A coracle, or currach, is an ancient boat of Irish and Welsh origin which was used in rivers to net salmon. Originally covered with a single cowhide, "modern" (built in the last 300 years) coracles have a nylon cover stretched over a woven willow frame. These are simple, lightweight (under 30 pounds) boats that can be built in short order to get on the water. A coracle is not a whitewater craft, nor is it for big water. It is too small to license and too round to paddle (a scull stroke is used). However, it fits inside many cars, can be carried some distance, and can get you far enough from shore to make some nice, discrete casts.

We will start by building the willow frame, which is essentially a large woven basket. After lashing all of the overlapping joints, the nylon cover will be pulled over and tied down to the frame. We will finish by coating the whole thing with many layers of polyurethane as waterproofing. The instructor will bring several coraclesl while the paint is drying, students will get out into the bay and practice sculling. Participants should bring their own USCG-approved life jacket and a favorite canoe paddle (a longish one if available). The finished craft will measure approximately 3'6"x4'6".

Youth ages 14+ may register for this class independently. Youth ages 10+ may register if accompanied by an adult. Adult/child pairs will complete one project and pay one materials fee. A 25% tuition discount applies to the youth registrant when registering with a full-paying adult; call to register.

Required Tools

• Sharp knife for whittling

Optional Tools

• USCG approved life jacket
• Canoe paddle
• Whatever tie downs might be needed to get your coracle home

This course is part of Basket Week 2026. Plan to stay a day longer for the Gathering Day on Friday, October 9, which features demonstrations, speakers, and community gatherings offered as a benefit to students enrolled in Basket Week coursework. Full schedule available online in summer 2026.