· Specimen Sea Trout Up to 7.5 lbs. reported from Lough Currane.
· Good trout fishing reported from Lough Owel in Co. Westmeath.
· Mayfly hatches are sporadic on Lough Derg and on all the big Western Trout Lakes.
· The hot bright weather has impacted on some Salmon fishing catches on many fisheries and many anglers are praying for rain to bring water levels up and bring fish up from the sea.
· 110 Salmon for the week for the River Moy with fish to 14 lbs. reported.
· 9 lbs. 4 oz. Specimen Bream landed at the King of the Barrow Festival is our catch of the week winner. See www.cfb.ie
· Specimen Bream and some fine Tench reported from the hot water section of the River Shannon at Lanesboro.
· Two Oxford anglers land 285 lbs. of Bream in a day and achieved 100 lbs. + catches on each day each on venues in the Longford area.
· Two French visitors record some terrific Pike to 20 lbs. on fly in the Eastern Region.
· Good deep sea fishing reported off the Clare coast.
GAME ANGLING
Eastern Region: Web: http://www.fishingireland.net/
E-mail: info@fishingireland.net
Godfrey Donohue Managing Director reports from the CORKAGH PARK FISHERY near Clondalkin in Dublin. Ph: +353 (0)1 4592622 mob: +353 (0)87 2650495 E-mail: fishing@ireland.com Web: www.CorkaghParkFishery.com
On the trout lake we have a fantastic morning and evening rise at the moment. Daddies, Mayfly, and Buzzers are some of the best flies at the moment. Gar Murphy had 18 trout. Hutch and Steve from the UK (regular visitors to the fishery) are catching some nice trout to 6 lbs. Mac, from Cork, had trout to 5 lbs. Denis Goulding is also bagging up on the trout lake with anywhere from 8 to 16 trout most evenings, mostly on small Buzzers.
The Fishery opens from 10 am to dusk and has Coffee Shop facilities and all baits. All newcomers are welcome.
Southern Region: E-mail: enquiries@srfb.ie
Website: www.srfb.ie
John Flynn reports:
Ian Powell reports from the BLACKWATER LODGE fishery on the Munster Blackwater in Co. Cork.
Email: info@ireland-salmon-fishing.net
Website: www.ireland-salmon-fishing.net
Tel: 00 353 58 60235 From UK: 0871 474 0135 (10p/min any time!)
Fax: 00 353 58 60162 From UK: 0871 474 0136 (10p/min any time!)
Mobile: 00 353 87 235 21 20
Blackwater Lodge Newsletter – May 6th., 2008
Tweed Fair
We arrived home in the early hours of this morning after a hectic weekend spent at the Tweed Fair. Glenda had a wonderful time demonstrating and spending all the rest of the time teaching out on the lawns of the exhibition centre. It’s great little fair organised by Eoin Fairgrieve and pulls together a lot of the top names in the sport. We were able to meet lots of old friends and make many more. Make a date to visit the show on the first weekend in May, 2009
Spectacular Spring Run
Needless to say – as usually happens when we are away – we returned to great excitement here at the Lodge. There was a 1½ foot flood on the river over the weekend, and there was an awful lot of fish being seen – especially on our upper beats. In the words of the most experienced gillie on the river – "It’s been very many years since I’ve seen so many springers in the upper river"
There were 3 springers caught over the weekend, with very few rods out on the 14 miles of river that we control. On Friday May 2, there was just one rod out and he caught a springer. How many would have been caught if there had been 15-20 anglers on the river? I am also hearing reports of a good number of bigger fish taken on private beats on the lower river. The spring run has been excellent. Now we are eagerly awaiting the May run – usually double-figure fish (larger than the springers) – this is a run distinct from the springers and usually heralds the onset of the grilse run. With some May fish already being caught & the first grilse taken 2 weeks ago, things are looking promising!
Another encouraging feature has been the size of the smolt run in the last few weeks – large numbers of very good sized smolts – definitely bigger than normal. Again this bodes well for the stocks in years to come.
Prospects
We are expecting great sport in the coming weeks, and there is good availability of both rods and accommodation. So why not come & help us prove just how good the run is?
South Western Region: Web: http://www.swrfb.com
E Mail: swrfb@swrfb.ie
From Eureka Lodge, Caherdaniel, angling guide Vincent Appleby reports on the past week’s fishing trends on the LOUGH CURRANE system:
Email: salmonandseatrout@eircom.net
Website: http://www.salmonandseatrout.com/
28/4/08 I start this weeks report with another Cracking 10 lbs Salmon caught on the troll in Edere Bay by Mr. Peter O’Neill of the UK with his Gillie Mr. Dominic McGillicuddy. Now for a bit of poaching, I see on www.loughcurrane.com Mr. Sean Braine of Waterville caught and released a fine Sea trout of just over 5 lbs. Wind this morning NNW then veered WSW light to fresh with the odd light shower but there was plenty of sun breaking through. Max air temperature 12.5C/54.5F, amount of rainfall 1.8mm. 29/4/08 Not much to report on the salmon front and on the Sea Trout front, a guest fishing with Mr. Dominic McGillicuddy caught a 3 lbs. Sea Trout on the troll. Wind first thing this morning East then veered NE fresh to strong in the afternoon with plenty of sun breaking through, max air temperature 12.4C/54.3F. Amount of rain fall in the last 24 hours 0.1mm. 30/4/08 My noble game Fish be he Salmon or Sea trout were keeping a low profile in both Fly and troll departments. Wind the same as yesterday and plenty of April Showers and amount of rainfall 5.1mm, max air temperature 11.4C/52.52F. 1/5/08 There was some good action on Lough Currane both in the Salmon and Sea Trout departments, first in the striking zone was Mr. Peter Mc Neill of the UK who caught a 8 lbs Salmon on the troll and later in the afternoon a guest fishing with Junior Scully caught a fine Salmon on the troll, but as always I leave the best to last and that honour goes to well known local Gillie Mr. John Griffin of johngriffinloughcurrane@hotmail.com who caught a Specimen Sea Trout of 6 lbs 1.42668ozs on the troll, and here are some facts and life history of Mr. John Griffin’s sea trout, went to sea for the first time as a summer smolt, it was 9 years old and spawned seven times. Wind SW light to fresh with plenty of sun breaking through, max air temperature 12.8/55.22F. Amount of rainfall 0.1mm.
2/5/08 Just one salmon caught on the troll by guest fishing with their Gillie Mr Brod O’Sullivan of Stella Maris guesthouse Waterville, contact (+353 (0) 87 9227693) Wind SW light to fresh with reasonable cloud cover. Max air temperature 14.7C/58.46F, amount of rainfall 2.2mm.
3/5/08 there were three Salmon caught on Lough Currane, first in the striking zone was Mr James Hinchley of the UK who caught a fine 10 lbs Salmon on the fly on the south side. James was with his Gillie Mr Dominic McGillicuddy and you can contact Dominic on + 353 (0) 87 2051515 and in the trolling department Mr Andy Wishard of the UK fishing in a hired out boat from www.lakelandshouse.com caught a 10 lbs Salmon and staying with Lakelands.com, Mr john Browne caught the first 5.lbs Grilse of the 2008 season. Wind SSE fresh to strong at times and overcast with heavy rain early this morning and made a reasonably good flood, amount of rainfall 32.6mm., max air temperature 15.1C/59.18F.
4/5/08 Mr Derek Richardson of the UK caught a 7 lbs Salmon on fly with his gillie Mr Vincent O’Sullivan and of www.vincentsfishing.com and in the trolli
ng department Dr Tim Gleeson caught a 10lbs Salmon on the troll with his Gillie Mr Donal Dwyer and you can contact Donal @ 353(0)669474492 and for the rest today’s facts, came from our manger Mr John Murphy of www.loughcurrane.com first in the striking zone in the Sea trout department, an Angler caught and released a 4.5 lbs and a 7.5 lbs specimen Sea Trout, all on caught on the fly and last but not least Mr Stephen Galvin caught a nice Sea Trout in the 2 lbs. class also caught on the fly. Wind SSW light, bright and sunny with some cloud cover at times, max air temperature 15.1/59.18F. That is all the news from your Gillie and the Waterville fishery no Spin no fly’s just Facts. See some great photos from Vincent on the angling update report on our website at: http://www.cfb.ie/fishing_in_ireland/update/game_angling.htm
Shannon Region: Web: http://www.shannon-fishery-board.ie/
E Mail: info@shannon-fishery-board.ie
Brian McManus reports:
http://www.shannon-fishery-board.ie/guides/game/fishing-reports.htm
May 7th, 2008
UPPER SHANNON
There has been a little more angling activity on Sheelin. 8 young anglers attended the ShRFB Fisheries Awareness Week competition on Saturday May 3rd. 3 fish were caught. The results were
· 1st: Shane Clinton aged 4.5 years from Kilnahard with one trout of 1.5 lbs caught on a sedge
· 2nd: Darrin Gaffney aged 12 years from Kilnaleck with a fish of 1.25 lbs on a mayfly nymph.
· 3rd: Ross Curran aged 12 years from Ballyjamesduff with a trout of 1 lb caught on a Green Peter.
Eamon Ross L.S.T.P.A. had one good fish of 5.5 lbs in Chambers Bay on a Green Peter. Anglers reported catching 8 other fish to 2.5 lbs.
See LSTPA website http://www.loughsheelinanglers.ie/
For local updates contact Mr Sean Gurhy, Assistant Fisheries Inspector Lough Sheelin Tel: 049 4336144
LOUGH O’FLYNN & UPPER RIVER SUCK
A few anglers were out on O’Flynn over the weekend and reported fishing as very slow with very little angling effort evident. The upper River Suck system has been very good though over the past couple of weeks for a party of French anglers. They caught and released up to 50 trout in two days fishing. The first sightings of Mayfly were over the weekend.
For updates contact John
Ryan, Assistant Fisheries Inspector Co Roscommon at 087 2536064.
MID SHANNON AREA
There’s very little angling going on at present on Ennell. There were reports of buzzer hatches though.
For updates contact Shannon Regional Fisheries Board Mullingar Office Tel: 044 9348769 mornings
There was some good fishing reported last week on Owel with nearly 80 trout officially returned for the week, with many to wet flies. Bibio was a popular choice of fly. Michael Davin had 5 fish as did Brendan Murray, Michael Darby, John Cullen, Patsy Davey, Tom Smith and Stephen Connolly. Joe Vickers, Michael O’Sullivan had four fish. Other anglers did quite well, Barry Wickham, Brendan Kelly and Kevin Tipper. 11 members of Shannon Angling Club fished the lake on Sunday May 5th returning 9 fish in total.
For updates contact Shannon Regional Fisheries Board Mullingar Office Tel: 044 48769
7 anglers fished a local competition on Sunday with only one fish caught. There were reports of hatches of Mayfly observed.
For general updates contact Shannon Regional Fisheries Board Mullingar Office Tel: 044 48769
FRIENDS OF LOCH AN DOCHAIS…
Friends of Loch an Dochais will host the Annual all Ireland trout angling match for anglers with special needs for the Mary Robinson perpetual trophy at Loch an Dochais, Kilcormac, Co Offaly on Sunday 18th May 2008. Fishing will be from 11am to 2.45pm. All legitimate methods are allowed. Bag Limit: 4 trout per angler. Entry fee: €5.00, payable at the lake shore. Presentation of prizes will take place at St Josephs Community Centre, Kilcormac at 3.30pm. There are now 40 angling spaces available at Loch an Dochais following major re-development of the lake. All enquiries to Mr Denis O’Driscoll, Secretary, Kilcormac, Co Offaly Tel: 057 9135328. A YOUTH COMPETITION will in association with Friends of Loch an Dochais and the Shannon Regional Fisheries Board be fished at the same venue from 3pm to 5pm, all legitimate methods allowed – 4 trout bag limit, Entry fee: €2.00. Children must be accompanied by an adult. All enquiries to Mr Denis O’Driscoll, Secretary, Kilcormac, Co Offaly Tel: 057 9135328 or email us here at: info@shannon-fishery-board.ie
The Mayfly season has just commenced on Lough Ree and it will take a few more days for the fly to hatch in any abundance.
Trout fishery opened on May 1st, 2008.
For general updates contact Dinny Coyne Chairperson of the Pallas Lake Angling Club Tel: 087 2974306.
Lough Acalla op
ened to angling on Thursday last May 1st. There were plenty of anglers out and an estimate of 30 fish were reported caught.
For updates contact John Devaney, Assistant Fisheries Inspector, Roscommon 087 2266735
The ShRFB issued a Press Release on February 25th, 2008. We request that anglers familiarise with new conservation measures for the fishery.
"This year the Shannon Regional Fisheries Board has introduced a new trout conservation measure on its fishery, River Camcor, in association with the Camcor and Little Brosna Angling Club. This follows concerns that trout stocks were being fished by unsustainable means. This new regulation will ensure that trout stocks will be maintained and that anglers will be able to enjoy angling on the Camcor into the future.
The conservation measure of Fly Fishing Only will be enforced by Fisheries Staff who will patrol the river during the open season which commences on the 1st March 2008 until the 30th September.
The Camcor and Little Brosna is an important salmon and trout fishery and every effort will put in place to sustain and develop its potential. Therefore, we urge all anglers to abide by this conservation measure and practice catch and release when possible.
If anglers have any queries please contact Shannon Regional Fisheries Board.
LOWER SHANNON AREA
in spite of the dark clouds prevailing early Saturday morning, the Mountshannon Angling Club members turned out in large numbers for the Kids Angling Competition. This event took place on the shores of the majestic Lough Derg – off the quay wall. Just before the competition started the clouds parted and it turned out to be a beautiful warm spring morning – perfect conditions for the novice Pike anglers to get some valuable experiential guidelines from the more senior anglers in the club. There were two outright winners from this shore casting competition – with only a couple of centimetres separating 1st from 2nd place. However, the club ensured that all kids that participated in the competition got a prize. This was a fun and friendly day organised by the Mountshannon Angling Club and all that participated enjoyed themselves.
The Mountshannon Angling Club ensured that all fish caught on the day were released safely back into the lake.
Weather too bright and warm for Salmon fishing.
Report from Peter Gleeson, PRO Garrykennedy Fishing Club, middle Lough Derg 087-6564662 and Secretary of Lough Derg Anglers Association.
GARRYKENNEDY FISHING CLUB..
MAYFLY HATCH SPORADIC TO DATE …
Fishing up to and over last weekend was only fair. Hatches of mayfly have been sporadic and only a total of ten fish were weighed in for the Lough Derg Anglers competition. High pressure with warm bright sunshine over the country has resulted in relatively poor daytime fishing, but as we went to press anglers were beginning to report encouraging signs for evening gnat fishing.
On Bank Holiday Monday evening John Malone of Garrykennedy had a fish of 1 lbs. 12 ozs. in Youghal Bay. Another angler fishing from the shore in the same area had a fish of 2 and a half pounds.
Fishing on Lough Derg on Wednesday April 30, Bill Hickey of the Garrykennedy Fishing Club landed a beautiful trout of 4 lbs 8 oz on a wulff. His boat partner had a fish of 3 lbs 8 oz. The lads, who were fishing on the Clare side of the lake at Meelick spotted the two fish feeding on the surface close to the shore. Our deadly duo moved in and had both fish in the boat within minutes!
ANGLERS TURN OUT IN FORCE FOR 50th ANNIVERSARY…
There were a good turnout of anglers from Clare, Tipperary and Galway for the Lough Derg Anglers Association’s 50th anniversary fly fishing competition on Lough Derg on Saturday.
The winner was Michael Stephens from the fishing section of Lough Derg Yacht Club in Dromineer with a trout of 4 lbs 1 and a half ozs. Michael’s trout succumbed to a wetfly off the Point of Urra. Michael was presented with a beautiful bronze trophy and a cash prize by Kevin Grimes, the Killaloe based Chairman of Lough Derg Anglers Association.
Two members of the Garrykennedy Fishing Club took the minor placings. Brendan Ryan had a fish of 2 lbs 10 ozs for second and Jim McCormack was third with a fish of 2 lb 4 oz.
These two fish also took first and second place for Brendan and Jim in a separate c
ompetition organised on the same day by Garrykennedy Fishing Club. These fish were also caught on wetfly, with most anglers reporting that trout were still slow to take on the surface.
A special word of thanks to Roy and Denise Breen of Ryan’s Pub in Garrykennedy who kindly sponsored finger food for a good crowd of anglers who showed up for the “weigh-in” on Saturday night.
For up to date info logon to www.loughderganglers.com
ShRFB reports for the RIVER FEALE CO KERRY
The bright warm summer weather has killed off the Salmon fishing on the River Feale for now.
For up to date fishing reports contact the local Assistant Fisheries Inspector Mr Paddy Halpin Mobile: 087 7729126
ShRFB reports for Castleroberts Fishery RIVER MAIGUE.
For angling updates on Castleroberts contact Mob: 087 9810817
Western Region: Web: http://www.wrfb.ie/
E Mail: kcrowley@wrfb.ie
Kevin Crowley reports:
Western Angling Report to 7th May, 2008
Galway Weir
There were 10 fish landed for the week in Galway, as water coming over the gates made wading difficult for flyfishers, and most of the fish were taken on shrimp. Bert Lynch from Galway had a fine 13 lbs. salmon on shrimp, and Ned Cusack landed a 10-pounder. Gary Kilroy from Mullingar also had a 10 lbs. fish, on spinner, and Billy Campbell from Northern Ireland had a 8 lbs. springer on fly. J.J. Sullivan from Cork had a 7 lbs. early grilse, while Galway man Stephen Cullinane had a lovely 13 lbs. fish on fly. Sean O’Toole from Galway landed another springer, a nice 8.5 lbs. fish, on shrimp, and Mullingar man Bernard Gilsenan had an 11-pounder on a spinner. Brian O’Rourke from Tuam had a great 13.5 lbs. fish on shrimp, but the best fish of the week was taken by John Hetherington from Limerick, a cracking 15.5 lbs. spring salmon landed on a shrimp.
Hopefully water levels should start dropping with this settled weather, enabling fly anglers to cover more lies, and there are certainly a good number of salmon in the river for them to cover. Fishing prospects for the coming weeks remain very good.
Western Lakes
The weather has really taken a turn for the better, with warm sunshine making its appearance for the first time this year. Water temperatures will be rising as the week goes on, and this should hopefully bring on those eagerly anticipated mayfly hatches.
On Lough Mask there were large hatches of olives over the bank holiday weekend, with very few mayfly appearing as yet. The Ballinrobe and District Anglers Development Competition was held over the weekend, with 109 trout landed. First place went to Frank Guilfoyle Sr. from Ennis, while Patsy Treacy from Northern Ireland took second, and Philip McGoldrick from Castlerea was third. The heaviest fish was taken by Shea Cash, a trout of 2.27 lbs.
Oliver O’Shea from Cork, who was staying at Hall’s Angling Centre, had 4 fish over 2 days to approx. 2 lbs, with Frank Doyle, also from Cork, taking 4 fish to 3 lbs on the Bank Holiday Monday. Cushlough angler Ronan Cusack and Ken Kinsella from Dublin had 4 fish to 2 lbs on the Monday, while Peter Byrne from Ballinrobe had 2 fish to 2 lbs also.
Over on Lough Carra, Joe Conroy fishing with Malcolm Roche (UK) had 9 fish over 5 days last week, while a competition held on Sunday saw poor fishing with only 7 trout landed, best fish 1.75 lbs caught by Raymond Flynn from Dundalk. The first mayfly hatches were seen in the Moorehall area over the weekend, and the warm weather should bring these on a bit.
Meanwhile on Lough Corrib, the early signs of mayfly seem to have been a false dawn, with few hatches seen over the weekend. Most trout seem to be still feeding on olives, with wet olive patterns taking most fish. Fishing was nothing hectic, and I was surprised how few boats were out on the lake on Sunday. I’m sure as the mayfly season kicks in, more boats will be out and fishing should pick up. I fished for a few hours on Sunday in the Oughterard area, and landed 2 fish to Octopus and Golden Olive Dabbler, while another angler I met had 2 fish on the Octopus. Padraic Coughlan from Killarney and a friend had several fish each yesterday evening on a Cock Robin fly.
The Corr na Mona Anglers held a competition on Sunday, with 41 anglers landing 22 fish. Irish Angler contributor Mike Shanks took first place with 1 trout for 2.76 lbs, presumably on a Shanks special tying. Rory Hynes took second place, with Kevin Molloy coming in third. Elsewhere, P. Kinneavy had 9 trout over 3 outings for approx. 11.5 lbs, while P. Walsh had 4 trout over 3 outings, including one fish of 3.75 lbs. There are good numbers of small fish showing, which bodes well for the future. This week, however, a drop of rain is probably needed to get things going. The real mayfly hatches are eagerly awaited.
LOUGH INAGH
Colin Folan, fishery manager at Inagh Lodge, reports from Connemara
With very little water and very few anglers I am delighted to report that this seasons spring salmon run has been better than previous years. Usually the only springers caught are on the river but this year we have a few in the lake already. On the 21st of March, Robert Kelly (Dublin) caught the first fish weighing 8.75 lbs. on a Collie Dog tube from the Derryclare Butts. On the 12th of April, Ulrich Treusch (Galway) caught an 8 lbs fish on a Murrum Special on the Derryclare Butts. On the 1st of May, Murt Folan (Galway) caught the first salmon on Lough Inagh for the season; it took a size 10 Green Dabbler and weighed 9 lbs. And finally, on the 5th of May, Michael Heery (Dublin) caught a 9 lbs very fresh fish on Lough Inagh also on a Green Dabbler.
We await a flood! To book fishing, or to contact Colin with inquiries, you can call Lough Inagh Lodge on 095 34706, or email inagh@iol.ie or colfolan@gmail.com
North Western Region: E Mail: info@nwrfb.com
Web: www.northwestfisheries.ie
Angling Report w/e 04 May, 2008
Markus Müller reports
River Moy
The Moy system had its best week of the season so far and produced a reported catch of 110 salmon for the week bringing the total for the season to 266. Water levels have dropped significantly and fish have been caught throughout the system.
On the Ballina Salmon Angler’s water, Jim Quinn, Dublin, had a fish at 5 lbs. on the worm while Jim McCooey, a regular visitor from Northern Ireland, had a fine 13.5-pounder on spinner. On Mount Falcon, the first salmon of the season was caught by fishery manager, Stuart Price while on the Armstrong Fishery, Paul Meehan, Offaly, and Peter Kermode, Isle of Man, both had fish at 10 lbs. on the worm. The Foxford Fishery produced 4 salmon for the week, including a 9 lbs. fish for Colm Lynam, Dublin and a 7-pounder for David Jones, Wales. On Rinanney, German visitor, Willie Behr had 2 fine fish at 9 lbs. and 13 lbs. on the worm and Stephen Hoper, Northern Ireland, landed a cracking 14-pounder fishing the prawn.
There was very good fishing for the 2nd consecutive week on the Cloongee Fishery with a total of 19 salmon reported. Amongst the successful anglers were John & Graham Rogerson, UK, with 3 salmon between 8.5 and 10.75 lbs. and Bernard Nerzic & Joel Le Beuze, France with fish of 9 lbs. & 10 lbs. On beat two, Mark Murphy & Michael McCormack, both from Wexford, had fish of 9 lbs. & 8.5 lbs. while French angler, Bruno Harne, got one at 8.25 lbs. There was very good fly fishing on the East Mayo Association water where Billy McGhee, Ballavary, had a 9 lbs. fish while Philip McEntyre, Dublin landed a nice10-pounder. Also on the fly, Ian Guegan caught & released a fine 11 lbs. salmon.
Ridge Pool produces its first Salmon of 2008
The first Moy Fishery salmon for the 2008 season was caught today, 7 May, on the Ridge Pool. For the 2nd consecutive year, Ghillie Joh
n Howley, caught the first fish on the famous pool which will draw anglers from all over the world as the season progresses. John had already lost a salmon the previous day and was delighted when the 6.75 lbs fish was successfully landed at 12:30 pm. Later in the day, two more salmon were caught and released. Both fish were estimated to weigh about 11 lbs.
With water conditions reaching almost perfect level and the dry weather continuing, prospects for the Moy Fishery are looking excellent.
Loughs Conn & Cullin
Windy conditions persisted throughout the week and impacted on the angling on both Loughs. However, the first mayflies started to appear on Lough Cullin and, with the mild weather continuing, further hatches of mayfly are expected in the coming days.
Pontoon Bridge Hotel reported 8 trout (4 released) weighing a total of 11 lbs. for James McWalter, Claremorris while Welsh angler, Clive Morris had 2 fish for 2 lbs. Also at Pontoon, Michelle Moss had her first trout at Glass Island on a Dabbler.
Over at Cloghans, Bernie Scott, Knockmore, fishing together with Denis Michael, had a fine trout at 3.36 lbs. Dermot Dunne, Offaly, and Brendan Levins, Dublin had 4 trout (all returned) over 2 evenings for 5 lbs and Seamus Kelly reported one for 1.5 lbs.
Elsewhere, Kieran Connolly, Pontoon, took a 10 lbs. salmon while trolling.
The Lough Conn & Cullin Anglers hosted two fishing competitions over the Bank Holiday weekend. On Saturday, 3 May the L. Conn & Cullin anglers fished against the Dublin Trout Anglers for the “Millennium Bowl”. Thirty-six anglers took part and the event was won by Dublin Trout Anglers. John Reed, Dublin, won the “Ross Tolan Cup” with 2 trout for 3.31 lbs. On Sunday, 4 May the two clubs fished for the “Pratt Cup” and the event was won by Seán Goulding, Dublin, with a 2.22 lbs. trout. Michael Monaghan, Knockmore came 2nd with a fish weighing in at 2.21 lbs. and Michael Noone, Lahardaun landed in 3rd place.
Most successful flies for the week included Sooty Olive, Bibio and Dabbler patterns.
Lough Beltra
The excellent salmon fishing continued on Lough Beltra during the week. Newport House Hotel reported 3 salmon for its guests. April & Edward Westroff, UK, had a fish each with an estimated weight of 8.5 lbs. & 9 lbs. while Richard McDowell caught a 7 lbs. salmon.
The Glenisland Co-op side of the lake also fished well and produced fish for Seamus O’Neill, Cavan (8 lbs.), Declan Dooley, Dublin (9 lbs.), Rory Murray, Portlaoise (6 lbs.), Mick Cunningham, Castlebar (9 lbs.) and Jackie Deffley, Glenisland (9 lbs.).
Please note that Lough Beltra and the Newport River are fished under a “Catch & Release” basis until the 11th of May following which they may be fished in accordance with normal regulations.
Carrowmore Lake
Despite the very windy weather and poor water conditions, 5 salmon were reported from Carrowmore Lake. Amongst the successful anglers were: John Cosgrove and his son Kenneth, both Bangor Erris, with fish at 8 lbs. & 5 lbs., UK visitor, Mark Cosgrove with a salmon at 8 lbs. and Mr. Lambert, Northern Ireland, who landed two fine fish at 9 lbs. & 8 lbs.
Fishing on this prolific spring salmon fishery can be arranged by contacting Bangor Sporting Club at www.bangorerrisangling.com
Ballisodare River
Again, fishing was excellent on the Ballisodare Fishery with 46 salmon caught, 33 of which were released. The fish of the week was a cracking 16-pounder caught & released by fly angler Peter Noone. The fly worked particularly well this past week and anglers were rewarded with many salmon between 8 & 10 lbs. Other notable catches included further 10 lbs. fish for Seanie Maye, Trevor Goulding and Vincent Henry.
Ballin Lough
This Board managed fishery fished opened on Thursday, 1 May with 19 anglers fishing in less than ideal conditions. Despite the bright sunshine, a total of 56 trout were caught on the opening day. John Shaughnessy, Tipperary, fishing with a friend had 11 rainbow trout (3 released) with best at 3.5 lbs. while Michael Schwartz & friend, Ballina, caught 8 fish (2 released), best at 3 lbs. Best flies included Montana Nymphs, Cat’s Whiskers and different lure type patterns.
The Ballin Lough Fishery is managed by the North Western Regional Fisheries Board and fishing can be arranged by contacting Mrs. Gill at 098-26128.
Northern Region: Web: http://www.nrfb.ie
E-mail: info@nrfb.ie
Lynsey Clarke reports:
RIVER DROWES – Monday 28th April to Sunday 4th May 2008.
With the onset of warm settled weather and little rain, the river slowly dropped over the week to fairly low levels by Sunday. As such the fishery was not particularly busy during the week. There were a number of anglers fishing at the weekend however and some nice salmon caught. On Saturday there were 7 salmon caught. Among the captors was Colm Gardiner who recorded a 13 salmon caught and released from the Sea Pools. Alfred Vandelvae accounted for a 5 lb grilse from the Mill Pool caught on a Green Highlander fly. There were fish of 4 & 7 lb caught downstream of Four Masters Bridge on the fly and I am awaiting the name of the captor of the same and there was also a 9 lb salmon caught on shrimp from the Money Pool.
At present the river is a little low reading 4.5 on the gauge and the weather is forecast to be dry and sunny into next weekend which should see the river continue to drop. A little rain would be welcome to lift the river. The fishery is still receiving good runs of salmon however.
LOUGH MELVIN – Monday 28th April to Sunday 4th May 2008.
This was the first week that brought nice warm winds and good sunshine which should hopefully improve fly hatches and hence the trout fishing. Few anglers have been fishing for trout in earnest over the past number of weeks due to cold weather and poor shows of trout. The Lough was not particularly busy with salmon fisherman over the week probably due in great part to the bright conditions. There were however a number of salmon recorded. On Wednesday, John Flanagan recorded an 8 lbs. salmon caught trolling from Flanagan’s Bay and on Thursday, Rodney Benson accounted for a 6 lbs. grilse.
The Rossinver Bay Fishery was fairly quiet due to the very bright conditions and easterly breezes with only a couple of anglers venturing out onto the water.
ERNE ESTUARY – Monday 28th April to Sunday 4th May 2008.
The Erne estuary was very quiet again this week with only a few anglers fishing at the weekend when conditions were very bright.
OWENEA FISHERY – Monday 28th April to Sunday 4th May 2008.
The weather warmed up considerably this week though rainfall was intermittent. The river ran at fairly low levels except for a nice flood of 0.30 metres on Saturday which gave fair water for Sunday. The gauge average for the week read 0.19 metres. There were 5 visiting rods fishing for the week and I am awaiting news of the first salmon of the season.
COARSE ANGLING
Eastern Region: Web: http://www.fishingireland.net/
E-mail: info@fishingireland.net
Godfrey Donohue Managing Director reports from the CORKAGH PARK FISHERY near Clondalkin in Dublin. Ph: +353 (0)1 4592622 mob: +353 (0)87 2650495 E-mail: fishing@ireland.com Web: www.CorkaghParkFishery.com
The carp lake has produced some cracking carp again this week with Sasha Manic today catching 8 carp before 1pm! Stephen Pidgeon concentrated on the silver fish, having roach to just 2 lbs, rudd to 1.5 lbs and perch to 1 lb. John McCarthy had four nice carp on Monday – best carp was 11 lbs. 3 ozs. Neil Keane also had 3 carp between 5 and 8 lbs. Barry Mellon had two carp best one 2 lbs. Al Walsh had 10 carp throughout the week to 10.5 lbs.
Southern Region: E-mail: enquiries@srfb.ie
Website: www.srfb.ie
Gerry McStraw from Carlow Coarse Angling Supplies
8 St. Fiacc’s Terrace, Graiguecullen, Carlow, Co. Carlow.
Tel: 05991 37664 or 087 2257452
E-Mail: gerrymcstraw@yahoo.ie or carlowcoarseangling@hotmail.com
Web: www.carlowcoarseanglingsupplies.com
reports on the results from the King of the Barrow Festival on the 3rd and 4th May in Carlow Town
Day 1 winner Mr John Holmes (Carlow) 18 lbs. 8 oz.
2nd Pat Bartley (Dublin) 4 lbs. 5 oz.
3rd Jimmy Murray (Vice Chairman, Carlow Coarse Angling Club) 1 lbs. 7 1/2 oz.
4th Jimmy Kelly (Naas) 1 lbs. 6 oz
Day 2 winner Mr Duncan Collins (Paulstown) Co. Kilkenny 11 lbs. 6 oz
2nd Ron Durkin (Leixlip) 2 lbs. 14 oz.
3rd Dale Copeland (Chairman, Carlow Coarse Angling Club)
4th Sean Ward (Prosperous) 1 lbs. 10 oz.
1st. Overall winner Mr John Holmes (Carlow)
2nd Overall Mr Duncan Collins (Paulstown)
3rd Overall Mr Pat Bartley (Dublin)
Duncan Collins had a Specimen Bream to the weight of 9 lbs. 4 oz on the second day and is our catch of the week. See www.cfb.ie for great photo.
Shannon Region: Web: http://www.shannon-fishery-board.ie/
E Mail: info@shannon-fishery-board.ie
Brian McManus reports:
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May 7th, 2008
UPPER SHANNON
DUTCH KING OF CLUBS 2008
· The Dutch King of Clubs is a prestigious event and will be fished this year by 109 Dutch Anglers from the 19th May to the 22nd May 2008. The sections are
· A: Lough Rinn (House) A1 Lough Rinn (Sheep walk.)
· B: Ramada 1 ( Heron’s shore) B1 Ramada 2 ( Barney’s Point)
· C: Kiltybarden C1 St. John’s Lake
· D: Lough Scur ( pumphouse ) D1 Lough Scur ( The Rocks ) The Shrfb will be providing a results service in due course.
COARSE FISHING ON THE SHANNON AT LANESBORO…
Paul Waghorn a regular to Lanesboro is back on holiday for the past few weeks. Paul has recently published a dedicated website on fishing in the area which can be viewed at http://www.lanesboroughangling.ie/ This will be a useful resource for visiting anglers with lots of background and archived reports and photos etc. Here are the latest reports from his personal diaries, for others logon to his website.
Thursday May 1st: You would not believe how cold it was first thing this morning. Very little surface activity and I called the wrong tune by trying the feeder under the bridge. I had 2 Hybrids of 2 lbs each and 2 Perch before having to move to the gusher where I failed to register a bite. The two anglers fishing the stick float above the bridge eventually amassed over 50 lb each. The French quartet who did poorly yesterday fared better including a Pike that was probably around 18 lbs. Above Ryan’s gate was grim with Ernie Callaghan weighing in 14 lbs whilst Monty had about 9 lb. In the main channel, Arnie Williams caught a Roach of 1 lb 12 oz but only saw 13 other fish. I couldn’t be bothered to fish the evening session and there was very little evidence to suggest a fresh influx of fish.
Friday May 2nd: A strange day, on one swim an angler took a mixed bag of 110lb albeit over 14 hours. Not 30 yards from him it was completely different with some finding only small fish. Tony Poulter from Telford weighed in 30 lbs made up mainly of smallish fish with the odd Hybrid nudging 2 lb. I didn’t see how the French were doing but I understand they had an average day. Killian McCormack and Damian Allchorne arrived for a practise to reclaim the Bream Master crown for this year. I don’t fancy their chances after today’s performance which saw them vacate their swim by 11.00. On the navigation channel, Dennis from Suffolk had 30 lb of Hybrids and Roach whilst I had slightly less fishing from my boat. The strong south-easterly wind must have been horrendous out on Lough Ree as the river started sending our stick floats up stream causing much confusion to all who witnessed it. We both gave up as the fish refused to feed when this happened.
Saturday May 3rd: Not surprisingly the hot water stretch was packed by 06.00 but only one angler was brave enough to try below the bridge. Seamus Moorhouse was rewarded with two Tench,- a 4 lb 12 oz female and a 4lb 2oz male. A lot of fish were caught but with so many rods present, some struggled. Killian had a 4 lb Hybrid whilst Cork visitor, Ross Macklin caught a 5 lb plus Bream and the Scottish lads had the first leg of their annual competition but I think the top weight was less than 25 lbs. The full results will be published on Monday. A few anglers packed up after lunch and the afternoon period was not as productive. I had two hours on the boat and had just three fish before dusk. The air temperature was around 19C and I’m sure the water has exceeded 52f so it should all happen tomorrow??
Sunday May 4th: A full house again but the weights were no where near what we would expect for this week end. The French had approx. 80 kg between them in their 14 hour marathon. The Scottish group had better fis
h with one weighing two Tench of 5 lb 10 oz and 5 lb 6 oz. Steve and Martin Smith from North Wales had 50 lbs. and 25 lbs. mixed bag respectively with both having Roach of 1 lb 7 oz. The few anglers who tried the navigation side didn’t fare too well as I found out to my cost with only 5 fish. The camping anglers tried the Cut but I understand their first night failed to catch.
Monday May 5th: Earlier in the day four anglers had a stint after a 60 kilo pre-baiting trip. Whilst Killian and Glen McCormack blanked, Damien Allchorne had a couple of small Bream but Ross from Cork recorded two specimens weighing in at 8 lb 7 oz and 7 lb 14 oz along with a five pounder. Back on the stretch the shoal above the bridge was ambushed by the French who concluded their annual pilgrimage on a high. The Scottish lads had a vastly different story with weights varying from 3 lbs to 13 lbs and this included two Tench of over 5 lb!!!. Brian Mould from Cumbernauld was top rod for their weekend with a total of 86 lbs 4 oz winning the pewter tankard to keep until next year. Photos will be posted later in the week. Damien, Ross and myself went out to the island this evening where we blanked until dawn. Was it a success? Log in tomorrow for another update and the results of Bream Master 2008
Brian Bohan CHAFLYNNS COTTAGE & GUIDING SERVICE MOHILL reports on angling in the upper Shannon region around MOHILL and CARRICK ON SHANNON
Fishing is picking up very well at the moment. Water temperatures are rising and most fish are responding and feeding well, Tench are feeding heavily
Rynn Shannon and District Match
Was held on Heron’s Shore. It was a very good match with everybody happy with the amount of fish caught. Conor Mc Grath had a very good day on mostly hybrids.
Results as follows
1st: Conor mc Grath 29 lb 10oz
2nd: Terry Allan 24 lb
3rd: Brian Bohan 14 lb 6 oz
4th: Darell Swain 10 lb 6 oz
5th: Gary Lyons 10 lb 4 oz
I was fishing in Rynn last week on an evening and had nice Tench and Rudd
Kevin Lyons, MELVIEW LODGE GUESTHOUSE, Drumlish Road, Clonrollagh, Co Longford Tel : 003534345061 Mob: Email: info@melviewlodge.com Web: http://www.melviewlodge.com covering fisheries in the LONGFORD AREA and the STROKESTOWN LAKES
The Rivers, Lakes and Loughs around Longford have all been doing well, Pre-baiting a few times has helped. Check out some of the swims on Islands in the middle of some of the Loughs. Lots of waters in and around Lon have been producing well in the last few weeks, however at the time of writing this the weather was very hot and some lakes had switched off a little due to spawning, but when they finish they will hopefully have a good feed up.
As reported last week Trevor and Stephen from Plymouth had good catches of Bream. They decided to stick to the same swim which turned out to be the right decision as they were able to put together some good joint weights.
Father and son Brian and Stewart from East London decided found that the rivers produced best for them and were able to put some great weights together. Both the River Shannon at Lanesborough and the River Boyle produced some great nets of fish for the lads – well done lads.
Just a reminder that everyone should be careful how fish are returned after spending time in a net, extreme care should be taken when returning fish. Nets should not just be turned up and fish tipped out, they should be put back with care. Where possible get down to water level and hand them back ensuring fish swim off ok, and if nets are not being used place the fish back using your landing net or place back carefully.
Next week two lads Mike and Kevin from Oxford hit 285 lbs of Bream between them on their first days fishing and achieved catches over the 100 lb mark after that. Join us next week.
MID SHANNON AREA
The ShRFB reports for Ray Duthie Old Forge Banagher, Bait Stockist, Tackle and ACCOMMODATION PROVIDER Tel: 057 9151504. BANAGHER area this week.
Very few anglers are fishing on the Shannon in the Banagher area. Fishing has been quite slow but is expected to respond to the warmer conditions. Water levels are ideal for coarse fishing. We expect to have results of local competition to be fished on the Shannon in the area this coming week.
ShRFB reports for the RIVER SUCK VALLEY – Mid River Suck
The International Wheelchair competition kicks off on May 16th and will be fished by anglers from Holland, Belgium and Ireland on our access for all fishery at Donamon. This is a major event organised by the Shannon Regional Fisheries Board. Major sponsors are the ShRFB, Roscommon Co Council, Roscommon Tourism, Gleeson Town House Hotel, Davin Meats and Finola Foods. The results will be provided in due course.
The ‘bring a friend’ fisheries awareness day fishing competition was held at Donamon on the River Suck as part of the ShRFB Fisheries Awareness week. it attracted 45 visitors. 25 took part in the angling event itself. Many caught fish for the first time. Expert tuition was given on the day by Bill Cassidy who runs an angling school and who is a leading match angler in the region.
Further local info contact Mr John Ryan, Assistant Fisheries Inspector Tel: 094 96 40103 Mob: 087 2536064 and John Devaney, Assistant Fisheries Inspector, Roscommon for the lower River Suck 087 2266735
ShRFB reports for Mark Egan Athlone Bait Stockist, Accommodation Provider Email: info@shannonsidehouse.com Website www.shannonsidehouse.com Tel: 090 64 94773 the River Shannon and Inny ATHLONE area.
Angling guests of Shannonside guest house are fishing various venues this week with generally poor results so far. They tried the lower Inny and had some good Roach but not in the normal quantities. They also tried Lough Ree’s inner lakes. Fish have moved to spawn and haven’t returned yet to clean off, hence the patchy results in some areas. This should change in the coming days. Tight Lines!
ShRFB reports for INNY BAY B&B – fishing at TOM FOXES ANGLING STRETCH and lower RIVER INNY Tommy Foxe Mob: 087 9960173 for enquiries and boat hire
Fishing has been patchy enough on the lower river Inny – few anglers about and little action to report.
LOWER SHANNON AREA
TJ O’Brien, TJ’s ANGLING CENTRE KILLALOE Tel: 061 376009 Mob 087 8108225 reports for the Lower Shannon, Lough Derg and East Clare Lakes
A few fish are moving into the Scariff River as we write and fishing is expected to pick up here. There are good bags of Roach and hybrids reported from Williamstown harbour Lough Derg. Next week TJ will commence his trips to the local Island Swim of Lough Derg – hopefully fishing will be good with good reports.
Northern Region: Web: http://www.nrfb.ie
E-mail: info@nrfb.ie
Alice Murtagh reports:
The Arva/Gowna area is producing average mixed bags of 40/50 lbs. of fish. Loch Gowna and Erne Anglers Association held a junior competition on Lisney Lake on Saturday 19th April. 33 juniors fished from 14 boats catching 44 fish. Michael and Andrew Dalton, Kenagh came first with 25 lbs. 11 ozs, Chloe Madden and Aoife and Natalie O’Reilly, Gowna came second with 16 lbs. 7 ozs. Loch Gowna Upper Erne Anglers Association held a senior competition on Sunday 27th April at Cloone Lake with 16 boats participating. Andrew Dalton, Kenagh came first with 21 lbs. 3 ozs and Joe McDermott, Camlin came second with 12 lbs. 14 ozs.
The river at Belturbet is producing fine bags of Roach, one angler bagged 50 lbs. last Monday. Castle River Killeshandra, Killykeen and Carrickmakeegan bridge on way to Ballinamore are also giving good bags of fish. Tullyguide lake is giving the odd nice Bream and Hybrids if you are prepared to sit and wait.
PIKE ANGLING
Eastern Region: Web: http://www.fishingireland.net/
E-mail: info@fishingireland.net
Mark O’Regan
Guide and Instructor for salmon, trout and pike fishing. Notes: Home waters include the River Boyne and its tributaries. Address: Crannmor, Dunderry Road, Trim, Co. Meath.
Telephone: +353 46 9431635
E-mail: info@crannmor.com
Two regular French visitors Norbert Foulkiere and Martin Collett from Cannes in southern France fished with angling guide Mark O’Regan on several midland lakes for Pike and Trout last week. They had some superb fishing on the overcast days recording a total of 44 Pike and 6 Trout all on Fly. Many double figure Pike were recorded including a best fish of 20 lbs. for Martin (See photo of Martin with a big Pike on angling update on our website at: http://www.cfb.ie/fishing_in_ireland/update/pike_angling.htm
Martin sent this mail to Marc O’ Regan following his recent visit.
> Hi Mark
> I’m Professor (of public law and tax law) in the University of Orléans. I
> use to go fishing every year in Irland for 20 years. For several years,
> I’m only fly fishing – every kind of fish – (when I was younger, I used to
> match fishing : I was in the french junior team of match fishing in 1991
> and 1992 and did the JuniorWorld championship these two years). Irland is,
> for me, the best destination in Europe for fishing… and for the
> wonderfull hospitality and friendless of the Irish peoples.
> What else ?!?
> Regards
> Martin
Northern Region: Web: http://www.nrfb.ie
E-mail: info@nrfb.ie
Alice Murtagh reports:
Pike fishing remains good in most areas wi
th especially good fishing reported in the Butlersbridge area. The Cootehill area is also good for Pike fishing and some anglers report good catches of Trout on the Annalee and Dromore Rivers.
SEA ANGLING
Shannon Region: Web: http://www.shannon-fishery-board.ie/
E Mail: info@shannon-fishery-board.ie
Brian McManus reports:
Morning Star
31′ Mitchell, 280HP.
Skipper: Martin Brennan
Base: Kilrush Operational Area: Shannon Estuary Address: Fort Housel, Cappa, Kilrush, Co. Clare.
Telephone: +353 65 9052031 or +353 87 2940419
Martin Brennan ‘Morning Star’ Angling Column 2008.
I have started fishing since April and have begun the new season well with many fine catches. I have been mostly out with Irish Anglers, and some Hungarian Fishermen. The fishing is sporadic at the moment, and fishing was better earlier on, before the wind went into the east. As it’s forecast for mostly southerly this week and the conditions are for sunny, dry, calm weather the fishing should improve. I have been out today with a party of Irish anglers. One of these guys had never been fishing before and I was delighted that he started on the Morning Star and indeed caught his first fish a Conger eel. Mike Hassett who is a painter from Limerick City was trilled with his catch and expressed a keen desire to get out fishing as soon as his work load lets him have his day off fishing. Ray are in small numbers on all the usual marks and Whiting and Plaice are also to be had, again all my fish fell to a cocktail of Mackerel and Squid.
Clare Dragoon
LOCHIN 366, 650HP.
Skipper: Luke Aston
Base: Carrigaholt Operational Area: 30 miles form base. Address: Rahona, Carrigaholt, Co. Clare.
Telephone: +353 65 9058209 or +353 87 6367544
Email: email Web: www.fishandstay.com
Luke Aston ‘Clare Dragoon’ Angling Column 2008
STEADY MIXED CATCHES NORTH OF THE LOOP – REPORT DATED MAY 7th, 2008
Report dated May 7th …
Steady mixed fishing north of the Loop
It’s starting to get a busier now and I was out 5 days this last week. After a bit of a blow on Saturday it also looks as if the weather is settling down and the last few day have been lovely. The Mackerel have turned up again and
are now fairly reliable. As for the general fishing I have been working the ground to the north of Loop head as these big tides are not as strong up there. All my trips this week were single day charters so I was fishing on the drift for Whitefish every day. The fishing was steady with the catch made up of Pollack, with a mix of Saith, Ling, Cod, Whiting and Haddock as well. Early in the week we had some good catches on shads, but the catch rate using this method fell off as the tides built and perks were working better.
Naomh Carta
Interceptor 38′. 420 HP
Skipper: Michael Bourke
Licence: 922 Expires: April 2009
Base: Kilrush Operational area: 30 miles of Kilrush and Kilkee. Address: Bourkes Fishing Tackle Shop, Kilrush Road, Kilkee, Co. Clare.
Telephone: +353 (0)65 9056363 or +353 (0)86 1955991
Email: fishing@westclare.net Web: www.fishing.westclare.net
Michael Bourke Kilkee Sea Angling Column 2008
SEA FISHING IMPROVING SINCE THE BANK HOLIDAY WEEKEND _ REPORT DATED MAY 7th
Sunday the 27th of April
The fishing was pretty good considering the weather, We caught 1.5 fish boxes of Pollack to about 9 lbs., Coalfish to 8 lbs., a few Whiting, a small Cuckoo Wrasse and an Octopus all in all a reasonable day out fishing from and around the Loop Head to the Kerry shoal’s.
May Bank Holiday Weekend
Weather poor to start but improved nicely after Saturday. Mackerel were showing in small numbers from Castle Point but there were plenty of Pollack being taken …
