Angling Methods and Techniques
Brown Trout
You can fish for brown trout throughout the season using various techniques. The first rivers open on the 15 February and the season closes on all rivers by the 12 October. Please note that some rivers in the region close for all angling on the 30 September for conservation reasons.
Currently there is no State rod licence for brown trout or rainbow trout angling in Ireland.
Anglers may though be required to purchase a trout permit to fish certain waters which are usually obtained locally. You will invariably see the signs indicating this on the river and the location of the permit outlet. The majority of waters offer tourist angling permits. Once again should you require clarification please contact the local Fishery Board or tackle shop.
As all anglers know there are many different types of fly fishing for brown trout and generally all methods yield success.
The regions brown trout are free rising and wild and offer excellent sport. They tend to be a little bigger in County Cork due to the more alkaline water and average ¾ lb in Cork and ½ lb in Kerry although a 2lb plus trout is not uncommon. The preferred method of fishing by the locals is wet fly on 9ft rods though more and more anglers are moving down in length and weight to add excitement. Dry fly fishing is also extremely popular. Nymphing is gaining in popularity and certainly adds another dimension.
Regarding flies, well as they say match the hatch and you will have success. Certainly there is no shortage of flies available in the local shops. You should use size 16 or 18 hooks though experiment as often a larger hook seems to make little difference. While barb less hooks are not mandatory it never hurts to squeeze down the barb.
- Bibio
- Green peter
- Gosling
- Gold rib hare's ear
- Conemara black
- Iron blue dun