Top Fishing Spots in Kerry, Ireland
With miles of coastline dotted with pretty little fishing villages as well as well stocked rivers and lakes, County Kerry has some top fishing spots. Its a fantastic hobby; think about it, no traffic, and no stress, just the sound of the water and plenty of fresh air. Kerry boasts some of the best waters for fishing in Ireland, so check out our guide to the top fishing spots in the county and hopefully youll be hooked.
River Feale...
The River Feale, near Listowel in North Kerry, is an excellent salmon and trout river. The best spot for fishing along the river is on the banks near the bridge as you enter the town. Another great spot is in Finuge, located about 2 miles outside Listowel. This area for fishing is known locally as "The Wall". Our advice is to get here early, as its a very popular place.
A salmon licence is required for the Feale, which can be purchased from Halpins Fishing Store in Listowel town.
The River Laune...
Fantastic for spring salmon, sea trout and brown trout, the River Laune, and in particular the town of Killorglin, is a fantastic base for an angling holiday. The scenery is breathtaking to say the least, against the backdrop of the McGillycuddy Reeks, and Killorglin itself is a fairly lively town with plenty pubs and restaurants. A fishing permit is required.
River Blackwater...
The River Blackwater is a top spot for salmon, brown trout and white sea tout. Its roughly 10 miles long from the source to the sea and flows into Kenmare Bay. All types of angling can be done here, fly-fishing, spinning, and worming etc. Our top tip is to use a fly rod with bright colour flies, preferably in the evening. Also make sure you have a fishing licence as there is a fine.
River Flesk...
If youve ever travelled along the N22 between Killarney and Cork youll have passed the River Flesk. Its 3km in length and has easy access from the main road. Salmon enter the river in early spring and stay until late May, while brown trout and white sea trout enter the river in July. Spinning would be the best type of angling method used here, although fly rod and worming are commonly used on this river as well. A permit is required.
Barfinnihy Lake...
Barfinnihy Lake is stocked monthly by the regional fisheries board. Its located about 6 miles from Kenmare town with stunning views of Molls Gap. Youll find rainbow trout in abundance here and spinning and fly-fishing are the most popular methods used.
Killarney Lakes...
Killarney is a popular tourist destination and offers some of the best fishing in the country. There are three main fresh water lakes: Lough Leane, Muck Ross Lake and the Upper Lake as well as numerous smaller lakes and rivers, making it an ideal base to fish. No permits are required for the Killarney Lakes.
Caragh River...
Surrounded by breathtaking scenery and located just outside the town of Killorglin, Caragh River is a good salmon and white trout river. The river is divided in two and known locally as Upper Caragh River and Lower Caragh River. It drains a large catchment area before flowing into Carragh Lake.
Lough Currane...
Lough Currane, in southwest Kerry, is a great game fishing lake. Surrounded by stunning mountain views, sea trout are in plentiful supply, as are salmon. Fly-fishing using ghillies (small boat) is the preferred choice.
Mairead Foley writes for the Ireland travel and accommodation website http://www.GoIreland.com
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