| ABOUT two miles from Coleraine the navigation of the Bann River, which flows through that flourishing town, is obstructed by a ledge of high rocks, running across its bed, called the Salmon Leap; – The waterfall over this huge and high barrier is magnificent in the extreme, and the high banks on the east side are covered with forest trees and underwood, while on the western border stands a lofty but ruined mill, the rapid waters rushing idly and uselessly by – adding, indeed, to the picturesque beauty of the scenery, but contributing only to the occupation of the fisherman, or the enjoyments of the angler. The Fishery of the Bann has long been celebrated for its productiveness, and the fish taken there, are generally sent to Port Rush, for exportation to the principal Scotch and English markets. This noble river is the only outlet to Lough Neagh – one of the largest freshwater lakes in Europe; but owing the above interruption of the river, caused by the “Salmon-Leap,” and another fishery a few miles farther up, it is not navigable for any king of craft. A company are now about to apply for an Act of Parliament to carry this most desirable object so likely to benefit that portion of the North of Ireland, into effect. [p. 58] |
