Barra. Fishing season
A variety of types of boats concerned with herring fishing can be seen here in the bay. In the distance are small sailing boats (possibly Luggers) underway, and in the foreground rowing boats can also be seen. Tied up at the pier are a number of steam-drifters, with more moored in the bay on the right. On the far left can be seen part of Kisimul Castle, which gives Castle bay its name, and probably dates from 1427 when Gilleonan MacNeil was given Barra by Alexander, Lord of the Isles. The herring fishing season in Barra was during May and June and all these boats will be concerned with catching herring. Castle bay is one of the best natural harbours in the Western Isles and was a centre for herring fishing until the Second World ware when the industry slumped.
