Salmon Weir Bridge

Iconic bridge of the River Corrib in Galway 🌉

The Salmon Weir Bridge crosses the River Corrib from the Cathedral on one side to the courthouse on the other. Many people gather on this bridge in summer to see the shoals of salmon make their way up the Corrib river to spawn. During the salmon season, people stop to watch anglers fishing in the waters below, applauding each catch. There is a magnificent view of the Cathedral from the bridge itself, and the view remains impressive all the way down to Wolfe Tone Bridge. The bridge was originally granted by Henry III to the Earl of Ulster. The Franciscans later held the fisheries until the suppression of the monasteries under Henry VIII, when they were given to the Lynch family. It is now the property of the state.

Droichead an Dóchais: New River Corrib pedestrian bridge

The opening of a new pedestrian and bicycle bridge over the River Corrib in Galway City, in front of the Cathedral, took place on 26 May 2023. Officially named Droichead an Dóchais (Bridge of Hope), it runs parallel to the current Salmon Weir Bridge, the primary river crossing, on the city side of the river. It spans the Friar’s River Canal and Persse’s Distillery River, two more waterways, for 85 meters. It is 24 meters downstream from the current bridge and is anticipated to entice some of the 9,000 people that use the 200-year-old Salmon Weir Bridge every day for walking and bicycling. It is hoped that the bridge will decrease accidents between cars and bikes and pedestrians.

Salmon Weir FAQs

What is The Salmon Weir?

The Salmon Weir controls the water levels and flow of the River Corrib. When the salmon are running you can see them waiting in the waters before leaping and rushing up the weir to spawn further upstream.

How many bridges span the River Corrib in Galway City?

There are currently 4 bridges spanning the Corrib river in Galway. Wolfe Tone Bridge at the Claddagh, O’Briens Bridge beside the Bridge Mills. The Salmon Weir Bridge and the largest which is the Quincentennial Bridge.

What fish are in the River Corrib?

Sea trout, Salmon, Grilse and Brown trout can be found in the River Corrib. This river is divided into 4 sections:
1. Friar’s Cut near the mounth of Lough Corrib beyond Menlo pier.
2. Galway Weir fishery at the Salmon Weir which is good for catching Salmon and Grilse
3. At the New Beat which can only be fished by wading for some Sea trout
4. At Mc Donagh’s Turbine has only bank fishing and is reserved for the local angler’s.