Lough Cullin facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lough CullinLoch Cuilinn |
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Lough Cullin with Nephin range in the background.
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 Location in island of Ireland
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| Location | County Mayo |
| Coordinates | 53°58′13″N 9°10′28″W / 53.9702°N 9.1745°W |
| Primary outflows | River Moy |
| Catchment area | 802.81 km2 (309.97 sq mi) |
| Basin countries | Ireland |
| Surface area | 10.24 km2 (3.95 sq mi) |
| Surface elevation | 9 m (30 ft) |
| Settlements | Pontoon, Foxford |
Lough Cullin (which means "holly lake" in Irish) is a beautiful lake located in County Mayo, Ireland. It sits close to its northern neighbour, Lough Conn. These two lakes are connected to the huge Atlantic Ocean by the River Moy. Lough Cullin is very famous for its excellent trout and salmon fishing.
Exploring Lough Cullin's Location
Lough Cullin is found in the western part of Ireland. It is part of a larger system of lakes and rivers. The lake is quite shallow, with an elevation of about 9 meters (30 feet) above sea level. Its total area is around 10.24 square kilometers (3.95 square miles).
The towns of Pontoon and Foxford are near the lake. Pontoon is especially known as a spot between Lough Cullin and Lough Conn. This area is popular for visitors who enjoy nature and fishing.
Fishing and Wildlife at Lough Cullin
Lough Cullin is a fantastic place for fishing. Many people come here to catch brown trout and salmon. The River Moy helps bring these fish to the lake. This river is one of the best salmon rivers in Ireland.
Besides fish, the lake and its surroundings are home to various types of wildlife. You might see different kinds of birds that live near the water. The clean waters and natural environment make it a great habitat for many creatures.
The Legend of Lough Cullin
There's an old story from Celtic mythology about how Lough Cullin was formed. It involves a famous hero named Fionn mac Cumhaill and his loyal hunting dogs, Cullin and Conn.
One day, Fionn and his dogs were hunting a wild boar. As the boar ran, water mysteriously poured from its feet. Fionn's dogs were very fast. Conn ran ahead of Cullin, chasing the boar for many days. Eventually, a large lake appeared where the boar had run. The boar managed to swim to land, but sadly, Conn drowned in the new lake.
The same thing happened again further south. Cullin, the other hound, also chased the boar. Another lake formed, and Cullin also drowned. This is how the two lakes, Lough Conn and Lough Cullin, are said to have been created, named after Fionn's brave hounds.
