When we think of Dublin Bay, we immediately think of its beaches, coastal villages and piers. However, there is more to the bay than meets the eye.
Fishing in Dublin Bay
Dublin Bay Prawns are famous all over the world. Also referred to as langoustines or scampi, they are an important Irish export. Along with dogfish, mackerel and plaice, they are caught at sea, although Dublin Bay also provides the opportunity to fish over the sand to catch flatfish.
Fishing is popular in Ireland all year round thanks to its mild temperatures, and the pastime is only increasing in popularity with appearances in wider entertainment. It features in video games such as Fishing: North Atlantic, where players can simulate catching lobster. The sport has reached all corners of the gaming industry as it also appears in iGaming, in slot games such as Big Fishing and Fishin’ Frenzy available at the online casino at Paddy Power Games. Clearly, the popularity of fishing is so widespread that it has contributed to the success of these video and online slot games.
Coastal Towns
The beautiful coastal towns of Dublin Bay also provide plenty of opportunities for locals and tourists alike to take part in fishing. There is Howth, the old fishing village, the old port town of Dalkey and the village of Skerries, where freshly caught fish can be enjoyed in the local restaurants. These coastal towns present the best that Dublin Bay has to offer and if you take a trip to Malahide, you will be rewarded with a chance to visit Malahide Castle with its impressive gardens.
The Rich History of Dublin Bay
The history of Dublin Bay began more than 6,000 years ago, during the Mesolithic Period. The first settlers found a rich source of nutrition in the waters. Later the Vikings raided the area and settled here. Dublin’s reputation as a trading port found its origins at this time. During the Middle Ages, stone piers were added and by the 17th century, Dublin had developed into an international trading hub. UNESCO has designated Dublin Bay as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve due to its biological diversity.
Dublin Bay in Literature
Of course, any discussion of Dublin Bay must include a reference to James Joyce. His novel Ulysses features Dublin Bay, in particular Sandymount Strand. It is located on the south side of the bay and is one of the James Joyce locations celebrated in Dublin every year on Bloomsday, which commemorates the life of the Irish writer and is named after the main character of Ulysses, Leopold Bloom.
The day features readings and the people of Dublin often dress up as characters from the novel. Indeed, some view the beach as the most famous in Irish fiction. Joyce returned to the theme of Dublin Bay in his novel Finnegans Wake.
Dublin Bay has so much to offer, from fishing and picturesque former port towns to the history of the area with its links to great works of Irish literature. Perhaps you will be inspired to follow in the footsteps of Leopold Bloom and see all the sights of Dublin Bay in the process.
