Many thanks to Bandon Coop for facilitating this camera's location and to the Bandon Angling Association for capitally funding its installation.The River Bandon, known for its breathtaking scenery, meanders through the picturesque countryside of West Cork, offering abundant opportunities for game fishing. Its source is located a few miles northwest of Dunmanway, from where it flows through the town and continues for approximately 11 miles, passing by the villages of Ballineen and Enniskeane. Kilcoleman sits three miles downstream from Enniskeane. Beyond Kilcoleman, the river traverses a fertile valley and the town of Bandon. An ancient weir, a notable feature of the town, is illuminated at night. A modern fish pass has been installed on this weir, facilitating the migration of salmon and sea trout upstream. During periods of high water, one can witness the awe-inspiring sight of salmon leaping over the weir, a truly magnificent spectacle for those fortunate enough to be present at the right time. From Bandon, the river follows the main Cork road until it reaches the town of Innishannon, where it passes beneath the road. At this point, the river becomes tidal and influenced by saltwater.The River Bandon, referred to as Abhainn na Bandan in Irish, derives its name from "ban-dea," meaning "goddess." It flows through County Cork, Ireland, starting at Nowen Hill, located north of Drimoleague in the Shehy Mountains. From there, it makes its way to Dunmanway, before turning eastward toward the twin villages of Ballineen and Enniskeane. Continuing its course, the river passes through the center of Bandon town and proceeds to Innishannon and Kilmacsimon, eventually draining into Kinsale Harbour on the south coast of Ireland. Notable tributaries of the River Bandon include the Sally River and Brewery River near Dunmanway, the "Small Blackwater" close to Ballineen, and the Bridewell River in Bandon. A total of 15 bridges, including two footbridges, span the river. Although four railway bridges were once present, only one remains intact, situated on farmland near Dunmanway. The remnants of the other railway bridges, located near Murragh, Bandon, and Innishannon, consist solely of abutments and/or piers, as the spans have been removed.The River Bandon is renowned for its Atlantic salmon fishing, attracting anglers from far and wide. The largest recorded salmon caught in Ireland since 1991, weighing 28 lbs 3 oz (12.8 kg), was landed by Bill Canning of Goresbridge, County Kilkenny, on July 7, 2008. This remarkable specimen is proudly displayed at the Munster Arms hotel in Bandon town.The river has experienced significant flooding events in recent years. On November 19 and 20, 2009, after a prolonged period, the river burst its banks, causing extensive damage to Bandon town and other areas along its course. In December 2015, further flooding occurred in Bandon as a result of the impacts of Storm Desmond and Storm Frank.
Bandon, also known as Droichead na Bandan in Irish, is a town located in County Cork, Ireland. Situated between two hills, it rests on the banks of the River Bandon. The name itself translates to "Bridge of the Bandon," reflecting the town's origins as a crossing point on the river. In 2004, Bandon celebrated its quatercentenary, marking four centuries of history. Often referred to as the Gateway to West Cork, the town had a population of 6,957 according to the 2016 census. It falls within the Cork South-West constituency for Dáil Éireann, which holds three seats.
