Ireland’s maritime past can still be found. They are quietly fading into history. One such relic sits on the small, rocky island of Inishillintry, just off the shores of Cruit Island and Kincasslagh. These large fish holding tanks, built from concrete and designed to store live catches, once played a crucial role in the local fishing industry. Though now abandoned, their presence is a reminder of the ingenuity of past generations of fishermen.
What Were These Tanks Used For?
Before modern refrigeration, fishermen needed a way to keep their catches fresh before transport to markets. These tanks held live fish and shellfish, often mistaken for lobster pens. They kept the catch in good condition until sellers could sell it. Built partially into the island’s rocky shoreline, these tanks allowed seawater to flow in and out through small holes in the upper walls. This created a natural holding environment.
Wooden posts and steps surrounded the structure, dividing the tanks into sections and allowing easy access. Fishermen would sort their catch—lobsters, crabs, and other fish—into different compartments based on size or species. The design ensured a constant flow of fresh seawater, keeping the fish alive for days or even weeks.
A Glimpse into Donegal’s Fishing Heritage
Donegal has long been a hub for traditional fishing. Small coastal communities have depended on the sea for their livelihood. These holding tanks were an essential part of the supply chain, particularly in an era when transportation was slower. Refrigeration was also unavailable.
Located between Cruit Island and Kincasslagh, the Inishillintry fish holding tanks likely served fishermen from the surrounding areas. They relied on them to store their valuable catch before selling it to traders or shipping it to larger markets. The location—hidden among the rocky outcrops of the Donegal coast—made them a practical yet discreet feature of the local economy.
The Decline and Abandonment
As refrigeration and improved transport methods became widespread in the mid-20th century, the need for fish holding tanks declined. Gradually, people abandoned these structures and left them to the mercy of the elements. Today, the tanks at Inishillintry remain largely intact. However, they show signs of weathering, such as crumbling walls, rusted posts, and encroaching vegetation. These serve as a stark contrast to their former importance.
Exploring the Ruins
For those adventurous enough to visit, these abandoned fish holding tanks offer a fascinating glimpse into Ireland’s maritime history. The site is accessible via boat or kayak. Visitors can still see the original layout, including the divided sections, steps, and seawater inlets. The tanks are a hidden piece of Donegal’s past, standing as a tribute to the fishermen who once relied on them.
Preserving Maritime History
While these structures may no longer serve their original purpose, they are a valuable part of Donegal’s heritage. Historians and preservationists work to document and preserve Ireland’s fishing industry history, ensuring that sites like this remain intact over time.
The fish holding tanks of Inishillintry may be abandoned, but their story remains. They are a testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of Ireland’s coastal communities.