This is one of a series of caches along a stretch of the River Quoile from Jane's Shore upstream to Inch Abbey. The river is generally quite flat and it is possible to paddle against the flow for a lot of the year.
The Quoile Pondage was created from the marine estuary in 1957 when a tidal barrage was built. It is now a great natural habitat for flora and fauna with an abundance of wildfowl and migrating waders. As we were placing these caches we spotted otters and a kingfisher. About 100m downstream from the Downpatrick to Killyleagh road bridge is a barrage which marks the entrance to the Quoile Nature Reserve. At present the by-laws of the nature reserve forbid any boat traffic in this section of river.
The caches were placed using a kayak and a special tool. Inflatable kayaks are not recommended, as some of the placements are not friendly to that type of craft. Any other type of craft is at the discretion of the cacher and at their own risk. The series is a mixture of ties-on and hangers that will require a special tool. There are none that will require exiting the river.
Safety.
1. Be competent in the use of whatever craft you use.
2. Wear a life jacket or buoyancy aid.
3. It is recommended that you do not to canoe alone.
4. Carry a whistle.
5. Be able to deal with a capsized boat and get ashore safely.
6. Wear adequate clothing for protection against cold water and the sun.
7. Leave details of your journey with a responsible adult.