Ardstraw Angling Club celebrates 35 years of fishing and heritage

MORE than 100 people gathered to celebrate 35 years of Ardstraw Community Angling Club, with a special event highlighting the River Derg’s rich history, community spirit and importance to future generations.

Held at Ardstraw Jubilee Primary School on Tuesday, October 20, the event, entitled ‘Ardstraw Waters Past Present and Future’, featured guest speaker Dr Liam Campbell and the launch of new information leaflets, maps and updated club rule books, funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Rapid NI.

Dr Campbell explored Ardstraw’s geography, early settlements and heritage, explaining how the River Derg shaped the community’s development. He also highlighted the village’s narrow escape from plans in 1956 to flood the area for a hydroelectric power station, which were abandoned following local opposition.

Local historian May Magee provided historical displays, while Mervyn Kinloch shared memories of fishing along the river. Chairman Colin Duncan paid tribute to local poet Willie Reid and remembered prominent anglers, including international fisherman Patrick ‘Paddy’ Lafferty and Andy Adams.

Founded in 1992, following initial discussions among local anglers around 1989, the club has spent more than three decades improving river access and promoting the sport. Its history includes the installation of signage, stiles and bridges, alongside the contributions of generations of dedicated officers and members.

Today, encouraging young people to take up angling is a key priority. Workshops now attract between 25 and 30 young participants annually, helping pass the tradition on to a new generation.

Environmental protection is also central to the club’s work. Members are collaborating with the Foyle Association of Salmon and Trout Anglers on water quality concerns and declining river stocks, including the wider threat to Atlantic salmon.

The anniversary celebration highlighted how fishing continues to unite the community, preserve local memories and strengthen connections with the River Derg.

The club thanked principal Julie Kelly for providing the school facilities, Mervyn Smyth for the audio-visual arrangements, and members and the wider community for their continued support.