For
centuries men have used this strange
river-going craft called a coracle for
fishing and travelling from place to place. This unique form of
transport is still being used in
Wales for fishing and other pursuits. It has remained unchanged in
design for 2,000 years. When the
Romans came to
Britain they saw and described these strange craft, which the Britons were using.
In those days they were made from
wicker and covered in
animal skin, but today they are covered in
canvas, and then tarred to make them waterproof.
The coracle is propelled by an
oar, a very delicate, skilled operation which, if not carried out correctly, may result in the
boat simply revolving in circles.