The Cache
This is an 8cm tube and is hanging in place. It was placed while seated in a sit on kayak but a tool was used for extra reach. The coordinates are approximate as there is zero GPS coverage at Ground Zero. Depending on water levels, flow etc this is doable without a watercraft but wellies might not be quite tall enough. Remember wading through any water carries risks.
Fane Canoe Trail
This is one of a series of 10 caches along the Fane between the bridge on the R132 and the M1 bridge. This section would be approximately 2.75km one way. The river is generally quite lazy but it is tidal to a point.
The caches were placed using sit on Kayaks. I do not recommend inflatable kayaks as some of the placements are not friendly to that type of craft. Any other type of craft is at the finders discretion and at their own risk.
The series, with the exception of the 1st one are all tied in place. Please do not untie them. A tweezers might be need to pull the log out of the micro containers, althought this series does have a mixture of sizes and types. The river does flood during the winter so please take the time to tighten the lid properly.
I have indicated a waypoint which is a grass trail that leads from the bridge on the R132 to the river. You will be paddling against the current passing under the bridge so a rising tide might help. The water levels in the river can vary considerably and in periods of low rainfall it is not unusual for a kayak to ground while passing under the bridge.
You might be tempted to launch upstream of the bridge as there is an access gate on the other side of the road. This is for a local angling club and there is not, to the best of my knowledge, a public right of way. So using this gate would likely constitute a trespass.
There is a tree about 1km from the put in point that is lying across the river.
When the series was placed the water level was quite low and it was possible to pass under it on the right hand side. If the water levels are high it should be possible to pass to the left as you paddle up stream. Depending on the water levels and flow this tree might make the river impassable at times and if you are in any doubt do not try to squeeze under, around or over it.
Safety (mostly kayaking based)
- Be competent in the use of whatever craft you use.
- Wear a personal life jacket or buoyancy aid. The canoe should be sufficiently buoyant to remain afloat if you capsize
- It is recommended not to canoe alone
- A canoe may be difficult to see from a larger craft so carry a whistle
- You do not need to be able to swim a long distance but you should have sufficient water confidence to deal with a capsized boat and get ashore safely
- Carry water and snacks.
- Wear adequate clothing, prolonged immersion in cold water leads to hypothermia, sun even in Ireland can burn quickly on a good day.
- Leave details of your journey with a responsible adult
