#CPRSavesfish

This brochure can be made available in alternate formats upon request. upon formats alternate in available made be can brochure This IN IRELAND IN

and Government of Ireland copyright. © Ordnance Survey Ireland. Survey Ordnance © copyright. Ireland of Government and

Permit No. MP 007508. Unauthorised reproduction infringes Ordnance Survey Ireland Ireland Survey Ordnance infringes reproduction Unauthorised 007508. MP No. Permit

SALMON ANGLING SALMON

The document includes Ordnance Survey Ireland data reproduced under OSi Copyright Copyright OSi under reproduced data Ireland Survey Ordnance includes document The

Photos courtesy of: Christin Breuker, Markus Müller & James Barry. James & Müller Markus Breuker, Christin of: courtesy Photos www.fishinginireland.info/safety.htm

For a more detailed guide to safety when angling please visit: visit: please angling when safety to guide detailed more a For © Published by Inland Fisheries Ireland 2019, P/N: IFI/2019/1-0451 - 005 - IFI/2019/1-0451 P/N: 2019, Ireland Fisheries Inland by Published ©

• Wear appropriate clothing and footwear and clothing appropriate Wear • Acknowledgements

• Take a fully charged mobile phone in a waterproof case/bag. waterproof a in phone mobile charged fully a Take •

level of cover carried. cover of level • Fish with a partner/buddy or let someone know where you’re going you’re where know someone let or partner/buddy a with Fish •

always advisable to check with the establishment or operator concerned as to the the to as concerned operator or establishment the with check to advisable always • Take time to observe weather, water and tide conditions while fishing while conditions tide and water weather, observe to time Take •

accident insurance. While many operators would have public liability insurance it is is it insurance liability public have would operators many While insurance. accident • Check the weather forecast and tide tables before you go you before tables tide and forecast weather the Check •

be hazardous and involve risk. It is recommended in such cases to take out personal personal out take to cases such in recommended is It risk. involve and hazardous be • Don’t take any risks when wading or fishing from boat, shore or bank or shore boat, from fishing or wading when risks any take Don’t •

sibility for errors or omissions therein. Some sporting activities may by their nature nature their by may activities sporting Some therein. omissions or errors for sibility • Follow advice on warning signs, permits and notices and permits signs, warning on advice Follow •

- respon accept cannot Ireland Fisheries Inland pages. web and maps associated and • Wear a life jacket. life a Wear •

Every effort has been taken to ensure accuracy in the compilation of this publication publication this of compilation the in accuracy ensure to taken been has effort Every

Please remember the following when going fishing: going when following the remember Please

Disclaimer

safety and that of angling partners/buddies. partners/buddies. angling of that and safety

http://invasivespeciesireland.com/cops/water-users/anglers/ hidden. Drowning is an ever present risk and you should exercise utmost care for your own own your for care utmost exercise should you and risk present ever an is Drowning hidden.

Angling is a water based activity with changing conditions and dangers that are sometimes sometimes are that dangers and conditions changing with activity based water a is Angling Or via Invasive Species Ireland at Ireland Species Invasive via Or

Safety www.fisheriesireland.ie/Research/invasive-species.html

Full information on prevention of invasive species is available on our website at: website our on available is species invasive of prevention on information Full information on things to do and see while visiting the island. the visiting while see and do to things on information

trip to Ireland. It provides a wealth of information on travel and accommodation as well as as well as accommodation and travel on information of wealth a provides It Ireland. to trip to fish. to

that will help you plan your your plan you help will that www.ireland.com website tourism general a has also Ireland would ask that all anglers inspect and clean their gear prior to travelling to Ireland Ireland to travelling to prior gear their clean and inspect anglers all that ask would

General Tourism General damaging to resident fish stocks, the aquatic habitat and the general environment. We We environment. general the and habitat aquatic the stocks, fish resident to damaging

#CPRsavesfish Remember: water. the to return carefully course to another on angling tackle, boats and protective clothing. These can be very very be can These clothing. protective and boats tackle, angling on another to course

[email protected] emailing by

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 Aquatic Invasive Species and fish pathogens are readily transferred from one water one from transferred readily are pathogens fish and Species Invasive Aquatic -

anglers are catching and where. You can sign up to be emailed the weekly Angling Update Update Angling weekly the emailed be to up sign can You where. and catching are anglers

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

Biosecurity

IFI also produces a weekly Angling Update which provides up-to-date reports on what what on reports up-to-date provides which Update Angling weekly a produces also IFI

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

www.ufishireland.org/ and 2014 www.leavenotraceireland.org/ enjoyed by future generations. Most fisheries face multiple threats including pollution, pollution, including threats multiple face fisheries Most generations. future by enjoyed

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 www.nidirect.gov.uk/information-and-services/outdoor-recreation-and-sport/angling release.

CATCH & RELEASE & CATCH single barbless hooks and practice no-weight, “in the water” catch and and catch water” the “in no-weight, practice and hooks barbless single catchments on either side of the border you should consult: should you border the of side either on catchments

Anglers should fish responsibly and sustainably – where possible use use possible where – sustainably and responsibly fish should Anglers If you are planning on fishing in Northern Ireland or on the Foyle and Carlingford Carlingford and Foyle the on or Ireland Northern in fishing on planning are you If

http://fishinginireland.info/regulations.htm

cause obstruction. obstruction. cause www.fishinginireland.info at: on: information latest the for check should anglers so and change to subject are

Vehicles should be parked in designated areas and in such a manner that they do not not do they that manner a such in and areas designated in parked be should Vehicles website which has more detailed information on individual fisheries and service providers providers service and fisheries individual on information detailed more has which website however we encourage all anglers to practice C&R (see below). Fisheries regulations regulations Fisheries below). (see C&R practice to anglers all encourage we however

more detailed and up-to-date angling information. Firstly, there is a dedicated angling angling dedicated a is there Firstly, information. angling up-to-date and detailed more Respect wildlife; Be considerate of other visitors. other of considerate Be wildlife; Respect State Licence. Each fishery can have its own rules on methods allowed, bag limits etc., etc., limits bag allowed, methods on rules own its have can fishery Each Licence. State

of some of the key fisheries. However, there are a number of resources where you can find find can you where resources of number a are there However, fisheries. key the of some of properly; Leave what you find; Minimise campfire impacts (be careful with fire); fire); with careful (be impacts campfire Minimise find; you what Leave properly; For the vast majority of salmon fisheries, anglers will require a permit in addition to the the to addition in permit a require will anglers fisheries, salmon of majority vast the For

This guide provides a basic introduction to salmon fishing in Ireland and gives a summary summary a gives and Ireland in fishing salmon to introduction basic a provides guide This

Plan ahead and prepare; Travel and camp on durable surfaces; Dispose of waste waste of Dispose surfaces; durable on camp and Travel prepare; and ahead Plan Fisheries Ireland office for information on individual rivers. individual on information for office Ireland Fisheries

Angling Information Angling Please adhere to the seven principles of Leave No Trace Ireland: Ireland: Trace No Leave of principles seven the to adhere Please note that the regulations and bye-laws are subject to change. Contact your local Inland Inland local your Contact change. to subject are bye-laws and regulations the that note

Leave No Trace No Leave FURTHER INFORMATION FURTHER and sea trout fishing in Ireland and is administered by Inland Fisheries Ireland. Please Please Ireland. Fisheries Inland by administered is and Ireland in fishing trout sea and

This brochure contains some basic information to help you get started on your Irish salmon floating or an intermediate line. There are the odd exceptions such as the Cork Blackwater, GUIDING angling adventure. There is a short description of the best times to go, fishing methods and the Galway Weir Fishery or the River Moy where a double handed rod can be more suitable. There are a large number of guides and ghillies specialising in salmon fishing in Ireland a brief introduction to some of the fisheries that consistently produce salmon. The map on Many anglers use different density poly leaders in combination with a 10 to 15lbs. mono or and it is usually advisable for an angler visiting a fishery for the first time to hire a the flip side of this brochure highlights these fisheries and the key towns in which you could fluorocarbon tippet. Traditionally, on some rivers such as the Moy or Mourne anglers also fish guide for a day or two. This is particularly the case with the larger rivers, as a guide base yourself. the “bubble and fly” using spinning tackle. Fly-fishing for salmon on loughs is an Irish specialty. will have local knowledge of the water and specific salmon lies which will greatly Most loughs fish best when there is a “good wave.” Typical rods for lough style salmon fishing increase chances of hooking up. You will need to contact and make your own arrange- would be 10 to 11ft long # 7/8 and salmon are fished for in much the same way as one ments with guides and to help with this, there is a list of angling guides available at: There is much more detailed information on the fishes for trout. The majority of fishing would be using floating lines and the standard cast www.fishinginireland.info/guides/index.htm www.fishinginireland.info website and on the consists of 3 flies (one point fly & two droppers). While a traditional river pattern such as a accompanying Google map: shrimp fly is typically fished on the point, the droppers usually consist of standard trout or REGULATIONS https://tinyurl.com/ybc54pek sea trout flies in size 8 to 12 depending on the wave. It would be more than usual for one of In order to fish for salmon in Ireland anglers are required to obtain a “Salmon Rod these flies to be a Green Peter. Licence”. The licence can be obtained from Inland Fisheries Ireland, any rod licence dis- tributor or online at https://store.fishinginireland.info/ There are a number of different Ireland is the birthplace of many famous salmon flies such as the Thunder and Lightning or licence types available (day, annual, district, 21 day etc.). For the visiting angler, the 21 the Black Doctor to name but a few. However, when one thinks of fly patterns, the shrimp SEASONS day licence is probably the most convenient one. At the time of writing (2019), there is fly must be seen as the quintessential Irish style salmon fly. Though everyone has their st an annual bag limit of 10 salmon or sea trout (over 40cm) and all fish which are kept Salmon fishing in Ireland opens on January 1 on a handful of rivers and after that the favourites, one would never go too far wrong with patterns such as the Ally’s Shrimp, Bann have to be tagged and recorded in the log book. However, depending on the time of remainder of fisheries open on various dates in February, March, April, May and June. The Special Shrimp, Wilkinson Shrimp, Curry’s Red Shrimp, Shadow Shrimp or Foxford Shrimp. th th year and individual fishery, additional restrictions such as bag limits, “Catch & Release” majority of fisheries close on September 30 but a few rivers remain open until October 12 . Irish flies tend to start on the small side. Size 8 flies are often used in higher cooler water, etc. may apply. The Wild Salmon and Sea Trout Tagging Scheme regulates salmon For up to date information on opening and closing dates for individual fisheries please visit then as the water warms, the flies are scaled down to 12s and even 14s in www.fishinginireland.info some cases. Micro-tubes have also become quite popular in recent years. Other From January to June spring salmon (springers) are the main quarry. These salmon tend to be salmon flies of note are Cascade, Willie Gunn, Hairy Mary, Silver Stoat, Green INTRODUCTION larger than summer fish and anglers have the best chance of catching one on rivers such as Highlander or Collie Dog. Ireland has long been known as one of the best salmon angling destinations in Europe the Drowes in Counties Donegal & Leitrim, the River Laune in Co. Kerry or the Delphi Fishery Spinning and anglers have been visiting Ireland for many years in a quest for Salmo salar. in Co. Mayo. Springers can also be caught in loughs such as Carrowmore Lake in Co. Mayo Spinning for salmon can be a very effective method when conditions suit and So, what makes Ireland such an outstanding salmon angling destination? The Atlantic which can produce some fine fish from March onwards. There are also some smaller spate rivers such as the Owenduff River in north Mayo that can get a decent run of spring salmon. in heavy water it may also be the only realistic option to take a fish. Usually a salmon (“Bradán” in Gaelic), is a native Irish fish and most rivers get a run of salmon 10 to 11ft rod with a 10 to 60g casting weight will be able to cope with most From mid June onwards the more numerous grilse or ‘summer salmon’ predominate. They from spring until autumn. Salmon can be caught in Irish waters from January right conditions. Probably the most favoured lure in Ireland is the Flying C, with red typically weigh from 1.5kg to 3kg and are widely found throughout the country. This is through to the end of September and, with approximately 70,000 kilometres of rivers and black being two of the most popular colours. Other popular spinning baits when fisheries like the Moy in Co. Mayo, the Galway Fishery in Co. Galway and the Mun- and streams, there is an abundance of spawning and nursery habitat for juvenile fish. include Toby, Copper & Silver Spoon or small plugs. As the water warms up, lure ster Blackwater in Co. Cork can provide spectacular sport in a great setting. In addition The climate is another factor. Sitting in the north Atlantic, Ireland has a moderate humid size should be reduced and the speed of retrieve increased. Spinning upstream to the bigger rivers there are numerous smaller systems, mainly in the western half of the climate providing sufficient precipitation for the many spate rivers along its Atlantic can be highly effective when the grilse are running. On lakes, trolling a Devon country, which can provide excellent grilse fishing. Irish grilse runs are still some of the most sea board. Mild, wet winters mean spawning streams remain ice-free, and frequent or Toby can be very effective particularly in the early part of the season as it prolific in Western Europe and offer the salmon fisherman a great chance of success. rain means low water levels are usually rare. Finally, Ireland’s mostly wild and rugged enables you to cover a lot of ground during a day’s fishing. environment and rivers add to the overall experience. METHODS Bait But it’s not all about the fishing. Ireland has a wealth of scenery and history to explore For the angler in Ireland the three main methods employed for salmon angling are fly The main bait fishing techniques are shrimp or prawn and worming. Prawns if you take a break from fishing. Whether you want to explore the breath-taking Wild fishing, spinning and bait fishing. Atlantic Way or Ireland’s mystic Ancient East…it’s up to you! There are great restau- and shrimps are usually presented on a float rig and trotted down the cur- rants, cafes and pubs, most of which serve good food as well as drink. What better Fly Fishing rent. Worms can also be presented in this way or presented static, close to a way to relax after a long day’s salmon fishing than with a tasty evening meal and a The classic way to fish for salmon is with the fly. Double handed rods are not always essential known salmon lie. The normal way to fish a worm is to use a bunch of three pint or two… and usually a single handed rod or a switch rod will be sufficient to cover the water properly. on a single hook; however a single worm can also produce results. Rods for On most Irish rivers one would need nothing larger than a 10 to 12ft rod # 7/8 with a bait fishing are generally 11ft long and have a casting weight of up to 80g.

#CPRSavesfish #CPRSavesfish

This brochure can be made available in alternate formats upon request. upon formats alternate in available made be can brochure This This brochure can be made available in alternate formats upon request. upon formats alternate in available made be can brochure This IN IRELAND IN IN IRELAND IN

and Government of Ireland copyright. © Ordnance Survey Ireland. Survey Ordnance © copyright. Ireland of Government and and Government of Ireland copyright. © Ordnance Survey Ireland. Survey Ordnance © copyright. Ireland of Government and

Permit No. MP 007508. Unauthorised reproduction infringes Ordnance Survey Ireland Ireland Survey Ordnance infringes reproduction Unauthorised 007508. MP No. Permit Permit No. MP 007508. Unauthorised reproduction infringes Ordnance Survey Ireland Ireland Survey Ordnance infringes reproduction Unauthorised 007508. MP No. Permit

SALMON ANGLING SALMON SALMON ANGLING SALMON

The document includes Ordnance Survey Ireland data reproduced under OSi Copyright Copyright OSi under reproduced data Ireland Survey Ordnance includes document The The document includes Ordnance Survey Ireland data reproduced under OSi Copyright Copyright OSi under reproduced data Ireland Survey Ordnance includes document The

Photos courtesy of: Christin Breuker, Markus Müller & James Barry. James & Müller Markus Breuker, Christin of: courtesy Photos Photos courtesy of: Christin Breuker, Markus Müller & James Barry. James & Müller Markus Breuker, Christin of: courtesy Photos www.fishinginireland.info/safety.htm www.fishinginireland.info/safety.htm

For a more detailed guide to safety when angling please visit: visit: please angling when safety to guide detailed more a For

For a more detailed guide to safety when angling please visit: visit: please angling when safety to guide detailed more a For © Published by Inland Fisheries Ireland 2019, P/N: IFI/2019/1-0451 - 005 - IFI/2019/1-0451 P/N: 2019, Ireland Fisheries Inland by Published © © Published by Inland Fisheries Ireland 2019, P/N: IFI/2019/1-0451 - 005 - IFI/2019/1-0451 P/N: 2019, Ireland Fisheries Inland by Published ©

• Wear appropriate clothing and footwear and clothing appropriate Wear • • Wear appropriate clothing and footwear and clothing appropriate Wear • Acknowledgements Acknowledgements

• Take a fully charged mobile phone in a waterproof case/bag. waterproof a in phone mobile charged fully a Take • • Take a fully charged mobile phone in a waterproof case/bag. waterproof a in phone mobile charged fully a Take •

level of cover carried. cover of level level of cover carried. cover of level • Fish with a partner/buddy or let someone know where you’re going you’re where know someone let or partner/buddy a with Fish • • Fish with a partner/buddy or let someone know where you’re going you’re where know someone let or partner/buddy a with Fish •

always advisable to check with the establishment or operator concerned as to the the to as concerned operator or establishment the with check to advisable always always advisable to check with the establishment or operator concerned as to the the to as concerned operator or establishment the with check to advisable always • Take time to observe weather, water and tide conditions while fishing while conditions tide and water weather, observe to time Take • • Take time to observe weather, water and tide conditions while fishing while conditions tide and water weather, observe to time Take •

accident insurance. While many operators would have public liability insurance it is is it insurance liability public have would operators many While insurance. accident accident insurance. While many operators would have public liability insurance it is is it insurance liability public have would operators many While insurance. accident • Check the weather forecast and tide tables before you go you before tables tide and forecast weather the Check • • Check the weather forecast and tide tables before you go you before tables tide and forecast weather the Check •

be hazardous and involve risk. It is recommended in such cases to take out personal personal out take to cases such in recommended is It risk. involve and hazardous be be hazardous and involve risk. It is recommended in such cases to take out personal personal out take to cases such in recommended is It risk. involve and hazardous be • Don’t take any risks when wading or fishing from boat, shore or bank or shore boat, from fishing or wading when risks any take Don’t • • Don’t take any risks when wading or fishing from boat, shore or bank or shore boat, from fishing or wading when risks any take Don’t •

sibility for errors or omissions therein. Some sporting activities may by their nature nature their by may activities sporting Some therein. omissions or errors for sibility sibility for errors or omissions therein. Some sporting activities may by their nature nature their by may activities sporting Some therein. omissions or errors for sibility • Follow advice on warning signs, permits and notices and permits signs, warning on advice Follow • • Follow advice on warning signs, permits and notices and permits signs, warning on advice Follow •

- respon accept cannot Ireland Fisheries Inland pages. web and maps associated and - respon accept cannot Ireland Fisheries Inland pages. web and maps associated and • Wear a life jacket. life a Wear • • Wear a life jacket. life a Wear •

Every effort has been taken to ensure accuracy in the compilation of this publication publication this of compilation the in accuracy ensure to taken been has effort Every Every effort has been taken to ensure accuracy in the compilation of this publication publication this of compilation the in accuracy ensure to taken been has effort Every

Please remember the following when going fishing: going when following the remember Please

Please remember the following when going fishing: going when following the remember Please

Disclaimer Disclaimer

safety and that of angling partners/buddies. partners/buddies. angling of that and safety safety and that of angling partners/buddies. partners/buddies. angling of that and safety

http://invasivespeciesireland.com/cops/water-users/anglers/ http://invasivespeciesireland.com/cops/water-users/anglers/ hidden. Drowning is an ever present risk and you should exercise utmost care for your own own your for care utmost exercise should you and risk present ever an is Drowning hidden. hidden. Drowning is an ever present risk and you should exercise utmost care for your own own your for care utmost exercise should you and risk present ever an is Drowning hidden.

Angling is a water based activity with changing conditions and dangers that are sometimes sometimes are that dangers and conditions changing with activity based water a is Angling Angling is a water based activity with changing conditions and dangers that are sometimes sometimes are that dangers and conditions changing with activity based water a is Angling Or via Invasive Species Ireland at Ireland Species Invasive via Or Or via Invasive Species Ireland at Ireland Species Invasive via Or

Safety Safety www.fisheriesireland.ie/Research/invasive-species.html www.fisheriesireland.ie/Research/invasive-species.html

Full information on prevention of invasive species is available on our website at: website our on available is species invasive of prevention on information Full Full information on prevention of invasive species is available on our website at: website our on available is species invasive of prevention on information Full information on things to do and see while visiting the island. the visiting while see and do to things on information information on things to do and see while visiting the island. the visiting while see and do to things on information

trip to Ireland. It provides a wealth of information on travel and accommodation as well as as well as accommodation and travel on information of wealth a provides It Ireland. to trip trip to Ireland. It provides a wealth of information on travel and accommodation as well as as well as accommodation and travel on information of wealth a provides It Ireland. to trip to fish. to to fish. to

that will help you plan your your plan you help will that www.ireland.com website tourism general a has also Ireland that will help you plan your your plan you help will that www.ireland.com website tourism general a has also Ireland would ask that all anglers inspect and clean their gear prior to travelling to Ireland Ireland to travelling to prior gear their clean and inspect anglers all that ask would would ask that all anglers inspect and clean their gear prior to travelling to Ireland Ireland to travelling to prior gear their clean and inspect anglers all that ask would

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#CPRsavesfish Remember: water. the to return carefully #CPRsavesfish Remember: water. the to return carefully course to another on angling tackle, boats and protective clothing. These can be very very be can These clothing. protective and boats tackle, angling on another to course course to another on angling tackle, boats and protective clothing. These can be very very be can These clothing. protective and boats tackle, angling on another to course

[email protected] emailing by [email protected] emailing by

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 - water one from transferred readily are pathogens fish and Species Invasive Aquatic - water one from transferred readily are pathogens fish and Species Invasive Aquatic

anglers are catching and where. You can sign up to be emailed the weekly Angling Update Update Angling weekly the emailed be to up sign can You where. and catching are anglers anglers are catching and where. You can sign up to be emailed the weekly Angling Update Update Angling weekly the emailed be to up sign can You where. and catching are anglers

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

Biosecurity Biosecurity

IFI also produces a weekly Angling Update which provides up-to-date reports on what what on reports up-to-date provides which Update Angling weekly a produces also IFI IFI also produces a weekly Angling Update which provides up-to-date reports on what what on reports up-to-date provides which Update Angling weekly a produces also IFI

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www.ufishireland.org/ and www.ufishireland.org/ and 2014 www.leavenotraceireland.org/ 2014 www.leavenotraceireland.org/ 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

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 www.nidirect.gov.uk/information-and-services/outdoor-recreation-and-sport/angling www.nidirect.gov.uk/information-and-services/outdoor-recreation-and-sport/angling release. release.

CATCH & RELEASE & CATCH CATCH & RELEASE & CATCH single barbless hooks and practice no-weight, “in the water” catch and and catch water” the “in no-weight, practice and hooks barbless single single barbless hooks and practice no-weight, “in the water” catch and and catch water” the “in no-weight, practice and hooks barbless single catchments on either side of the border you should consult: should you border the of side either on catchments catchments on either side of the border you should consult: should you border the of side either on catchments

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cause obstruction. obstruction. cause cause obstruction. obstruction. cause www.fishinginireland.info at: www.fishinginireland.info at: on: information latest the for check should anglers so and change to subject are on: information latest the for check should anglers so and change to subject are

Vehicles should be parked in designated areas and in such a manner that they do not not do they that manner a such in and areas designated in parked be should Vehicles Vehicles should be parked in designated areas and in such a manner that they do not not do they that manner a such in and areas designated in parked be should Vehicles website which has more detailed information on individual fisheries and service providers providers service and fisheries individual on information detailed more has which website website which has more detailed information on individual fisheries and service providers providers service and fisheries individual on information detailed more has which website however we encourage all anglers to practice C&R (see below). Fisheries regulations regulations Fisheries below). (see C&R practice to anglers all encourage we however however we encourage all anglers to practice C&R (see below). Fisheries regulations regulations Fisheries below). (see C&R practice to anglers all encourage we however

more detailed and up-to-date angling information. Firstly, there is a dedicated angling angling dedicated a is there Firstly, information. angling up-to-date and detailed more more detailed and up-to-date angling information. Firstly, there is a dedicated angling angling dedicated a is there Firstly, information. angling up-to-date and detailed more Respect wildlife; Be considerate of other visitors. other of considerate Be wildlife; Respect Respect wildlife; Be considerate of other visitors. other of considerate Be wildlife; Respect State Licence. Each fishery can have its own rules on methods allowed, bag limits etc., etc., limits bag allowed, methods on rules own its have can fishery Each Licence. State State Licence. Each fishery can have its own rules on methods allowed, bag limits etc., etc., limits bag allowed, methods on rules own its have can fishery Each Licence. State

of some of the key fisheries. However, there are a number of resources where you can find find can you where resources of number a are there However, fisheries. key the of some of of some of the key fisheries. However, there are a number of resources where you can find find can you where resources of number a are there However, fisheries. key the of some of properly; Leave what you find; Minimise campfire impacts (be careful with fire); fire); with careful (be impacts campfire Minimise find; you what Leave properly; properly; Leave what you find; Minimise campfire impacts (be careful with fire); fire); with careful (be impacts campfire Minimise find; you what Leave properly; For the vast majority of salmon fisheries, anglers will require a permit in addition to the the to addition in permit a require will anglers fisheries, salmon of majority vast the For For the vast majority of salmon fisheries, anglers will require a permit in addition to the the to addition in permit a require will anglers fisheries, salmon of majority vast the For

This guide provides a basic introduction to salmon fishing in Ireland and gives a summary summary a gives and Ireland in fishing salmon to introduction basic a provides guide This This guide provides a basic introduction to salmon fishing in Ireland and gives a summary summary a gives and Ireland in fishing salmon to introduction basic a provides guide This

Plan ahead and prepare; Travel and camp on durable surfaces; Dispose of waste waste of Dispose surfaces; durable on camp and Travel prepare; and ahead Plan Plan ahead and prepare; Travel and camp on durable surfaces; Dispose of waste waste of Dispose surfaces; durable on camp and Travel prepare; and ahead Plan Fisheries Ireland office for information on individual rivers. individual on information for office Ireland Fisheries Fisheries Ireland office for information on individual rivers. individual on information for office Ireland Fisheries

Angling Information Angling

Angling Information Angling

Please adhere to the seven principles of Leave No Trace Ireland: Ireland: Trace No Leave of principles seven the to adhere Please Please adhere to the seven principles of Leave No Trace Ireland: Ireland: Trace No Leave of principles seven the to adhere Please note that the regulations and bye-laws are subject to change. Contact your local Inland Inland local your Contact change. to subject are bye-laws and regulations the that note note that the regulations and bye-laws are subject to change. Contact your local Inland Inland local your Contact change. to subject are bye-laws and regulations the that note

Leave No Trace No Leave Leave No Trace No Leave FURTHER INFORMATION FURTHER FURTHER INFORMATION FURTHER and sea trout fishing in Ireland and is administered by Inland Fisheries Ireland. Please Please Ireland. Fisheries Inland by administered is and Ireland in fishing trout sea and and sea trout fishing in Ireland and is administered by Inland Fisheries Ireland. Please Please Ireland. Fisheries Inland by administered is and Ireland in fishing trout sea and

This brochurebrochure containscontains some some basic basic information information to to help help you you get get started started on on your your Irish Irish salmon salmon floatingfloating or anor intermediatean intermediate line. line.There There are theare oddthe oddexceptions exceptions such assuch the as Cork the CorkBlackwater, Blackwater, GUIDINGGUIDING angling adventure.adventure. There There is is a a short short description description of of the the best best times times to togo, go, fishing fishing methods methods and and the theGalway Galway Weir Weir Fishery Fishery or the or Riverthe River Moy Moy where where a double a double handed handed rod can rod be can more be moresuitable. suitable. There Thereare a largeare a numberlarge number of guides of guidesand ghillies and ghilliesspecialising specialising in salmon in fishingsalmon in fishing Ireland in Ireland a brief introductionintroduction toto some some of of the the fisheries fisheries that that consistently consistently produce produce salmon. salmon. The The map map on on ManyMany anglers anglers use usedifferent different density density poly poly leaders leaders in combination in combination with awith 10 ato 10 15lbs. to 15lbs. mono monoor or and itand is usually it is usually advisable advisable for an forangler an anglervisiting visitinga fishery a forfishery the firstfor thetime first to hiretime ato hire a the flipflip sideside ofof thisthis brochurebrochure highlights highlights these these fisheries fisheries and and the the key key towns towns in inwhich which you you could could fluorocarbonfluorocarbon tippet. tippet. Traditionally, Traditionally, on some on some rivers rivers such suchas the as Moy the Moyor Mourne or Mourne anglers anglers also fish also fish guide guidefor a dayfor aor day two. or This two. is particularlyThis is particularly the case the with case the with larger the rivers, larger as rivers, a guide as a guide base yourself.yourself. the the“bubble “bubble and and fly” fly”using using spinning spinning tackle. tackle. Fly-fishing Fly-fishing for salmon for salmon on loughs on loughs is an Irishis an specialty. Irish specialty. will havewill localhave knowledgelocal knowledge of the ofwater the andwater specific and specificsalmon salmonlies which lies will which greatly will greatly MostMost loughs loughs fish fishbest best when when there there is a “goodis a “good wave.” wave.” Typical Typical rods forrods lough for lough style salmonstyle salmon fishing fishing increaseincrease chances chances of hooking of hooking up. You up. will You need will to need contact to contactand make and your make own your arrange own -arrange- wouldwould be be10 10to 11ftto 11ft long long # 7/8 # 7/8 and andsalmon salmon are fishedare fished for in for much in muchthe same the sameway asway one as one ments mentswith guides with guides and to and help to with help this, with there this, is there a list isof a angling list of anglingguides availableguides available at: at: ThereThere is is much much more more detailed detailed information information on on the the fishesfishes for fortrout. trout. The Themajority majority of fishing of fishing would would be using be using floating floating lines linesand theand standard the standard cast cast www.fishinginireland.info/guides/index.htmwww.fishinginireland.info/guides/index.htm www.fishinginireland.infowww.fishinginireland.info website website and and on on the the consistsconsists of 3of flies 3 flies (one (one point point fly &fly two & twodroppers). droppers). While While a traditional a traditional river patternriver pattern such as such a as a accompanyingaccompanying Google Google map: map: shrimpshrimp fly flyis typically is typically fished fished on theon point,the point, the droppersthe droppers usually usually consist consist of standard of standard trout ortrout or REGULATIONSREGULATIONS https://tinyurl.com/ybc54pekhttps://tinyurl.com/ybc54pek seasea trout trout flies flies in size in size 8 to 8 12 to depending12 depending on the on wave. the wave. It would It would be more be morethan usualthan usualfor one for of one of In orderIn orderto fish tofor fish salmon for salmon in Ireland in Ireland anglers anglers are required are required to obtain to aobtain “Salmon a “SalmonRod Rod thesethese flies flies to be to abe Green a Green Peter. Peter. Licence”.Licence”. The licence The licence can be can obtained be obtained from Inland from FisheriesInland Fisheries Ireland, Ireland,any rod anylicence rod dis licence- dis- tributortributor or online or onlineat https://store.fishinginireland.info/ at https://store.fishinginireland.info/ There are There a number are a ofnumber different of different IrelandIreland is the is thebirthplace birthplace of many of many famous famous salmon salmon flies fliessuch suchas the as Thunder the Thunder and Lightning and Lightning or or licencelicence types availabletypes available (day, annual, (day, annual, district, district,21 day 21etc.). day For etc.). the visitingFor the angler, visiting the angler, 21 the 21 the theBlack Black Doctor Doctor to name to name but buta few. a few. However, However, when when one thinksone thinks of fly of patterns, fly patterns, the shrimp the shrimp SEASONS day licenceday licence is probably is probably the most the convenient most convenient one. At one.the time At the of timewriting of (2019),writing there(2019), is there is fly flymust must be beseen seen as theas thequintessential quintessential Irish Irishstyle style salmon salmon fly. Thoughfly. Though everyone everyone has their has their st st an annualan annual bag limit bag of limit 10 salmonof 10 salmonor sea ortrout sea (over trout 40cm) (over and40cm) all andfish whichall fish are which kept are kept Salmon fishingfishing inin IrelandIreland opensopens on on January January 1 1 on on a ahandful handful of of rivers rivers and and after after that that the the favourites,favourites, one one would would never never go toogo fartoo wrongfar wrong with withpatterns patterns such assuch the as Ally’s the Ally’sShrimp, Shrimp, Bann Bann have tohave be taggedto be tagged and recorded and recorded in the log in thebook. log However, book. However, depending depending on the time on theof time of remainder ofof fisheriesfisheries open open on on various various dates dates in in February, February, March, March, April, April, May May and and June. June. The The SpecialSpecial Shrimp, Shrimp, Wilkinson Wilkinson Shrimp, Shrimp, Curry’s Curry’s Red RedShrimp, Shrimp, Shadow Shadow Shrimp Shrimp or Foxford or Foxford Shrimp. Shrimp. th th th th year andyear individual and individual fishery, fishery, additional additional restrictions restrictions such as suchbag limits,as bag “Catch limits, & “Catch Release” & Release” majority ofof fisheriesfisheries close close on on September September 30 30 but but a afew few rivers rivers remain remain open open until until October October 12 12. . IrishIrish flies flies tend tend to start to start on theon smallthe small side. side. Size Size8 flies 8 fliesare oftenare often used usedin higher in higher cooler cooler water, water, etc. mayetc. apply.may apply. The Wild The SalmonWild Salmon and Sea and Trout Sea Tagging Trout Tagging Scheme Schemeregulates regulates salmon salmon For up toto datedate informationinformation on on opening opening and and closing closing dates dates for for individual individual fisheries fisheries please please visit visit thenthen as theas thewater water warms, warms, the theflies flies are arescaled scaled down down to 12s to and12s evenand even14s in14s in www.fishinginireland.info somesome cases. cases. Micro-tubes Micro-tubes have have also also become become quite quite popular popular in recent in recent years. years. Other Other From JanuaryJanuary toto JuneJune spring spring salmon salmon (springers) (springers) are are the the main main quarry. quarry. These These salmon salmon tend tend to beto be salmonsalmon flies flies of note of note are areCascade, Cascade, Willie Willie Gunn, Gunn, Hairy Hairy Mary, Mary, Silver Silver Stoat, Stoat, Green Green INTRODUCTIONINTRODUCTION larger thanthan summersummer fishfish and and anglers anglers have have the the best best chance chance of of catching catching one one on onrivers rivers such such as as HighlanderHighlander or Collieor Collie Dog. Dog. IrelandIreland has has long long been been known known as as one one of of the the best best salmon salmon angling angling destinationsdestinations inin EuropeEurope the DrowesDrowes inin CountiesCounties Donegal Donegal & & Leitrim, Leitrim, the the River River Laune Laune in inCo. Co. Kerry Kerry or orthe the Delphi Delphi Fishery Fishery SpinningSpinning andand anglers anglers have have been been visiting visiting Ireland Ireland for for many many years years in in a a quest quest for for SalmoSalmo salarsalar.. in Co.Co. Mayo.Mayo. SpringersSpringers can can also also be be caught caught in in loughs loughs such such as as Carrowmore Carrowmore Lake Lake in Co.in Co. Mayo Mayo SpinningSpinning for forsalmon salmon can canbe abe very a very effective effective method method when when conditions conditions suit and suit and So,So, what what makes makes Ireland Ireland such such an an outstanding outstanding salmon salmon angling angling destination?destination? TheThe AtlanticAtlantic which cancan produceproduce somesome fine fine fish fish from from March March onwards. onwards. There There are are also also some some smaller smaller spate spate rivers suchsuch asas thethe OwenduffOwenduff River River in in north north Mayo Mayo that that can can get get a adecent decent run run of ofspring spring salmon. salmon. in heavyin heavy water water it may it may also also be thebe onlythe onlyrealistic realistic option option to take to takea fish. a Usuallyfish. Usually a a salmonsalmon (“Bradán” (“Bradán” in inGaelic), Gaelic), is isa anative native Irish Irish fish fish and and most most rivers rivers getget aa runrun ofof salmonsalmon 10 10to 11ftto 11ft rod rodwith with a 10 a to10 60g to 60g casting casting weight weight will bewill able be ableto cope to copewith mostwith most From midmid JuneJune onwardsonwards thethe more more numerous numerous grilse grilse or or ‘summer ‘summer salmon’ salmon’ predominate. predominate. They They fromfrom spring spring until until autumn. autumn. Salmon Salmon can can be be caught caught in in IrishIrish waterswaters fromfrom JanuaryJanuary rightright conditions.conditions. Probably Probably the mostthe most favoured favoured lure lurein Ireland in Ireland is the is Flying the Flying C, with C, withred red typically weighweigh fromfrom 1.5kg1.5kg to to 3kg 3kg and and are are widely widely found found throughout throughout the the country. country. This This is is throughthrough to tothe the end end of of September September and, and, with with approximately approximately 70,000 70,000 kilometreskilometres ofof riversrivers andand black black being being two twoof the of mostthe most popular popular colours. colours. Other Other popular popular spinning spinning baits baits when fisheriesfisheries likelike thethe Moy Moy in in Co. Co. Mayo, Mayo, the the Galway Galway Fishery Fishery in inCo. Co. Galway Galway and and the the Mun Mun- - andand streams, streams, there there is isan an abundance abundance of of spawning spawning and and nursery nursery habitat habitat forfor juvenilejuvenile fish. includeinclude Toby, Toby, Copper Copper & Silver & Silver Spoon Spoon or small or small plugs. plugs. As the As water the water warms warms up, lure up, lure ster BlackwaterBlackwater inin Co.Co. CorkCork can can provide provide spectacular spectacular sport sport in ina agreat great setting. setting. In additionIn addition TheThe climate climate is anotheris another factor. factor. Sitting Sitting in in the the north north Atlantic, Atlantic, Ireland Ireland has has a a moderatemoderate humidhumid sizesize should should be reducedbe reduced and and the speedthe speed of retrieve of retrieve increased. increased. Spinning Spinning upstream upstream to thethe biggerbigger riversrivers therethere are are numerous numerous smaller smaller systems, systems, mainly mainly in inthe the western western half half of ofthe the climateclimate providing providing sufficient sufficient precipitation precipitation for for the the many many spate spate riversrivers alongalong itsits AtlanticAtlantic cancan be behighly highly effective effective when when the grilsethe grilse are running.are running. On lakes, On lakes, trolling trolling a Devon a Devon country, whichwhich cancan provide provide excellent excellent grilse grilse fishing. fishing. Irish Irish grilse grilse runs runs are are still still some some of ofthe the most most seasea board. board. Mild, Mild, wet wet winters winters mean mean spawning spawning streams streams remain remain ice-free,ice-free, andand frequentfrequent or Tobyor Toby can can be verybe very effective effective particularly particularly in the in early the early part partof the of season the season as it as it prolific inin WesternWestern EuropeEurope and and offer offer the the salmon salmon fisherman fisherman a agreat great chance chance of ofsuccess. success. rainrain means means low low water water levels levels are are usually usually rare. rare. Finally, Finally, Ireland’s Ireland’s mostly mostly wildwild andand ruggedrugged enablesenables you you to cover to cover a lot a oflot ground of ground during during a day’s a day’s fishing. fishing. environmentenvironment and and rivers rivers add add to to the the overall overall experience. experience. METHODS BaitBait ButBut it’s it’s not not all all about about the the fishing. fishing. Ireland Ireland has has a a wealth wealth of of scenery scenery and and historyhistory toto exploreexplore For thethe anglerangler inin IrelandIreland thethe three three main main methods methods employed employed for for salmon salmon angling angling are are fly fly TheThe main main bait bait fishing fishing techniques techniques are areshrimp shrimp or prawn or prawn and worming.and worming. Prawns Prawns if youif you take take a breaka break from from fishing. fishing. Whether Whether you you want want to to explore explore the the breath-taking breath-taking WildWild fishing, spinningspinning andand bait bait fishing. fishing. AtlanticAtlantic Way Way or orIreland’s Ireland’s mystic mystic Ancient Ancient East…it’s East…it’s up up to to you! you! There There areare greatgreat restaurestau- andand shrimps shrimps are are usually usually presented presented on a on float a float rig and rig andtrotted trotted down down the cur the- cur- rants,rants, cafes cafes and and pubs, pubs, most most of of which which serve serve good good food food as as well well asas drink.drink. WhatWhat betterbetter Fly Fishing rent.rent. Worms Worms can can also also be presentedbe presented in this in waythis wayor presented or presented static, static, close closeto a to a wayway to torelax relax after after a along long day’s day’s salmon salmon fishing fishing than than with with a a tasty tasty eveningevening mealmeal andand a The classic wayway toto fish fish for for salmon salmon is is with with the the fly. fly. Double Double handed handed rods rods are are not not always always essential essential knownknown salmon salmon lie. lie.The Thenormal normal way way to fish to afish worm a worm is to isuse to a use bunch a bunch of three of three pintpint or ortwo… two… and usuallyusually aa singlesingle handed handed rod rod or or a a switch switch rod rod will will be be sufficient sufficient to tocover cover the the water water properly. properly. on ona single a single hook; hook; however however a single a single worm worm can alsocan alsoproduce produce results. results. Rods Rodsfor for On most IrishIrish riversrivers oneone wouldwould need need nothing nothing larger larger than than a a10 10 to to12ft 12ft rod rod # #7/8 7/8 with with a a baitbait fishing fishing are are generally generally 11ft 11ft long long and andhave have a casting a casting weight weight of up of to up80g. to 80g.

#CPRSavesfish #CPRSavesfish

This brochure can be made available in alternate formats upon request. request. upon upon formats formats alternate in alternate in available available made be made be can can brochure brochure This This IN IRELAND IN IRELAND IN

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SALMON ANGLING ANGLING SALMON SALMON

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Photos courtesy of: Christin Breuker, Markus Müller & James Barry. Barry. James & James & Müller Müller Markus Markus Breuker, Breuker, Christin of: Christin of: courtesy courtesy Photos Photos www.fishinginireland.info/safety.htm www.fishinginireland.info/safety.htm

For a more detailed guide to safety when angling please visit: visit: please angling when safety to guide detailed more a For For a more detailed guide to safety when angling please visit: visit: please angling when safety to guide detailed more a For © Published by Inland Fisheries Ireland 2019, P/N: IFI/2019/1-0451 - 005 - 005 - IFI/2019/1-0451 IFI/2019/1-0451 P/N: P/N: 2019, 2019, Ireland Ireland Fisheries Fisheries Inland by Inland by Published © Published ©

• Wear appropriate clothing and footwear and clothing appropriate Wear • • Wear appropriate clothing and footwear and clothing appropriate Wear • Acknowledgements Acknowledgements

• Take a fully charged mobile phone in a waterproof case/bag. waterproof a in phone mobile charged fully a Take • • Take a fully charged mobile phone in a waterproof case/bag. waterproof a in phone mobile charged fully a Take •

level of cover carried. cover of level level of cover carried. cover of level • Fish with a partner/buddy or let someone know where you’re going you’re where know someone let or partner/buddy a with Fish • • Fish with a partner/buddy or let someone know where you’re going you’re where know someone let or partner/buddy a with Fish •

always advisable to check with the establishment or operator concerned as to the the to as concerned operator or establishment the with check to advisable always always advisable to check with the establishment or operator concerned as to the the to as concerned operator or establishment the with check to advisable always • Take time to observe weather, water and tide conditions while fishing while conditions tide and water weather, observe to time Take • • Take time to observe weather, water and tide conditions while fishing while conditions tide and water weather, observe to time Take •

accident insurance. While many operators would have public liability insurance it is is it insurance liability public have would operators many While insurance. accident accident insurance. While many operators would have public liability insurance it is is it insurance liability public have would operators many While insurance. accident • Check the weather forecast and tide tables before you go you before tables tide and forecast weather the Check • • Check the weather forecast and tide tables before you go you before tables tide and forecast weather the Check •

be hazardous and involve risk. It is recommended in such cases to take out personal personal out take to cases such in recommended is It risk. involve and hazardous be be hazardous and involve risk. It is recommended in such cases to take out personal personal out take to cases such in recommended is It risk. involve and hazardous be • Don’t take any risks when wading or fishing from boat, shore or bank or shore boat, from fishing or wading when risks any take Don’t • • Don’t take any risks when wading or fishing from boat, shore or bank or shore boat, from fishing or wading when risks any take Don’t •

sibility for errors or omissions therein. Some sporting activities may by their nature nature their by may activities sporting Some therein. omissions or errors for sibility sibility for errors or omissions therein. Some sporting activities may by their nature nature their by may activities sporting Some therein. omissions or errors for sibility • Follow advice on warning signs, permits and notices and permits signs, warning on advice Follow • • Follow advice on warning signs, permits and notices and permits signs, warning on advice Follow •

- respon accept cannot Ireland Fisheries Inland pages. web and maps associated and - respon accept cannot Ireland Fisheries Inland pages. web and maps associated and • Wear a life jacket. life a Wear • • Wear a life jacket. life a Wear •

Every effort has been taken to ensure accuracy in the compilation of this publication publication this of compilation the in accuracy ensure to taken been has effort Every Every effort has been taken to ensure accuracy in the compilation of this publication publication this of compilation the in accuracy ensure to taken been has effort Every

Please remember the following when going fishing: going when following the remember Please Please remember the following when going fishing: going when following the remember Please

Disclaimer Disclaimer

safety and that of angling partners/buddies. partners/buddies. angling of that and safety safety and that of angling partners/buddies. partners/buddies. angling of that and safety

http://invasivespeciesireland.com/cops/water-users/anglers/ http://invasivespeciesireland.com/cops/water-users/anglers/ hidden. Drowning is an ever present risk and you should exercise utmost care for your own own your for care utmost exercise should you and risk present ever an is Drowning hidden. hidden. Drowning is an ever present risk and you should exercise utmost care for your own own your for care utmost exercise should you and risk present ever an is Drowning hidden.

Angling is a water based activity with changing conditions and dangers that are sometimes sometimes are that dangers and conditions changing with activity based water a is Angling Angling is a water based activity with changing conditions and dangers that are sometimes sometimes are that dangers and conditions changing with activity based water a is Angling Or via Invasive Species Ireland at Ireland Species Invasive via Or Or via Invasive Species Ireland at Ireland Species Invasive via Or

Safety Safety www.fisheriesireland.ie/Research/invasive-species.html www.fisheriesireland.ie/Research/invasive-species.html

Full information on prevention of invasive species is available on our website at: website our on available is species invasive of prevention on information Full Full information on prevention of invasive species is available on our website at: website our on available is species invasive of prevention on information Full information on things to do and see while visiting the island. island. the the visiting visiting while while see see and and do do to to things things on on information information

trip to Ireland. It provides a wealth of information on travel and accommodation as well as as as well well as as accommodation accommodation and and travel travel on on information information of of wealth wealth a a provides provides It It Ireland. Ireland. to to trip trip to fish. to to fish. to

that will help you plan your your your plan plan you you help help will will that that www.ireland.com www.ireland.com website website tourism tourism general general a a has has also also Ireland Ireland would ask that all anglers inspect and clean their gear prior to travelling to Ireland Ireland to travelling to prior gear their clean and inspect anglers all that ask would would ask that all anglers inspect and clean their gear prior to travelling to Ireland Ireland to travelling to prior gear their clean and inspect anglers all that ask would

General Tourism General General Tourism General damaging to resident fish stocks, the aquatic habitat and the general environment. We We environment. general the and habitat aquatic the stocks, fish resident to damaging damaging to resident fish stocks, the aquatic habitat and the general environment. We We environment. general the and habitat aquatic the stocks, fish resident to damaging

#CPRsavesfish Remember: water. the to return carefully #CPRsavesfish Remember: water. the to return carefully course to another on angling tackle, boats and protective clothing. These can be very very be can These clothing. protective and boats tackle, angling on another to course course to another on angling tackle, boats and protective clothing. These can be very very be can These clothing. protective and boats tackle, angling on another to course

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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 - water one from transferred readily are pathogens fish and Species Invasive Aquatic - water one from transferred readily are pathogens fish and Species Invasive Aquatic

anglers are catching and where. You can sign up to be emailed the weekly Angling Update Update Angling weekly the emailed be to up sign can You where. and catching are anglers anglers are catching and where. You can sign up to be emailed the weekly Angling Update Update Angling weekly the emailed be to up sign can You where. and catching are anglers

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

Biosecurity Biosecurity

IFI also produces a weekly Angling Update which provides up-to-date reports on what what on reports up-to-date provides which Update Angling weekly a produces also IFI IFI also produces a weekly Angling Update which provides up-to-date reports on what what on reports up-to-date provides which Update Angling weekly a produces also IFI

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

www.ufishireland.org/ and www.ufishireland.org/ and 2014 2014 www.leavenotraceireland.org/ www.leavenotraceireland.org/ 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

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 www.nidirect.gov.uk/information-and-services/outdoor-recreation-and-sport/angling www.nidirect.gov.uk/information-and-services/outdoor-recreation-and-sport/angling release. release.

CATCH & RELEASE & RELEASE & CATCH CATCH single barbless hooks and practice no-weight, “in the water” catch and and catch water” the “in no-weight, practice and hooks barbless single single barbless hooks and practice no-weight, “in the water” catch and and catch water” the “in no-weight, practice and hooks barbless single catchments on either side of the border you should consult: should you border the of side either on catchments catchments on either side of the border you should consult: should you border the of side either on catchments

Anglers should fish responsibly and sustainably – where possible use use possible where – sustainably and responsibly fish should Anglers Anglers should fish responsibly and sustainably – where possible use use possible where – sustainably and responsibly fish should Anglers If you are planning on fishing in Northern Ireland or on the Foyle and Carlingford Carlingford and Foyle the on or Ireland Northern in fishing on planning are you If If you are planning on fishing in Northern Ireland or on the Foyle and Carlingford Carlingford and Foyle the on or Ireland Northern in fishing on planning are you If

http://fishinginireland.info/regulations.htm http://fishinginireland.info/regulations.htm

cause obstruction. obstruction. cause cause obstruction. obstruction. cause www.fishinginireland.info at: www.fishinginireland.info at: on: on: information information latest latest the the for for check check should should anglers anglers so so and and change change to to subject subject are are

Vehicles should be parked in designated areas and in such a manner that they do not not do they that manner a such in and areas designated in parked be should Vehicles Vehicles should be parked in designated areas and in such a manner that they do not not do they that manner a such in and areas designated in parked be should Vehicles website which has more detailed information on individual fisheries and service providers providers service and fisheries individual on information detailed more has which website website which has more detailed information on individual fisheries and service providers providers service and fisheries individual on information detailed more has which website however we encourage all anglers to practice C&R (see below). Fisheries regulations regulations regulations Fisheries Fisheries below). below). (see (see C&R C&R practice practice to to anglers anglers all all encourage encourage we we however however

more detailed and up-to-date angling information. Firstly, there is a dedicated angling angling dedicated a is there Firstly, information. angling up-to-date and detailed more more detailed and up-to-date angling information. Firstly, there is a dedicated angling angling dedicated a is there Firstly, information. angling up-to-date and detailed more Respect wildlife; Be considerate of other visitors. other of considerate Be wildlife; Respect Respect wildlife; Be considerate of other visitors. other of considerate Be wildlife; Respect State Licence. Each fishery can have its own rules on methods allowed, bag limits etc., etc., etc., limits limits bag bag allowed, allowed, methods methods on on rules rules own own its its have have can can fishery fishery Each Each Licence. Licence. State State

of some of the key fisheries. However, there are a number of resources where you can find find can you where resources of number a are there However, fisheries. key the of some of of some of the key fisheries. However, there are a number of resources where you can find find can you where resources of number a are there However, fisheries. key the of some of properly; Leave what you find; Minimise campfire impacts (be careful with fire); fire); with careful (be impacts campfire Minimise find; you what Leave properly; properly; Leave what you find; Minimise campfire impacts (be careful with fire); fire); with careful (be impacts campfire Minimise find; you what Leave properly; For the vast majority of salmon fisheries, anglers will require a permit in addition to the the the to to addition addition in in permit permit a a require require will will anglers anglers fisheries, fisheries, salmon salmon of of majority majority vast vast the the For For

This guide provides a basic introduction to salmon fishing in Ireland and gives a summary summary a gives and Ireland in fishing salmon to introduction basic a provides guide This This guide provides a basic introduction to salmon fishing in Ireland and gives a summary summary a gives and Ireland in fishing salmon to introduction basic a provides guide This

Plan ahead and prepare; Travel and camp on durable surfaces; Dispose of waste waste of Dispose surfaces; durable on camp and Travel prepare; and ahead Plan Plan ahead and prepare; Travel and camp on durable surfaces; Dispose of waste waste of Dispose surfaces; durable on camp and Travel prepare; and ahead Plan Fisheries Ireland office for information on individual rivers. rivers. individual individual on on information information for for office office Ireland Ireland Fisheries Fisheries

Angling Information Angling Angling Information Angling

Please adhere to the seven principles of Leave No Trace Ireland: Ireland: Trace No Leave of principles seven the to adhere Please Please adhere to the seven principles of Leave No Trace Ireland: Ireland: Trace No Leave of principles seven the to adhere Please note that the regulations and bye-laws are subject to change. Contact your local Inland Inland Inland local local your your Contact Contact change. change. to to subject subject are are bye-laws bye-laws and and regulations regulations the the that that note note

Leave No Trace No Leave Leave No Trace No Leave FURTHER INFORMATION FURTHER FURTHER INFORMATION FURTHER and sea trout fishing in Ireland and is administered by Inland Fisheries Ireland. Please Please Please Ireland. Ireland. Fisheries Fisheries Inland Inland by by administered administered is is and and Ireland Ireland in in fishing fishing trout trout sea sea and and

This brochureThis brochure contains contains some some basic basic information information to help to help you youget getstarted started on youron your Irish Irish salmon salmon floatingfloating or oran an intermediate intermediate line. line. There There are are the the odd odd exceptions exceptions such such as as thethe CorkCork Blackwater,Blackwater, GUIDING anglingangling adventure. adventure. There There is a short is a short description description of the of bestthe best times times to go, to go,fishing fishing methods methods and and thethe Galway Galway Weir Weir Fishery Fishery or or the the River River Moy Moy where where a a double double handed handed rod rod can can be be moremore suitable.suitable. There areare aa largelarge number number of of guides guides and and ghillies ghillies specialising specialising in insalmon salmon fishing fishing in Irelandin Ireland a briefa briefintroduction introduction to some to some of the of fisheries the fisheries that thatconsistently consistently produce produce salmon. salmon. The The map map on on ManyMany anglers anglers use use different different density density poly poly leaders leaders in in combination combination with with a a 10 10 toto 15lbs.15lbs. monomono or and itit isis usuallyusually advisableadvisable for for an an angler angler visiting visiting a afishery fishery for for the the first first time time to tohire hire a a the flipthe side flip of side this of brochure this brochure highlights highlights these these fisheries fisheries and andthe keythe keytowns towns in which in which you you could could fluorocarbonfluorocarbon tippet. tippet. Traditionally, Traditionally, on on some some rivers rivers such such as as the the Moy Moy or or Mourne Mourne anglersanglers alsoalso fishfish guide forfor aa dayday oror two.two. This This is is particularly particularly the the case case with with the the larger larger rivers, rivers, as asa guidea guide base yourself.base yourself. thethe “bubble “bubble and and fly” fly” using using spinning spinning tackle. tackle. Fly-fishing Fly-fishing for for salmon salmon on on loughs loughs is is an an IrishIrish specialty.specialty. will havehave locallocal knowledgeknowledge ofof thethe water water and and specific specific salmon salmon lies lies which which will will greatly greatly MostMost loughs loughs fish fish best best when when there there is isa a“good “good wave.” wave.” Typical Typical rods rods for for lough lough style style salmonsalmon fishingfishing increase chanceschances ofof hookinghooking up. up. You You will will need need to to contact contact and and make make your your own own arrange arrange- - wouldwould be be 10 10 to to11ft 11ft long long # #7/8 7/8 and and salmon salmon are are fished fished for for in in much much thethe samesame wayway asas one ments withwith guidesguides andand toto help help with with this, this, there there is isa alist list of of angling angling guides guides available available at: at: ThereThere is much is much more more detailed detailed information information on theon the fishesfishes for for trout. trout. The The majority majority of of fishing fishing would would be be using using floating floating lines lines andand thethe standardstandard castcast www.fishinginireland.info/guides/index.htm www.fishinginireland.infowww.fishinginireland.info website website and and on theon the consistsconsists of of3 flies3 flies (one (one point point fly fly & &two two droppers). droppers). While While a a traditional traditional river river patternpattern suchsuch asas a accompanyingaccompanying Google Google map: map: shrimpshrimp fly fly is typicallyis typically fished fished on on the the point, point, the the droppers droppers usually usually consist consist ofof standardstandard trouttrout or REGULATIONS https://tinyurl.com/ybc54pekhttps://tinyurl.com/ybc54pek seasea trout trout flies flies in sizein size 8 to8 to12 12 depending depending on on the the wave. wave. It Itwould would be be more more than than usualusual forfor oneone of In orderorder toto fishfish forfor salmonsalmon inin Ireland Ireland anglers anglers are are required required to toobtain obtain a a“Salmon “Salmon Rod Rod thesethese flies flies to tobe be a Greena Green Peter. Peter. Licence”. TheThe licencelicence can can be be obtained obtained from from Inland Inland Fisheries Fisheries Ireland, Ireland, any any rod rod licence licence dis dis- - tributor oror onlineonline atat https://store.fishinginireland.info/ https://store.fishinginireland.info/ There There are are a numbera number of ofdifferent different IrelandIreland is theis the birthplace birthplace of of many many famous famous salmon salmon flies flies such such as as the the Thunder Thunder andand LightningLightning oror licence typestypes availableavailable (day, (day, annual, annual, district, district, 21 21 day day etc.). etc.). For For the the visiting visiting angler, angler, the the 21 21 thethe Black Black Doctor Doctor to toname name but but a afew. few. However, However, when when one one thinks thinks of of fly fly patterns,patterns, thethe shrimpshrimp SEASONSSEASONS day licencelicence isis probablyprobably the the most most convenient convenient one. one. At At the the time time of of writing writing (2019), (2019), there there is is fly flymust must be be seen seen as as the the quintessential quintessential Irish Irish style style salmon salmon fly. fly. ThoughThough everyoneeveryone hashas theirtheir st st an annual bagbag limitlimit ofof 10 10 salmon salmon or or sea sea trout trout (over (over 40cm) 40cm) and and all all fish fish which which are are kept kept SalmonSalmon fishing fishing in Ireland in Ireland opens opens on January on January 1 on 1 a on handful a handful of riversof rivers and and after after that that the the favourites,favourites, one one would would never never go go too too far far wrong wrong with with patterns patterns such such as as the the Ally’sAlly’s Shrimp,Shrimp, BannBann have toto bebe taggedtagged andand recorded recorded in in the the log log book. book. However, However, depending depending on on the the time time of of remainderremainder of fisheries of fisheries open open on various on various dates dates in February, in February, March, March, April, April, May May and and June. June. The The SpecialSpecial Shrimp, Shrimp, Wilkinson Wilkinson Shrimp, Shrimp, Curry’s Curry’s Red Red Shrimp, Shrimp, Shadow Shadow Shrimp Shrimp oror FoxfordFoxford Shrimp.Shrimp. th th th th year andand individualindividual fishery, fishery, additional additional restrictions restrictions such such as as bag bag limits, limits, “Catch “Catch & Release”& Release” majoritymajority of fisheries of fisheries close closeon September on September 30 but30 a but few a fewrivers rivers remain remain open open until until October October 12 12. . IrishIrish flies flies tend tend to tostart start on on the the small small side. side. Size Size 8 8flies flies are are often often used used in in higherhigher coolercooler water,water, etc. maymay apply.apply. TheThe WildWild SalmonSalmon and and Sea Sea Trout Trout Tagging Tagging Scheme Scheme regulates regulates salmon salmon For upFor to update to informationdate information on opening on opening and andclosing closing dates dates for individualfor individual fisheries fisheries please please visit visit thenthen as asthe the water water warms, warms, the the flies flies are are scaled scaled down down to to 12s 12s andand eveneven 14s14s inin www.fishinginireland.infowww.fishinginireland.info somesome cases. cases. Micro-tubes Micro-tubes have have also also become become quite quite popular popular in in recent recent years. years. Other Other From JanuaryFrom January to June to springJune spring salmon salmon (springers) (springers) are theare mainthe main quarry. quarry. These These salmon salmon tend tend to be to be salmonsalmon flies flies of ofnote note are are Cascade, Cascade, Willie Willie Gunn, Gunn, Hairy Hairy Mary, Mary, Silver Silver Stoat, Stoat, Green Green INTRODUCTIONINTRODUCTION largerlarger than summerthan summer fish and fish anglersand anglers have have the bestthe bestchance chance of catching of catching one oneon riverson rivers such such as as HighlanderHighlander or orCollie Collie Dog. Dog. Ireland hasIreland long has been long known been as known one ofas theone bestof the salmon best salmonangling angling destinations destinations in Europe in Europe the Drowesthe Drowes in Counties in Counties Donegal Donegal & Leitrim, & Leitrim, the River the River Laune Laune in Co. in Co.Kerry Kerry or the or theDelphi Delphi Fishery Fishery SpinningSpinning and anglersand haveanglers been have visiting been Irelandvisiting Irelandfor many for years many in years a quest in a forquest Salmo for Salmosalar. salar. in Co. inMayo. Co. Mayo. Springers Springers can also can bealso caught be caught in loughs in loughs such suchas Carrowmore as Carrowmore Lake Lake in Co. in Co.Mayo Mayo SpinningSpinning for for salmon salmon can can be be a avery very effective effective method method when when conditions conditions suitsuit andand So, whatSo, makes what Ireland makes Irelandsuch an suchoutstanding an outstanding salmon salmonangling angling destination? destination? The Atlantic The Atlantic which whichcan produce can produce some somefine fishfine fromfish fromMarch March onwards. onwards. There There are arealso also some some smaller smaller spate spate rivers riverssuch as such the as Owenduff the Owenduff River River in north in north Mayo Mayo that thatcan getcan aget decent a decent run runof spring of spring salmon. salmon. in heavyin heavy water water it mayit may also also be be the the only only realistic realistic option option to to take take a a fish. fish. Usually Usually aa salmon (“Bradán”salmon (“Bradán” in Gaelic), in Gaelic), is a native is a Irishnative fish Irish and fish most and rivers most getrivers a runget ofa runsalmon of salmon 10 10to 11ftto 11ft rod rod with with a 10a 10 to to60g 60g casting casting weight weight will will be be able able to to cope cope with with mostmost From Frommid June mid onwardsJune onwards the more the more numerous numerous grilse grilse or ‘summer or ‘summer salmon’ salmon’ predominate. predominate. They They from springfrom untilspring autumn. until autumn.Salmon Salmoncan be cancaught be caughtin Irish inwaters Irish watersfrom Januaryfrom January right right conditions.conditions. Probably Probably the the most most favoured favoured lure lure in in Ireland Ireland is is the the Flying Flying C, C, with with redred typicallytypically weigh weigh from from1.5kg 1.5kg to 3kg to 3kgand andare arewidely widely found found throughout throughout the thecountry. country. This This is is through tothrough the end to theof Septemberend of September and, with and, approximately with approximately 70,000 70,000 kilometres kilometres of rivers of rivers andand black black being being two two of ofthe the most most popular popular colours. colours. Other Other popular popular spinning spinning baitsbaits when whenfisheries fisheries like the like Moy the Moyin Co. in Mayo, Co. Mayo, the Galwaythe Galway Fishery Fishery in Co. in Co.Galway Galway and and the theMun Mun- - and streams,and streams,there is therean abundance is an abundance of spawning of spawning and nursery and nursery habitat habitat for juvenile for juvenile fish. fish. includeinclude Toby, Toby, Copper Copper & &Silver Silver Spoon Spoon or or small small plugs. plugs. As As the the water water warms warms up, up, lure lure ster Blackwaterster Blackwater in Co. in Cork Co. Corkcan providecan provide spectacular spectacular sport sport in a in great a great setting. setting. In additionIn addition The climateThe isclimate another is anotherfactor. Sitting factor. in Sitting the north in the Atlantic, north Atlantic, Ireland Ireland has a moderatehas a moderate humid humid sizesize should should be be reduced reduced and and the the speed speed of of retrieve retrieve increased. increased. Spinning Spinning upstream upstream to theto bigger the bigger rivers rivers there there are numerousare numerous smaller smaller systems, systems, mainly mainly in the in thewestern western half half of theof the climate providingclimate providing sufficient sufficient precipitation precipitation for the formany the spatemany riversspate alongrivers alongits Atlantic its Atlantic cancan be behighly highly effective effective when when the the grilse grilse are are running. running. On On lakes, lakes, trolling trolling a a Devon Devon country,country, which which can provide can provide excellent excellent grilse grilse fishing. fishing. Irish Irishgrilse grilse runs runs are arestill stillsome some of theof themost most sea board.sea Mild,board. wet Mild, winters wet wintersmean spawning mean spawning streams streams remain remain ice-free, ice-free, and frequent and frequent or Tobyor Toby can can be be very very effective effective particularly particularly in in the the early early part part of of the the season season asas itit prolificprolific in Western in Western Europe Europe and offerand offer the salmon the salmon fisherman fisherman a great a great chance chance of success.of success. rain meansrain low means water low levels water are levels usually are usuallyrare. Finally, rare. Finally,Ireland’s Ireland’s mostly mostlywild and wild rugged and rugged enablesenables you you to tocover cover a lota lot of of ground ground during during a aday’s day’s fishing. fishing. environmentenvironment and rivers and add rivers to theadd overall to the overallexperience. experience. METHODSMETHODS BaitBait But it’s notBut all it’s about not all the about fishing. the Irelandfishing. Irelandhas a wealth has a wealthof scenery of scenery and history and history to explore to explore For theFor angler the angler in Ireland in Ireland the threethe three main main methods methods employed employed for forsalmon salmon angling angling are are fly fly TheThe main main bait bait fishing fishing techniques techniques are are shrimp shrimp or or prawn prawn and and worming. worming. Prawns Prawns if you takeif you a break take afrom break fishing. from Whetherfishing. Whether you want you to want explore to explore the breath-taking the breath-taking Wild Wild fishing,fishing, spinning spinning and baitand fishing.bait fishing. Atlantic WayAtlantic or WayIreland’s or Ireland’s mystic Ancient mystic AncientEast…it’s East…it’s up to you!up to There you! areThere great are greatrestau restau- - andand shrimps shrimps are are usually usually presented presented on on a afloat float rig rig and and trotted trotted down down the the curcur-- rants, cafesrants, and cafes pubs, and most pubs, of mostwhich of serve which good serve food good as food well as as well drink. as drink.What Whatbetter better Fly FishingFly Fishing rent.rent. Worms Worms can can also also be be presented presented in inthis this way way or or presented presented static, static, close close to to aa way to relaxway toafter relax a afterlong day’sa long salmon day’s salmonfishing fishingthan with than a withtasty a evening tasty evening meal andmeal a and a The classicThe classic way toway fish to for fish salmon for salmon is with is thewith fly. the Double fly. Double handed handed rods rods are arenot notalways always essential essential knownknown salmon salmon lie. lie. The The normal normal way way to to fish fish a aworm worm is is to to use use a a bunch bunch of of threethree pint or two…pint or two… and usuallyand usually a single a single handed handed rod or rod a switchor a switch rod willrod bewill sufficient be sufficient to cover to cover the thewater water properly. properly. on ona singlea single hook; hook; however however a asingle single worm worm can can also also produce produce results. results. Rods Rods forfor On mostOn Irishmost riversIrish rivers one wouldone would need need nothing nothing larger larger than than a 10 a to10 12ftto 12ft rod rod# 7/8# 7/8 with with a a baitbait fishing fishing are are generally generally 11ft 11ft long long and and have have a acasting casting weight weight of of up up to to 80g. 80g.

#CPRSavesfish #CPRSavesfish

This brochure can be made available in alternate formats upon request. upon formats alternate in available made be can brochure This This brochure can be made available in alternate formats upon request. upon formats alternate in available made be can brochure This IN IRELAND IN IRELAND IN

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SALMON ANGLING SALMON SALMON ANGLING SALMON

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Photos courtesy of: Christin Breuker, Markus Müller & James Barry. James & Müller Markus Breuker, Christin of: courtesy Photos Photos courtesy of: Christin Breuker, Markus Müller & James Barry. James & Müller Markus Breuker, Christin of: courtesy Photos www.fishinginireland.info/safety.htm www.fishinginireland.info/safety.htm

For a more detailed guide to safety when angling please visit: visit: please angling when safety to guide detailed more a For For a more detailed guide to safety when angling please visit: visit: please angling when safety to guide detailed more a For © Published by Inland Fisheries Ireland 2019, P/N: IFI/2019/1-0451 - 005 - IFI/2019/1-0451 P/N: 2019, Ireland Fisheries Inland by Published © © Published by Inland Fisheries Ireland 2019, P/N: IFI/2019/1-0451 - 005 - IFI/2019/1-0451 P/N: 2019, Ireland Fisheries Inland by Published ©

• Wear appropriate clothing and footwear and clothing appropriate Wear • • Wear appropriate clothing and footwear and clothing appropriate Wear • Acknowledgements Acknowledgements

• Take a fully charged mobile phone in a waterproof case/bag. waterproof a in phone mobile charged fully a Take • • Take a fully charged mobile phone in a waterproof case/bag. waterproof a in phone mobile charged fully a Take •

level of cover carried. cover of level level of cover carried. cover of level • Fish with a partner/buddy or let someone know where you’re going you’re where know someone let or partner/buddy a with Fish • • Fish with a partner/buddy or let someone know where you’re going you’re where know someone let or partner/buddy a with Fish •

always advisable to check with the establishment or operator concerned as to the the to as concerned operator or establishment the with check to advisable always always advisable to check with the establishment or operator concerned as to the the to as concerned operator or establishment the with check to advisable always • Take time to observe weather, water and tide conditions while fishing while conditions tide and water weather, observe to time Take • • Take time to observe weather, water and tide conditions while fishing while conditions tide and water weather, observe to time Take •

accident insurance. While many operators would have public liability insurance it is is it insurance liability public have would operators many While insurance. accident accident insurance. While many operators would have public liability insurance it is is it insurance liability public have would operators many While insurance. accident • Check the weather forecast and tide tables before you go you before tables tide and forecast weather the Check • • Check the weather forecast and tide tables before you go you before tables tide and forecast weather the Check •

be hazardous and involve risk. It is recommended in such cases to take out personal personal out take to cases such in recommended is It risk. involve and hazardous be be hazardous and involve risk. It is recommended in such cases to take out personal personal out take to cases such in recommended is It risk. involve and hazardous be • Don’t take any risks when wading or fishing from boat, shore or bank or shore boat, from fishing or wading when risks any take Don’t • • Don’t take any risks when wading or fishing from boat, shore or bank or shore boat, from fishing or wading when risks any take Don’t •

sibility for errors or omissions therein. Some sporting activities may by their nature nature their by may activities sporting Some therein. omissions or errors for sibility sibility for errors or omissions therein. Some sporting activities may by their nature nature their by may activities sporting Some therein. omissions or errors for sibility • Follow advice on warning signs, permits and notices and permits signs, warning on advice Follow • • Follow advice on warning signs, permits and notices and permits signs, warning on advice Follow •

- respon accept cannot Ireland Fisheries Inland pages. web and maps associated and - respon accept cannot Ireland Fisheries Inland pages. web and maps associated and • Wear a life jacket. life a Wear • • Wear a life jacket. life a Wear •

Every effort has been taken to ensure accuracy in the compilation of this publication publication this of compilation the in accuracy ensure to taken been has effort Every Every effort has been taken to ensure accuracy in the compilation of this publication publication this of compilation the in accuracy ensure to taken been has effort Every

Please remember the following when going fishing: going when following the remember Please Please remember the following when going fishing: going when following the remember Please

Disclaimer Disclaimer

safety and that of angling partners/buddies. partners/buddies. angling of that and safety safety and that of angling partners/buddies. partners/buddies. angling of that and safety

http://invasivespeciesireland.com/cops/water-users/anglers/ http://invasivespeciesireland.com/cops/water-users/anglers/ hidden. Drowning is an ever present risk and you should exercise utmost care for your own own your for care utmost exercise should you and risk present ever an is Drowning hidden. hidden. Drowning is an ever present risk and you should exercise utmost care for your own own your for care utmost exercise should you and risk present ever an is Drowning hidden.

Angling is a water based activity with changing conditions and dangers that are sometimes sometimes are that dangers and conditions changing with activity based water a is Angling Angling is a water based activity with changing conditions and dangers that are sometimes sometimes are that dangers and conditions changing with activity based water a is Angling Or via Invasive Species Ireland at at Ireland Ireland Species Species Invasive Invasive via via Or Or

Safety Safety www.fisheriesireland.ie/Research/invasive-species.html www.fisheriesireland.ie/Research/invasive-species.html

Full information on prevention of invasive species is available on our website at: at: website our website on our on available is available is species species invasive of invasive of prevention on prevention on information information Full Full information on things to do and see while visiting the island. the visiting while see and do to things on information information on things to do and see while visiting the island. the visiting while see and do to things on information

trip to Ireland. It provides a wealth of information on travel and accommodation as well as as well as accommodation and travel on information of wealth a provides It Ireland. to trip trip to Ireland. It provides a wealth of information on travel and accommodation as well as as well as accommodation and travel on information of wealth a provides It Ireland. to trip to fish. to fish. to

that will help you plan your your plan you help will that www.ireland.com website tourism general a has also Ireland that will help you plan your your plan you help will that www.ireland.com website tourism general a has also Ireland would ask that all anglers inspect and clean their gear prior to travelling to Ireland Ireland to Ireland to travelling to travelling to prior prior gear gear their their clean clean and and inspect inspect anglers all anglers all that that ask ask would would

General Tourism General General Tourism General damaging to resident fish stocks, the aquatic habitat and the general environment. We We We environment. environment. general the general and the and habitat habitat aquatic the aquatic the stocks, stocks, fish fish resident to resident to damaging damaging

#CPRsavesfish #CPRsavesfish Remember: Remember: water. water. the the to to return return carefully carefully course to another on angling tackle, boats and protective clothing. These can be very very be very can be can These These clothing. clothing. protective protective and and boats boats tackle, tackle, angling on angling on another to another to course course

[email protected] [email protected] emailing emailing by by

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 Aquatic Invasive Species and fish pathogens are readily transferred from one water one water one from from transferred transferred readily are readily are pathogens pathogens fish fish and and Species Species Invasive Invasive Aquatic Aquatic - -

anglers are catching and where. You can sign up to be emailed the weekly Angling Update Update Update Angling Angling weekly weekly the the emailed emailed be be to to up up sign sign can can You You where. where. and and catching catching are are anglers anglers

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

Biosecurity Biosecurity

IFI also produces a weekly Angling Update which provides up-to-date reports on what what what on on reports reports up-to-date up-to-date provides provides which which Update Update Angling Angling weekly weekly a a produces produces also also IFI IFI

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

www.ufishireland.org/ www.ufishireland.org/ and and 2014 2014 www.leavenotraceireland.org/ www.leavenotraceireland.org/ 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

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 a responsibility a have have all all We We www.nidirect.gov.uk/information-and-services/outdoor-recreation-and-sport/angling www.nidirect.gov.uk/information-and-services/outdoor-recreation-and-sport/angling release. release.

CATCH & RELEASE & RELEASE & CATCH CATCH single barbless hooks and practice no-weight, “in the water” catch and and and catch catch water” the water” “in the “in no-weight, no-weight, practice practice and and hooks hooks barbless barbless single single catchments on either side of the border you should consult: consult: should should you you border border the the of of side side either either on on catchments catchments

Anglers should fish responsibly and sustainably – where possible use use use possible possible where – where – sustainably and sustainably and responsibly fish responsibly fish should should Anglers Anglers If you are planning on fishing in Northern Ireland or on the Foyle and Carlingford Carlingford Carlingford and and Foyle Foyle the the on on or or Ireland Ireland Northern Northern in in fishing fishing on on planning planning are are you you If If

http://fishinginireland.info/regulations.htm http://fishinginireland.info/regulations.htm

cause obstruction. obstruction. obstruction. cause cause www.fishinginireland.info www.fishinginireland.info at: at: on: on: information information latest latest the the for for check check should should anglers anglers so so and and change change to to subject subject are are

Vehicles should be parked in designated areas and in such a manner that they do not not do not they do that they that manner a manner a such in such in and and areas areas designated in designated in parked be parked be should should Vehicles Vehicles website which has more detailed information on individual fisheries and service providers providers providers service service and and fisheries fisheries individual individual on on information information detailed detailed more more has has which which website website however we encourage all anglers to practice C&R (see below). Fisheries regulations regulations regulations Fisheries Fisheries below). below). (see (see C&R C&R practice practice to to anglers anglers all all encourage encourage we we however however

more detailed and up-to-date angling information. Firstly, there is a dedicated angling angling angling dedicated dedicated a a is is there there Firstly, Firstly, information. information. angling angling up-to-date up-to-date and and detailed detailed more more Respect wildlife; Be considerate of other visitors. visitors. other of other of considerate Be considerate Be wildlife; wildlife; Respect Respect State Licence. Each fishery can have its own rules on methods allowed, bag limits etc., etc., etc., limits limits bag bag allowed, allowed, methods methods on on rules rules own own its its have have can can fishery fishery Each Each Licence. Licence. State State

of some of the key fisheries. However, there are a number of resources where you can find find find can can you you where where resources resources of of number number a a are are there there However, However, fisheries. fisheries. key key the the of of some some of of properly; Leave what you find; Minimise campfire impacts (be careful with fire); fire); with fire); with careful (be careful (be impacts impacts campfire campfire Minimise Minimise find; find; you you what what Leave Leave properly; properly; For the vast majority of salmon fisheries, anglers will require a permit in addition to the the the to to addition addition in in permit permit a a require require will will anglers anglers fisheries, fisheries, salmon salmon of of majority majority vast vast the the For For

This guide provides a basic introduction to salmon fishing in Ireland and gives a summary summary a summary a gives gives and and Ireland Ireland in in fishing fishing salmon salmon to to introduction introduction basic basic a a provides provides guide guide This This

Plan ahead and prepare; Travel and camp on durable surfaces; Dispose of waste waste of waste of Dispose Dispose surfaces; surfaces; durable on durable on camp camp and and Travel Travel prepare; prepare; and and ahead ahead Plan Plan Fisheries Ireland office for information on individual rivers. rivers. individual individual on on information information for for office office Ireland Ireland Fisheries Fisheries

Angling Information Information Angling Angling

Please adhere to the seven principles of Leave No Trace Ireland: Ireland: Ireland: Trace No Trace No Leave of Leave of principles principles seven seven the to the to adhere adhere Please Please note that the regulations and bye-laws are subject to change. Contact your local Inland Inland Inland local local your your Contact Contact change. change. to to subject subject are are bye-laws bye-laws and and regulations regulations the the that that note note

Leave No Trace Trace No No Leave Leave FURTHER INFORMATION INFORMATION FURTHER FURTHER and sea trout fishing in Ireland and is administered by Inland Fisheries Ireland. Please Please Please Ireland. Ireland. Fisheries Fisheries Inland Inland by by administered administered is is and and Ireland Ireland in in fishing fishing trout trout sea sea and and

This brochureThis brochure contains contains some some basic basic information information to help to help you youget getstarted started on youron your Irish Irish salmon salmon floatingfloating or oran an intermediate intermediate line. line. There There are are the the odd odd exceptions exceptions such such as as thethe CorkCork Blackwater,Blackwater, GUIDING anglingangling adventure. adventure. There There is a short is a short description description of the of bestthe best times times to go, to go,fishing fishing methods methods and and thethe Galway Galway Weir Weir Fishery Fishery or or the the River River Moy Moy where where a a double double handed handed rod rod can can be be moremore suitable.suitable. There areare aa largelarge number number of of guides guides and and ghillies ghillies specialising specialising in insalmon salmon fishing fishing in Irelandin Ireland a briefa briefintroduction introduction to some to some of the of fisheries the fisheries that thatconsistently consistently produce produce salmon. salmon. The The map map on on ManyMany anglers anglers use use different different density density poly poly leaders leaders in in combination combination with with a a 10 10 toto 15lbs.15lbs. monomono or and itit isis usuallyusually advisableadvisable for for an an angler angler visiting visiting a afishery fishery for for the the first first time time to tohire hire a a the flipthe side flip of side this of brochure this brochure highlights highlights these these fisheries fisheries and andthe keythe keytowns towns in which in which you you could could fluorocarbonfluorocarbon tippet. tippet. Traditionally, Traditionally, on on some some rivers rivers such such as as the the Moy Moy or or Mourne Mourne anglersanglers alsoalso fishfish guide forfor aa dayday oror two.two. This This is is particularly particularly the the case case with with the the larger larger rivers, rivers, as asa guidea guide base yourself.base yourself. thethe “bubble “bubble and and fly” fly” using using spinning spinning tackle. tackle. Fly-fishing Fly-fishing for for salmon salmon on on loughs loughs is is an an IrishIrish specialty.specialty. will havehave locallocal knowledgeknowledge ofof thethe water water and and specific specific salmon salmon lies lies which which will will greatly greatly MostMost loughs loughs fish fish best best when when there there is isa a“good “good wave.” wave.” Typical Typical rods rods for for lough lough style style salmonsalmon fishingfishing increase chanceschances ofof hookinghooking up. up. You You will will need need to to contact contact and and make make your your own own arrange arrange- - wouldwould be be 10 10 to to11ft 11ft long long # #7/8 7/8 and and salmon salmon are are fished fished for for in in much much thethe samesame wayway asas one ments withwith guidesguides andand toto help help with with this, this, there there is isa alist list of of angling angling guides guides available available at: at: ThereThere is much is much more more detailed detailed information information on theon the fishesfishes for for trout. trout. The The majority majority of of fishing fishing would would be be using using floating floating lines lines andand thethe standardstandard castcast www.fishinginireland.info/guides/index.htm www.fishinginireland.infowww.fishinginireland.info website website and and on theon the consistsconsists of of3 flies3 flies (one (one point point fly fly & &two two droppers). droppers). While While a a traditional traditional river river patternpattern suchsuch asas a accompanyingaccompanying Google Google map: map: shrimpshrimp fly fly is typicallyis typically fished fished on on the the point, point, the the droppers droppers usually usually consist consist ofof standardstandard trouttrout or REGULATIONS https://tinyurl.com/ybc54pekhttps://tinyurl.com/ybc54pek seasea trout trout flies flies in sizein size 8 to8 to12 12 depending depending on on the the wave. wave. It Itwould would be be more more than than usualusual forfor oneone of In orderorder toto fishfish forfor salmonsalmon inin Ireland Ireland anglers anglers are are required required to toobtain obtain a a“Salmon “Salmon Rod Rod thesethese flies flies to tobe be a Greena Green Peter. Peter. Licence”. TheThe licencelicence can can be be obtained obtained from from Inland Inland Fisheries Fisheries Ireland, Ireland, any any rod rod licence licence dis dis- - tributor oror onlineonline atat https://store.fishinginireland.info/ https://store.fishinginireland.info/ There There are are a numbera number of ofdifferent different IrelandIreland is theis the birthplace birthplace of of many many famous famous salmon salmon flies flies such such as as the the Thunder Thunder andand LightningLightning oror licence typestypes availableavailable (day, (day, annual, annual, district, district, 21 21 day day etc.). etc.). For For the the visiting visiting angler, angler, the the 21 21 thethe Black Black Doctor Doctor to toname name but but a afew. few. However, However, when when one one thinks thinks of of fly fly patterns,patterns, thethe shrimpshrimp SEASONSSEASONS day licencelicence isis probablyprobably the the most most convenient convenient one. one. At At the the time time of of writing writing (2019), (2019), there there is is fly flymust must be be seen seen as as the the quintessential quintessential Irish Irish style style salmon salmon fly. fly. ThoughThough everyoneeveryone hashas theirtheir st st an annual bagbag limitlimit ofof 10 10 salmon salmon or or sea sea trout trout (over (over 40cm) 40cm) and and all all fish fish which which are are kept kept SalmonSalmon fishing fishing in Ireland in Ireland opens opens on January on January 1 on 1 a on handful a handful of riversof rivers and and after after that that the the favourites,favourites, one one would would never never go go too too far far wrong wrong with with patterns patterns such such as as the the Ally’sAlly’s Shrimp,Shrimp, BannBann have toto bebe taggedtagged andand recorded recorded in in the the log log book. book. However, However, depending depending on on the the time time of of remainderremainder of fisheries of fisheries open open on various on various dates dates in February, in February, March, March, April, April, May May and and June. June. The The SpecialSpecial Shrimp, Shrimp, Wilkinson Wilkinson Shrimp, Shrimp, Curry’s Curry’s Red Red Shrimp, Shrimp, Shadow Shadow Shrimp Shrimp oror FoxfordFoxford Shrimp.Shrimp. th th th th year andand individualindividual fishery, fishery, additional additional restrictions restrictions such such as as bag bag limits, limits, “Catch “Catch & Release”& Release” majoritymajority of fisheries of fisheries close closeon September on September 30 but30 a but few a fewrivers rivers remain remain open open until until October October 12 12. . IrishIrish flies flies tend tend to tostart start on on the the small small side. side. Size Size 8 8flies flies are are often often used used in in higherhigher coolercooler water,water, etc. maymay apply.apply. TheThe WildWild SalmonSalmon and and Sea Sea Trout Trout Tagging Tagging Scheme Scheme regulates regulates salmon salmon For upFor to update to informationdate information on opening on opening and andclosing closing dates dates for individualfor individual fisheries fisheries please please visit visit thenthen as asthe the water water warms, warms, the the flies flies are are scaled scaled down down to to 12s 12s andand eveneven 14s14s inin www.fishinginireland.infowww.fishinginireland.info somesome cases. cases. Micro-tubes Micro-tubes have have also also become become quite quite popular popular in in recent recent years. years. Other Other From JanuaryFrom January to June to springJune spring salmon salmon (springers) (springers) are theare mainthe main quarry. quarry. These These salmon salmon tend tend to be to be salmonsalmon flies flies of ofnote note are are Cascade, Cascade, Willie Willie Gunn, Gunn, Hairy Hairy Mary, Mary, Silver Silver Stoat, Stoat, Green Green INTRODUCTIONINTRODUCTION largerlarger than summerthan summer fish and fish anglersand anglers have have the bestthe bestchance chance of catching of catching one oneon riverson rivers such such as as HighlanderHighlander or orCollie Collie Dog. Dog. Ireland hasIreland long has been long known been as known one ofas theone bestof the salmon best salmonangling angling destinations destinations in Europe in Europe the Drowesthe Drowes in Counties in Counties Donegal Donegal & Leitrim, & Leitrim, the River the River Laune Laune in Co. in Co.Kerry Kerry or the or theDelphi Delphi Fishery Fishery SpinningSpinning and anglersand haveanglers been have visiting been Irelandvisiting Irelandfor many for years many in years a quest in a forquest Salmo for Salmosalar. salar. in Co. inMayo. Co. Mayo. Springers Springers can also can bealso caught be caught in loughs in loughs such suchas Carrowmore as Carrowmore Lake Lake in Co. in Co.Mayo Mayo SpinningSpinning for for salmon salmon can can be be a avery very effective effective method method when when conditions conditions suitsuit andand So, whatSo, makes what Ireland makes Irelandsuch an suchoutstanding an outstanding salmon salmonangling angling destination? destination? The Atlantic The Atlantic which whichcan produce can produce some somefine fishfine fromfish fromMarch March onwards. onwards. There There are arealso also some some smaller smaller spate spate rivers riverssuch as such the as Owenduff the Owenduff River River in north in north Mayo Mayo that thatcan getcan aget decent a decent run runof spring of spring salmon. salmon. in heavyin heavy water water it mayit may also also be be the the only only realistic realistic option option to to take take a a fish. fish. Usually Usually aa salmon (“Bradán”salmon (“Bradán” in Gaelic), in Gaelic), is a native is a Irishnative fish Irish and fish most and rivers most getrivers a runget ofa runsalmon of salmon 10 10to 11ftto 11ft rod rod with with a 10a 10 to to60g 60g casting casting weight weight will will be be able able to to cope cope with with mostmost From Frommid June mid onwardsJune onwards the more the more numerous numerous grilse grilse or ‘summer or ‘summer salmon’ salmon’ predominate. predominate. They They from springfrom untilspring autumn. until autumn.Salmon Salmoncan be cancaught be caughtin Irish inwaters Irish watersfrom Januaryfrom January right right conditions.conditions. Probably Probably the the most most favoured favoured lure lure in in Ireland Ireland is is the the Flying Flying C, C, with with redred typicallytypically weigh weigh from from1.5kg 1.5kg to 3kg to 3kgand andare arewidely widely found found throughout throughout the thecountry. country. This This is is through tothrough the end to theof Septemberend of September and, with and, approximately with approximately 70,000 70,000 kilometres kilometres of rivers of rivers andand black black being being two two of ofthe the most most popular popular colours. colours. Other Other popular popular spinning spinning baitsbaits when whenfisheries fisheries like the like Moy the Moyin Co. in Mayo, Co. Mayo, the Galwaythe Galway Fishery Fishery in Co. in Co.Galway Galway and and the theMun Mun- - and streams,and streams,there is therean abundance is an abundance of spawning of spawning and nursery and nursery habitat habitat for juvenile for juvenile fish. fish. includeinclude Toby, Toby, Copper Copper & &Silver Silver Spoon Spoon or or small small plugs. plugs. As As the the water water warms warms up, up, lure lure ster Blackwaterster Blackwater in Co. in Cork Co. Corkcan providecan provide spectacular spectacular sport sport in a in great a great setting. setting. In additionIn addition The climateThe isclimate another is anotherfactor. Sitting factor. in Sitting the north in the Atlantic, north Atlantic, Ireland Ireland has a moderatehas a moderate humid humid sizesize should should be be reduced reduced and and the the speed speed of of retrieve retrieve increased. increased. Spinning Spinning upstream upstream to theto bigger the bigger rivers rivers there there are numerousare numerous smaller smaller systems, systems, mainly mainly in the in thewestern western half half of theof the climate providingclimate providing sufficient sufficient precipitation precipitation for the formany the spatemany riversspate alongrivers alongits Atlantic its Atlantic cancan be behighly highly effective effective when when the the grilse grilse are are running. running. On On lakes, lakes, trolling trolling a a Devon Devon country,country, which which can provide can provide excellent excellent grilse grilse fishing. fishing. Irish Irishgrilse grilse runs runs are arestill stillsome some of theof themost most sea board.sea Mild,board. wet Mild, winters wet wintersmean spawning mean spawning streams streams remain remain ice-free, ice-free, and frequent and frequent or Tobyor Toby can can be be very very effective effective particularly particularly in in the the early early part part of of the the season season asas itit prolificprolific in Western in Western Europe Europe and offerand offer the salmon the salmon fisherman fisherman a great a great chance chance of success.of success. rain meansrain low means water low levels water are levels usually are usuallyrare. Finally, rare. Finally,Ireland’s Ireland’s mostly mostlywild and wild rugged and rugged enablesenables you you to tocover cover a lota lot of of ground ground during during a aday’s day’s fishing. fishing. environmentenvironment and rivers and add rivers to theadd overall to the overallexperience. experience. METHODSMETHODS BaitBait But it’s notBut all it’s about not all the about fishing. the Irelandfishing. Irelandhas a wealth has a wealthof scenery of scenery and history and history to explore to explore For theFor angler the angler in Ireland in Ireland the threethe three main main methods methods employed employed for forsalmon salmon angling angling are are fly fly TheThe main main bait bait fishing fishing techniques techniques are are shrimp shrimp or or prawn prawn and and worming. worming. Prawns Prawns if you takeif you a break take afrom break fishing. from Whetherfishing. Whether you want you to want explore to explore the breath-taking the breath-taking Wild Wild fishing,fishing, spinning spinning and baitand fishing.bait fishing. Atlantic WayAtlantic or WayIreland’s or Ireland’s mystic Ancient mystic AncientEast…it’s East…it’s up to you!up to There you! areThere great are greatrestau restau- - andand shrimps shrimps are are usually usually presented presented on on a afloat float rig rig and and trotted trotted down down the the curcur-- rants, cafesrants, and cafes pubs, and most pubs, of mostwhich of serve which good serve food good as food well as as well drink. as drink.What Whatbetter better Fly FishingFly Fishing rent.rent. Worms Worms can can also also be be presented presented in inthis this way way or or presented presented static, static, close close to to aa way to relaxway toafter relax a afterlong day’sa long salmon day’s salmonfishing fishingthan with than a withtasty a evening tasty evening meal andmeal a and a The classicThe classic way toway fish to for fish salmon for salmon is with is thewith fly. the Double fly. Double handed handed rods rods are arenot notalways always essential essential knownknown salmon salmon lie. lie. The The normal normal way way to to fish fish a aworm worm is is to to use use a a bunch bunch of of threethree pint or two…pint or two… and usuallyand usually a single a single handed handed rod or rod a switchor a switch rod willrod bewill sufficient be sufficient to cover to cover the thewater water properly. properly. on ona singlea single hook; hook; however however a asingle single worm worm can can also also produce produce results. results. Rods Rods forfor On mostOn Irishmost riversIrish rivers one wouldone would need need nothing nothing larger larger than than a 10 a to10 12ftto 12ft rod rod# 7/8# 7/8 with with a a baitbait fishing fishing are are generally generally 11ft 11ft long long and and have have a acasting casting weight weight of of up up to to 80g. 80g.

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SLIGO ANGLING SALMON

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For a more detailed guide to safety when angling please visit: visit: please angling when safety to guide detailed more a For © Published by Inland Fisheries Ireland 2019, P/N: IFI/2019/1-0451 - 005 - IFI/2019/1-0451 P/N: 2019, Ireland Fisheries Inland by Published ©

• Wear appropriate clothing and footwear and clothing appropriate Wear •

Acknowledgements

also provide good salmon fishing at times. at fishing salmon good provide also Caragh

located approximately 35 kilometres further north can can north further kilometres 35 approximately located

the and nearby The May. Caragh System Caragh Inny River • Take a fully charged mobile phone in a waterproof case/bag. waterproof a in phone mobile charged fully a Take •

provide good salmon fishing from as early as April/ as early as from fishing salmon good provide

Mostly known for its sea trout fishing, the lake can also also can lake the fishing, trout sea its for known Mostly

Owenmore carried. cover of level

it drains directly into the sea at Ballinskelligs Bay. Bay. Ballinskelligs at sea the into directly drains it • Fish with a partner/buddy or let someone know where you’re going you’re where know someone let or partner/buddy a with Fish •

and and Currane covers an area of approximately 10km approximately of area an covers Currane

2 lage of Waterville on the scenic Ring of Kerry. Lough Lough Kerry. of Ring scenic the on Waterville of lage

always advisable to check with the establishment or operator concerned as to the the to as concerned operator or establishment the with check to advisable always

- vil picturesque the of east located is Lough Currane, Lough

• Take time to observe weather, water and tide conditions while fishing while conditions tide and water weather, observe to time Take •

Rivers. and Glen Eany Gweebarra, Eske,

popular salmon fisheries in Co. Donegal include the the include Donegal Co. in fisheries salmon popular

accident insurance. While many operators would have public liability insurance it is is it insurance liability public have would operators many While insurance. accident

the summer months when the grilse are running. Other Other running. are grilse the when months summer the • Check the weather forecast and tide tables before you go you before tables tide and forecast weather the Check •

on, grilse and sea trout but the best fishing is during during is fishing best the but trout sea and grilse on,

- salm spring of run a has river The Donegal. Co. in ers

be hazardous and involve risk. It is recommended in such cases to take out personal personal out take to cases such in recommended is It risk. involve and hazardous be

- riv salmon best the of one as regarded is and flood • Don’t take any risks when wading or fishing from boat, shore or bank or shore boat, from fishing or wading when risks any take Don’t •

taking around 1 to 2 days to run off after a good good a after off run to days 2 to 1 around taking

sea at Ardara. The Owenea is primarily a spate river river spate a primarily is Owenea The Ardara. at sea

sibility for errors or omissions therein. Some sporting activities may by their nature nature their by may activities sporting Some therein. omissions or errors for sibility

draining Lough Ea in the west of the Croaghs, into the the into Croaghs, the of west the in Ea Lough draining • Follow advice on warning signs, permits and notices and permits signs, warning on advice Follow •

runs for some 21 kilometres kilometres 21 some for runs

The Owenea River River Owenea The

but a few. a but

- respon accept cannot Ireland Fisheries Inland pages. web and maps associated and

to name name to the and River Erriff River Fermoyle & Costello • Wear a life jacket. life a Wear •

include the the include Ballynahinch & Lough Inagh System, System, Inagh Lough & Ballynahinch

Other notable salmon fisheries in the west of Ireland Ireland of west the in fisheries salmon notable Other

Every effort has been taken to ensure accuracy in the compilation of this publication publication this of compilation the in accuracy ensure to taken been has effort Every the river from late May, with the run peaking in July. July. in peaking run the with May, late from river the

Please remember the following when going fishing: going when following the remember Please with most taken on the river or Finlough. Grilse enter enter Grilse Finlough. or river the on taken most with

the start of the season in February right up to June, June, to up right February in season the of start the

Disclaimer

Doolough. Spring salmon run into the fishery from from fishery the into run salmon Spring Doolough.

larger lakes draining the Delphi Valley, Finlough and and Finlough Valley, Delphi the draining lakes larger

safety and that of angling partners/buddies. partners/buddies. angling of that and safety

fishery consists of the Bundorragha River, and two two and River, Bundorragha the of consists fishery

excellent salmon fisheries in the West of Ireland. The The Ireland. of West the in fisheries salmon excellent

Corrib/Galway R. Corrib/Galway

is one of many many of one is owned privately The

http://invasivespeciesireland.com/cops/water-users/anglers/ Delphi Fishery Delphi

hidden. Drowning is an ever present risk and you should exercise utmost care for your own own your for care utmost exercise should you and risk present ever an is Drowning hidden.

downstream of Slane village. village. Slane of downstream

the months of July and September on the fisheries fisheries the on September and July of months the

numbers of salmon are taken annually between between annually taken are salmon of numbers

Angling is a water based activity with changing conditions and dangers that are sometimes sometimes are that dangers and conditions changing with activity based water a is Angling

Or via Invasive Species Ireland at Ireland Species Invasive via Or

is located between Slane and Oldbridge. Good Good Oldbridge. and Slane between located is

owners. In summer the best of the salmon fishing fishing salmon the of best the summer In owners.

tions with some being maintained by private fishery fishery private by maintained being some with tions

Safety

- associa angling by controlled is fishing the of most www.fisheriesireland.ie/Research/invasive-species.html

of the river between Navan and Drogheda and and Drogheda and Navan between river the of

sea trout fisheries are located on the lower reaches reaches lower the on located are fisheries trout sea

historic town of Drogheda. The main salmon and and salmon main The Drogheda. of town historic

Full information on prevention of invasive species is available on our website at: website our on available is species invasive of prevention on information Full and Louth before entering the Irish Sea below the the below Sea Irish the entering before Louth and

information on things to do and see while visiting the island. the visiting while see and do to things on information

100 kilometres through counties Offaly, Meath Meath Offaly, counties through kilometres 100

ders its way in a north easterly direction for over over for direction easterly north a in way its ders

- mean and Kildare Co. in rises The River Boyne River The

trip to Ireland. It provides a wealth of information on travel and accommodation as well as as well as accommodation and travel on information of wealth a provides It Ireland. to trip

to fish. to

season in September, in suitable water conditions. water suitable in September, in season

for larger fish from mid-August to the end of the the of end the to mid-August from fish larger for

an improvement in mid-July, with very good fishing fishing good very with mid-July, in improvement an

that will help you plan your your plan you help will that www.ireland.com website tourism general a has also Ireland would ask that all anglers inspect and clean their gear prior to travelling to Ireland Ireland to travelling to prior gear their clean and inspect anglers all that ask would

Grilse start to run from mid-June and there is often often is there and mid-June from run to start Grilse

Ballisodare R. Ballisodare

ing is up to mid-April depending on water levels. levels. water on depending mid-April to up is ing

- fish spring the of best the and season the of start

General Tourism General damaging to resident fish stocks, the aquatic habitat and the general environment. We We environment. general the and habitat aquatic the stocks, fish resident to damaging

Ballybunion. There are fish in the river from the the from river the in fish are There Ballybunion.

Moy Estuary Moy of south sea the enters and Listowel and

metres through the county towns of Abbeyfeale Abbeyfeale of towns county the through metres

#CPRsavesfish Remember: water. the to return carefully

course to another on angling tackle, boats and protective clothing. These can be very very be can These clothing. protective and boats tackle, angling on another to course

- kilo 75 for westerly flows and Cork Co. north R. Duff R.

rainfall. The river rises in the mountain district of of district mountain the in rises river The rainfall.

[email protected] emailing by

subject to flooding during periods of persistent persistent of periods during flooding to subject

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

Aquatic Invasive Species and fish pathogens are readily transferred from one water one from transferred readily are pathogens fish and Species Invasive Aquatic

R. Drowes R. - is a big fast flowing spate river river spate flowing fast big a is The River Feale River The

believed to be multi spawners. multi be to believed

anglers are catching and where. You can sign up to be emailed the weekly Angling Update Update Angling weekly the emailed be to up sign can You where. and catching are anglers

an autumn run of some much larger fish which are are which fish larger much some of run autumn an

Glen R. Glen

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

September the Suir has runs of large grilse and and grilse large of runs has Suir the September

Biosecurity

until the grilse run in June/July. In August and and August In June/July. in run grilse the until

IFI also produces a weekly Angling Update which provides up-to-date reports on what what on reports up-to-date provides which Update Angling weekly a produces also IFI

fish though salmon fishing does not really start start really not does fishing salmon though fish

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

wards Carrick-on-Suir. The Suir gets some early early some gets Suir The Carrick-on-Suir. wards Gweebarra R. Gweebarra

- to Ardfinnan from downstream extends Suir

the sea. The best of the salmon fishing on the the on fishing salmon the of best The sea. the www.ufishireland.org/ and Salmon Fishery Salmon

2014 www.leavenotraceireland.org/

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

sister rivers the Barrow and Nore, and entering entering and Nore, and Barrow the rivers sister

and the Comeragh Mountains before joining her her joining before Mountains Comeragh the and

and passes by the Galtees, the Knockmealdown Knockmealdown the Galtees, the by passes and

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

www.nidirect.gov.uk/information-and-services/outdoor-recreation-and-sport/angling

County Tipperary. The Suir is 185 kilometres long long kilometres 185 is Suir The Tipperary. County release.

Lackagh R. Lackagh

and its tributaries drain most of of most drain tributaries its and The River Suir River The

https://tinyurl.com/ybc54pek throughout the season. the throughout

CATCH & RELEASE & CATCH

QR code or use the following web link: link: web following the use or code QR single barbless hooks and practice no-weight, “in the water” catch and and catch water” the “in no-weight, practice and hooks barbless single self above the falls is also extremely productive productive extremely also is falls the above self

catchments on either side of the border you should consult: should you border the of side either on catchments

- it river the and Falls Ballisodare the of “Butt” For a more detailed Google map scan the the scan map Google detailed more a For

action takes place in the tidal section below the the below section tidal the in place takes action

salmon fishery in Co. Sligo. Most of the fishing fishing the of Most Sligo. Co. in fishery salmon Anglers should fish responsibly and sustainably – where possible use use possible where – sustainably and responsibly fish should Anglers

If you are planning on fishing in Northern Ireland or on the Foyle and Carlingford Carlingford and Foyle the on or Ireland Northern in fishing on planning are you If

Short as it is, it’s probably the most prolific prolific most the probably it’s is, it as Short

http://fishinginireland.info/regulations.htm

square kilometres, which includes Lough Arrow. Arrow. Lough includes which kilometres, square

With its tributaries it drains a catchment of 650 650 of catchment a drains it tributaries its With

cause obstruction. obstruction. cause

and flows from Collooney into Ballisodare Bay. Bay. Ballisodare into Collooney from flows and www.fishinginireland.info at:

on: information latest the for check should anglers so and change to subject are

is just 8 kilometres long long kilometres 8 just is

The Ballisodare River Ballisodare The

well-known salmon loughs located in Co. Mayo. Co. in located loughs salmon well-known

Vehicles should be parked in designated areas and in such a manner that they do not not do they that manner a such in and areas designated in parked be should Vehicles

website which has more detailed information on individual fisheries and service providers providers service and fisheries individual on information detailed more has which website are also also are nearby the and fisheries. spate prolific be also can the river sister its and The Bay. Tullaghan entering before River Owenmore the joins which Burrishoole Fishery Burrishoole Beltra Lough Owenduff Owenmore

however we encourage all anglers to practice C&R (see below). Fisheries regulations regulations Fisheries below). (see C&R practice to anglers all encourage we however

peaks in April and May. The lake, which is also noted for its grilse and sea trout fishing is over 6.5 kilometres long and nearly 5 kilometres wide at its widest point. Carrowmore is drained by the Munhin River, River, Munhin the by drained is Carrowmore point. widest its at wide kilometres 5 nearly and long kilometres 6.5 over is fishing trout sea and grilse its for noted also is which lake, The May. and April in peaks

situated in the far northwest of Co. Mayo is the premier spring salmon fishing lough in the country. The best spring fishing begins with the first mild and settled weather in late February and and February late in weather settled and mild first the with begins fishing spring best The country. the in lough fishing salmon spring premier the is Mayo Co. of northwest far the in situated Carrowmore Lake, Lake, Carrowmore

more detailed and up-to-date angling information. Firstly, there is a dedicated angling angling dedicated a is there Firstly, information. angling up-to-date and detailed more

Respect wildlife; Be considerate of other visitors. other of considerate Be wildlife; Respect May these fish are well distributed throughout the river and this month is known for producing bigger fish. Grilse begin to run in May too and while the run peaks in June fishing remains good right up to season end. season to up right good remains fishing June in peaks run the while and too May in run to begin Grilse fish. bigger producing for known is month this and river the throughout distributed well are fish these May State Licence. Each fishery can have its own rules on methods allowed, bag limits etc., etc., limits bag allowed, methods on rules own its have can fishery Each Licence. State

is a short (23 km) river fed by the Killarney Lakes. It has over 60 named pools and can produce some spring fish in early season, mainly in the upper sections of the river. By By river. the of sections upper the in mainly season, early in fish spring some produce can and pools named 60 over has It Lakes. Killarney the by fed river km) (23 short a is the Kerry, Co. in Located River Laune Laune River

salmon fishing during a flood. a during fishing salmon

of some of the key fisheries. However, there are a number of resources where you can find find can you where resources of number a are there However, fisheries. key the of some of

properly; Leave what you find; Minimise campfire impacts (be careful with fire); fire); with careful (be impacts campfire Minimise find; you what Leave properly; For the vast majority of salmon fisheries, anglers will require a permit in addition to the the to addition in permit a require will anglers fisheries, salmon of majority vast the For can also provide good good provide also can the Drowes, the from away distance short a Only June/July. around peaking May of end the around starts run grilse main The fish. autumn and summer some with April/May to River Duff Duff River

January through through January the 270 square kilometre catchment into the Atlantic and generally keeps good water levels right through the season, being fed by Lough Melvin. There is a good run of spring salmon from the 1 the from salmon spring of run good a is There Melvin. Lough by fed being season, the through right levels water good keeps generally and Atlantic the into catchment kilometre square 270 the

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January and it regularly produces Ireland’s first salmon of the year. The river flows for about 8 kilometres draining draining kilometres 8 about for flows river The year. the of salmon first Ireland’s produces regularly it and January is famous for its early season salmon, being one of the few rivers opening on 1 on opening rivers few the of one being salmon, season early its for famous is The River Drowes River The

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This guide provides a basic introduction to salmon fishing in Ireland and gives a summary summary a gives and Ireland in fishing salmon to introduction basic a provides guide This Plan ahead and prepare; Travel and camp on durable surfaces; Dispose of waste waste of Dispose surfaces; durable on camp and Travel prepare; and ahead Plan

during the grilse run when water levels are right and so the fishing is in high demand. You need to book early in the year to ensure you get a slot. a get you ensure to year the in early book to need You demand. high in is fishing the so and right are levels water when run grilse the during

Fisheries Ireland office for information on individual rivers. individual on information for office Ireland Fisheries

downstream of the Galway Weir. There can be good spring salmon fishing, but the best months are May, June & early July when the grilse run is usually in full swing. This fishery can produce extraordinary fishing fishing extraordinary produce can fishery This swing. full in usually is run grilse the when July early & June May, are months best the but fishing, salmon spring good be can There Weir. Galway the of downstream

starts at Nimmo’s Pier, near the Claddagh, in Galway Bay and runs all the way up to the entrance of Lough Corrib. The best fishing is on ‘The Weir’ fishery immediately immediately fishery Weir’ ‘The on is fishing best The Corrib. Lough of entrance the to up way the all runs and Bay Galway in Claddagh, the near Pier, Nimmo’s at starts The Corrib River or Galway Fishery Galway or River Corrib The

Angling Information Angling

get good runs of salmon and are well worth fishing. worth well are and salmon of runs good get the Cork, Co. in situated Also September. in close season to through right season early from fish of runs good getting Ireland, in

River Bandon, & River Ilen River & Bandon, River Please adhere to the seven principles of Leave No Trace Ireland: Ireland: Trace No Leave of principles seven the to adhere Please note that the regulations and bye-laws are subject to change. Contact your local Inland Inland local your Contact change. to subject are bye-laws and regulations the that note

is said not to run truly clear until July. It is a large and broad river with plenty of pools, streams and glides and the fishing is spread among many private and club fisheries. It rates as one of the best salmon rivers rivers salmon best the of one as rates It fisheries. club and private many among spread is fishing the and glides and streams pools, of plenty with river broad and large a is It July. until clear truly run to not said is

rises in Co. Kerry and flows for over 160 kilometers through Counties Kerry, Cork and Waterford to the tide at Cappoquin. It gets its name due to the peaty colouration of the water and it it and water the of colouration peaty the to due name its gets It Cappoquin. at tide the to Waterford and Cork Kerry, Counties through kilometers 160 over for flows and Kerry Co. in rises The Munster Blackwater Blackwater Munster The

world-renowned Ridge Pool attracts hundreds of anglers each year! The river gets a decent spring run but the prime time on the Moy, without doubt, are the summer months when the grilse are running in vast numbers. vast in running are grilse the when months summer the are doubt, without Moy, the on time prime the but run spring decent a gets river The year! each anglers of hundreds attracts Pool Ridge world-renowned Leave No Trace No Leave FURTHER INFORMATION FURTHER and sea trout fishing in Ireland and is administered by Inland Fisheries Ireland. Please Please Ireland. Fisheries Inland by administered is and Ireland in fishing trout sea and

an excellent base for the visiting angler. There are over 15 individual fisheries on the Moy catering for any taste or budget. In Ballina, Ireland’s Salmon Capital, the Moy reaches the tidal waters and it is here where the the where here is it and waters tidal the reaches Moy the Capital, Salmon Ireland’s Ballina, In budget. or taste any for catering Moy the on fisheries individual 15 over are There angler. visiting the for base excellent an

is Ireland’s most prolific salmon river. It rises in Co. Sligo and provides some of the best salmon fishing available in Ireland. On its way to the sea it flows through the town of Foxford, Co. Mayo which is is which Mayo Co. Foxford, of town the through flows it sea the to way its On Ireland. in available fishing salmon best the of some provides and Sligo Co. in rises It river. salmon prolific most Ireland’s is The River Moy River The

are many other fisheries which also can provide great salmon fishing at times. Featuring all Irish salmon fisheries in detail would go beyond the scope of this brochure so this is just a sample of some of the main ones. main the of some of sample a just is this so brochure this of scope the beyond go would detail in fisheries salmon Irish all Featuring times. at fishing salmon great provide can also which fisheries other many are

This brochure features some of the top Irish salmon fisheries that not only consistently produce salmon but also provide an adequate infrastructure for the visiting angler. In addition to the mentioned fisheries, there there fisheries, mentioned the to addition In angler. visiting the for infrastructure adequate an provide also but salmon produce consistently only not that fisheries salmon Irish top the of some features brochure This MAIN IRISH SALMON FISHERIES SALMON IRISH MAIN

This brochure contains some basic information to help you get started on your Irish salmon floating or an intermediate line. There are the odd exceptions such as the Cork Blackwater, GUIDING angling adventure. There is a short description of the best times to go, fishing methods and the Galway Weir Fishery or the River Moy where a double handed rod can be more suitable. There are a large number of guides and ghillies specialising in salmon fishing in Ireland a brief introduction to some of the fisheries that consistently produce salmon. The map on Many anglers use different density poly leaders in combination with a 10 to 15lbs. mono or and it is usually advisable for an angler visiting a fishery for the first time to hire a the flip side of this brochure highlights these fisheries and the key towns in which you could fluorocarbon tippet. Traditionally, on some rivers such as the Moy or Mourne anglers also fish guide for a day or two. This is particularly the case with the larger rivers, as a guide base yourself. the “bubble and fly” using spinning tackle. Fly-fishing for salmon on loughs is an Irish specialty. will have local knowledge of the water and specific salmon lies which will greatly Most loughs fish best when there is a “good wave.” Typical rods for lough style salmon fishing increase chances of hooking up. You will need to contact and make your own arrange- would be 10 to 11ft long # 7/8 and salmon are fished for in much the same way as one ments with guides and to help with this, there is a list of angling guides available at: There is much more detailed information on the fishes for trout. The majority of fishing would be using floating lines and the standard cast www.fishinginireland.info/guides/index.htm www.fishinginireland.info website and on the consists of 3 flies (one point fly & two droppers). While a traditional river pattern such as a accompanying Google map: shrimp fly is typically fished on the point, the droppers usually consist of standard trout or REGULATIONS https://tinyurl.com/ybc54pek sea trout flies in size 8 to 12 depending on the wave. It would be more than usual for one of In order to fish for salmon in Ireland anglers are required to obtain a “Salmon Rod these flies to be a Green Peter. Licence”. The licence can be obtained from Inland Fisheries Ireland, any rod licence dis- tributor or online at https://store.fishinginireland.info/ There are a number of different Ireland is the birthplace of many famous salmon flies such as the Thunder and Lightning or licence types available (day, annual, district, 21 day etc.). For the visiting angler, the 21 the Black Doctor to name but a few. However, when one thinks of fly patterns, the shrimp SEASONS day licence is probably the most convenient one. At the time of writing (2019), there is fly must be seen as the quintessential Irish style salmon fly. Though everyone has their st an annual bag limit of 10 salmon or sea trout (over 40cm) and all fish which are kept Salmon fishing in Ireland opens on January 1 on a handful of rivers and after that the favourites, one would never go too far wrong with patterns such as the Ally’s Shrimp, Bann have to be tagged and recorded in the log book. However, depending on the time of remainder of fisheries open on various dates in February, March, April, May and June. The Special Shrimp, Wilkinson Shrimp, Curry’s Red Shrimp, Shadow Shrimp or Foxford Shrimp. th th year and individual fishery, additional restrictions such as bag limits, “Catch & Release” majority of fisheries close on September 30 but a few rivers remain open until October 12 . Irish flies tend to start on the small side. Size 8 flies are often used in higher cooler water, etc. may apply. The Wild Salmon and Sea Trout Tagging Scheme regulates salmon For up to date information on opening and closing dates for individual fisheries please visit then as the water warms, the flies are scaled down to 12s and even 14s in www.fishinginireland.info some cases. Micro-tubes have also become quite popular in recent years. Other From January to June spring salmon (springers) are the main quarry. These salmon tend to be salmon flies of note are Cascade, Willie Gunn, Hairy Mary, Silver Stoat, Green INTRODUCTION larger than summer fish and anglers have the best chance of catching one on rivers such as Highlander or Collie Dog. Ireland has long been known as one of the best salmon angling destinations in Europe the Drowes in Counties Donegal & Leitrim, the River Laune in Co. Kerry or the Delphi Fishery Spinning and anglers have been visiting Ireland for many years in a quest for Salmo salar. in Co. Mayo. Springers can also be caught in loughs such as Carrowmore Lake in Co. Mayo Spinning for salmon can be a very effective method when conditions suit and So, what makes Ireland such an outstanding salmon angling destination? The Atlantic which can produce some fine fish from March onwards. There are also some smaller spate rivers such as the Owenduff River in north Mayo that can get a decent run of spring salmon. in heavy water it may also be the only realistic option to take a fish. Usually a salmon (“Bradán” in Gaelic), is a native Irish fish and most rivers get a run of salmon 10 to 11ft rod with a 10 to 60g casting weight will be able to cope with most From mid June onwards the more numerous grilse or ‘summer salmon’ predominate. They from spring until autumn. Salmon can be caught in Irish waters from January right conditions. Probably the most favoured lure in Ireland is the Flying C, with red typically weigh from 1.5kg to 3kg and are widely found throughout the country. This is through to the end of September and, with approximately 70,000 kilometres of rivers and black being two of the most popular colours. Other popular spinning baits when fisheries like the Moy in Co. Mayo, the Galway Fishery in Co. Galway and the Mun- and streams, there is an abundance of spawning and nursery habitat for juvenile fish. include Toby, Copper & Silver Spoon or small plugs. As the water warms up, lure ster Blackwater in Co. Cork can provide spectacular sport in a great setting. In addition The climate is another factor. Sitting in the north Atlantic, Ireland has a moderate humid size should be reduced and the speed of retrieve increased. Spinning upstream to the bigger rivers there are numerous smaller systems, mainly in the western half of the climate providing sufficient precipitation for the many spate rivers along its Atlantic can be highly effective when the grilse are running. On lakes, trolling a Devon country, which can provide excellent grilse fishing. Irish grilse runs are still some of the most sea board. Mild, wet winters mean spawning streams remain ice-free, and frequent or Toby can be very effective particularly in the early part of the season as it prolific in Western Europe and offer the salmon fisherman a great chance of success. rain means low water levels are usually rare. Finally, Ireland’s mostly wild and rugged enables you to cover a lot of ground during a day’s fishing. environment and rivers add to the overall experience. METHODS Bait But it’s not all about the fishing. Ireland has a wealth of scenery and history to explore For the angler in Ireland the three main methods employed for salmon angling are fly The main bait fishing techniques are shrimp or prawn and worming. Prawns if you take a break from fishing. Whether you want to explore the breath-taking Wild fishing, spinning and bait fishing. Atlantic Way or Ireland’s mystic Ancient East…it’s up to you! There are great restau- and shrimps are usually presented on a float rig and trotted down the cur- rants, cafes and pubs, most of which serve good food as well as drink. What better Fly Fishing rent. Worms can also be presented in this way or presented static, close to a way to relax after a long day’s salmon fishing than with a tasty evening meal and a The classic way to fish for salmon is with the fly. Double handed rods are not always essential known salmon lie. The normal way to fish a worm is to use a bunch of three pint or two… and usually a single handed rod or a switch rod will be sufficient to cover the water properly. on a single hook; however a single worm can also produce results. Rods for On most Irish rivers one would need nothing larger than a 10 to 12ft rod # 7/8 with a bait fishing are generally 11ft long and have a casting weight of up to 80g.