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CPRSavesfish

be a very effective method for taking fish throughout the water column. column. water the throughout fish taking for method effective very a be

of our rivers are overlooked in the early part of the season, when the lough fishing is is fishing lough the when season, the of part early the in overlooked are rivers our of

than €10 - €20 and can usually be purchased in a local shop. local a in purchased be usually can and €20 - €10 than dropper’ approach with a weighted nymph anchored below a Klinkhammer style fly can can fly style Klinkhammer a below anchored nymph weighted a with approach dropper’

is a strong tradition of lough (lake) fishing for trout in Ireland which means that many many that means which Ireland in trout for fishing (lake) lough of tradition strong a is

tickets available to the visiting angler. These tickets are usually no more more no usually are tickets These angler. visiting the to available tickets sub-surface methods and dry fly fishing can be productive and the ‘klink & dink or dry/ or dink & ‘klink the and productive be can fishing fly dry and methods sub-surface

Despite trout being widespread, many of our rivers are relatively under-fished. There There under-fished. relatively are rivers our of many widespread, being trout Despite

usually lease the fishing rights for a few kilometres of river and make day day make and river of kilometres few a for rights fishing the lease usually species of fly or even on a certain stage of the fly (nymph, emerger, dun or spinner). Both Both spinner). or dun emerger, (nymph, fly the of stage certain a on even or fly of species

challenging, there is nothing that compares to catching wild fish in a wild environment. wild a in fish wild catching to compares that nothing is there challenging,

Trout fishing on rivers is most often controlled by local angling clubs who who clubs angling local by controlled often most is rivers on fishing Trout range of food on offer increases, trout can become quite selective, honing in on a particular particular a on in honing selective, quite become can trout increases, offer on food of range

their skills. We do not stock our rivers and while this may make trout fishing a bit more more bit a fishing trout make may this while and rivers our stock not do We skills. their

In Ireland, you do not need to buy a state licence to fish for brown trout. trout. brown for fish to licence state a buy to need not do you Ireland, In the start of July, it is possible to encounter feeding fish throughout most of the day. As the the As day. the of most throughout fish feeding encounter to possible is it July, of start the

Irish river trout are entirely wild and so present the trout angler with a real test of of test real a with angler trout the present so and wild entirely are trout river Irish

two important terrestrial flies: the hawthorn fly and the black gnat. By the end of June into into June of end the By gnat. black the and fly hawthorn the flies: terrestrial important two

ACCESS, LICENCES & PERMITS & LICENCES ACCESS,

the possibility of casting a line... a casting of possibility the and these are accompanied by pale wateries, yellow evening duns, sedges/caddis and and sedges/caddis duns, evening yellow wateries, pale by accompanied are these and

throughout the country means that you are never too far away from a trout stream or or stream trout a from away far too never are you that means country the throughout completely closed from October to the end of February. of end the to October from closed completely of insect life also increases at this time of year as mayflies begin to hatch on some rivers rivers some on hatch to begin mayflies as year of time this at increases also life insect of

historic lack of competitors and predators. The fact that trout are so widely dispersed dispersed widely so are trout that fact The predators. and competitors of lack historic or September check in advance to ensure that the river is open. Fishing is is Fishing open. is river the that ensure to advance in check September or and the productive fishing period can extend from morning through to evening. The variety variety The evening. to through morning from extend can period fishing productive the and

good trout habitat, a proliferation of gravel which is essential for spawning and a a and spawning for essential is which gravel of proliferation a habitat, trout good seasons, it is advised that anglers intending to fish a particular river in March March in river particular a fish to intending anglers that advised is it seasons, As the days lengthen and get warmer in May and June, fly hatches become more abundant abundant more become hatches fly June, and May in warmer get and lengthen days the As

Ireland’s relatively cool climate, the presence of large limestone deposits providing providing deposits limestone large of presence the climate, cool relatively Ireland’s be closed for fishing by 30th September. Due to the variance in open/closed open/closed in variance the to Due September. 30th by fishing for closed be dark olives and iron blue duns. blue iron and olives dark

nearly all of our watercourses. Their abundance is due to a number of factors, including including factors, of number a to due is abundance Their watercourses. our of all nearly rivers will be open by April 1st. At the back end of the season, all rivers will will rivers all season, the of end back the At 1st. April by open be will rivers good dry fly fishing. Other flies hatching in the early season include medium olives, small small olives, medium include season early the in hatching flies Other fishing. fly dry good

Brown trout are the most common angling species native to Ireland and are found in in found are and Ireland to native species angling common most the are trout Brown fishing. Rivers begin to open for the season on various dates in March and all all and March in dates various on season the for open to begin Rivers fishing. prolific hatches of large dark olives from April onwards and this can lead to some very very some to lead can this and onwards April from olives dark large of hatches prolific

The open season for river trout varies depending on where in Ireland you are are you Ireland in where on depending varies trout river for season open The

INTRODUCTION search the water are often the most productive. However, there can be some some be can there However, productive. most the often are water the search

can be difficult and sub-surface methods using wet fly or weighted nymphs to to nymphs weighted or fly wet using methods sub-surface and difficult be can OPEN & CLOSED SEASONS CLOSED & OPEN

should be concentrated in this period. At this time of year finding rising fish fish rising finding year of time this At period. this in concentrated be should

productive way to fish. fish. to way productive in the warmer part of the day from midday until about 3 p.m. and fishing fishing and p.m. 3 about until midday from day the of part warmer the in

on many rivers as bank access is often poor and wading is generally the most most the generally is wading and poor often is access bank as rivers many on weather and cold water. As a result, fly hatches, when they occur, tend to be be to tend occur, they when hatches, fly result, a As water. cold and weather

breathable waders & boots, wading jacket and a wading stick are a necessity necessity a are stick wading a and jacket wading boots, & waders breathable

The early part of the season in March & April is usually characterised by cold cold by characterised usually is April & March in season the of part early The

would only use a sink tip if fishing streamers through deep pools. A pair of of pair A pools. deep through streamers fishing if tip sink a use only would

FISHING SEASONS FISHING smaller streams & tributaries. Line choice is nearly always a floater and one one and floater a always nearly is choice Line tributaries. & streams smaller

most angling situations while lighter/shorter rods will be preferable on the the on preferable be will rods lighter/shorter while situations angling most

light tackle. An eight or nine-foot rod rated AFTM 4 or 5 will be able to cover cover to able be will 5 or 4 AFTM rated rod nine-foot or eight An tackle. light

Irish rivers are small by international standards and so they can be fished with relatively relatively with fished be can they so and standards international by small are rivers Irish methods and anglers should always consider using barbless hooks. hooks. barbless using consider always should anglers and methods https://goo.gl/RPsWTS

to prevent damage to fish by multiple/deep hooking when using either of the above above the of either using when hooking multiple/deep by fish to damage prevent to EQUIPMENT accompanying Google map: map: Google accompanying

growth. Worm fishing, where allowed, is also very effective. Care should be taken taken be should Care effective. very also is allowed, where fishing, Worm growth.

website and on the the on and website www.fishinginireland.info

even into darkness using tactics and flies that are more akin to sea trout fishing. trout sea to akin more are that flies and tactics using darkness into even more practical than fly fishing where rivers have heavy bankside vegetation/tree vegetation/tree bankside heavy have rivers where fishing fly than practical more

There is much more detailed information on the the on information detailed more much is There

with local names such as ‘Croneen’ or ’Dollaghan’, are most often taken in late evening or or evening late in taken often most are ’Dollaghan’, or ‘Croneen’ as such names local with small lures/soft plastics or even a dead minnow can work very well and can be be can and well very work can minnow dead a even or plastics lures/soft small

influx of larger lake trout that migrate from the lakes into the rivers to spawn. These trout, trout, These spawn. to rivers the into lakes the from migrate that trout lake larger of influx other methods that can be just as effective. Spinning with light tackle using very very using tackle light with Spinning effective. as just be can that methods other

base yourself. yourself. base on some rivers, at this time of year, the resident stock of river trout is often bolstered by an an by bolstered often is trout river of stock resident the year, of time this at rivers, some on Fly fishing is the most popular method of fishing for trout in Ireland but there are are there but Ireland in trout for fishing of method popular most the is fishing Fly

this brochure highlights these fisheries and the key towns in which you could could you which in towns key the and fisheries these highlights brochure this picks up again as the evening fishing (for resident trout) becomes less productive. However, However, productive. less becomes trout) resident (for fishing evening the as again up picks

OTHER METHODS OTHER

fisheries that consistently produce good fishing. The map on the flip side of of side flip the on map The fishing. good produce consistently that fisheries Towards the back end of the season, in late August and September, the daytime fishing fishing daytime the September, and August late in season, the of end back the Towards

of river trout fishing in Ireland and a brief introduction to some of the main main the of some to introduction brief a and Ireland in fishing trout river of probably should, have been… have should, probably

#CPRsavesfish Remember: water. the to return carefully your Irish trout fishing adventure. There is a short description of the basics basics the of description short a is There adventure. fishing trout Irish your fishing. If you get it wrong, you can leave the river wondering about what could, and and could, what about wondering river the leave can you wrong, it get you If fishing.

for the majority of fish they catch. Record any trophy fish with a quick photo and then then and photo quick a with fish trophy any Record catch. they fish of majority the for

This brochure contains some basic information to help you get started on on started get you help to information basic some contains brochure This feeding on nymph, to dun, to spinner. If you get it right, you can have a super evening’s evening’s super a have can you right, it get you If spinner. to dun, to nymph, on feeding

For that reason, we would ask that all anglers consider practicing Catch & Release Release & Catch practicing consider anglers all that ask would we reason, that For

another angler. another which fish to cast to. It can also be quite technical fishing, as trout can quickly change from from change quickly can trout as fishing, technical quite be also can It to. cast to fish which

water abstraction and illegal fishing, all of which have a negative impact on fish stocks. stocks. fish on impact negative a have which of all fishing, illegal and abstraction water

any of our rivers and can often spend a day fishing without encountering encountering without fishing day a spend often can and rivers our of any comes alive with feeding trout and for a short period, the angler is spoilt for choice as to to as choice for spoilt is angler the period, short a for and trout feeding with alive comes

enjoyed by future generations. Most fisheries face multiple threats including pollution, pollution, including threats multiple face fisheries Most generations. future by enjoyed

this means that the trout angler will rarely be troubled by overcrowding on on overcrowding by troubled be rarely will angler trout the that means this the most exciting fishing of the year, as the previously tranquil, sun-soaked river, suddenly suddenly river, sun-soaked tranquil, previously the as year, the of fishing exciting most the

We all have a responsibility to protect and conserve our fisheries so that they can be be can they that so fisheries our conserve and protect to responsibility a have all We

trout fishing is often neglected on rivers where both species are present. All All present. are species both where rivers on neglected often is fishing trout tends to be concentrated into the 2-hour period before and into dusk. This can be some of of some be can This dusk. into and before period 2-hour the into concentrated be to tends

at its best. There is also a great tradition of salmon angling in Ireland, and and Ireland, in angling salmon of tradition great a also is There best. its at CATCH & RELEASE & CATCH As we move further into July and on into August, daytime activity tapers off and the fishing fishing the and off tapers activity daytime August, into on and July into further move we As

GUIDING If you are planning on fishing in Northern Ireland or on the Foyle and Carlingford area on Leave No Trace There are a relatively small number of guides specialising in river trout fishing in Ireland either side of the border you should consult: Please adhere to the seven principles of Leave No Trace Ireland: and, if possible, it is advisable for an angler visiting a venue for the first time to hire a www.nidirect.gov.uk/information-and-services/outdoor-recreation-and-sport/angling Plan ahead and prepare; Travel and camp on durable surfaces; Dispose of waste guide for at least a day or two. Fishing with a guide will take a lot of the guesswork out and properly; Leave what you find; Minimise campfire impacts (be careful with fire); Re- of your fishing trip as the local knowledge will help you to catch more fish. You will need www.ufishireland.org/ spect wildlife; to contact and make your own arrangements with guides and to help with this, there is IFI also produces a weekly Angling Update which provides up-to-date reports on what Be considerate of other visitors. a list of angling guides available at: anglers are catching and where. You can sign up to be emailed the weekly Angling Update Vehicles should be parked in designated areas and in such a manner that they do not www.fishinginireland.info/guides/index.htm by emailing [email protected] cause obstruction. FURTHER INFORMATION General Tourism Anglers should fish responsibly and sustainably – where possible use single barbless hooks and practice no-weight, “in the water” catch and release. Angling Information Ireland also has a general tourism website www.ireland.com that will help you plan your www.leavenotraceireland.org This guide provides a basic introduction to river trout angling in Ireland and gives a trip to Ireland, providing a wealth of information on travel and accommodation as well as 2014 summary of some of the key angling hotspots you can visit. However, there are a num- information on things to do and see while visiting the island. Biosecurity ber of additional resources where you can find more detailed and up-to-date angling Aquatic Invasive Species and fish pathogens are readily transferred from one water- information. Firstly, there is a dedicated angling website which has more detailed infor- course to another on angling tackle, boats and protective clothing. These can be very mation on individual fisheries and service providers at: www.fishinginireland.info damaging to resident fish stocks, the aquatic habitat and the general environment. We would ask that all anglers inspect and clean their gear prior to travelling to Ireland to fish. Full information on prevention of invasive species is available on our website at: www.fisheriesireland.ie/Research/invasive-species.html Or via Invasive Species Ireland at http://invasivespeciesireland.com/cops/water-users/anglers/ Disclaimer Every effort has been taken to ensure accuracy in the compilation of this publication and associated maps and web pages. Inland Fisheries Ireland cannot accept respon- sibility for errors or omissions therein. Some sporting activities may by their nature be hazardous and involve risk. It is recommended in such cases to take out personal accident insurance. While many operators would have public liability insurance it is always advisable to check with the establishment or operator concerned as to the level of cover carried. Acknowledgements © Published by Inland Fisheries Ireland 2018. P/N: IFI/2018/1-0451 - 003 Photos courtesy of: IFI. TROUT ANGLING The document includes Ordnance Survey Ireland data reproduced under OSi Copy- Pike Angling right Permit No. MP 007508. Unauthorised reproduction infringes Ordnance Survey PIKEON ANGLING IRISH RIVERS Ireland and Government of Ireland copyright. © Ordnance Survey Ireland. IN IRELAND This brochure can be made available in alternate formats upon request.

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CPRSavesfish CPRSavesfish

be a very effective method for taking fish throughout the water column. column. water the throughout fish taking for method effective very a be be a very effective method for taking fish throughout the water column. column. water the throughout fish taking for method effective very a be

of our rivers are overlooked in the early part of the season, when the lough fishing is is fishing lough the when season, the of part early the in overlooked are rivers our of of our rivers are overlooked in the early part of the season, when the lough fishing is is fishing lough the when season, the of part early the in overlooked are rivers our of

than €10 - €20 and can usually be purchased in a local shop. local a in purchased be usually can and €20 - €10 than than €10 - €20 and can usually be purchased in a local shop. local a in purchased be usually can and €20 - €10 than dropper’ approach with a weighted nymph anchored below a Klinkhammer style fly can can fly style Klinkhammer a below anchored nymph weighted a with approach dropper’ dropper’ approach with a weighted nymph anchored below a Klinkhammer style fly can can fly style Klinkhammer a below anchored nymph weighted a with approach dropper’

is a strong tradition of lough (lake) fishing for trout in Ireland which means that many many that means which Ireland in trout for fishing (lake) lough of tradition strong a is is a strong tradition of lough (lake) fishing for trout in Ireland which means that many many that means which Ireland in trout for fishing (lake) lough of tradition strong a is

tickets available to the visiting angler. These tickets are usually no more more no usually are tickets These angler. visiting the to available tickets tickets available to the visiting angler. These tickets are usually no more more no usually are tickets These angler. visiting the to available tickets sub-surface methods and dry fly fishing can be productive and the ‘klink & dink or dry/ or dink & ‘klink the and productive be can fishing fly dry and methods sub-surface sub-surface methods and dry fly fishing can be productive and the ‘klink & dink or dry/ or dink & ‘klink the and productive be can fishing fly dry and methods sub-surface

Despite trout being widespread, many of our rivers are relatively under-fished. There There under-fished. relatively are rivers our of many widespread, being trout Despite Despite trout being widespread, many of our rivers are relatively under-fished. There There under-fished. relatively are rivers our of many widespread, being trout Despite

usually lease the fishing rights for a few kilometres of river and make day day make and river of kilometres few a for rights fishing the lease usually usually lease the fishing rights for a few kilometres of river and make day day make and river of kilometres few a for rights fishing the lease usually species of fly or even on a certain stage of the fly (nymph, emerger, dun or spinner). Both Both spinner). or dun emerger, (nymph, fly the of stage certain a on even or fly of species species of fly or even on a certain stage of the fly (nymph, emerger, dun or spinner). Both Both spinner). or dun emerger, (nymph, fly the of stage certain a on even or fly of species

challenging, there is nothing that compares to catching wild fish in a wild environment. wild a in fish wild catching to compares that nothing is there challenging, challenging, there is nothing that compares to catching wild fish in a wild environment. wild a in fish wild catching to compares that nothing is there challenging,

Trout fishing on rivers is most often controlled by local angling clubs who who clubs angling local by controlled often most is rivers on fishing Trout Trout fishing on rivers is most often controlled by local angling clubs who who clubs angling local by controlled often most is rivers on fishing Trout range of food on offer increases, trout can become quite selective, honing in on a particular particular a on in honing selective, quite become can trout increases, offer on food of range range of food on offer increases, trout can become quite selective, honing in on a particular particular a on in honing selective, quite become can trout increases, offer on food of range

their skills. We do not stock our rivers and while this may make trout fishing a bit more more bit a fishing trout make may this while and rivers our stock not do We skills. their their skills. We do not stock our rivers and while this may make trout fishing a bit more more bit a fishing trout make may this while and rivers our stock not do We skills. their

In Ireland, you do not need to buy a state licence to fish for brown trout. trout. brown for fish to licence state a buy to need not do you Ireland, In In Ireland, you do not need to buy a state licence to fish for brown trout. trout. brown for fish to licence state a buy to need not do you Ireland, In the start of July, it is possible to encounter feeding fish throughout most of the day. As the the As day. the of most throughout fish feeding encounter to possible is it July, of start the the start of July, it is possible to encounter feeding fish throughout most of the day. As the the As day. the of most throughout fish feeding encounter to possible is it July, of start the

Irish river trout are entirely wild and so present the trout angler with a real test of of test real a with angler trout the present so and wild entirely are trout river Irish Irish river trout are entirely wild and so present the trout angler with a real test of of test real a with angler trout the present so and wild entirely are trout river Irish

two important terrestrial flies: the hawthorn fly and the black gnat. By the end of June into into June of end the By gnat. black the and fly hawthorn the flies: terrestrial important two two important terrestrial flies: the hawthorn fly and the black gnat. By the end of June into into June of end the By gnat. black the and fly hawthorn the flies: terrestrial important two

ACCESS, LICENCES & PERMITS & LICENCES ACCESS, ACCESS, LICENCES & PERMITS & LICENCES ACCESS,

the possibility of casting a line... a casting of possibility the the possibility of casting a line... a casting of possibility the and these are accompanied by pale wateries, yellow evening duns, sedges/caddis and and sedges/caddis duns, evening yellow wateries, pale by accompanied are these and and these are accompanied by pale wateries, yellow evening duns, sedges/caddis and and sedges/caddis duns, evening yellow wateries, pale by accompanied are these and

throughout the country means that you are never too far away from a trout stream or or stream trout a from away far too never are you that means country the throughout throughout the country means that you are never too far away from a trout stream or or stream trout a from away far too never are you that means country the throughout completely closed from October to the end of February. of end the to October from closed completely completely closed from October to the end of February. of end the to October from closed completely of insect life also increases at this time of year as mayflies begin to hatch on some rivers rivers some on hatch to begin mayflies as year of time this at increases also life insect of of insect life also increases at this time of year as mayflies begin to hatch on some rivers rivers some on hatch to begin mayflies as year of time this at increases also life insect of

historic lack of competitors and predators. The fact that trout are so widely dispersed dispersed widely so are trout that fact The predators. and competitors of lack historic historic lack of competitors and predators. The fact that trout are so widely dispersed dispersed widely so are trout that fact The predators. and competitors of lack historic or September check in advance to ensure that the river is open. Fishing is is Fishing open. is river the that ensure to advance in check September or or September check in advance to ensure that the river is open. Fishing is is Fishing open. is river the that ensure to advance in check September or and the productive fishing period can extend from morning through to evening. The variety variety The evening. to through morning from extend can period fishing productive the and and the productive fishing period can extend from morning through to evening. The variety variety The evening. to through morning from extend can period fishing productive the and

good trout habitat, a proliferation of gravel which is essential for spawning and a a and spawning for essential is which gravel of proliferation a habitat, trout good good trout habitat, a proliferation of gravel which is essential for spawning and a a and spawning for essential is which gravel of proliferation a habitat, trout good seasons, it is advised that anglers intending to fish a particular river in March March in river particular a fish to intending anglers that advised is it seasons, seasons, it is advised that anglers intending to fish a particular river in March March in river particular a fish to intending anglers that advised is it seasons, As the days lengthen and get warmer in May and June, fly hatches become more abundant abundant more become hatches fly June, and May in warmer get and lengthen days the As As the days lengthen and get warmer in May and June, fly hatches become more abundant abundant more become hatches fly June, and May in warmer get and lengthen days the As

Ireland’s relatively cool climate, the presence of large limestone deposits providing providing deposits limestone large of presence the climate, cool relatively Ireland’s Ireland’s relatively cool climate, the presence of large limestone deposits providing providing deposits limestone large of presence the climate, cool relatively Ireland’s be closed for fishing by 30th September. Due to the variance in open/closed open/closed in variance the to Due September. 30th by fishing for closed be be closed for fishing by 30th September. Due to the variance in open/closed open/closed in variance the to Due September. 30th by fishing for closed be

dark olives and iron blue duns. blue iron and olives dark dark olives and iron blue duns. blue iron and olives dark

nearly all of our watercourses. Their abundance is due to a number of factors, including including factors, of number a to due is abundance Their watercourses. our of all nearly nearly all of our watercourses. Their abundance is due to a number of factors, including including factors, of number a to due is abundance Their watercourses. our of all nearly rivers will be open by April 1st. At the back end of the season, all rivers will will rivers all season, the of end back the At 1st. April by open be will rivers rivers will be open by April 1st. At the back end of the season, all rivers will will rivers all season, the of end back the At 1st. April by open be will rivers

good dry fly fishing. Other flies hatching in the early season include medium olives, small small olives, medium include season early the in hatching flies Other fishing. fly dry good good dry fly fishing. Other flies hatching in the early season include medium olives, small small olives, medium include season early the in hatching flies Other fishing. fly dry good

Brown trout are the most common angling species native to Ireland and are found in in found are and Ireland to native species angling common most the are trout Brown Brown trout are the most common angling species native to Ireland and are found in in found are and Ireland to native species angling common most the are trout Brown fishing. Rivers begin to open for the season on various dates in March and all all and March in dates various on season the for open to begin Rivers fishing. fishing. Rivers begin to open for the season on various dates in March and all all and March in dates various on season the for open to begin Rivers fishing.

prolific hatches of large dark olives from April onwards and this can lead to some very very some to lead can this and onwards April from olives dark large of hatches prolific prolific hatches of large dark olives from April onwards and this can lead to some very very some to lead can this and onwards April from olives dark large of hatches prolific

The open season for river trout varies depending on where in Ireland you are are you Ireland in where on depending varies trout river for season open The The open season for river trout varies depending on where in Ireland you are are you Ireland in where on depending varies trout river for season open The

INTRODUCTION INTRODUCTION search the water are often the most productive. However, there can be some some be can there However, productive. most the often are water the search search the water are often the most productive. However, there can be some some be can there However, productive. most the often are water the search

can be difficult and sub-surface methods using wet fly or weighted nymphs to to nymphs weighted or fly wet using methods sub-surface and difficult be can can be difficult and sub-surface methods using wet fly or weighted nymphs to to nymphs weighted or fly wet using methods sub-surface and difficult be can OPEN & CLOSED SEASONS CLOSED & OPEN OPEN & CLOSED SEASONS CLOSED & OPEN

should be concentrated in this period. At this time of year finding rising fish fish rising finding year of time this At period. this in concentrated be should should be concentrated in this period. At this time of year finding rising fish fish rising finding year of time this At period. this in concentrated be should

productive way to fish. fish. to way productive productive way to fish. fish. to way productive

in the warmer part of the day from midday until about 3 p.m. and fishing fishing and p.m. 3 about until midday from day the of part warmer the in in the warmer part of the day from midday until about 3 p.m. and fishing fishing and p.m. 3 about until midday from day the of part warmer the in

on many rivers as bank access is often poor and wading is generally the most most the generally is wading and poor often is access bank as rivers many on on many rivers as bank access is often poor and wading is generally the most most the generally is wading and poor often is access bank as rivers many on

weather and cold water. As a result, fly hatches, when they occur, tend to be be to tend occur, they when hatches, fly result, a As water. cold and weather weather and cold water. As a result, fly hatches, when they occur, tend to be be to tend occur, they when hatches, fly result, a As water. cold and weather

breathable waders & boots, wading jacket and a wading stick are a necessity necessity a are stick wading a and jacket wading boots, & waders breathable breathable waders & boots, wading jacket and a wading stick are a necessity necessity a are stick wading a and jacket wading boots, & waders breathable

The early part of the season in March & April is usually characterised by cold cold by characterised usually is April & March in season the of part early The The early part of the season in March & April is usually characterised by cold cold by characterised usually is April & March in season the of part early The

would only use a sink tip if fishing streamers through deep pools. A pair of of pair A pools. deep through streamers fishing if tip sink a use only would would only use a sink tip if fishing streamers through deep pools. A pair of of pair A pools. deep through streamers fishing if tip sink a use only would

FISHING SEASONS FISHING FISHING SEASONS FISHING

smaller streams & tributaries. Line choice is nearly always a floater and one one and floater a always nearly is choice Line tributaries. & streams smaller smaller streams & tributaries. Line choice is nearly always a floater and one one and floater a always nearly is choice Line tributaries. & streams smaller

most angling situations while lighter/shorter rods will be preferable on the the on preferable be will rods lighter/shorter while situations angling most most angling situations while lighter/shorter rods will be preferable on the the on preferable be will rods lighter/shorter while situations angling most

light tackle. An eight or nine-foot rod rated AFTM 4 or 5 will be able to cover cover to able be will 5 or 4 AFTM rated rod nine-foot or eight An tackle. light light tackle. An eight or nine-foot rod rated AFTM 4 or 5 will be able to cover cover to able be will 5 or 4 AFTM rated rod nine-foot or eight An tackle. light

Irish rivers are small by international standards and so they can be fished with relatively relatively with fished be can they so and standards international by small are rivers Irish Irish rivers are small by international standards and so they can be fished with relatively relatively with fished be can they so and standards international by small are rivers Irish

methods and anglers should always consider using barbless hooks. hooks. barbless using consider always should anglers and methods methods and anglers should always consider using barbless hooks. hooks. barbless using consider always should anglers and methods https://goo.gl/RPsWTS https://goo.gl/RPsWTS

to prevent damage to fish by multiple/deep hooking when using either of the above above the of either using when hooking multiple/deep by fish to damage prevent to to prevent damage to fish by multiple/deep hooking when using either of the above above the of either using when hooking multiple/deep by fish to damage prevent to EQUIPMENT EQUIPMENT accompanying Google map: map: Google accompanying accompanying Google map: map: Google accompanying

growth. Worm fishing, where allowed, is also very effective. Care should be taken taken be should Care effective. very also is allowed, where fishing, Worm growth. growth. Worm fishing, where allowed, is also very effective. Care should be taken taken be should Care effective. very also is allowed, where fishing, Worm growth.

website and on the the on and website www.fishinginireland.info website and on the the on and website www.fishinginireland.info

even into darkness using tactics and flies that are more akin to sea trout fishing. trout sea to akin more are that flies and tactics using darkness into even even into darkness using tactics and flies that are more akin to sea trout fishing. trout sea to akin more are that flies and tactics using darkness into even

more practical than fly fishing where rivers have heavy bankside vegetation/tree vegetation/tree bankside heavy have rivers where fishing fly than practical more more practical than fly fishing where rivers have heavy bankside vegetation/tree vegetation/tree bankside heavy have rivers where fishing fly than practical more

There is much more detailed information on the the on information detailed more much is There There is much more detailed information on the the on information detailed more much is There

with local names such as ‘Croneen’ or ’Dollaghan’, are most often taken in late evening or or evening late in taken often most are ’Dollaghan’, or ‘Croneen’ as such names local with with local names such as ‘Croneen’ or ’Dollaghan’, are most often taken in late evening or or evening late in taken often most are ’Dollaghan’, or ‘Croneen’ as such names local with small lures/soft plastics or even a dead minnow can work very well and can be be can and well very work can minnow dead a even or plastics lures/soft small small lures/soft plastics or even a dead minnow can work very well and can be be can and well very work can minnow dead a even or plastics lures/soft small

influx of larger lake trout that migrate from the lakes into the rivers to spawn. These trout, trout, These spawn. to rivers the into lakes the from migrate that trout lake larger of influx influx of larger lake trout that migrate from the lakes into the rivers to spawn. These trout, trout, These spawn. to rivers the into lakes the from migrate that trout lake larger of influx other methods that can be just as effective. Spinning with light tackle using very very using tackle light with Spinning effective. as just be can that methods other other methods that can be just as effective. Spinning with light tackle using very very using tackle light with Spinning effective. as just be can that methods other

base yourself. yourself. base

base yourself. yourself. base on some rivers, at this time of year, the resident stock of river trout is often bolstered by an an by bolstered often is trout river of stock resident the year, of time this at rivers, some on on some rivers, at this time of year, the resident stock of river trout is often bolstered by an an by bolstered often is trout river of stock resident the year, of time this at rivers, some on Fly fishing is the most popular method of fishing for trout in Ireland but there are are there but Ireland in trout for fishing of method popular most the is fishing Fly Fly fishing is the most popular method of fishing for trout in Ireland but there are are there but Ireland in trout for fishing of method popular most the is fishing Fly

this brochure highlights these fisheries and the key towns in which you could could you which in towns key the and fisheries these highlights brochure this this brochure highlights these fisheries and the key towns in which you could could you which in towns key the and fisheries these highlights brochure this picks up again as the evening fishing (for resident trout) becomes less productive. However, However, productive. less becomes trout) resident (for fishing evening the as again up picks

picks up again as the evening fishing (for resident trout) becomes less productive. However, However, productive. less becomes trout) resident (for fishing evening the as again up picks

OTHER METHODS OTHER OTHER METHODS OTHER

fisheries that consistently produce good fishing. The map on the flip side of of side flip the on map The fishing. good produce consistently that fisheries fisheries that consistently produce good fishing. The map on the flip side of of side flip the on map The fishing. good produce consistently that fisheries Towards the back end of the season, in late August and September, the daytime fishing fishing daytime the September, and August late in season, the of end back the Towards Towards the back end of the season, in late August and September, the daytime fishing fishing daytime the September, and August late in season, the of end back the Towards

of river trout fishing in Ireland and a brief introduction to some of the main main the of some to introduction brief a and Ireland in fishing trout river of of river trout fishing in Ireland and a brief introduction to some of the main main the of some to introduction brief a and Ireland in fishing trout river of probably should, have been… have should, probably probably should, have been… have should, probably

#CPRsavesfish Remember: water. the to return carefully #CPRsavesfish Remember: water. the to return carefully

your Irish trout fishing adventure. There is a short description of the basics basics the of description short a is There adventure. fishing trout Irish your your Irish trout fishing adventure. There is a short description of the basics basics the of description short a is There adventure. fishing trout Irish your fishing. If you get it wrong, you can leave the river wondering about what could, and and could, what about wondering river the leave can you wrong, it get you If fishing. fishing. If you get it wrong, you can leave the river wondering about what could, and and could, what about wondering river the leave can you wrong, it get you If fishing.

for the majority of fish they catch. Record any trophy fish with a quick photo and then then and photo quick a with fish trophy any Record catch. they fish of majority the for for the majority of fish they catch. Record any trophy fish with a quick photo and then then and photo quick a with fish trophy any Record catch. they fish of majority the for

This brochure contains some basic information to help you get started on on started get you help to information basic some contains brochure This This brochure contains some basic information to help you get started on on started get you help to information basic some contains brochure This feeding on nymph, to dun, to spinner. If you get it right, you can have a super evening’s evening’s super a have can you right, it get you If spinner. to dun, to nymph, on feeding feeding on nymph, to dun, to spinner. If you get it right, you can have a super evening’s evening’s super a have can you right, it get you If spinner. to dun, to nymph, on feeding

For that reason, we would ask that all anglers consider practicing Catch & Release Release & Catch practicing consider anglers all that ask would we reason, that For For that reason, we would ask that all anglers consider practicing Catch & Release Release & Catch practicing consider anglers all that ask would we reason, that For

another angler. another another angler. another which fish to cast to. It can also be quite technical fishing, as trout can quickly change from from change quickly can trout as fishing, technical quite be also can It to. cast to fish which which fish to cast to. It can also be quite technical fishing, as trout can quickly change from from change quickly can trout as fishing, technical quite be also can It to. cast to fish which

water abstraction and illegal fishing, all of which have a negative impact on fish stocks. stocks. fish on impact negative a have which of all fishing, illegal and abstraction water water abstraction and illegal fishing, all of which have a negative impact on fish stocks. stocks. fish on impact negative a have which of all fishing, illegal and abstraction water

any of our rivers and can often spend a day fishing without encountering encountering without fishing day a spend often can and rivers our of any any of our rivers and can often spend a day fishing without encountering encountering without fishing day a spend often can and rivers our of any comes alive with feeding trout and for a short period, the angler is spoilt for choice as to to as choice for spoilt is angler the period, short a for and trout feeding with alive comes comes alive with feeding trout and for a short period, the angler is spoilt for choice as to to as choice for spoilt is angler the period, short a for and trout feeding with alive comes

enjoyed by future generations. Most fisheries face multiple threats including pollution, pollution, including threats multiple face fisheries Most generations. future by enjoyed enjoyed by future generations. Most fisheries face multiple threats including pollution, pollution, including threats multiple face fisheries Most generations. future by enjoyed

this means that the trout angler will rarely be troubled by overcrowding on on overcrowding by troubled be rarely will angler trout the that means this this means that the trout angler will rarely be troubled by overcrowding on on overcrowding by troubled be rarely will angler trout the that means this the most exciting fishing of the year, as the previously tranquil, sun-soaked river, suddenly suddenly river, sun-soaked tranquil, previously the as year, the of fishing exciting most the the most exciting fishing of the year, as the previously tranquil, sun-soaked river, suddenly suddenly river, sun-soaked tranquil, previously the as year, the of fishing exciting most the

We all have a responsibility to protect and conserve our fisheries so that they can be be can they that so fisheries our conserve and protect to responsibility a have all We We all have a responsibility to protect and conserve our fisheries so that they can be be can they that so fisheries our conserve and protect to responsibility a have all We

trout fishing is often neglected on rivers where both species are present. All All present. are species both where rivers on neglected often is fishing trout trout fishing is often neglected on rivers where both species are present. All All present. are species both where rivers on neglected often is fishing trout tends to be concentrated into the 2-hour period before and into dusk. This can be some of of some be can This dusk. into and before period 2-hour the into concentrated be to tends tends to be concentrated into the 2-hour period before and into dusk. This can be some of of some be can This dusk. into and before period 2-hour the into concentrated be to tends

at its best. There is also a great tradition of salmon angling in Ireland, and and Ireland, in angling salmon of tradition great a also is There best. its at CATCH & RELEASE & CATCH at its best. There is also a great tradition of salmon angling in Ireland, and and Ireland, in angling salmon of tradition great a also is There best. its at CATCH & RELEASE & CATCH As we move further into July and on into August, daytime activity tapers off and the fishing fishing the and off tapers activity daytime August, into on and July into further move we As As we move further into July and on into August, daytime activity tapers off and the fishing fishing the and off tapers activity daytime August, into on and July into further move we As

GUIDING GUIDING If youIf are you planning are planning on fishing on fishing in Northern in Northern Ireland Ireland or on or the on Foylethe Foyle and and Carlingford Carlingford area area on on LeaveLeave No No Trace Trace There areThere a relatively are a relatively small number small numberof guides of specialisingguides specialising in river in trout river fishing trout fishing in Ireland in Ireland eithereither side of side the of border the border you shouldyou should consult: consult: PleasePlease adhere adhere to tothe the seven seven principles principles of of Leave Leave No No Trace Trace Ireland: Ireland: and, if possible,and, if possible, it is advisable it is advisable for an anglerfor an visitingangler visitinga venue a forvenue the for first the time first to time hire to a hire a www.nidirect.gov.uk/information-and-services/outdoor-recreation-and-sport/anglingwww.nidirect.gov.uk/information-and-services/outdoor-recreation-and-sport/angling PlanPlan ahead ahead and and prepare; prepare; Travel Travel and and camp camp on on durable durable surfaces; surfaces; DisposeDispose ofof wastewaste guide forguide at least for aat day least or a two.day Fishingor two. withFishing a guidewith a will guide take will a takelot of a the lot ofguesswork the guesswork out out and and properly;properly; Leave Leave what what you you find; find; Minimise Minimise campfire campfire impacts impacts (be (be careful careful withwith fire);fire); ReRe-- of your fishingof your trip fishing as the trip local as the knowledge local knowledge will help will you help to catchyou to more catch fish. more You fish. will You need will need www.ufishireland.org/www.ufishireland.org/ spectspect wildlife; wildlife; to contactto andcontact make and your make own your arrangements own arrangements with guides with guidesand to andhelp to with help this, with there this, isthere is IFI alsoIFI producesalso produces a weekly a weekly Angling Angling Update Update which which provides provides up-to-date up-to-date reports reports on onwhat what Be Beconsiderate considerate of ofother other visitors. visitors. a list of anglinga list of anglingguides available guides available at: at: anglersanglers are catching are catching and where.and where. You canYou signcan signup to up be to emailed be emailed the weeklythe weekly Angling Angling Update Update VehiclesVehicles should should be be parked parked in indesignated designated areas areas and and in in such such a a manner manner that that theythey dodo notnot www.fishinginireland.info/guides/index.htmwww.fishinginireland.info/guides/index.htm by emailingby emailing [email protected] [email protected] causecause obstruction. obstruction. FURTHERFURTHER INFORMATION INFORMATION GeneralGeneral Tourism Tourism AnglersAnglers should should fish fish responsibly responsibly and and sustainably sustainably – – where where possible possible useuse singlesingle barblessbarbless hooks hooks and and practice practice no-weight, no-weight, “in “in the the water” water” catch catch andand release.release. AnglingAngling Information Information IrelandIreland also hasalso a has general a general tourism tourism website website www.ireland.com www.ireland.com that that will willhelp help you you plan plan your your www.leavenotraceireland.orgwww.leavenotraceireland.org This guideThis provides guide provides a basic aintroduction basic introduction to river to trout river angling trout angling in Ireland in Ireland and gives and agives a trip totrip Ireland, to Ireland, providing providing a wealth a wealth of information of information on travel on travel and and accommodation accommodation as wellas well as as 20142014 summarysummary of some ofof somethe key of theangling key anglinghotspots hotspots you can you visit. can However, visit. However, there arethere a arenum -a num- informationinformation on things on things to do to and do seeand whilesee while visiting visiting the island.the island. BiosecurityBiosecurity ber of additionalber of additional resources resources where you where can you find can more find detailed more detailed and up-to-date and up-to-date angling angling AquaticAquatic Invasive Invasive Species Species and and fish fish pathogens pathogens are are readily readily transferred transferred from from oneone waterwater-- information.information. Firstly, there Firstly, is athere dedicated is a dedicated angling angling website website which haswhich more has detailed more detailed infor- infor- coursecourse to toanother another on on angling angling tackle, tackle, boats boats and and protective protective clothing. clothing. These These cancan bebe veryvery mation onmation individual on individual fisheries fisheries and service and serviceproviders providers at: www.fishinginireland.info at: www.fishinginireland.info damagingdamaging to toresident resident fish fish stocks, stocks, the the aquatic aquatic habitat habitat and and the the general general environment. environment. WeWe wouldwould ask ask that that all all anglers anglers inspect inspect and and clean clean their their gear gear prior prior to to travelling travelling toto IrelandIreland to fish.to fish. FullFull information information on on prevention prevention of of invasive invasive species species is is available available on on our our website website at:at: www.fisheriesireland.ie/Research/invasive-species.htmlwww.fisheriesireland.ie/Research/invasive-species.html OrOr via via Invasive Invasive Species Species Ireland Ireland at at http://invasivespeciesireland.com/cops/water-users/anglers/http://invasivespeciesireland.com/cops/water-users/anglers/ DisclaimerDisclaimer EveryEvery effort effort has has been been taken taken to to ensure ensure accuracy accuracy in in the the compilation compilation ofof thisthis publicationpublication andand associated associated maps maps and and web web pages. pages. Inland Inland Fisheries Fisheries Ireland Ireland cannot cannot acceptaccept responrespon-- sibilitysibility for for errors errors or oromissions omissions therein. therein. Some Some sporting sporting activities activities maymay byby theirtheir naturenature be behazardous hazardous and and involve involve risk. risk. It Itis isrecommended recommended in in such such cases cases to to taketake outout personalpersonal accidentaccident insurance. insurance. While While many many operators operators would would have have public public liabilityliability insuranceinsurance itit isis alwaysalways advisable advisable to tocheck check with with the the establishment establishment or or operator operator concerned concerned as as to to thethe levellevel of ofcover cover carried. carried. AcknowledgementsAcknowledgements © Published© Published by by Inland Inland Fisheries Fisheries Ireland Ireland 2018. 2018. P/N: P/N: IFI/2018/1-0451 IFI/2018/1-0451 -- 003003 PhotosPhotos courtesy courtesy of: of: IFI. IFI. TROUTTROUT ANGLING ANGLING TheThe document document includes includes Ordnance Ordnance Survey Survey Ireland Ireland data data reproduced reproduced underunder OSiOSi CopyCopy-- PikePike Angling Angling rightright Permit Permit No. No. MP MP 007508. 007508. Unauthorised Unauthorised reproduction reproduction infringes infringes OrdnanceOrdnance SurveySurvey PIKEPIKEONON ANGLING ANGLINGIRISH IRISH RIVERS RIVERS IrelandIreland and and Government Government of of Ireland Ireland copyright. copyright. © © Ordnance Ordnance Survey Survey Ireland. Ireland. ININ IRELAND IRELAND ThisThis brochure brochure can can be be made made available available in in alternate alternate formats formats upon upon request. request.

# #

CPRSavesfish CPRSavesfish

be a very effective method for taking fish throughout the water column. column. water the throughout fish taking for method effective very a be be a very effective method for taking fish throughout the water column. column. water the throughout fish taking for method effective very a be

of our rivers are overlooked in the early part of the season, when the lough fishing is is fishing lough the when season, the of part early the in overlooked are rivers our of of our rivers are overlooked in the early part of the season, when the lough fishing is is fishing lough the when season, the of part early the in overlooked are rivers our of

than €10 - €20 and can usually be purchased in a local shop. shop. local local a a in in purchased purchased be be usually usually can can and and €20 - €20 - €10 €10 than than dropper’ approach with a weighted nymph anchored below a Klinkhammer style fly can can fly style Klinkhammer a below anchored nymph weighted a with approach dropper’ dropper’ approach with a weighted nymph anchored below a Klinkhammer style fly can can fly style Klinkhammer a below anchored nymph weighted a with approach dropper’

is a strong tradition of lough (lake) fishing for trout in Ireland which means that many many that means which Ireland in trout for fishing (lake) lough of tradition strong a is is a strong tradition of lough (lake) fishing for trout in Ireland which means that many many that means which Ireland in trout for fishing (lake) lough of tradition strong a is

tickets available to the visiting angler. These tickets are usually no more more more no no usually usually are are tickets tickets These These angler. angler. visiting visiting the the to to available available tickets tickets sub-surface methods and dry fly fishing can be productive and the ‘klink & dink or dry/ or dink & ‘klink the and productive be can fishing fly dry and methods sub-surface sub-surface methods and dry fly fishing can be productive and the ‘klink & dink or dry/ or dink & ‘klink the and productive be can fishing fly dry and methods sub-surface

Despite trout being widespread, many of our rivers are relatively under-fished. There There under-fished. relatively are rivers our of many widespread, being trout Despite Despite trout being widespread, many of our rivers are relatively under-fished. There There under-fished. relatively are rivers our of many widespread, being trout Despite

usually lease the fishing rights for a few kilometres of river and make day day day make make and and river river of of kilometres kilometres few few a a for for rights rights fishing fishing the the lease lease usually usually species of fly or even on a certain stage of the fly (nymph, emerger, dun or spinner). Both Both spinner). or dun emerger, (nymph, fly the of stage certain a on even or fly of species species of fly or even on a certain stage of the fly (nymph, emerger, dun or spinner). Both Both spinner). or dun emerger, (nymph, fly the of stage certain a on even or fly of species

challenging, there is nothing that compares to catching wild fish in a wild environment. wild a in fish wild catching to compares that nothing is there challenging, challenging, there is nothing that compares to catching wild fish in a wild environment. wild a in fish wild catching to compares that nothing is there challenging,

Trout fishing on rivers is most often controlled by local angling clubs who who who clubs clubs angling angling local local by by controlled controlled often often most most is is rivers rivers on on fishing fishing Trout Trout range of food on offer increases, trout can become quite selective, honing in on a particular particular a on in honing selective, quite become can trout increases, offer on food of range range of food on offer increases, trout can become quite selective, honing in on a particular particular a on in honing selective, quite become can trout increases, offer on food of range

their skills. We do not stock our rivers and while this may make trout fishing a bit more more bit a fishing trout make may this while and rivers our stock not do We skills. their their skills. We do not stock our rivers and while this may make trout fishing a bit more more bit a fishing trout make may this while and rivers our stock not do We skills. their

In Ireland, you do not need to buy a state licence to fish for brown trout. trout. trout. brown brown for for fish fish to to licence licence state state a a buy buy to to need need not not do do you you Ireland, In Ireland, In the start of July, it is possible to encounter feeding fish throughout most of the day. As the the As day. the of most throughout fish feeding encounter to possible is it July, of start the the start of July, it is possible to encounter feeding fish throughout most of the day. As the the As day. the of most throughout fish feeding encounter to possible is it July, of start the

Irish river trout are entirely wild and so present the trout angler with a real test of of test real a with angler trout the present so and wild entirely are trout river Irish Irish river trout are entirely wild and so present the trout angler with a real test of of test real a with angler trout the present so and wild entirely are trout river Irish

two important terrestrial flies: the hawthorn fly and the black gnat. By the end of June into into June of end the By gnat. black the and fly hawthorn the flies: terrestrial important two two important terrestrial flies: the hawthorn fly and the black gnat. By the end of June into into June of end the By gnat. black the and fly hawthorn the flies: terrestrial important two

ACCESS, LICENCES & PERMITS & LICENCES ACCESS, ACCESS, LICENCES & PERMITS & LICENCES ACCESS,

the possibility of casting a line... a casting of possibility the the possibility of casting a line... a casting of possibility the and these are accompanied by pale wateries, yellow evening duns, sedges/caddis and and sedges/caddis duns, evening yellow wateries, pale by accompanied are these and and these are accompanied by pale wateries, yellow evening duns, sedges/caddis and and sedges/caddis duns, evening yellow wateries, pale by accompanied are these and

throughout the country means that you are never too far away from a trout stream or or stream trout a from away far too never are you that means country the throughout throughout the country means that you are never too far away from a trout stream or or stream trout a from away far too never are you that means country the throughout completely closed from October to the end of February. February. of of end end the the to to October October from from closed closed completely completely of insect life also increases at this time of year as mayflies begin to hatch on some rivers rivers some on hatch to begin mayflies as year of time this at increases also life insect of of insect life also increases at this time of year as mayflies begin to hatch on some rivers rivers some on hatch to begin mayflies as year of time this at increases also life insect of

historic lack of competitors and predators. The fact that trout are so widely dispersed dispersed widely so are trout that fact The predators. and competitors of lack historic historic lack of competitors and predators. The fact that trout are so widely dispersed dispersed widely so are trout that fact The predators. and competitors of lack historic or September check in advance to ensure that the river is open. Fishing is is is Fishing Fishing open. open. is is river river the the that that ensure ensure to to advance advance in in check check September September or or and the productive fishing period can extend from morning through to evening. The variety variety The evening. to through morning from extend can period fishing productive the and and the productive fishing period can extend from morning through to evening. The variety variety The evening. to through morning from extend can period fishing productive the and

good trout habitat, a proliferation of gravel which is essential for spawning and a a and spawning for essential is which gravel of proliferation a habitat, trout good good trout habitat, a proliferation of gravel which is essential for spawning and a a and spawning for essential is which gravel of proliferation a habitat, trout good seasons, it is advised that anglers intending to fish a particular river in March March March in in river river particular particular a a fish fish to to intending intending anglers anglers that that advised is advised it is it seasons, seasons, As the days lengthen and get warmer in May and June, fly hatches become more abundant abundant more become hatches fly June, and May in warmer get and lengthen days the As As the days lengthen and get warmer in May and June, fly hatches become more abundant abundant more become hatches fly June, and May in warmer get and lengthen days the As

Ireland’s relatively cool climate, the presence of large limestone deposits providing providing deposits limestone large of presence the climate, cool relatively Ireland’s Ireland’s relatively cool climate, the presence of large limestone deposits providing providing deposits limestone large of presence the climate, cool relatively Ireland’s be closed for fishing by 30th September. Due to the variance in open/closed open/closed open/closed in in variance variance the the to to Due Due September. September. 30th 30th by by fishing fishing for for closed closed be be

dark olives and iron blue duns. blue iron and olives dark dark olives and iron blue duns. blue iron and olives dark

nearly all of our watercourses. Their abundance is due to a number of factors, including including factors, of number a to due is abundance Their watercourses. our of all nearly nearly all of our watercourses. Their abundance is due to a number of factors, including including factors, of number a to due is abundance Their watercourses. our of all nearly rivers will be open by April 1st. At the back end of the season, all rivers will will will rivers rivers all all season, season, the the of of end end back back the the At At 1st. 1st. April April by by open open be be will will rivers rivers

good dry fly fishing. Other flies hatching in the early season include medium olives, small small olives, medium include season early the in hatching flies Other fishing. fly dry good good dry fly fishing. Other flies hatching in the early season include medium olives, small small olives, medium include season early the in hatching flies Other fishing. fly dry good

Brown trout are the most common angling species native to Ireland and are found in in found are and Ireland to native species angling common most the are trout Brown Brown trout are the most common angling species native to Ireland and are found in in found are and Ireland to native species angling common most the are trout Brown fishing. Rivers begin to open for the season on various dates in March and all all all and and March March in in dates dates various various on on season season the the for for open open to to begin begin Rivers Rivers fishing. fishing.

prolific hatches of large dark olives from April onwards and this can lead to some very very some to lead can this and onwards April from olives dark large of hatches prolific prolific hatches of large dark olives from April onwards and this can lead to some very very some to lead can this and onwards April from olives dark large of hatches prolific

The open season for river trout varies depending on where in Ireland you are are are you you Ireland Ireland in in where where on on depending depending varies varies trout trout river river for for season season open open The The

INTRODUCTION INTRODUCTION search the water are often the most productive. However, there can be some some be can there However, productive. most the often are water the search search the water are often the most productive. However, there can be some some be can there However, productive. most the often are water the search

can be difficult and sub-surface methods using wet fly or weighted nymphs to to nymphs weighted or fly wet using methods sub-surface and difficult be can can be difficult and sub-surface methods using wet fly or weighted nymphs to to nymphs weighted or fly wet using methods sub-surface and difficult be can OPEN & CLOSED SEASONS CLOSED & OPEN OPEN & CLOSED SEASONS CLOSED & OPEN

should be concentrated in this period. At this time of year finding rising fish fish rising finding year of time this At period. this in concentrated be should should be concentrated in this period. At this time of year finding rising fish fish rising finding year of time this At period. this in concentrated be should

productive way to fish. fish. to way productive productive way to fish. fish. to way productive

in the warmer part of the day from midday until about 3 p.m. and fishing fishing and p.m. 3 about until midday from day the of part warmer the in in the warmer part of the day from midday until about 3 p.m. and fishing fishing and p.m. 3 about until midday from day the of part warmer the in

on many rivers as bank access is often poor and wading is generally the most most the generally is wading and poor often is access bank as rivers many on on many rivers as bank access is often poor and wading is generally the most most the generally is wading and poor often is access bank as rivers many on

weather and cold water. As a result, fly hatches, when they occur, tend to be be to tend occur, they when hatches, fly result, a As water. cold and weather weather and cold water. As a result, fly hatches, when they occur, tend to be be to tend occur, they when hatches, fly result, a As water. cold and weather

breathable waders & boots, wading jacket and a wading stick are a necessity necessity a are stick wading a and jacket wading boots, & waders breathable breathable waders & boots, wading jacket and a wading stick are a necessity necessity a are stick wading a and jacket wading boots, & waders breathable

The early part of the season in March & April is usually characterised by cold cold by characterised usually is April & March in season the of part early The The early part of the season in March & April is usually characterised by cold cold by characterised usually is April & March in season the of part early The

would only use a sink tip if fishing streamers through deep pools. A pair of of pair A pools. deep through streamers fishing if tip sink a use only would would only use a sink tip if fishing streamers through deep pools. A pair of of pair A pools. deep through streamers fishing if tip sink a use only would

FISHING SEASONS FISHING FISHING SEASONS FISHING

smaller streams & tributaries. Line choice is nearly always a floater and one one and floater a always nearly is choice Line tributaries. & streams smaller smaller streams & tributaries. Line choice is nearly always a floater and one one and floater a always nearly is choice Line tributaries. & streams smaller

most angling situations while lighter/shorter rods will be preferable on the the on preferable be will rods lighter/shorter while situations angling most most angling situations while lighter/shorter rods will be preferable on the the on preferable be will rods lighter/shorter while situations angling most

light tackle. An eight or nine-foot rod rated AFTM 4 or 5 will be able to cover cover to able be will 5 or 4 AFTM rated rod nine-foot or eight An tackle. light light tackle. An eight or nine-foot rod rated AFTM 4 or 5 will be able to cover cover to able be will 5 or 4 AFTM rated rod nine-foot or eight An tackle. light

Irish rivers are small by international standards and so they can be fished with relatively relatively with fished be can they so and standards international by small are rivers Irish Irish rivers are small by international standards and so they can be fished with relatively relatively with fished be can they so and standards international by small are rivers Irish

methods and anglers should always consider using barbless hooks. hooks. barbless using consider always should anglers and methods methods and anglers should always consider using barbless hooks. hooks. barbless using consider always should anglers and methods https://goo.gl/RPsWTS https://goo.gl/RPsWTS

to prevent damage to fish by multiple/deep hooking when using either of the above above the of either using when hooking multiple/deep by fish to damage prevent to to prevent damage to fish by multiple/deep hooking when using either of the above above the of either using when hooking multiple/deep by fish to damage prevent to EQUIPMENT EQUIPMENT accompanying Google map: map: Google accompanying accompanying Google map: map: Google accompanying

growth. Worm fishing, where allowed, is also very effective. Care should be taken taken be should Care effective. very also is allowed, where fishing, Worm growth. growth. Worm fishing, where allowed, is also very effective. Care should be taken taken be should Care effective. very also is allowed, where fishing, Worm growth.

website and on the the on and website www.fishinginireland.info website and on the the on and website www.fishinginireland.info

even into darkness using tactics and flies that are more akin to sea trout fishing. trout sea to akin more are that flies and tactics using darkness into even even into darkness using tactics and flies that are more akin to sea trout fishing. trout sea to akin more are that flies and tactics using darkness into even

more practical than fly fishing where rivers have heavy bankside vegetation/tree vegetation/tree bankside heavy have rivers where fishing fly than practical more more practical than fly fishing where rivers have heavy bankside vegetation/tree vegetation/tree bankside heavy have rivers where fishing fly than practical more

There is much more detailed information on the the on information detailed more much is There There is much more detailed information on the the on information detailed more much is There

with local names such as ‘Croneen’ or ’Dollaghan’, are most often taken in late evening or or evening late in taken often most are ’Dollaghan’, or ‘Croneen’ as such names local with with local names such as ‘Croneen’ or ’Dollaghan’, are most often taken in late evening or or evening late in taken often most are ’Dollaghan’, or ‘Croneen’ as such names local with small lures/soft plastics or even a dead minnow can work very well and can be be can and well very work can minnow dead a even or plastics lures/soft small small lures/soft plastics or even a dead minnow can work very well and can be be can and well very work can minnow dead a even or plastics lures/soft small

influx of larger lake trout that migrate from the lakes into the rivers to spawn. These trout, trout, These spawn. to rivers the into lakes the from migrate that trout lake larger of influx influx of larger lake trout that migrate from the lakes into the rivers to spawn. These trout, trout, These spawn. to rivers the into lakes the from migrate that trout lake larger of influx other methods that can be just as effective. Spinning with light tackle using very very using tackle light with Spinning effective. as just be can that methods other other methods that can be just as effective. Spinning with light tackle using very very using tackle light with Spinning effective. as just be can that methods other

base yourself. yourself. base base yourself. yourself. base on some rivers, at this time of year, the resident stock of river trout is often bolstered by an an by bolstered often is trout river of stock resident the year, of time this at rivers, some on on some rivers, at this time of year, the resident stock of river trout is often bolstered by an an by bolstered often is trout river of stock resident the year, of time this at rivers, some on Fly fishing is the most popular method of fishing for trout in Ireland but there are are there but Ireland in trout for fishing of method popular most the is fishing Fly Fly fishing is the most popular method of fishing for trout in Ireland but there are are there but Ireland in trout for fishing of method popular most the is fishing Fly

this brochure highlights these fisheries and the key towns in which you could could you which in towns key the and fisheries these highlights brochure this this brochure highlights these fisheries and the key towns in which you could could you which in towns key the and fisheries these highlights brochure this

picks up again as the evening fishing (for resident trout) becomes less productive. However, However, productive. less becomes trout) resident (for fishing evening the as again up picks picks up again as the evening fishing (for resident trout) becomes less productive. However, However, productive. less becomes trout) resident (for fishing evening the as again up picks

OTHER METHODS OTHER OTHER METHODS OTHER

fisheries that consistently produce good fishing. The map on the flip side of of side flip the on map The fishing. good produce consistently that fisheries fisheries that consistently produce good fishing. The map on the flip side of of side flip the on map The fishing. good produce consistently that fisheries Towards the back end of the season, in late August and September, the daytime fishing fishing daytime the September, and August late in season, the of end back the Towards Towards the back end of the season, in late August and September, the daytime fishing fishing daytime the September, and August late in season, the of end back the Towards

of river trout fishing in Ireland and a brief introduction to some of the main main the of some to introduction brief a and Ireland in fishing trout river of of river trout fishing in Ireland and a brief introduction to some of the main main the of some to introduction brief a and Ireland in fishing trout river of probably should, have been… have should, probably probably should, have been… have should, probably

#CPRsavesfish Remember: water. the to return carefully #CPRsavesfish Remember: water. the to return carefully

your Irish trout fishing adventure. There is a short description of the basics basics the of description short a is There adventure. fishing trout Irish your your Irish trout fishing adventure. There is a short description of the basics basics the of description short a is There adventure. fishing trout Irish your fishing. If you get it wrong, you can leave the river wondering about what could, and and could, what about wondering river the leave can you wrong, it get you If fishing. fishing. If you get it wrong, you can leave the river wondering about what could, and and could, what about wondering river the leave can you wrong, it get you If fishing.

for the majority of fish they catch. Record any trophy fish with a quick photo and then then and photo quick a with fish trophy any Record catch. they fish of majority the for for the majority of fish they catch. Record any trophy fish with a quick photo and then then and photo quick a with fish trophy any Record catch. they fish of majority the for

This brochure contains some basic information to help you get started on on started get you help to information basic some contains brochure This This brochure contains some basic information to help you get started on on started get you help to information basic some contains brochure This feeding on nymph, to dun, to spinner. If you get it right, you can have a super evening’s evening’s super a have can you right, it get you If spinner. to dun, to nymph, on feeding feeding on nymph, to dun, to spinner. If you get it right, you can have a super evening’s evening’s super a have can you right, it get you If spinner. to dun, to nymph, on feeding

For that reason, we would ask that all anglers consider practicing Catch & Release Release & Catch practicing consider anglers all that ask would we reason, that For For that reason, we would ask that all anglers consider practicing Catch & Release Release & Catch practicing consider anglers all that ask would we reason, that For

another angler. another another angler. another which fish to cast to. It can also be quite technical fishing, as trout can quickly change from from change quickly can trout as fishing, technical quite be also can It to. cast to fish which which fish to cast to. It can also be quite technical fishing, as trout can quickly change from from change quickly can trout as fishing, technical quite be also can It to. cast to fish which

water abstraction and illegal fishing, all of which have a negative impact on fish stocks. stocks. fish on impact negative a have which of all fishing, illegal and abstraction water water abstraction and illegal fishing, all of which have a negative impact on fish stocks. stocks. fish on impact negative a have which of all fishing, illegal and abstraction water

any of our rivers and can often spend a day fishing without encountering encountering without fishing day a spend often can and rivers our of any any of our rivers and can often spend a day fishing without encountering encountering without fishing day a spend often can and rivers our of any comes alive with feeding trout and for a short period, the angler is spoilt for choice as to to as choice for spoilt is angler the period, short a for and trout feeding with alive comes comes alive with feeding trout and for a short period, the angler is spoilt for choice as to to as choice for spoilt is angler the period, short a for and trout feeding with alive comes

enjoyed by future generations. Most fisheries face multiple threats including pollution, pollution, including threats multiple face fisheries Most generations. future by enjoyed enjoyed by future generations. Most fisheries face multiple threats including pollution, pollution, including threats multiple face fisheries Most generations. future by enjoyed

this means that the trout angler will rarely be troubled by overcrowding on on overcrowding by troubled be rarely will angler trout the that means this this means that the trout angler will rarely be troubled by overcrowding on on overcrowding by troubled be rarely will angler trout the that means this the most exciting fishing of the year, as the previously tranquil, sun-soaked river, suddenly suddenly river, sun-soaked tranquil, previously the as year, the of fishing exciting most the the most exciting fishing of the year, as the previously tranquil, sun-soaked river, suddenly suddenly river, sun-soaked tranquil, previously the as year, the of fishing exciting most the

We all have a responsibility to protect and conserve our fisheries so that they can be be can they that so fisheries our conserve and protect to responsibility a have all We We all have a responsibility to protect and conserve our fisheries so that they can be be can they that so fisheries our conserve and protect to responsibility a have all We

trout fishing is often neglected on rivers where both species are present. All All present. are species both where rivers on neglected often is fishing trout trout fishing is often neglected on rivers where both species are present. All All present. are species both where rivers on neglected often is fishing trout tends to be concentrated into the 2-hour period before and into dusk. This can be some of of some be can This dusk. into and before period 2-hour the into concentrated be to tends tends to be concentrated into the 2-hour period before and into dusk. This can be some of of some be can This dusk. into and before period 2-hour the into concentrated be to tends

at its best. There is also a great tradition of salmon angling in Ireland, and and Ireland, in angling salmon of tradition great a also is There best. its at at its best. There is also a great tradition of salmon angling in Ireland, and and Ireland, in angling salmon of tradition great a also is There best. its at CATCH & RELEASE RELEASE & & CATCH CATCH As we move further into July and on into August, daytime activity tapers off and the fishing fishing the and off tapers activity daytime August, into on and July into further move we As As we move further into July and on into August, daytime activity tapers off and the fishing fishing the and off tapers activity daytime August, into on and July into further move we As

GUIDINGGUIDING IfIf youyou areare planningplanning on on fishing fishing in in Northern Northern Ireland Ireland or or on on the the Foyle Foyle and and Carlingford Carlingford area area on on LeaveLeave No No Trace Trace ThereThere are are a relativelya relatively small small number number of of guides guides specialising specialising in in river river trout trout fishingfishing inin IrelandIreland either sideside ofof thethe borderborder you you should should consult: consult: PleasePlease adhere adhere to the to theseven seven principles principles of Leave of Leave No Trace No Trace Ireland: Ireland: and,and, if possible,if possible, it isit isadvisable advisable for for an an angler angler visiting visiting a a venue venue for for the the firstfirst timetime toto hirehire a www.nidirect.gov.uk/information-and-services/outdoor-recreation-and-sport/angling PlanPlan ahead ahead and and prepare; prepare; Travel Travel and andcamp camp on durable on durable surfaces; surfaces; Dispose Dispose of waste of waste guideguide for for at atleast least a daya day or or two. two. Fishing Fishing with with a a guide guide will will take take a a lot lot of of thethe guessworkguesswork out and properly;properly; Leave Leave what what you youfind; find; Minimise Minimise campfire campfire impacts impacts (be careful(be careful with fire);with fire);Re- Re- of ofyour your fishing fishing trip trip as as the the local local knowledge knowledge will will help help you you to to catch catch more more fish. fish. YouYou willwill need www.ufishireland.org/ spectspect wildlife; wildlife; to tocontact contact and and make make your your own own arrangements arrangements with with guides guides and and to to helphelp withwith this,this, therethere is IFIIFI alsoalso producesproduces aa weeklyweekly AnglingAngling Update Update which which provides provides up-to-date up-to-date reports reports on onwhat what Be Beconsiderate considerate of otherof other visitors. visitors. a lista list of ofangling angling guides guides available available at: at: anglers areare catchingcatching and and where. where. You You can can sign sign up up to to be be emailed emailed the the weekly weekly Angling Angling Update Update VehiclesVehicles should should be parkedbe parked in designated in designated areas areas and andin such in sucha manner a manner that theythat dothey not do not www.fishinginireland.info/guides/index.htmwww.fishinginireland.info/guides/index.htm by emailing [email protected]@fisheriesireland.ie causecause obstruction. obstruction. FURTHERFURTHER INFORMATION INFORMATION General TourismTourism AnglersAnglers should should fish responsiblyfish responsibly and sustainablyand sustainably – where – where possible possible use single use single barblessbarbless hooks hooks and andpractice practice no-weight, no-weight, “in the “in water” the water” catch catch and release. and release. AnglingAngling Information Information IrelandIreland alsoalso hashas aa generalgeneral tourism tourism website website www.ireland.com www.ireland.com that that will will help help you you plan plan your your www.leavenotraceireland.orgwww.leavenotraceireland.org ThisThis guide guide provides provides a abasic basic introduction introduction to to river river trout trout angling angling inin IrelandIreland andand givesgives a trip toto Ireland,Ireland, providingproviding a a wealth wealth of of information information on on travel travel and and accommodation accommodation as aswell well as as 2014 2014 summarysummary of ofsome some of of the the key key angling angling hotspots hotspots you you can can visit. visit. However, However, therethere areare aa numnum- informationinformation onon thingsthings to to do do and and see see while while visiting visiting the the island. island. BiosecurityBiosecurity berber of ofadditional additional resources resources where where you you can can find find more more detailed detailed and and up-to-dateup-to-date anglingangling AquaticAquatic Invasive Invasive Species Species and and fish fishpathogens pathogens are readilyare readily transferred transferred from fromone water one water- - information.information. Firstly, Firstly, there there is isa adedicated dedicated angling angling website website which which has has more more detaileddetailed inforinfor- coursecourse to anotherto another on anglingon angling tackle, tackle, boats boats and andprotective protective clothing. clothing. These These can be can very be very mationmation on onindividual individual fisheries fisheries and and service service providers providers at: at: www.fishinginireland.info www.fishinginireland.info damagingdamaging to resident to resident fish fishstocks, stocks, the aquaticthe aquatic habitat habitat and theand general the general environment. environment. We We wouldwould ask ask that that all anglersall anglers inspect inspect and andclean clean their theirgear gear prior prior to travelling to travelling to Ireland to Ireland to fish.to fish. FullFull information information on preventionon prevention of invasive of invasive species species is available is available on our on website our website at: at: www.fisheriesireland.ie/Research/invasive-species.htmlwww.fisheriesireland.ie/Research/invasive-species.html Or Orvia viaInvasive Invasive Species Species Ireland Ireland at at http://invasivespeciesireland.com/cops/water-users/anglers/http://invasivespeciesireland.com/cops/water-users/anglers/ DisclaimerDisclaimer EveryEvery effort effort has hasbeen been taken taken to ensure to ensure accuracy accuracy in the in compilationthe compilation of this of publication this publication andand associated associated maps maps and and web web pages. pages. Inland Inland Fisheries Fisheries Ireland Ireland cannot cannot accept accept respon respon- - sibilitysibility for forerrors errors or omissionsor omissions therein. therein. Some Some sporting sporting activities activities may mayby their by theirnature nature be behazardous hazardous and and involve involve risk. risk.It is Itrecommended is recommended in such in suchcases cases to take to takeout personal out personal accidentaccident insurance. insurance. While While many many operators operators would would have have public public liability liability insurance insurance it is it is alwaysalways advisable advisable to check to check with with the establishmentthe establishment or operator or operator concerned concerned as to asthe to level the level of coverof cover carried. carried. AcknowledgementsAcknowledgements © Published© Published by Inlandby Inland Fisheries Fisheries Ireland Ireland 2018. 2018. P/N: P/N: IFI/2018/1-0451 IFI/2018/1-0451 - 003 - 003 PhotosPhotos courtesy courtesy of: IFI.of: IFI. TROUTTROUT ANGLING ANGLING TheThe document document includes includes Ordnance Ordnance Survey Survey Ireland Ireland data data reproduced reproduced under under OSi CopyOSi -Copy- PikePike Angling Angling rightright Permit Permit No. No.MP MP007508. 007508. Unauthorised Unauthorised reproduction reproduction infringes infringes Ordnance Ordnance Survey Survey PIKEPIKEON ANGLING ONIRISH ANGLING IRISH RIVERS RIVERS IrelandIreland and and Government Government of Ireland of Ireland copyright. copyright. © Ordnance © Ordnance Survey Survey Ireland. Ireland. IN IRELANDIN IRELAND ThisThis brochure brochure can canbe madebe made available available in alternate in alternate formats formats upon uponrequest. request.

# #

CPRSavesfish CPRSavesfish

be a very effective method for taking fish throughout the water column. column. column. water the water the throughout fish throughout fish taking for taking for method method effective very effective a be very a be

of our rivers are overlooked in the early part of the season, when the lough fishing is is is fishing lough fishing the lough when the when season, the of season, the part of early part the in early the in overlooked are overlooked rivers are our of rivers our of

than €10 - €20 and can usually be purchased in a local shop. shop. local local a a in in purchased purchased be be usually usually can can and and €20 - €20 - €10 €10 than than dropper’ approach with a weighted nymph anchored below a Klinkhammer style fly can can can fly fly style style Klinkhammer a Klinkhammer a below below anchored anchored nymph nymph weighted a weighted with a with approach approach dropper’ dropper’

is a strong tradition of lough (lake) fishing for trout in Ireland which means that many many that many that means which means which Ireland in Ireland trout in for trout fishing for (lake) fishing lough (lake) of lough of tradition strong tradition a is strong a is

tickets available to the visiting angler. These tickets are usually no more more more no no usually usually are are tickets tickets These These angler. angler. visiting visiting the the to to available available tickets tickets sub-surface methods and dry fly fishing can be productive and the ‘klink & dink or dry/ or dry/ or dink & dink & ‘klink ‘klink the the and and productive be productive can be can fishing fly fishing dry fly and dry and methods methods sub-surface sub-surface

Despite trout being widespread, many of our rivers are relatively under-fished. There There There under-fished. under-fished. relatively are relatively rivers are our of rivers our many of many widespread, being widespread, trout being Despite trout Despite

usually lease the fishing rights for a few kilometres of river and make day day day make make and and river river of of kilometres kilometres few few a a for for rights rights fishing fishing the the lease lease usually usually species of fly or even on a certain stage of the fly (nymph, emerger, dun or spinner). Both Both Both spinner). or spinner). or dun dun emerger, emerger, (nymph, fly (nymph, the fly of the of stage stage certain a certain on a on even or even fly or of fly of species species

challenging, there is nothing that compares to catching wild fish in a wild environment. wild environment. a in wild fish a in wild fish wild catching to catching to compares that compares that nothing is there nothing is there challenging, challenging,

Trout fishing on rivers is most often controlled by local angling clubs who who who clubs clubs angling angling local local by by controlled controlled often often most most is is rivers rivers on on fishing fishing Trout Trout range of food on offer increases, trout can become quite selective, honing in on a particular particular a particular on a in on in honing honing selective, selective, quite quite become can become can trout trout increases, increases, offer on offer food on of food of range range

their skills. We do not stock our rivers and while this may make trout fishing a bit more more bit a more bit a fishing trout fishing make trout may make this may while this and while rivers and our rivers stock our not do stock We not do skills. We their skills. their

In Ireland, you do not need to buy a state licence to fish for brown trout. trout. trout. brown brown for for fish fish to to licence licence state state a a buy buy to to need need not not do do you you Ireland, In Ireland, In the start of July, it is possible to encounter feeding fish throughout most of the day. As the the As the As day. day. the of the of most most throughout fish throughout fish feeding feeding encounter to encounter to possible is it possible is July, it of July, start of the start the

Irish river trout are entirely wild and so present the trout angler with a real test of of test of real test a real with a with angler trout angler the trout the present so present and so wild and wild entirely are entirely trout are river trout Irish river Irish

two important terrestrial flies: the hawthorn fly and the black gnat. By the end of June into into into June of June of end end the By the By gnat. gnat. black the black the and fly and fly hawthorn the hawthorn the flies: flies: terrestrial terrestrial important two important two

ACCESS, LICENCES & PERMITS & LICENCES ACCESS, ACCESS, LICENCES & PERMITS & LICENCES ACCESS,

the possibility of casting a line... a line... casting a of casting of possibility the possibility the and these are accompanied by pale wateries, yellow evening duns, sedges/caddis and and and sedges/caddis sedges/caddis duns, duns, evening evening yellow yellow wateries, wateries, pale by pale by accompanied are accompanied are these and these and

throughout the country means that you are never too far away from a trout stream or or or stream trout stream a trout from a away from far away too far never too are never you are that you means that means country the country the throughout throughout completely closed from October to the end of February. February. of of end end the the to to October October from from closed closed completely completely of insect life also increases at this time of year as mayflies begin to hatch on some rivers rivers rivers some on some on hatch to hatch to begin begin mayflies as mayflies as year of year of time this time at this at increases also increases life also life insect of insect of

historic lack of competitors and predators. The fact that trout are so widely dispersed dispersed dispersed widely so widely are so trout are that trout fact that The fact The predators. and predators. and competitors of lack competitors of historic lack historic or September check in advance to ensure that the river is open. Fishing is is is Fishing Fishing open. open. is is river river the the that that ensure ensure to to advance advance in in check check September September or or and the productive fishing period can extend from morning through to evening. The variety variety variety The The evening. to evening. to through through morning morning from from extend can extend can period period fishing fishing productive the productive and the and

good trout habitat, a proliferation of gravel which is essential for spawning and a a and a and spawning for spawning for essential is essential which is which gravel of gravel of proliferation a proliferation a habitat, trout habitat, good trout good seasons, it is advised that anglers intending to fish a particular river in March March March in in river river particular particular a a fish fish to to intending intending anglers anglers that that advised is advised it is it seasons, seasons, As the days lengthen and get warmer in May and June, fly hatches become more abundant abundant abundant more more become become hatches fly hatches fly June, June, and and May in May in warmer get warmer and get and lengthen days lengthen the days As the As

Ireland’s relatively cool climate, the presence of large limestone deposits providing providing providing deposits deposits limestone large limestone of large of presence the presence the climate, cool climate, cool relatively relatively Ireland’s Ireland’s be closed for fishing by 30th September. Due to the variance in open/closed open/closed open/closed in in variance variance the the to to Due Due September. September. 30th 30th by by fishing fishing for for closed closed be be

dark olives and iron blue duns. blue duns. iron blue and iron and olives dark olives dark

nearly all of our watercourses. Their abundance is due to a number of factors, including including including factors, of factors, of number a to number a due is to due is abundance Their abundance Their watercourses. our of watercourses. all our of nearly all nearly rivers will be open by April 1st. At the back end of the season, all rivers will will will rivers rivers all all season, season, the the of of end end back back the the At At 1st. 1st. April April by by open open be be will will rivers rivers

good dry fly fishing. Other flies hatching in the early season include medium olives, small small small olives, olives, medium medium include include season season early the early in the in hatching flies hatching flies Other Other fishing. fly fishing. dry fly dry good good

Brown trout are the most common angling species native to Ireland and are found in in in found are found and are and Ireland to Ireland to native native species species angling angling common most common the most are the trout are Brown trout Brown fishing. Rivers begin to open for the season on various dates in March and all all all and and March March in in dates dates various various on on season season the the for for open open to to begin begin Rivers Rivers fishing. fishing.

prolific hatches of large dark olives from April onwards and this can lead to some very very very some to some to lead lead can can this this and and onwards onwards April April from from olives olives dark dark large of large of hatches hatches prolific prolific

The open season for river trout varies depending on where in Ireland you are are are you you Ireland Ireland in in where where on on depending depending varies varies trout trout river river for for season season open open The The

INTRODUCTION INTRODUCTION search the water are often the most productive. However, there can be some some some be be can can there there However, However, productive. productive. most the most the often are often are water the water the search search

can be difficult and sub-surface methods using wet fly or weighted nymphs to to to nymphs nymphs weighted or weighted fly or fly wet wet using using methods methods sub-surface and sub-surface and difficult be difficult can be can OPEN & CLOSED SEASONS SEASONS CLOSED & CLOSED & OPEN OPEN

should be concentrated in this period. At this time of year finding rising fish fish fish rising rising finding finding year of year of time this time At this At period. this period. in this in concentrated be concentrated be should should

productive way to fish. fish. fish. to to way way productive productive

in the warmer part of the day from midday until about 3 p.m. and fishing fishing fishing and and p.m. 3 p.m. 3 about about until until midday midday from from day the day of the of part part warmer the warmer in the in

on many rivers as bank access is often poor and wading is generally the most most most the the generally generally is is wading wading and and poor poor often often is is access access bank bank as as rivers rivers many many on on

weather and cold water. As a result, fly hatches, when they occur, tend to be be to be to tend tend occur, occur, they they when when hatches, fly hatches, fly result, a result, As a As water. water. cold and cold and weather weather

breathable waders & boots, wading jacket and a wading stick are a necessity necessity necessity a a are are stick stick wading wading a a and and jacket jacket wading wading boots, boots, & & waders waders breathable breathable

The early part of the season in March & April is usually characterised by cold cold by cold by characterised characterised usually is usually is April & April & March in March in season the season of the part of part early The early The

would only use a sink tip if fishing streamers through deep pools. A pair of of of pair pair A A pools. pools. deep deep through through streamers streamers fishing fishing if if tip tip sink a sink a use use only only would would

FISHING SEASONS SEASONS FISHING FISHING

smaller streams & tributaries. Line choice is nearly always a floater and one one one and and floater floater a a always always nearly nearly is is choice choice Line Line tributaries. tributaries. & & streams streams smaller smaller

most angling situations while lighter/shorter rods will be preferable on the the the on on preferable preferable be be will will rods rods lighter/shorter lighter/shorter while while situations situations angling angling most most

light tackle. An eight or nine-foot rod rated AFTM 4 or 5 will be able to cover cover cover to to able able be be will will 5 5 or or 4 4 AFTM AFTM rated rated rod rod nine-foot nine-foot or or eight eight An An tackle. tackle. light light

Irish rivers are small by international standards and so they can be fished with relatively relatively relatively with with fished fished be be can can they they so so and and standards standards international international by by small small are are rivers rivers Irish Irish

methods and anglers should always consider using barbless hooks. hooks. hooks. barbless barbless using using consider consider always always should should anglers anglers and and methods methods https://goo.gl/RPsWTS https://goo.gl/RPsWTS

to prevent damage to fish by multiple/deep hooking when using either of the above above above the the of of either either using using when when hooking hooking multiple/deep multiple/deep by by fish fish to to damage damage prevent prevent to to EQUIPMENT EQUIPMENT accompanying Google map: map: Google accompanying accompanying Google map: map: Google accompanying

growth. Worm fishing, where allowed, is also very effective. Care should be taken taken taken be be should should Care Care effective. effective. very very also also is is allowed, allowed, where where fishing, fishing, Worm Worm growth. growth.

website and on the the on and website www.fishinginireland.info website and on the the on and website www.fishinginireland.info

even into darkness using tactics and flies that are more akin to sea trout fishing. trout sea to akin more are that flies and tactics using darkness into even even into darkness using tactics and flies that are more akin to sea trout fishing. trout sea to akin more are that flies and tactics using darkness into even

more practical than fly fishing where rivers have heavy bankside vegetation/tree vegetation/tree vegetation/tree bankside bankside heavy heavy have have rivers rivers where where fishing fishing fly fly than than practical practical more more

There is much more detailed information on the the on information detailed more much is There There is much more detailed information on the the on information detailed more much is There

with local names such as ‘Croneen’ or ’Dollaghan’, are most often taken in late evening or or evening late in taken often most are ’Dollaghan’, or ‘Croneen’ as such names local with with local names such as ‘Croneen’ or ’Dollaghan’, are most often taken in late evening or or evening late in taken often most are ’Dollaghan’, or ‘Croneen’ as such names local with small lures/soft plastics or even a dead minnow can work very well and can be be be can can and and well well very very work work can can minnow minnow dead dead a a even even or or plastics plastics lures/soft lures/soft small small

influx of larger lake trout that migrate from the lakes into the rivers to spawn. These trout, trout, These spawn. to rivers the into lakes the from migrate that trout lake larger of influx influx of larger lake trout that migrate from the lakes into the rivers to spawn. These trout, trout, These spawn. to rivers the into lakes the from migrate that trout lake larger of influx other methods that can be just as effective. Spinning with light tackle using very very very using using tackle tackle light light with with Spinning Spinning effective. effective. as as just just be be can can that that methods methods other other

base yourself. yourself. yourself. base base on some rivers, at this time of year, the resident stock of river trout is often bolstered by an an by bolstered often is trout river of stock resident the year, of time this at rivers, some on on some rivers, at this time of year, the resident stock of river trout is often bolstered by an an by bolstered often is trout river of stock resident the year, of time this at rivers, some on Fly fishing is the most popular method of fishing for trout in Ireland but there are are are there there but but Ireland Ireland in in trout trout for for fishing fishing of of method method popular popular most most the the is is fishing fishing Fly Fly

this brochure highlights these fisheries and the key towns in which you could could could you you which in which in towns towns key the key the and and fisheries fisheries these these highlights highlights brochure this brochure this

picks up again as the evening fishing (for resident trout) becomes less productive. However, However, productive. less becomes trout) resident (for fishing evening the as again up picks picks up again as the evening fishing (for resident trout) becomes less productive. However, However, productive. less becomes trout) resident (for fishing evening the as again up picks

OTHER METHODS METHODS OTHER OTHER

fisheries that consistently produce good fishing. The map on the flip side of of of side side flip flip the on the on map map The The fishing. fishing. good good produce produce consistently that consistently that fisheries fisheries Towards the back end of the season, in late August and September, the daytime fishing fishing daytime the September, and August late in season, the of end back the Towards Towards the back end of the season, in late August and September, the daytime fishing fishing daytime the September, and August late in season, the of end back the Towards

of river trout fishing in Ireland and a brief introduction to some of the main main main the of the of some to some to introduction introduction brief a brief a and and Ireland in Ireland in fishing fishing trout trout river of river of probably should, have been… have should, probably probably should, have been… have should, probably

#CPRsavesfish #CPRsavesfish Remember: Remember: water. water. the the to to return return carefully carefully

your Irish trout fishing adventure. There is a short description of the basics basics basics the of the of description description short a short is a is There There adventure. adventure. fishing fishing trout Irish trout your Irish your fishing. If you get it wrong, you can leave the river wondering about what could, and and could, what about wondering river the leave can you wrong, it get you If fishing. fishing. If you get it wrong, you can leave the river wondering about what could, and and could, what about wondering river the leave can you wrong, it get you If fishing.

for the majority of fish they catch. Record any trophy fish with a quick photo and then then then and and photo photo quick quick a a with with fish fish trophy trophy any any Record Record catch. catch. they they fish fish of of majority majority the the for for

This brochure contains some basic information to help you get started on on on started started get get you you help to help to information information basic basic some some contains contains brochure This brochure This feeding on nymph, to dun, to spinner. If you get it right, you can have a super evening’s evening’s super a have can you right, it get you If spinner. to dun, to nymph, on feeding feeding on nymph, to dun, to spinner. If you get it right, you can have a super evening’s evening’s super a have can you right, it get you If spinner. to dun, to nymph, on feeding

For that reason, we would ask that all anglers consider practicing Catch & Release Release Release & & Catch Catch practicing practicing consider consider anglers anglers all all that that ask ask would would we we reason, reason, that that For For

another angler. angler. another another which fish to cast to. It can also be quite technical fishing, as trout can quickly change from from change quickly can trout as fishing, technical quite be also can It to. cast to fish which which fish to cast to. It can also be quite technical fishing, as trout can quickly change from from change quickly can trout as fishing, technical quite be also can It to. cast to fish which

water abstraction and illegal fishing, all of which have a negative impact on fish stocks. stocks. stocks. fish fish on on impact impact negative negative a a have have which which of of all all fishing, fishing, illegal illegal and and abstraction abstraction water water

any of our rivers and can often spend a day fishing without encountering encountering encountering without without fishing fishing day a day a spend spend often can often can and and rivers our rivers of our any of any comes alive with feeding trout and for a short period, the angler is spoilt for choice as to to as choice for spoilt is angler the period, short a for and trout feeding with alive comes comes alive with feeding trout and for a short period, the angler is spoilt for choice as to to as choice for spoilt is angler the period, short a for and trout feeding with alive comes

enjoyed by future generations. Most fisheries face multiple threats including pollution, pollution, pollution, including including threats threats multiple multiple face face fisheries fisheries Most Most generations. generations. future future by by enjoyed enjoyed

this means that the trout angler will rarely be troubled by overcrowding on on on overcrowding by overcrowding by troubled be troubled be rarely will rarely will angler angler trout the trout that the that means this means this the most exciting fishing of the year, as the previously tranquil, sun-soaked river, suddenly suddenly river, sun-soaked tranquil, previously the as year, the of fishing exciting most the the most exciting fishing of the year, as the previously tranquil, sun-soaked river, suddenly suddenly river, sun-soaked tranquil, previously the as year, the of fishing exciting most the

We all have a responsibility to protect and conserve our fisheries so that they can be be be can can they they that that so so fisheries fisheries our our conserve conserve and and protect protect to to responsibility responsibility a a have have all all We We

trout fishing is often neglected on rivers where both species are present. All All All present. present. are are species species both both where where rivers on rivers on neglected neglected often is often is fishing trout fishing trout tends to be concentrated into the 2-hour period before and into dusk. This can be some of of some be can This dusk. into and before period 2-hour the into concentrated be to tends tends to be concentrated into the 2-hour period before and into dusk. This can be some of of some be can This dusk. into and before period 2-hour the into concentrated be to tends

at its best. There is also a great tradition of salmon angling in Ireland, and and and Ireland, in Ireland, in angling angling salmon of salmon of tradition tradition great a great a also is also is There There best. its best. at its at CATCH & RELEASE RELEASE & & CATCH CATCH As we move further into July and on into August, daytime activity tapers off and the fishing fishing the and off tapers activity daytime August, into on and July into further move we As As we move further into July and on into August, daytime activity tapers off and the fishing fishing the and off tapers activity daytime August, into on and July into further move we As

GUIDINGGUIDING IfIf youyou areare planningplanning on on fishing fishing in in Northern Northern Ireland Ireland or or on on the the Foyle Foyle and and Carlingford Carlingford area area on on LeaveLeave No No Trace Trace ThereThere are are a relativelya relatively small small number number of of guides guides specialising specialising in in river river trout trout fishingfishing inin IrelandIreland either sideside ofof thethe borderborder you you should should consult: consult: PleasePlease adhere adhere to the to theseven seven principles principles of Leave of Leave No Trace No Trace Ireland: Ireland: and,and, if possible,if possible, it isit isadvisable advisable for for an an angler angler visiting visiting a a venue venue for for the the firstfirst timetime toto hirehire a www.nidirect.gov.uk/information-and-services/outdoor-recreation-and-sport/angling PlanPlan ahead ahead and and prepare; prepare; Travel Travel and andcamp camp on durable on durable surfaces; surfaces; Dispose Dispose of waste of waste guideguide for for at atleast least a daya day or or two. two. Fishing Fishing with with a a guide guide will will take take a a lot lot of of thethe guessworkguesswork out and properly;properly; Leave Leave what what you youfind; find; Minimise Minimise campfire campfire impacts impacts (be careful(be careful with fire);with fire);Re- Re- of ofyour your fishing fishing trip trip as as the the local local knowledge knowledge will will help help you you to to catch catch more more fish. fish. YouYou willwill need www.ufishireland.org/ spectspect wildlife; wildlife; to tocontact contact and and make make your your own own arrangements arrangements with with guides guides and and to to helphelp withwith this,this, therethere is IFIIFI alsoalso producesproduces aa weeklyweekly AnglingAngling Update Update which which provides provides up-to-date up-to-date reports reports on onwhat what Be Beconsiderate considerate of otherof other visitors. visitors. a lista list of ofangling angling guides guides available available at: at: anglers areare catchingcatching and and where. where. You You can can sign sign up up to to be be emailed emailed the the weekly weekly Angling Angling Update Update VehiclesVehicles should should be parkedbe parked in designated in designated areas areas and andin such in sucha manner a manner that theythat dothey not do not www.fishinginireland.info/guides/index.htmwww.fishinginireland.info/guides/index.htm by emailing [email protected]@fisheriesireland.ie causecause obstruction. obstruction. FURTHERFURTHER INFORMATION INFORMATION General TourismTourism AnglersAnglers should should fish responsiblyfish responsibly and sustainablyand sustainably – where – where possible possible use single use single barblessbarbless hooks hooks and andpractice practice no-weight, no-weight, “in the “in water” the water” catch catch and release. and release. AnglingAngling Information Information IrelandIreland alsoalso hashas aa generalgeneral tourism tourism website website www.ireland.com www.ireland.com that that will will help help you you plan plan your your www.leavenotraceireland.orgwww.leavenotraceireland.org ThisThis guide guide provides provides a abasic basic introduction introduction to to river river trout trout angling angling inin IrelandIreland andand givesgives a trip toto Ireland,Ireland, providingproviding a a wealth wealth of of information information on on travel travel and and accommodation accommodation as aswell well as as 2014 2014 summarysummary of ofsome some of of the the key key angling angling hotspots hotspots you you can can visit. visit. However, However, therethere areare aa numnum- informationinformation onon thingsthings to to do do and and see see while while visiting visiting the the island. island. BiosecurityBiosecurity berber of ofadditional additional resources resources where where you you can can find find more more detailed detailed and and up-to-dateup-to-date anglingangling AquaticAquatic Invasive Invasive Species Species and and fish fishpathogens pathogens are readilyare readily transferred transferred from fromone water one water- - information.information. Firstly, Firstly, there there is isa adedicated dedicated angling angling website website which which has has more more detaileddetailed inforinfor- coursecourse to anotherto another on anglingon angling tackle, tackle, boats boats and andprotective protective clothing. clothing. These These can be can very be very mationmation on onindividual individual fisheries fisheries and and service service providers providers at: at: www.fishinginireland.info www.fishinginireland.info damagingdamaging to resident to resident fish fishstocks, stocks, the aquaticthe aquatic habitat habitat and theand general the general environment. environment. We We wouldwould ask ask that that all anglersall anglers inspect inspect and andclean clean their theirgear gear prior prior to travelling to travelling to Ireland to Ireland to fish.to fish. FullFull information information on preventionon prevention of invasive of invasive species species is available is available on our on website our website at: at: www.fisheriesireland.ie/Research/invasive-species.htmlwww.fisheriesireland.ie/Research/invasive-species.html Or Orvia viaInvasive Invasive Species Species Ireland Ireland at at http://invasivespeciesireland.com/cops/water-users/anglers/http://invasivespeciesireland.com/cops/water-users/anglers/ DisclaimerDisclaimer EveryEvery effort effort has hasbeen been taken taken to ensure to ensure accuracy accuracy in the in compilationthe compilation of this of publication this publication andand associated associated maps maps and and web web pages. pages. Inland Inland Fisheries Fisheries Ireland Ireland cannot cannot accept accept respon respon- - sibilitysibility for forerrors errors or omissionsor omissions therein. therein. Some Some sporting sporting activities activities may mayby their by theirnature nature be behazardous hazardous and and involve involve risk. risk.It is Itrecommended is recommended in such in suchcases cases to take to takeout personal out personal accidentaccident insurance. insurance. While While many many operators operators would would have have public public liability liability insurance insurance it is it is alwaysalways advisable advisable to check to check with with the establishmentthe establishment or operator or operator concerned concerned as to asthe to level the level of coverof cover carried. carried. AcknowledgementsAcknowledgements © Published© Published by Inlandby Inland Fisheries Fisheries Ireland Ireland 2018. 2018. P/N: P/N: IFI/2018/1-0451 IFI/2018/1-0451 - 003 - 003 PhotosPhotos courtesy courtesy of: IFI.of: IFI. TROUTTROUT ANGLING ANGLING TheThe document document includes includes Ordnance Ordnance Survey Survey Ireland Ireland data data reproduced reproduced under under OSi CopyOSi -Copy- PikePike Angling Angling rightright Permit Permit No. No.MP MP007508. 007508. Unauthorised Unauthorised reproduction reproduction infringes infringes Ordnance Ordnance Survey Survey PIKEPIKEON ANGLING ONIRISH ANGLING IRISH RIVERS RIVERS IrelandIreland and and Government Government of Ireland of Ireland copyright. copyright. © Ordnance © Ordnance Survey Survey Ireland. Ireland. IN IRELANDIN IRELAND ThisThis brochure brochure can canbe madebe made available available in alternate in alternate formats formats upon uponrequest. request.

#

CPRSavesfish

be a very effective method for taking fish throughout the water column. column. water the throughout fish taking for method effective very a be

of our rivers are overlooked in the early part of the season, when the lough fishing is is fishing lough the when season, the of part early the in overlooked are rivers our of

than €10 - €20 and can usually be purchased in a local shop. local a in purchased be usually can and €20 - €10 than dropper’ approach with a weighted nymph anchored below a Klinkhammer style fly can can fly style Klinkhammer a below anchored nymph weighted a with approach dropper’

is a strong tradition of lough (lake) fishing for trout in Ireland which means that many many that means which Ireland in trout for fishing (lake) lough of tradition strong a is

tickets available to the visiting angler. These tickets are usually no more more no usually are tickets These angler. visiting the to available tickets sub-surface methods and dry fly fishing can be productive and the ‘klink & dink or dry/ or dink & ‘klink the and productive be can fishing fly dry and methods sub-surface

Despite trout being widespread, many of our rivers are relatively under-fished. There There under-fished. relatively are rivers our of many widespread, being trout Despite

usually lease the fishing rights for a few kilometres of river and make day day make and river of kilometres few a for rights fishing the lease usually species of fly or even on a certain stage of the fly (nymph, emerger, dun or spinner). Both Both spinner). or dun emerger, (nymph, fly the of stage certain a on even or fly of species

challenging, there is nothing that compares to catching wild fish in a wild environment. wild a in fish wild catching to compares that nothing is there challenging,

Trout fishing on rivers is most often controlled by local angling clubs who who clubs angling local by controlled often most is rivers on fishing Trout range of food on offer increases, trout can become quite selective, honing in on a particular particular a on in honing selective, quite become can trout increases, offer on food of range

their skills. We do not stock our rivers and while this may make trout fishing a bit more more bit a fishing trout make may this while and rivers our stock not do We skills. their

In Ireland, you do not need to buy a state licence to fish for brown trout. trout. brown for fish to licence state a buy to need not do you Ireland, In the start of July, it is possible to encounter feeding fish throughout most of the day. As the the As day. the of most throughout fish feeding encounter to possible is it July, of start the

Irish river trout are entirely wild and so present the trout angler with a real test of of test real a with angler trout the present so and wild entirely are trout river Irish

two important terrestrial flies: the hawthorn fly and the black gnat. By the end of June into into June of end the By gnat. black the and fly hawthorn the flies: terrestrial important two

ACCESS, LICENCES & PERMITS & LICENCES ACCESS,

the possibility of casting a line... a casting of possibility the and these are accompanied by pale wateries, yellow evening duns, sedges/caddis and and sedges/caddis duns, evening yellow wateries, pale by accompanied are these and

throughout the country means that you are never too far away from a trout stream or or stream trout a from away far too never are you that means country the throughout completely closed from October to the end of February. of end the to October from closed completely of insect life also increases at this time of year as mayflies begin to hatch on some rivers rivers some on hatch to begin mayflies as year of time this at increases also life insect of

historic lack of competitors and predators. The fact that trout are so widely dispersed dispersed widely so are trout that fact The predators. and competitors of lack historic or September check in advance to ensure that the river is open. Fishing is is Fishing open. is river the that ensure to advance in check September or and the productive fishing period can extend from morning through to evening. The variety variety The evening. to through morning from extend can period fishing productive the and

good trout habitat, a proliferation of gravel which is essential for spawning and a a and spawning for essential is which gravel of proliferation a habitat, trout good seasons, it is advised that anglers intending to fish a particular river in March March in river particular a fish to intending anglers that advised is it seasons, As the days lengthen and get warmer in May and June, fly hatches become more abundant abundant more become hatches fly June, and May in warmer get and lengthen days the As

Ireland’s relatively cool climate, the presence of large limestone deposits providing providing deposits limestone large of presence the climate, cool relatively Ireland’s be closed for fishing by 30th September. Due to the variance in open/closed open/closed in variance the to Due September. 30th by fishing for closed be

dark olives and iron blue duns. blue iron and olives dark

nearly all of our watercourses. Their abundance is due to a number of factors, including including factors, of number a to due is abundance Their watercourses. our of all nearly rivers will be open by April 1st. At the back end of the season, all rivers will will rivers all season, the of end back the At 1st. April by open be will rivers

good dry fly fishing. Other flies hatching in the early season include medium olives, small small olives, medium include season early the in hatching flies Other fishing. fly dry good

Brown trout are the most common angling species native to Ireland and are found in in found are and Ireland to native species angling common most the are trout Brown fishing. Rivers begin to open for the season on various dates in March and all all and March in dates various on season the for open to begin Rivers fishing.

prolific hatches of large dark olives from April onwards and this can lead to some very very some to lead can this and onwards April from olives dark large of hatches prolific

The open season for river trout varies depending on where in Ireland you are are you Ireland in where on depending varies trout river for season open The

INTRODUCTION search the water are often the most productive. However, there can be some some be can there However, productive. most the often are water the search

can be difficult and sub-surface methods using wet fly or weighted nymphs to to nymphs weighted or fly wet using methods sub-surface and difficult be can OPEN & CLOSED SEASONS CLOSED & OPEN

should be concentrated in this period. At this time of year finding rising fish fish rising finding year of time this At period. this in concentrated be should

productive way to fish. fish. to way productive

in the warmer part of the day from midday until about 3 p.m. and fishing fishing and p.m. 3 about until midday from day the of part warmer the in

on many rivers as bank access is often poor and wading is generally the most most the generally is wading and poor often is access bank as rivers many on

weather and cold water. As a result, fly hatches, when they occur, tend to be be to tend occur, they when hatches, fly result, a As water. cold and weather

breathable waders & boots, wading jacket and a wading stick are a necessity necessity a are stick wading a and jacket wading boots, & waders breathable

The early part of the season in March & April is usually characterised by cold cold by characterised usually is April & March in season the of part early The

would only use a sink tip if fishing streamers through deep pools. A pair of of pair A pools. deep through streamers fishing if tip sink a use only would

FISHING SEASONS FISHING

smaller streams & tributaries. Line choice is nearly always a floater and one one and floater a always nearly is choice Line tributaries. & streams smaller

most angling situations while lighter/shorter rods will be preferable on the the on preferable be will rods lighter/shorter while situations angling most

light tackle. An eight or nine-foot rod rated AFTM 4 or 5 will be able to cover cover to able be will 5 or 4 AFTM rated rod nine-foot or eight An tackle. light

Irish rivers are small by international standards and so they can be fished with relatively relatively with fished be can they so and standards international by small are rivers Irish methods and anglers should always consider using barbless hooks. hooks. barbless using consider always should anglers and methods https://goo.gl/RPsWTS

to prevent damage to fish by multiple/deep hooking when using either of the above above the of either using when hooking multiple/deep by fish to damage prevent to EQUIPMENT accompanying Google map: map: Google accompanying

growth. Worm fishing, where allowed, is also very effective. Care should be taken taken be should Care effective. very also is allowed, where fishing, Worm growth.

website and on the the on and website www.fishinginireland.info

even into darkness using tactics and flies that are more akin to sea trout fishing. trout sea to akin more are that flies and tactics using darkness into even more practical than fly fishing where rivers have heavy bankside vegetation/tree vegetation/tree bankside heavy have rivers where fishing fly than practical more

There is much more detailed information on the the on information detailed more much is There

with local names such as ‘Croneen’ or ’Dollaghan’, are most often taken in late evening or or evening late in taken often most are ’Dollaghan’, or ‘Croneen’ as such names local with small lures/soft plastics or even a dead minnow can work very well and can be be can and well very work can minnow dead a even or plastics lures/soft small

influx of larger lake trout that migrate from the lakes into the rivers to spawn. These trout, trout, These spawn. to rivers the into lakes the from migrate that trout lake larger of influx other methods that can be just as effective. Spinning with light tackle using very very using tackle light with Spinning effective. as just be can that methods other

base yourself. yourself. base on some rivers, at this time of year, the resident stock of river trout is often bolstered by an an by bolstered often is trout river of stock resident the year, of time this at rivers, some on Fly fishing is the most popular method of fishing for trout in Ireland but there are are there but Ireland in trout for fishing of method popular most the is fishing Fly

this brochure highlights these fisheries and the key towns in which you could could you which in towns key the and fisheries these highlights brochure this

picks up again as the evening fishing (for resident trout) becomes less productive. However, However, productive. less becomes trout) resident (for fishing evening the as again up picks

OTHER METHODS OTHER

fisheries that consistently produce good fishing. The map on the flip side of of side flip the on map The fishing. good produce consistently that fisheries Towards the back end of the season, in late August and September, the daytime fishing fishing daytime the September, and August late in season, the of end back the Towards

of river trout fishing in Ireland and a brief introduction to some of the main main the of some to introduction brief a and Ireland in fishing trout river of probably should, have been… have should, probably

#CPRsavesfish Remember: water. the to return carefully

your Irish trout fishing adventure. There is a short description of the basics basics the of description short a is There adventure. fishing trout Irish your fishing. If you get it wrong, you can leave the river wondering about what could, and and could, what about wondering river the leave can you wrong, it get you If fishing.

for the majority of fish they catch. Record any trophy fish with a quick photo and then then and photo quick a with fish trophy any Record catch. they fish of majority the for

This brochure contains some basic information to help you get started on on started get you help to information basic some contains brochure This feeding on nymph, to dun, to spinner. If you get it right, you can have a super evening’s evening’s super a have can you right, it get you If spinner. to dun, to nymph, on feeding

For that reason, we would ask that all anglers consider practicing Catch & Release Release & Catch practicing consider anglers all that ask would we reason, that For

another angler. another which fish to cast to. It can also be quite technical fishing, as trout can quickly change from from change quickly can trout as fishing, technical quite be also can It to. cast to fish which

water abstraction and illegal fishing, all of which have a negative impact on fish stocks. stocks. fish on impact negative a have which of all fishing, illegal and abstraction water

any of our rivers and can often spend a day fishing without encountering encountering without fishing day a spend often can and rivers our of any comes alive with feeding trout and for a short period, the angler is spoilt for choice as to to as choice for spoilt is angler the period, short a for and trout feeding with alive comes

enjoyed by future generations. Most fisheries face multiple threats including pollution, pollution, including threats multiple face fisheries Most generations. future by enjoyed

this means that the trout angler will rarely be troubled by overcrowding on on overcrowding by troubled be rarely will angler trout the that means this the most exciting fishing of the year, as the previously tranquil, sun-soaked river, suddenly suddenly river, sun-soaked tranquil, previously the as year, the of fishing exciting most the

We all have a responsibility to protect and conserve our fisheries so that they can be be can they that so fisheries our conserve and protect to responsibility a have all We

trout fishing is often neglected on rivers where both species are present. All All present. are species both where rivers on neglected often is fishing trout tends to be concentrated into the 2-hour period before and into dusk. This can be some of of some be can This dusk. into and before period 2-hour the into concentrated be to tends

at its best. There is also a great tradition of salmon angling in Ireland, and and Ireland, in angling salmon of tradition great a also is There best. its at CATCH & RELEASE & CATCH As we move further into July and on into August, daytime activity tapers off and the fishing fishing the and off tapers activity daytime August, into on and July into further move we As

Top Pick Fisheries 1) The River Suir rises on the Devil’s Bit mountain in Co. Tipperary and drains a large catchment before flowing into the sea near Waterford. It is a long river (185km) by Irish standards, with plenty of tributaries, and it is regarded by many as Ireland’s finest trout stream. It fishes well along most of its length with the towns of Thurles, Holycross, Golden, Cahir, Ardfinnan, Clonmel and Carrick on Suir all suitable bases from which to explore the river. It gets all the fly hatches you would expect from a river flowing over limestone and it fishes well throughout the season. There are a number of tributaries on the lower reaches of the Suir, including the Drish, Nire, Tar GUIDING If you are planning on fishing in Northern Ireland or on the Foyle and Carlingford area on Leave No Trace and Anner which all hold good stocks of small wild brown trout so the angler is really spoilt for choice when visiting this part of Ireland. 2) The Boyne Valley is one of Ireland’s most historically significant and scenic areas and the River Boyne, from which the valley gets its name, is also one of Ireland’s either side of the border you should consult: top trout rivers. This makes the area a perfect base for those wishing to combine fishing with other family/tourism based activities. At over 100km in length and with There are a relatively small number of guides specialising in river trout fishing in Ireland Please adhere to the seven principles of Leave No Trace Ireland: numerous tributaries, each worth fishing in its own right, the River Boyne should be high on the list for any trout angler visiting Ireland. The river runs over limestone for much of its course, giving it abundant fly hatches throughout the season. The key towns on the system are Navan, Trim and Kells, any of which would provide a good base for exploring the area. and, if possible, it is advisable for an angler visiting a venue for the first time to hire a www.nidirect.gov.uk/information-and-services/outdoor-recreation-and-sport/angling 3) Upper Blackwater: Heading north from Macroom, Co. Cork, one soon encounters a number of small streams that form part of the Upper Blackwater system. The Plan ahead and prepare; Travel and camp on durable surfaces; Dispose of waste Blackwater is one of Ireland’s best-known salmon rivers, but what is less well known is that the Upper Blackwater system has some small trout streams that are well worth exploring for the adventurous fly angler. Using the towns of Millstreet or Kanturk as a base, there are a number of small streams within easy reach, including guide for at least a day or two. Fishing with a guide will take a lot of the guesswork out and properly; Leave what you find; Minimise campfire impacts (be careful with fire); Re- the Allow, Dalua, Finnow, Aubane and Araglin rivers. All contain stocks of small, but hard fighting wild Irish brownies that rise freely to a fly. 4) The River Nore, a sister river of the Suir, is primarily known as a salmon river but it has good stocks of wild brownies that are often overlooked when the salmon are running. Key angling areas on the river are at the towns of Durrow, Ballyragget, Bennetsbridge and Thomastown as well as the stretch that runs through Mount of your fishing trip as the local knowledge will help you to catch more fish. You will need spect wildlife; Juliet golf club which is very accessible for the visiting angler. There are a number of tributaries of the Nore that are nice little trout streams in their own right www.ufishireland.org/ including the King’s River, Dinan, Erkina, Ouveg and Goul. 5) The River Liffey, which flows through Dublin, is an excellent trout stream once you get outside the capital city. The best of the trout fishing is upstream of the to contact and make your own arrangements with guides and to help with this, there is town of Celbridge through the towns of Straffan, Clane, Newbridge and Ballymore Eustace. There is a large reservoir & hydro-electric power station above IFI also produces a weekly Angling Update which provides up-to-date reports on what Be considerate of other visitors. Ballymore Eustace and the flow of the river is controlled artificially as a result so the river is subject to unnatural rises and falls in water levels. It gets good hatches of various upwings and sedges and can fish well throughout the season, with May, June and September being good for daytime fishing and July for a list of angling guides available at: the evening rise. anglers are catching and where. You can sign up to be emailed the weekly Angling Update Vehicles should be parked in designated areas and in such a manner that they do not 6) Dee, Glyde & Fane : These three rivers drain into the Irish sea to the south of Dundalk town www.fishinginireland.info/guides/index.htm on the east coast of Ireland. They are relatively by emailing [email protected] cause obstruction. small rivers but they all contain good stocks of trout and they are well worth fishing if you are visiting the area. The Fane is probably the most For a Google map, scan the accessible of the three rivers and it fishes best QR code or use the following web link: FURTHER INFORMATION Anglers should fish responsibly and sustainably – where possible use single upstream of Knock Bridge as far as Cullaville https://goo.gl/RPsWTS General Tourism Bridge. barbless hooks and practice no-weight, “in the water” catch and release. 7) The River Sullane rises on the Cork/Kerry Angling Information border before flowing in a south-easterly di- Ireland also has a general tourism website www.ireland.com that will help you plan your rection through the towns of Ballyvourney and Macroom and joining the River Lee at Car- www.leavenotraceireland.org rigadrohid Reservoir. The best of the fishing This guide provides a basic introduction to river trout angling in Ireland and gives a trip to Ireland, providing a wealth of information on travel and accommodation as well as is downstream of Ballyvourney and access is 2014 found around the bridges which cross the river at intervals along its route. The river fishes well summary of some of the key angling hotspots you can visit. However, there are a num- information on things to do and see while visiting the island. throughout the season with trout averaging half Biosecurity a pound rising freely to the regular fly hatch- es. Trout in the lower reaches of the river can Trout Angling Centre ber of additional resources where you can find more detailed and up-to-date angling be bigger as there are seasonal movements of larger lake trout into the river from the reservoir. Aquatic Invasive Species and fish pathogens are readily transferred from one water- The Sullane is within easy reach of the ever-pop- information. Firstly, there is a dedicated angling website which has more detailed infor- ular town of Killarney and so should be on the course to another on angling tackle, boats and protective clothing. These can be very list for any fly angler planning to visit the area. 8) The River Bandon, which enters the sea at mation on individual fisheries and service providers at: www.fishinginireland.info Kinsale, is within easy reach of anybody visiting damaging to resident fish stocks, the aquatic habitat and the general environment. We Cork City and its environs or for those travelling the Wild Atlantic Way. The Bandon is a great 11 game fishery, providing good fishing for salmon, would ask that all anglers inspect and clean their gear prior to travelling to Ireland sea trout and brown trout. It is a very scenic riv- er, flowing through a lush valley and with good access from the roads that follow its course be- 6 to fish. tween the towns of Bandon and Dunmanway. The trout average half a pound but trout to 5lbs have been taken in recent years. It gets good hatches of fly and the best of the fishing is in the April- Full information on prevention of invasive species is available on our website at: June period and again in September. 9) The Little Brosna rises near the town of Ro- 2 screa in Co. Tipperary and flows north-westwards 10 www.fisheriesireland.ie/Research/invasive-species.html via the town of Birr onto its confluence with the River Shannon near Meelick. It is a relatively small river but has good stocks of free rising brown trout Or via Invasive Species Ireland at along its length. Its main tributary, the River Cam- cor, joins the Brosna at Birr and also contains good stocks of trout. Both these rivers are probably http://invasivespeciesireland.com/cops/water-users/anglers/ more renowned for the larger trout that migrate up into the rivers from Lough Derg towards the tail 5 end of the season. These trout, known locally as ‘Croneen’ average about 1lb and are generally fished for at dusk using wet fly on sink tip lines to 9 Disclaimer fish the deeper pools. 10) The River Robe flows into Lough Mask close to the town of Ballinrobe in Co. Mayo. It is a river with Every effort has been taken to ensure accuracy in the compilation of this publication good access throughout and the fishing is free with no permit required. The average size of resident trout is quite large and they are generally free and associated maps and web pages. Inland Fisheries Ireland cannot accept respon- rising. Towards the end of the season, the numbers of trout in the Robe are bolstered by a run of trout from Lough Mask on their way to their spawning sibility for errors or omissions therein. Some sporting activities may by their nature beds. There is good fly water along the river, par- ticularly around Crossboyne and Hollymount and 4 both nymph fishing and dry fly fishing produce re- be hazardous and involve risk. It is recommended in such cases to take out personal sults, with the dry fly proving particularly good on 1 summer evenings. 11) The River Annalee is part of the Erne system accident insurance. While many operators would have public liability insurance it is and flows westwards from Shercock to Butlersbridge in Co. Cavan. It has good hatches of blue-winged olives and midges and also has a good hatch of always advisable to check with the establishment or operator concerned as to the level mayfly. Bankside access can be difficult but the 3 river has a number of shallow stretches which are easily waded. The best of the fishing is upstream of of cover carried. Ballyhaise as far as Tullyvin and the easiest access points are found around the bridges. 7 Acknowledgements IRELAND/NORTHERN IRELAND

The island of Ireland consists of two separate 8 countries: The Republic of Ireland (also known as © Published by Inland Fisheries Ireland 2018. P/N: IFI/2018/1-0451 - 003 Eire or Southern Ireland) and Northern Ireland, DERRY which is part of the UK. As a result of this, there Loughs Agency DAERA DONEGAL ANTRIM are three separate agencies that control fishing IFI TYRONE Photos courtesy of: IFI. on the island of Ireland: Inland Fisheries Ireland Border FERMANAGH DOWN (IFI) which controls the majority of the fishing in The MONAGHANARMAGH LEITRIM Republic of Ireland, the Department of Agriculture, SLIGO Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) which con- TROUT ANGLING CAVAN The document includes Ordnance Survey Ireland data reproduced under OSi Copy- trols most of the fishing in Northern Ireland, and MAYO ROSCOMMON LOUTH the Loughs Agency, which controls the fishing on the Pike Angling MEATH For up to date information on fishing in Ireland LONGFORD Foyle and Carlingford systems that span the bor- WESTMEATH right Permit No. MP 007508. Unauthorised reproduction infringes Ordnance Survey log onto: www.fishinginireland.info GALWAY DUBLIN der between Northern Ireland and Ireland. These or send an email to: PIKE ANGLINGOFFALY areas are marked on the adjacent map. KILDARE [email protected] LAOIS WICKLOW Ireland and Government of Ireland copyright. © Ordnance Survey Ireland. This brochure only provides information on fishing ON IRISH RIVERSCLARE in IFI controlled waters in Ireland. Anglers wishing TIPPERARY CARLOW KILKENNY to fish in Loughs Agency or DAERA controlled waters LIMERICK Follow us on Facebook and Twitter: IN IRELAND WEXFORD should check the relevant website for information This brochure can be made available in alternate formats upon request. before fishing: www.facebook.com/fishinginireland WATERFORD CORK DAERA: www.nidirect.gov.uk/information- @AnglingUpdate KERRY and-services/outdoor-recreation-and-sport/ angling Loughs Agency: www.ufishireland.org