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A regular round up of local and national press news stories with a focus on inland fisheries and sea angling. Links to the websites of the newspapers are provided so you can read the articles in full, however some websites may not be updated on a daily basis. Some sites require registration.
Monday 07, December
Six salmon a-leaping
ANGLING NOTES: AFTER AN absence of almost 200 years salmon have returned to the upper reaches of the River Monnow at Kentchurch Weir in Monmouthshire, according to the Environment Agency Wales (EAW). Since completion of a £600,000 (€663,000) fish pass at Osbaston Weir earlier this year, salmon are now getting further upriver than since the industrial revolution, it said.
Irish Times, 07/12/09. Read the article 'Six salmon a-leaping'.
"Wired" Irish River Detects Pollution in Real Time
Nature has gone wireless in Ireland, where scientists have outfitted a major river with sensors that detect spikes in pollution in real time. Sensors recently placed at various points in the River Lee, near the city of Cork, send information on pollution levels back to a data center. Water managers can keep tabs on pollutants entering the river and, if need be, mount an immediate response.
National Geographic News, 06/12/09. Read the article '"Wired" Irish River Detects Pollution in Real Time'.
Tracing our faith in trees, taking stock of our trout
...The Central Fisheries Board is also a national research body, and Brown Trout in Ireland (cfb.ie/publications, €30) might well have turned out a solemn compendium of scientific papers. Scientifically sound it certainly is, but its authors – Dr Martin O’Grady, Myles Kelly and Shane O’Reilly – are keen trout anglers, and O’Reilly a skilled desktop publisher. Their production is both engaging to read and a pleasure to look at, with photographs of living, swimming fish that, as Prof Andy Ferguson says in his foreword, “set a new standard for fish illustration”.
Irish Times, 05/12/09. Read the article 'Tracing our faith in trees, taking stock of our trout'.
IN SHORT: Judge pledges jail for illegal fishing
Comparing illegal fishing to cattle rustling, a district court judge said he was issuing warrants and intended to impose six-month jail terms on people who did not turn up in court.
Irish Times, 05/12/09. Read the article 'IN SHORT: Judge pledges jail for illegal fishing'.
Popstars in court battle for hunting and fishing rights
TWO millionaire popstars sought an interim injunction in Letterkenny Circuit Court yesterday (Thursday) preventing a neighbour "interfering" with their hunting and fishing rights near Ballybofey. Mick Hucknall and Chris DeMargary of Simply Red claimed in court that the manager of the neighbouring Cloghan Estate, Mr John Wilde, was interfering with their rights since they purchased the Glenmore estate in August 2005.
Donegal News, 04/12/09. Read the article 'Popstars in court battle for hunting and fishing rights'.
Monday 30, November
An Irishman's Diary
ON December 8th, 1954, gale-force winds ripped across Ireland, sometimes reaching hurricane force. Torrents of rain poured from the sky. Mountainous waves pounded the coast and sent boats and ferries scurrying for shelter. A Swedish ship, the Heindal , ran aground on the Arklow Bank and a 400-ton collier, The Downshire, was grounded on the sands near Dundrum, Co Down. In Howth, fishing boats sank when they broke away from their moorings.
Irish Times, 30/11/09. Read the article 'An Irishman's Diary'.
A place for high flyers
ANGLING NOTES: THE MOST important piece of equipment for fly fishing is a good fly line, the author and professional flycasting instructor Peter O’Reilly told a group of angling hacks and guests at the launch of Tinnahinch Fly Fishing Centre, Enniskerry, Co Wicklow, last Friday week. “It must be matched to the size of fly. You would not transport a steamroller on a light pick-up truck,” he said. “So it is with fly lines. It is not practical to use a very heavy outfit to cast small flies.”
Irish Times, 30/11/09. Read the article 'A place for high flyers'.
The gothic world of the much-maligned cormorant
ANOTHER LIFE: THE CORMORANT MIGHT have been made for November – that gothic black sílhouette, the wings like a broken umbrella hung out to dry. They’re spread because the bird lacks waterproofing, the faster to dive after fish. Most anglers hate cormorants especially in autumn, when half of Ireland’s birds move inland to feed on freshwater coarse fish such as roach and perch.
Irish Times, 28/11/09. Read the article 'The gothic world of the much-maligned cormorant'.
Achill Coast Guard wins coveted National Courage Award
THE dedicated service of the volunteers of the Achill Island Coastguard Unit received official recognition during the week when they were awarded a National Courage Award for their part in a rescue of an angler from the sea during the summer.
The award ceremony took place last Wednesday in the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Dublin when the Achill Coast Guard beat off over 50 other nominees to win the coveted prize, which was won last year by the Irish Defence Forces for their UN peace-keeping service.
Mayo News, 23/11/09. Read the article 'Achill Coast Guard wins coveted National Courage Award'.
Tuesday, 17 November
Plea for pioneering biosecurity plan for Lough Mask
A LEADING fisheries officer has pleaded with Mayo County Council to enact legislation to prevent the further damage of Lough Mask from invasive species. Such a proposal is the first of its kind in Ireland.
Greg Forde, Director of the Western Fisheries Board, addressed a committee of the authority last week and expressed strong reservations about the willingness of fisherman to play their part by choice, insisting that they must be forced to toe the line.
Mayo News, 17/09/11. Read the article 'Plea for pioneering biosecurity plan for Lough Mask'.
Monday, 16 November
Creeping water threat
A NEW and dangerous non-native invasive plant, Ludwigia grandiflora (Creeping water-primrose) has been confirmed by the Central and Regional Fisheries Boards in a pond in Co Kerry. Its location and identification followed a report from a vigilant landowner in Sneem. It is the first time for the plant to be recorded in Ireland. A native of South America and some US states, the plant is a water-based herb with deep roots and tough stems.
Irish Times, 16/11/09. Read the article 'Creeping water threat'.
Monday, 09 November
Rainbow warriors
ANGLING NOTES: IRELAND’S tidiest small town was the centre of angling activity recently when 40 teenagers arrived in Aughrim, Co Wicklow, for the annual rainbow trout competition in the Angling for All Facility. The event is the culmination of a series of coarse, sea and game outings, which are organised throughout the year by Des Chew of the Dublin Angling Initiative (DAI) and the many youth projects that participate in the fishing programme.
Irish Times, 09/11/09. Read the article 'Rainbow warriors'.
Dad falls to death in front of family
A 34-year-old Polish man died yesterday after he fell 30 feet into the sea while fishing from rocks in Co Clare as his wife and 10-year-old daughter watched in horror. The man had been fishing near Fanore in north Clare with his wife, daughter and a family friend when he apparently lost his footing and plunged into the sea below.
Sunday Independent, 08/09/11. Read the article 'Dad falls to death in front of family'.
Call for coastal zone to be extended
The State’s exclusive coastal zone should be extended from 12 miles to 25 miles to give greater protection to marine life, according to a policy paper published by the Institute of International and European Affairs, writes Lorna Siggins.
Irish Times, 06/11/09. Read the article 'Call for coastal zone to be extended'.
Corrib infestation cuts off water to Headford homes
THE infestation of Lough Corrib by the dreaded Zebra Mussle has cut off the water supply to homes in Headford. At least six homes around Annaghkeen Bay which have been drawing water from the lake have had their water pumps and pipes destroyed by the freshwater bivalve mollusc.
Connacht Tribune, 05/11/09. Read the article 'Corrib infestation cuts off water to Headford homes'.
Wednesday, 04 November
Salmon stats released
ANGLING NOTES: THE Central Fisheries Board has published the Wild Salmon and Sea Trout Statistics Report for 2008. The report provides information to the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources and helps shape policies aimed at conserving salmon and sea trout stocks.
Irish Times, 02/11/09. Read the article 'Salmon stats released'.
Wednesday, 28 October
Minister 'invertebrate'
ANGLING NOTES: PETER MANTLE’S annual Delphi Fishery Newsletter is eagerly awaited by game anglers. His report provides a comprehensive account of the fishing season at Delphi and is always guaranteed to provide additional food for thought.
Irish Times, 26/10/09. Read the article 'Minister 'invertebrate''.
Leave nature to find its balance
Letters: BRIAN McDonald reports that "misguided anglers" may be prosecuted for placing pike in a river or lake system ('Cull under way as predatory pike threaten salmon lakes', Irish Independent, October 21). Is this not their natural habitat?.
Irish Independent, 26/10/09. Read the letter 'Leave nature to find its balance'.
OUTDOORS Take a woodland walk
An hour and twenty minutes after starting out in an unfamiliar stretch of woodland I found myself crossing my own tracks at something of a tangent. This is not the first time my sense of direction has let me down.
Mayo News, 26/10/09. Read the article 'OUTDOORS Take a woodland walk'.
Wednesday, 21 October
Enniskillen man reels in World title with 20lbs Pike
DONAL MAGUIRE used all his local knowledge over the weekend to walk away with a coveted world title after landing a 20lbs 11ozs pike in the last hour of a two day Boat fishing event at the Waterways Ireland Erne World Pike Fishing Classic 2009.The Enniskillen man landed the biggest pike of the three day Pike Fishing Classic and a cheque of £3600.
The Fermanagh Herald, 21/10/09. Read the article 'Enniskillen man reels in World title with 20lbs Pike'.
Cull under way as predatory pike threaten salmon lakes
ONE of the country's top salmon and trout fishing regions is being threatened after predatory pike were deliberately introduced into several lakes. Yesterday the Western Regional Fisheries Board (WRFB) described the illegal action by "misguided anglers" of placing pike into the Owenriff river system, near Oughterard in Connemara, as an act of environmental vandalism. Those responsible have not yet been identified but the inspectors are closely monitoring the situation.
Irish Independent, 21/10/09. Read the article 'Cull under way as predatory pike threaten salmon lakes'.
Release of pike into salmon lakes an act of 'vandalism'
THE FUTURE of one of Europe’s finest wild salmon and trout habitats has been threatened by “environmental vandalism”, according to the Western Regional Fisheries Board. It is investigating the “deliberate introduction” of predatory pike into several lakes on the Owenriff river system near Oughterard, Co Galway.
Irish Times, 21/10/09. Read the article 'Release of pike into salmon lakes an act of 'vandalism''.
Tuesday, 20 October
EU agrees new fishing controls
European fisheries ministers have agreed a new control regime to prevent fishermen across the EU from landing illegal catches. There will also be controls on recreational fishing if it is deemed injurious to endangered stocks such as cod, but Irish officials insist that this will not have a major impact on Irish fishermen.
RTE News, 21/10/09. Read the article 'EU agrees new fishing controls'.
Illegal introduction of pike into Oughterard trout and salmon lakes
A predator has been found in one of the most important trout and salmon spawning areas for Lough Corrib. Trout anglers have discovered Pike in Loughs Boffin and Agraffard near Oughterard.
Galway Bay FM, 20/10/09. Read the article 'ILLEGAL INTRODUCTION OF PIKE INTO OUGHTERARD TROUT AND SALMON LAKES'.
Monday, 19 October
How to lift the barbels
ANGLING NOTES: I HAVE PLEASANT memories, from when I lived in London many years ago, of coarse fishing on the River Thames. Setting up camp on the riverbank at Hampton Court became a weekend summer pastime, fishing for bream, dace and roach by day and for shy, sporty barbel by night. Of course, the elusive barbel was the main attraction.
Irish Times, 19/10/09. Read the article 'How to lift the barbels'.
Northern Ireland angler survives crocodile attack
Fermanagh angler Tim Smith has survived a crocodile attack to land a giant fish while on holiday in Africa. Tim Smith came within inches of being snapped up by the mighty predator as he battled the 249lb Nile perch on the end of his line. Back safely behind his desk at Portora Royal School in Enniskillen this week the 39-year-old art teacher has been recalling the moment the fish and the crocodile struck.
Belfast Telegraph, 15/10/09. Read the article 'Northern Ireland angler survives crocodile attack'.
Thursday, 15 October
Hardline approach being taken to Barrow poachers
POACHERS on the River Barrow are being warned to abide by fishing laws or risk prosecution. The caution comes following the recovery of a substantial quantity of fish stock taken illegally from the river as well as fishing gear last weekend in Athy.
Athy District Court-appointed water keepers were assisted by gardai last Saturday afternoon in confiscating 23 fish from the boot of a car, of which six were still alive and promptly returned to the water.
Leinster Leader, 15/10/09. Read the article 'Hardline approach being taken to Barrow poachers'.
Monday, 12 October
Licence to confuse
ANGLING NOTES: MAURICE Neill sends this facinating note on his exasperation at the bewildering array of licence requirements for game anglers to fish on the Border. “Fishing licence arrangements on this island have always struck me as a barrier to tourism. My fishing base is Kesh on the Donegal-Fermanagh border.
Irish Times, 12/10/09. Read the article 'Licence to confuse'.
Monday, 05 October
Season ends on a high
ANGLING NOTES: STUART LYON has a long-standing affection with the Emerald Isle. Each year he travels from Scotland with his wife Wendy to the west of Ireland and, in particular, to Pontoon Bridge Hotel and Lough Conn in Co Mayo to enjoy the magnificent scenery and attempts to capture the elusive wild trout.
Irish Times, 05/10/09. Read the article 'Season ends on a high'.
Warning over safety standards on boats
The Marine Casualty Investigation Board has warned that safety standards on fishing boats and leisure craft must be improved. In the Board's annual report chairman John O'Donnell says that there must be greater vigilance about safety.
RTE News, 03/10/09. Read the article 'Warning over safety standards on boats'.
Friday, 02 October
Angler lands huge salmon in Nore
The Central Fisheries Board has confirmed that the largest Irish salmon taken on rod and line in almost 20 years was caught recently on the river Nore, near Kilkenny, during the last week of the salmon fishing season.
Irish Times, 02/10/09. Read the article 'Angler lands huge salmon in Nore'.
32lb salmon landed on Nore
An angler has caught the largest salmon for almost 20 years on a river almost decimated by falling stocks. Martin White hooked an enormous 32lbs salmon fishing from the bank of the River Nore just outside Kilkenny. He plans to get the fish stuffed and put on display.
Irish Examiner, 01/02/09. Read the article 'Angler lands huge salmon in Nore'.
A Little Less Mystery in the Migration of Eels
Scientists are fairly certain that the eels, like their American counterparts, journey to the Sargasso Sea in the Atlantic to spawn, but the truth is little is known about eel migration.
New York Times, 28/09/09. Read the article 'A Little Less Mystery in the Migration of Eels'.
Monday, 28 September
Best lines for Juliet
ANGLING NOTES: THE Mount Juliet Resort in Thomastown, Co Kilkenny provided the ideal venue last weekend for a gathering of angling media hacks to this magnificent 1,500-acre estate. Mount Juliet is steeped in history. Built by the Earl of Carrick in 1745 and named after his wife, Lady Juliet, the family remained until 1914, before selling to the McCalmonts. Tim Mahony (of Toyota) acquired the estate in 1985.
Irish Times, 28/09/09. Read the article 'Best lines for Juliet'.
'Monster of the deep' is filmed
SCIENTISTS believe this incredible footage could show a mysterious monster lurking beneath one of the deepest lakes in the British Isles. Jonathan Downes, 50, spotted the "creature" thrashing around in one of the Lakes of Killarney in County Kerry, Ireland, while on holiday last week.
The Sun, 28/09/09. Read the article ''Monster of the deep' is filmed'.
A friend to the famous
Hanging on the walls of the fishing lodge at Killeen Castle are pictures of estate manager and fishing guru Sean McManmon with some of the most recognisable faces in the world. There is one of him with former US President George Bush senior, others with Pierce Brosnan, Sylvester Stallone and golfer Mark O'Meara.
Meath Chronicle, 23/09/09. Read the article 'A friend to the famous'.
Tuesday, 22 September
Howth remembrance event funds go to RNLI
ANGLING NOTES: SEA ANGLERS have the utmost respect and affinity for lifeboats. It is very reassuring to know before you set out on a sea journey that the RNLI is there to assist in an emergency – 24-hours a day, seven days a week, writes DEREK EVANS. So when anglers have any opportunity to contribute to this voluntary organisation, through making donations or fund-raising events, they do not shy away from the task.
Irish Times, 21/09/09. Read the article 'Howth remembrance event funds go to RNLI'.
More than 150 of Europe's top sea anglers; eight hours of fishing off Scotland, and one solitary haddock
THERE'S always been plenty more fish in the sea. But 154 of the world's best anglers, who descended on Scotland for a fishing contest, managed to prove the old saying wrong.
Despite spending eight hours off the coast of Orkney for five consecutive days, among the catch was just a single haddock.
Scotland on Sunday, 20/09/09. Read the article 'More than 150 of Europe's top sea anglers; eight hours of fishing off Scotland, and one solitary haddock'.
Thursday, 17 September
Swell time learning to fish
THE DOWNPOURS of rain failed to dampen the spirits of a group of fishing enthusiasts who converged on Oaklands Lake in Marshmeadows recently for an afternoon of angling action. Organised by the Irish Wheelchair Association, the Southern Regional Fisheries Board and Oaklands Lake, the group of twenty hailed from throughout Waterford and Wexford.
Wexford People, 16/09/09. Read the article 'Swell time learning to fish'.
Giant python shock!
FISHERY research staff on the Slaney had the shock of their lives on Monday when they uncovered a huge snake in the river. The creature they first assumed was an over-sized eel turned out to be a giant python.
Wexford People, 16/09/09. Read the article 'Giant python shock!'.
Kingscourt water treatment plant malfunctioned
Cavan County Council was fined €500 and ordered to pay €4,000 costs at Bailieboro District Court for allowing polluted material to escape from a waste water treatment plant near the River Cormey at Kingscourt. The prosecution was brought by the Eastern Regional Fisheries Board. Judge Sean MacBride convicted the council in respect of a pollution summons ...
Anglo Celt, 16/09/09. Read the article 'Kingscourt water treatment plant malfunctioned'.
Wednesday, 16 September
Huge python found during river survey
A routine river survey took an unexpected twist today after scientists pulled a 10ft monster python from the water in Co Wexford. Relieved fisheries staff hauled in their nets on the River Slaney to discover the dead reptile – believed to be an aggressive African rock python. Experts said the giant snake had not eaten for some time but may have only died recently.
Irish Examiner, 16/09/09. Read the article 'Huge python found during river survey'.
Snake sneaks back into Ireland
ST Patrick must be rolling in his grave. Fisheries officers carrying out a river survey came up with an unusual catch when they netted a 10ft python.
Irish Independent, 16/09/09. Read the article 'Snake sneaks back into Ireland'.
Dead python taken from Slaney river
A dead python measuring 10ft (3.08 metres) has been pulled from the river Slaney estuary. The snake, believed to be an aggressive African rock python, was recovered at Ardamine Bridge near Enniscorthy, Co Wexford, by members of the Central Fisheries Board and staff of the Eastern Regional Fisheries Board, who were carrying out a fish stock survey.
Irish Times, 16/09/09. Read the article 'Dead python taken from Slaney river'.
Python pulled from Wexford river
A python measuring 10ft (3.08m) in length has been removed from the River Slaney. The snake's body was recovered at Ardimine Bridge near Enniscorthy yesterday during tests undertaken by the local Fisheries Board.
RTE News, 15/09/09. Read the article 'Python pulled from Wexford river'.
Tuesday, 15 September
Fisheries board calls for seal and cormorant data
THE SOUTH Western Regional Fisheries Board is calling on the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government to set optimum target numbers for seals and great cormorants amid alarm among fishermen that these two protected species are threatening salmon and eel numbers, which are also protected.
Irish Times, 15/09/09. Read the article 'Fisheries board calls for seal and cormorant data'.
Monday, 14 September
Fisheries awareness
ANGLING NOTES: AS PART of Fisheries Awareness Week to create interest in fish and the environment among children and adults, the central and regional fisheries boards and national angling associations held events last week. The following are reports from three such outings.
Irish Times, 14/09/09. Read the article 'Fisheries awareness'.
Saving the Blackwater's wildlife
DETAILED plans are being developed to protect wildlife on the River Blackwater near Kanturk where threatened species such as the pearl mussel, Atlantic salmon, otters and kingfishers are getting special attention from a team of experts. The project team, which is being co-ordinated by IRD Duhallow based in Newmarket, aims to apply for funding under the EU LIFE+ programme, a fund which directly targets Special Areas of Conservation (SAC).
The Corkman, 10/09/09. Read the article 'Saving the Blackwater's wildlife'.
KANTURK CALLING: Gerry clinches angling title
KANTURK TROUT ANGLING CLUB NEWS: Sunday September 6 saw the last competition of the season for Kanturk and District Trout Anglers. This competition was held on Lough Leane, Killarney. The Jimmy O''Connell Memorial Trophy is presented each year to the Angler of The Year after the final competition. This winner is the angler who has amassed the most points in club competitions during the season and the trophy rewards consistency and skill.
The Corkman, 10/09/09. Read the article 'KANTURK CALLING: Gerry clinches angling title'.
Call for review of fishing rights after angler is jailed
A LOCAL councillor in Cork has called for a review of the way fishing rights are allocated after a man was jailed for 10 days for refusing to pay a fine for fishing on a privately-owned fishery on the river Lee. Cllr Jonathan O’Brien, a Sinn Féin member of Cork City Council, criticised the system whereby fishing rights to private fisheries on rivers such as the Lee are leased to angling clubs who then confine fishing in those stretches to their members.
Irish Times, 04/09/09. Read the article 'Call for review of fishing rights after angler is jailed'.
Tuesday, 01 September
Wild eel fisheries on slippery slope as conservation targets begin to bite
BELFAST BRIEFING: IT IS a long and perilous journey from the warm waters of the Sargasso Sea to the relatively chilly confines of Lough Neagh in the heart of Northern Ireland. But it is a journey that supports a multi-million pound enterprise and one that is currently under threat and facing an uncertain future.
Irish Times, 01/09/09. Read the article 'Wild eel fisheries on slippery slope as conservation targets begin to bite'.
Kerry a haven for many rare species
EVERYONE has heard of the Irish red deer that grace Killarney National Park, not to mention eagles and dolphins, but Kerry also has many other rare and threatened species of animal and plant life. People like Department of Marine official Kevin Flannery, from Dingle, regularly identify some strange fish caught off the coast, but some unusual fish can also be found inland in Kerry.
Irish Examiner, 31/08/09. Read the article
'Kerry a haven for many rare species'.
Aboard the Orinoco
ANGLING NOTES: A SURVEY of the angling potential of Waterford Estuary is expected to highlight exciting new locations at this premier angling venue. The seven-day project got under way last Wednesday with successful sojourns to “marks” within the estuary.
Irish Times, 31/08/09. Read the article 'Aboard the Orinoco'.
Mackerel fishing just a perfect catch
MACKEREL galore again this year and our eastern European migrant workers are gobsmacked at the fecundity of the local seas as they reel them in off the pier and off the rocks without even the need of a boat to go after them. Most evenings I see Polish men employed at a local factory cycling to the sea, fishing rods strapped to their bicycles. At the weekends, their wives or girlfriends keep them company.
Irish Examiner, 31/08/09. Read the article 'Mackerel fishing just a perfect catch'.
Nature ‘sages’ can’t tell weather future
THE other day I heard somebody observing that some deciduous trees were starting to change colour and drop their leaves early this year and suggesting that this was a sign that we were in for a bad winter. In Ireland and all over the world, there are dozens of ways in which events in nature are used for long-range weather forecasting. And this traditional lore is still widely believed, despite the fact that it’s practically all nonsense.
Irish Examiner, 31/08/09. Read the article 'Nature ‘sages’ can’t tell weather future'.
Monday, 24 August
Fisherman in miracle escape from sea ordeal
A MAN who slipped and fell into the sea while shore angling miraculously survived by treading water for about 90 minutes until a rescue helicopter arrived and winched him to safety. The man, who was fishing on Achill Island, Co Mayo on Saturday, survived despite spending such a marathon period in the water without a lifejacket or other buoyancy aid.
Irish Independent, 24/08/09. Read the article 'Fisherman in miracle escape from sea ordeal'.
Beauty and the beast
ANGLING NOTES: CLODAGH McIntyre was a worthy winner of the recent colouring competition organised by the Central and Western Regional Fisheries Boards in association with the Connacht Tribune. Clodagh (8), from Portland, Lorrha, Co Tipperary, who attends the local national school, won a €100 voucher with her lovely entry. A large number of entries were received and the organisers pass on their thanks to all those who took part.
Irish Times, 24/08/09. Read the article 'Beauty and the beast'.
Wednesday, 19 August
Mark is top Irish youth Angler
MARK Sloan (16), a member of Dromore and District Angling Club recently competed at the Youth International for the Irish Team at Llandegfedd Reservoir in Wales.
Mark secured his place on the team through a qualifier held on Lough Bane in Co Westmeath in April 2008. Mark travelled to Wales with local fishing enthusiast Donald McClearn and a team of 14 Juveniles from various clubs throughout Ireland.
Bannbridge Leader, 18/08/09. Read the article 'Mark is top Irish youth Angler'.
OUTDOORS: Hooking a venomous fish
Ill-tempered and venomous what a catch: I could justify another trip to the sea quite easily. Did I not have unfinished business with those denizens of the deep that had eluded me the last time I was there? Fish migrate on the stronger tides, catching the current as we might catch a bus, so there ought to be fresh faces in the waves too, with new acquaintances to be made.
Mayo News, 18/08/09. Read the article 'OUTDOORS: Hooking a venomous fish'.
Monday, 17 August
Boards' merger on way
ANGLING NOTES: THE restructuring of the inland fisheries sector moved a step closer this month following the appointment of Dr Ciaran Byrne as chief executive designate of Inland Fisheries Ireland by Conor Lenihan, Minister of State at the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources. The appointment took effect from August 1st.
Irish Times, 17/08/09. Read the article 'Boards' merger on way'.
Yellow-bellied slider turtles from the US could spell peril for Irish wildlife
IRELAND NEEDS to guard against an invasion of yellow-bellied sliders – no, not the evasive political species from Kildare Street, but the semi-aquatic turtle species from the US. It seems at least one of the creatures was spotted on the banks of the Dodder in Dublin recently taking a stroll in the sunshine.
Irish Times, 14/08/09. Read the article 'Yellow-bellied slider turtles from the US could spell peril for Irish wildlife'.
Friday, 14 August
Hooked on a picture perfect fishing village that lets you get away from it all
DUNMORE EAST: Peace and beauty -- and no stag parties. They say appearances can be deceiving, and nowhere is that more true than in the picture postcard village of Dunmore East. It might do a good job of masquerading as a sedate fishing hamlet that has somehow managed to avoid the trappings of tourism.
Evening Herald, 13/08/09. Read the article 'Hooked on a picture perfect fishing village that lets you get away from it all'.
Smartcom Software’s TideWizard is Supporting the 24th Annual Rosslare Small Boat Festival
TideWizard has been used by event organiser Phil Hallsworth to plan the Rosslare festival, as TideWizard allows long term predictions of tide heights and times of high and low water to be made. This is used both in selecting suitable dates for the event, and also in setting the times for boats to be launched and recovered from the slipway.
PR.com, 13/08/09. Read the article 'Smartcom Software’s TideWizard is Supporting the 24th Annual Rosslare Small Boat Festival'.
Inland Fisheries restructuring moves closer
The formation of the new inland fisheries authority 'Inland Fisheries Ireland' moved one step closer following the announcement of Dr Ciaran Byrne as its CEO designate by Conor Lenihan, TD, Minister of State at the Department of Communications Energy and Natural Resources.
Westmeath Independent, 12/08/09. Read the article 'Inland Fisheries restructuring moves closer'.
Monday, 10 August
Dishing out the fish, it’s just delish
THE bounty of the mackerel arrived off the coast this summer, as every summer, and were shoaling in the bay during the Women’s Angling Competition at the Courtmacsherry Festival last week. Off the Seven Heads, the women hauled them in, and one woman kindly phoned us to say there would be mackerel for the taking on the pier at 8.30pm.
Irish Examiner, 10/08/09. Read the article 'Dishing out the fish, it’s just delish'.
Raining frogs at a wildlife pond near you
I AM fascinated by the way garden ponds are colonised by wild aquatic plants and animals. Even if you only use sterile tap water to fill them and only introduce living things from a pet shop or garden centre, unexpected underwater wildlife soon appears.
Irish Examiner, 10/08/09. Read the article 'Raining frogs at a wildlife pond near you'.
East European anglers risking life to get a bite
THESE eastern European fishermen are oblivious to the danger they're in. The fishing party is perched dangerously on an outcrop of rocks as the waves crash around them. Another group is positioned above the first group, fishing from the top of a sloping cliff in Kilkee in Co Clare - with just a gust of wind required to send them toppling into the sea 150 feet below.
Irish Independent, 10/08/09. Read the article 'East European anglers risking life to get a bite'.
Reeling in the years
A Mayo pensioner was (quite literally) reeling in the years this week when, a month shy of his 96th birthday, he reached the final of a prestigious angling tournament. Tom Ketterick shamed fisherman half his age by making the cut at the World Cup Trout Angling Championships in Ballinrobe. And while he finished empty handed on the last day of the competition he was nonetheless delighted to have gotten so far in an event he first entered in 1950.
Irish Independent, 08/08/09. Read the article 'Reeling in the years'.
Thursday, 06 August
Join in a beach safari this weekend
As we live in a city, it is sometimes easy to forget about the wildlife all around us. From forests and marshes, to beaches and lakes, Galway city probably has the greatest number of wildlife habitats of any city in Ireland. This weekend, Galway City Council and Galway Atlantaquaria are teaming up to offer the second Beach Safari of 2009. Everyone will have a chance to explore one of the city’s most important and exciting habitats, the beach.
Galway Advertiser, 06/08/09. Read the article 'Join in a beach safari this weekend'.
Fears for trout stocks as zebra mussels found in Lough Mask
ONE OF the last trout lakes in Ireland free from zebra mussels has at last been conquered by the invasive species. The Western Regional Fisheries Board has confirmed the presence of the marine pest on the 22,000 acre Lough Mask in Co Mayo. The board has now urged appropriate measures by anglers – such as the sterilising of boats before they are transferred from Lough Mask to other waterways which are uncontaminated by the mussels.
Irish Times, 06/08/09. Read the article 'Fears for trout stocks as zebra mussels found in Lough Mask'.
Eighty complete water safety courses
OVER EIGHTY children from all over County Wexford were presented with well earned certificates in Duncannon Fort on Saturday morning after completing the annual Wexford Water Safety Week. Following the water safety course in Duncannon, there are now 85 children from Duncannon and surrounding areas who know exactly how to act in an emergency situation having spent the past week learning water safety and lifesaving skills.
Gorey Guardian, 05/08/09. Read the article 'Eighty complete water safety courses'.
Tuesday, 04 August
Baited breath for 95-year-old angler Tom but no prize catch
FOR a 95-year-old angler hoping to win his first major prize, it was a frustrating day where he could not even catch a cold. But Tom Ketterick was still in high spirits last night after putting anglers less than half his age to shame. He had already beaten all expectations by reaching the final of a major international fishing competition in Ballinrobe, Co Mayo, over the bank holiday weekend.
Irish Independent, 04/08/09. Read the article 'Baited breath for 95-year-old angler Tom but no prize catch'.
Moss is hooked on Moy
ANGLING NOTES: THE River Moy is one of the most productive Atlantic salmon rivers in the world, according to marine expert Dr Ken Whelan. In a good year, rod catches of 10,000 are recorded and the overall stock of fish is somewhere in the region of 115,000, he says.
Comparisons with the Ponoi River in Russia are revealing. The Moy catchment, at 2,000 sq km, equates to a peak rod catch of five salmon per square kilometre, whereas the Ponoi, at 16,000 sq km, accounts for just one.
Irish Times, 04/08/09. Read the article 'Moss is hooked on Moy'.
95-year old Mayo angler makes World Cup final
NINETY-FIVE year old Castlebar man Tom Ketterick is the talk of Mayo today after getting the better of many men less than half his age to qualify and compete in yesterday’s (Monday) World Cup fishing finals in Ballinrobe.
And Tom has proven that age should be no barrier to success - this weekend was the first time he made it to the finals after competing in the prestigious competition on Lough Mask in every decade since the 1950s.
Mayo News, 03/08/09. Read the article '95-year old Mayo angler makes World Cup final'.
OUTDOORS: Summer fishing has a wintery feel
When we went to the sea it was in keen anticipation of meeting up with the mackerel hordes that have been converging into the shallows in pursuit of sandeel and sprat. The weatherman had given us reason for hope. The day would be less windy, with just the chance of an occasional shower. He had even intimated that we might see the sun.
Mayo News, 03/08/09. Read the article 'OUTDOORS: Summer fishing has a wintery feel'.
Spine-chilling football fish gives kick to Kerry's hopes
IT ain't pretty, but the discovery of a rare Atlantic football fish is being hailed in the Kingdom as a good omen for Kerry's crucial All-Ireland showdown with Dublin. Kevin Flannery, a marine biologist at Dingle Aquarium, described the fish as having "plenty of back bone" -- it lies in wait to lure other fish to their doom.
Irish Independent, 03/08/09. Read the article 'Spine-chilling football fish gives kick to Kerry's hopes'.
Angler (95) rocks boat with World Cup place
After six decades of trying, a 95-year-old angler has qualified for the final of a major fishing event. Tom Ketterick is the talk of the angling world after his performance in Friday's heat secured his place in the final of the World Cup Trout Angling Championships in Ballinrobe, Co Mayo.
Irish Independent, 03/08/09. Read the article 'Angler (95) rocks boat with World Cup place'.
Census of Marine Life maps an ocean of species
Reporting from Woods Hole, Mass. -- The first comprehensive effort to identify and catalog every species in the world's oceans, from microbes to blue whales, is a year from completion. But early discoveries have profoundly altered understanding of life beneath the sea, senior scientists say. "We're taking stock for the first time on what lives in the ocean," said Poul Holm, a marine historian at Trinity College Dublin in Ireland.
Los Angeles Times, 02/08/09. Read the article 'Census of Marine Life maps an ocean of species'.
Monday, 27 July
Town of the water
ANGLING NOTES: IT WAS a real pleasure to attend the recent Waterville Sea Trout Festival. The inaugural two-day event celebrates the resurgence of the Co Kerry town as a premier sea-trout destination.
Irish Times, 27/07/09. Read the article 'Town of the Water'.
Celtic Sea provides a boost for cod
COD, once the staple of fish-and-chippers both here and in Britain, is in danger of becoming extinct in the North Sea, but there’s hope closer to home.
A study being carried out by the Marine Institute in the Celtic Sea is showing that cod can grow quickly and to large sizes there. Thousands of tagged cod have been released there with the aim of determining conditions for the fish around the Irish coast.
Irish Examiner, 27/07/09. Read the article 'Celtic Sea provides a boost for cod'.
Friday, 24. July
Walrus an unusual visitor
Normally, only porpoises are seen from the shore with bottle-nosed and common dolphins a bit further out. Minke whales, although common off the west, rarely visit the east coast... on June 23, the IWDG received a call from a member of the public, John Byrne, about a creature he saw swimming at Magherabeg Beach, County Wicklow. The animal, too big to be a seal, was ‘reddish-brown with a lot of facial hair’.
Irish Examiner, 24/07/09. Read the article 'Walrus an unusual visitor'.
Thursday, 23 July
Curbing the threat of the Corrib weed invader
A non-native weed species is choking off some of our best fishing lakes – and disturbing water supplies in the west, writes LORNA SIGGINS. A SIMPLE BIODEGRADABLE geotextile mat may provide the solution to tackling one of the most serious problems affecting the Lough Corrib ecosystem in decades. The jute matting has been highly successful in trials conducted by the Central Fisheries Board (CFB) on the bed of the State’s second-largest lake.
Irish Times, 23/07/09. Read the article 'Curbing the threat of the Corrib weed invader'.
Wednesday, 22 July
Search ends as missing teen's body found
THE body of a missing teenager was recovered from the sea yesterday as a massive eight-day search operation came to a heartbreaking end.
Irish Independent, 22/07/09. Read the article 'Search ends as missing teen's body found'.
Tuesday, 21 July
Were fishing illegally on Lough Ramor
Six foreign nationals who appeared before Virginia District Court in connection with illegal fishing on Lough Ramor on various dates were fined a total of €4,000 and ordered to pay €5940 in costs.
Anglo Celt, 15/07/09. Read the article 'Were fishing illegally on Lough Ramor'.
Legend of the Drowes
Micheál Ó Domhnaill went to see if the legend that St Patrick blessed the Drowes River with bountiful salmon stocks, still rings true today.
RTE Nationwide, 19/07/09. Watch the TV clip 'Legend of the Drowes'.
Monday, 20 July
Chub checked in Inny
ANGLING NOTES: STAFF FROM the central and Shannon regional fisheries boards have eradicated chub from the Inny river system in Co Westmeath. The invasive species was illegally introduced by anglers attempting to establish a chub population in Ireland, which was first identified in 2005 by Dr Joe Caffrey, senior research officer with the Central Fisheries Board (CFB).
Irish Times, 20/07/09. Read the article 'Chub checked in Inny'.
Mass held for father and 13-year-old son swept to sea
THE SEARCH for a missing 13-year-old Polish boy is set to continue along the west Cork coast today. A memorial Mass was held yesterday for the boy and his father, whose body was recovered after both had been washed to sea over a week ago.
Irish Times, 20/07/09. Read the article 'Mass held for father and 13-year-old son swept to sea'.
Annual fishing event attracts hundreds of spectators
The annual fishing competition in aid of Kilkenny Alzheimer’s Centre was a great success on Saturday last. Despite the heavy rain which fell in the afternoon the day was most enjoyable with huge bags of quality rainbow trout landed. Over 160 trout were caught and successfully landed, with over 80 fish taken on the bait fishing lake and almost the same amount at the fly fishing lake. The majority of the trout were in the 2lb to 3lb plus weight category. The event attracted over 30 anglers, including juveniles.
Kilkenny Advertiser, 17/07/09. Read the article 'Annual fishing event attracts hundreds of spectators'.
Wednesday, 15 July
Divers recover body of missing Polish man
Navy divers have recovered the body of a Polish man in his 40s who went missing with his 13-year-old son while fishing in west Cork at the weekend. The man's remains were recovered from the water at Cod's Head at around 11am.
The Kerryman, 15/07/09. Read the article 'Divers recover body of missing Polish man'.
A fisherman’s tale
“I am twelve years old, I travelled down to the River Moy in Co Mayo where I caught my first salmon of the season and while there I met the legendary Jack Charlton and have the picture to prove it.”
Westmeath Independent, 15/07/09. Read the article 'A fisherman’s tale'.
Father and son feared drowned after vanishing on fishing trip
A POLISH father and son are missing and feared drowned after a fishing trip off the Irish coast which is believed to have ended in tragedy. It is suspected the pair may have been washed into the sea over the weekend while fishing from rocks at an isolated part of the west Cork coast -- but the alarm was not raised for 48 hours until a friend became worried about them.
Irish Independent, 15/07/09. Read the article 'Father and son feared drowned after vanishing on fishing trip'
Tuesday, 14 July
Rare shark found dead in Kerry
A young basking shark was discovered caught in fishing net along Derrynane Long Beach in south-west Kerry. The rare basking shark was found dead by locals Peter Sweeney, a photographer, and his friend Chris Gleeson on Sunday evening.
Irish Times, 14/07/09. Read the article 'Rare shark found dead in Kerry'.
Monday, 13 July
Fisherman dies after helicopter rescue
A French fisherman died last night, despite being plucked from the sea by an Irish Coast Guard helicopter which was minutes away when the alarm was raised, writes Pat Flynn. The 42-year-old, who is understood to have been living in Birr, Co Offaly, was fishing from rocks at Ballyreen in north Clare when he fell into the sea shortly after 5pm.
Irish Independent, 13/07/09. Read the article 'Fisherman dies after helicopter rescue'.
Nymphing time again
ANGLING NOTES: I WAS a little sceptical in attending the river master class. Having witnessed the Polish international team demonstrate the art of nymph fishing on the River Suir some years before, I formed the opinion then that fishing the dry or wet fly was still the most proven method of catching trout. Now I’m not so sure.
Irish Times, 13/07/09. Read the article 'Nymphing time again'.
Thursday, 09 July
Golden angling moment
WHAT started as "a sense of intrigue" for a woman living in Kanturk has now netted her and team members gold when they won the Ladies International Fly Fishing competition in Killarney recently. The Irish Ladies Team achieved their first ever win in the 18-year involvement with the International event.
The Corkman, 09/07/09. Read the article 'Golden angling moment'.
Wednesday, 08 July
Gone Fishing!
There will be no increase in fishing licence duties for the 2010 fishing seasons. The Minister for Sport and Leisure, Nelson McCausland announced: "In light of the current economic climate, I have decided to keep the salmon and inland fishing licence duties at 2009 levels. I hope this will ease the financial burden on those involved in the commercial fishing sectors and encourage others to enjoy recreational fishing..."
Northern Ireland News, 08/07/09. Read the article 'Gone Fishing'.
Fisheries Board probe Dromore river fish kill
Some of the scores of beautiful brown trout taken from the Dromore River at Cootehill by Inland Fisheries personnel after the discovery of a significant fish kill last Monday. The Northern Regional Fisheries Board (NRFB) is continuing its investigation into the cause of a fish kill on a well known trout river on the outskirts of Cootehill on Monday afternoon. An estimated 80 adult trout perished in the Dromore River. Michael Fitzpatrick an Inspector with the Fisheries Board confirmed the kill to the Anglo Celt, which occurred at the county bridge on the main Cootehill to Monaghan Road.
The Anglo-Celt, 08/07/09. Read the article 'Fisheries Board probe Dromore river fish kill'.
Basking Sharks
The Basking Shark is the largest fish that occurs in Irish and Waterford waters and the second largest fish in the world (the largest being the whale shark). It is easily recognised by its very large size (usually about 7.5m but may be as large as 12m - 40 feet). This, and its habit of swimming close to the surface with its snout, first dorsal fin and tail-fin breaking the surface leads some to believe that this is two or three sharks swimming together.
Waterford Today, 07/07/09. Read the article 'Basking Sharks'.
Monday, 06 July
Non-native plants to be banned from sale
A RAFT of plants are to be banned from sale in garden centres later this year as the Department of the Environment moves to curb the damage inflicted on Irish wildlife by the importation of non-native species. It is understood it will be an offence to possess the listed species for "the purpose of sale or dispersal or to transfer the species from one place to another within the country". Householders who have such species will be advised how to dispose of them.
Irish Examiner, 06/07/09. Read the article 'Non-native plants to be banned from sale'
Grayling in the valleys
ANGLING NOTES: For the first time in 21 years, Ireland took the Ladies Fly Fishing Home International Competition. In ideal fishing conditions on Lough Lein, Killarney, Co Kerry, the 15-strong team emerged clear winners. Catch and release was the order of the day, with all 450 fish returned safely.
Irish Times, 06/07/09. Read the article 'Grayling in the valleys'.
Ballina Salmon Festival celebrates forty five years
The town of Ballina, also known as the Salmon Capital of Ireland, is gearing up to celebrate its annual festival in real style this July 10 to 19. This year marks the 45th anniversary of the inaugural Ballina Salmon Festival which is widely recognised as Ireland’s leading community organised and family oriented festival.
Mayo Advertiser, 03/07/09. Read the article 'Ballina Salmon Festival celebrates forty five years'.
Fish for Alzheimer’s at Castlecomer Lakes
Fishermen and fisherwomen and children of all ages are invited to come along to a special angling competition which is taking place on the beautiful lakes of Castlecomer next weekend.
Kilkenny Advertiser, 03/07/09. Read the article 'Fish for Alzheimer’s at Castlecomer Lakes'.
Wednesday, 01 July
Progress made on fish kill investigation
KILDARE County Council says it has made progress in its investigation into the cause of a fish kill on the Grand Canal that eye witnesses say killed as many as 2,000 fish.
Waterways Ireland and the Central Fisheries Board (CFB) have joined with the council in investigating the cause the pollution on the Grand Canal near Sallins.
Leinster Leader, 01/07/09. Read the article 'Progress made on fish kill investigation'.
Fishing 'nuisance' banned at Forty Foot
New laws restricting fishing and other sports on Dublin's beaches are set to be in place by the end of next month. Dubliners may no longer fish at the Forty Foot in Dun Laoghaire, according to the draft beach bye laws for the southside. Angling will also be prohibited at parts of Seapoint, Sandycove and Killiney Beaches from July 27.
The Herald, 30/06/09. Read the article 'Fishing 'nuisance' banned at Forty Foot'.
On wonderful Inagh
ANGLING NOTES: AT TIMES I have the privilege of visiting some of the top angling venues in the country – and last week was a good example. How does Inagh, Kylemore and Ballynahinch sound to the game-angling connoisseur? Top notch, I bet!
Irish Times, 29/07/09. Read the article 'On wonderful Inagh'.
Real Life: Hooked on fishing therapy
MAURA Corcoran lives within reach of some of the best fishing lakes in the world. But despite a lifetime enjoying the wilderness of rural Co Mayo and a husband with a passion for fishing, the former girl-guide leader had never picked up a rod in her life until a fortnight ago, when the 57-year-old mum-of-three joined 13 other ladies for a unique fishing trip on the lake at the Mount Falcon Hotel in Ballina.
Irish Independent, 29/06/09. Read the article 'Real Life: Hooked on fishing therapy'.
Killing a majestic shark just for the ego-massage is plain wrong
So, here's the deal. You like fishing, and while on holidays in County Clare you go out onto the water and before you know it, you get a bite. A big one, maybe even the biggest you've ever had. o, after hours of battling the beast, you finally reel it in -- and discover that you've just nabbed a record-breaking half-tonne, six-gill shark.
Irish Independent, 26/06/09. Read the article 'Killing a majestic shark just for the ego-massage is plain wrong'.
Fishermen to challenge Irish ban on eel fishing
Fishermen are to launch a legal challenge against the closure of Ireland's commercial eel fishery. The Government banned eel fishing two months ago to prevent stocks across the EU from being wiped out.
The Herald, 26/06/09. Read the article 'Fishermen to challenge Irish ban on eel fishing'.
Wednesday, 24 June
No Fish for a Tiger
from Fifty Favorite Fly-Fishing Tales - Chris Santella: It’s been said that fly-fishing for Atlantic salmon is a great equalizer. The fish don’t care how much money you have, what clubs you belong to, how high your IQ is or how well-received your latest movie has been. They only care about how your fly is presented—and if the bite isn’t on, even that doesn’t matter. Just ask Mark O’Meara, who witnessed some Irish salmon’s snubbing of one of the greatest golf champions of all time.
Fly Rod and Reel, June 2009. Read the article 'No Fish for a Tiger'.
Gone fishing for 50 years
THIS month we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Athy and District Anglers Club. It was the late Jimmy Higgins who reported in the Leinster Leader on Saturday, 20 June 1959 ‘Into existence on Thursday of last week came Athy and District Anglers Club. The idea of the club originated with Mr. Tom Donohoe of St. Joseph’s Terrace, Athy.
Kildare Nationalist, 20/06/09. Read the article 'Gone fishing for 50 years'.
Pensioner sets record by reeling in giant shark with fishing rod
IT'S a twist on the Hemingway classic 'The Old Man and the Sea'. A pensioner has landed the largest ever fish caught on a rod and line in Irish and British waters off the Co Clare coast. Ernest Hemingway's 1952 novella tells the story of an ageing Cuban fisherman who spends days landing a giant marlin after an epic battle. Swiss man Joe Waldis (70) yesterday described his own feat as "the fight of my life" after landing a sixgill shark weighing almost half a tonne.
Irish Independent, 19/06/09. Read the article 'Pensioner sets record by reeling in giant shark with fishing rod'.
Pensioner’s shark tale takes bite out of records
A PENSIONER and a predator have between them established what could be an Irish record. When 70-year-old Joe Waldis went fishing off the Loop Head, he never expected to have an experience every bit as thrilling as Hemingway’s Old Man And The Sea yarn. It was "the fight of my life" in landing the sixgill shark weighing almost half a ton, Joe said.
Irish Examiner, 19/06/09. Read the article 'Pensioner’s shark tale takes bite out of records'.
Wednesday, 17 June
Aquarium gets more bite
THE Mara Beo aquarium in Dingle is responding to Ireland's fearsome economic climate by introducing crowd grabbing sharks to its fish pool. A big sign was erected outside the aquarium last week proclaiming the imminent arrival of 'fearsome sharks'. The sealife centre bought four sand tiger sharks in Holland for display at the aquarium, according to manager Máire Treasa Uí Shé.
The Kerryman, 17/06/09. Read the article 'Aquarium gets more bite'.
Pretty in pink, but don't splash out on glofish
WHAT's pink, swims and glows in the dark? Genetically modified fish found in a pond in Co Offaly. And now the owners of the four glofish found by inspectors from the Environmental Protection Agency face the possibility of court action and a fine of up to €3,000 for trying to put something a bit different into their garden.
Irish Independent, 16/06/09. Read the article 'Pretty in pink, but don't splash out on glofish'.
Blow to African pondweed
ANGLING NOTES: I RECEIVED the following e-mail from my good friend Peter Powell, whose book, The Sound of Many Waters , I reviewed some years back. Peter from Athboy, Co Meath, has had a life-long love affair with fishing.
Irish Times, 15/06/09. Read the article 'Blow to African pondweed'.
Lough Derg pike to be tagged to check stock
A NEW plan to record Lough Derg's depleted pike population gets underway in Killaloe next Wednesday when a fish tagging operation is introduced by the Shannon Regional Fisheries Board and Ballina / Killaloe Anglers' Association.
Limerick Leader, 13/06/09. Read the article 'Lough Derg pike to be tagged to check stock'.
Thursday, 11 June
Hatchery Fish May Hurt Efforts To Sustain Wild Salmon Runs
Steelhead trout that are originally bred in hatcheries are so genetically impaired that, even if they survive and reproduce in the wild, their offspring will also be significantly less successful at reproducing, according to a new study published today by researchers from Oregon State University.
ScienceDaily, 10/06/09. Read the article 'Hatchery Fish May Hurt Efforts To Sustain Wild Salmon Runs'.
Monday, 08 June
Lough Gur bid for World Heritage status
ONE of Ireland’s leading archaeological locations, Lough Gur, in Co Limerick, could soon be designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We already have two such sites – Skellig Michael, off the south Kerry coast, and the collection of archaeological treasures around the River Boyne, in Co Meath.
Irish Examiner, 08/06/09. Read the article 'Lough Gur bid for World Heritage status'.
Marie O’Riordan: fly fishing’s most unlikely recruit
The former glossy magazine editor is surprised to catch the angling bug: Five minutes ago I was breakfasting on smoked salmon in the hushed splendour of my hotel dining room in Kenmare, southwest Ireland, staring vacantly at the waterfalls that virtually wrap themselves around Sheen Falls Lodge, cascading past your bedroom window so that you’re soothed to sleep by the soft rush of water.
The Times, 06/06/09. Read the article 'Marie O’Riordan: fly fishing’s most unlikely recruit'.
Scientists surprised by record number of basking sharks
THEY ARE known as the “sunfish” and as the “monster with sails” in Irish, and our northwest waters are “teeming” with them. Scientists working off the Co Donegal coast have tagged a record 50 basking sharks in three days this week. “Astounding” is how Dr Simon Berrow of the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group described the numbers, which reflect a fraction of the potential basking shark population in these waters.
Irish Times, 05/06/09. Read the article 'Scientists surprised by record number of basking sharks'.
Tuesday, 03 June
Tug 'o war in Ballydavid
From the Archive: THERE was a tug of war over salmon drift nets off Ballydavid on Wednesday night between about 50 local fishermen, waterkeepers and Gardai. At one stage a shot was fired in the air by an officer on the bridge of the corvette 'Gráinne' in a bid to bring the fracas to an end and deck power hoses were turned on the protesting fishermen who grabbed at siezed nets.
The Kerryman, 03/06/09. Read the article 'Tug 'o war in Ballydavid'.
Monday, 02 June
Aaahh, that's bass
ANGLING NOTES: IN reply to the letter “Capturing bass” ( The Irish Times , May 8th), it is clear the writer is not a sea angler. To catch a bass today is a rare feat, to catch an Irish specimen over the magical weight of 4.5kg (10lb) is a once-in-a-lifetime catch for most anglers. As one who has fished on almost every beach and out of every port in Ireland over the past 30 years I could probably count on one hand the number of bass I have caught.
Irish Times, 01/05/09. Read the article 'Aaahh, that's bass'.
Watery wonders that lie beneath
Forty new deepwater reefs discovered off the south-west coast have been described as ‘precious hotspots of marine biodiversity,’ writes MICHAEL VINEY. IN THE gliding beams of the spotlights, the reefs rise up like islands in a sea of creamy sediment, some of them to 100 metres high.
Irish Times, 30/05/09. Read the article 'Watery wonders that lie beneath'.
Monday, 25 May
Lucky seven lakes
ANGLING NOTES: SEAN McManmon is a man of many talents. As estate manager of the K Club for more than 20 years, he achieved the highest accolades for his presentation of the golf course, the estate and the lakes, and especially during the Ryder Cup in 2006. Sean is first to admit his first love is fly-fishing. Having represented Ireland for many years and captained the Leinster team, he went on to coach the Irish ladies’ fly-fishing team for five years.
Irish Times, 25/05/09. Read the article 'Lucky seven lakes'.
Scientist discovers beavers building prime salmon habitat in Skagit Delta
A scientist goes looking for a shrub and discovers a nearly lost world of tidal beavers thriving in a rare habitat in the Skagit Delta. His discovery raises questions for salmon-recovery projects based on incomplete information — likened to a kind of ecological amnesia about what was here before.
Seattle Times, 18/05/09. Read the article 'Scientist discovers beavers building prime salmon habitat in Skagit Delta'.
Ban or no ban, it will be a long way back for eel stocks
ANOTHER LIFE: ‘THE EEL,” asserted Senator David Norris in February, “is an interesting fish, although it is hardly like a fish. It is somewhere between a fish and an animal such as a snake.” Thus informed, his fellow Senators sat back to learn why so urbane a colleague should concern himself with Anguilla anguilla, other than in Joyce’s Inisfail, where lovely maidens played with “drafts” of the creature, along with crans of herrings and creels of fingerlings.
Irish Times, 09/05/09. Read the article 'Ban or no ban, it will be a long way back for eel stocks'.
A skate's eye view of life in sandy valleys on the seabed
ANOTHER LIFE: THERE’S A TYPE of ray, Séamus Mac an Iomaire told us in The Shores of Connemara, “that’s called the scolabord tintrí (flashing skate), but it doesn’t wander in much from the big deep, as that place happens to be very dark at times. Nature has bestowed on it the capability of making its way through the forests of sea rods that are in the valleys be- tween the high arches, as there is light shining from its eyes that shows it the way ahead," writes MICHAEL VINEY
Irish Times, 18/04/09. Read the article 'A skate's eye view of life in sandy valleys on the seabed'.
Monday, 18 May
Time for a spent gnat?
ANGLING NOTES: THE MAYFLY is up and in full flight on Lough Corrib. Light winds and better fishing conditions have brought on excellent hatches with trout responding in good numbers. “It’s the best mayfly hatch seen for several years,” according to some anglers, with wet and dry patterns accounting for most fish.
Irish Times, 18/05/09. Read the article 'Time for a spent gnat?'.
Ryan signs controversial eel ban into law
A CONTROVERSIAL ban on eel fishing has been signed into law by Minister for Energy, Communications and Natural Resources Eamon Ryan. The bylaws close the commercial and recreational eel fishery until June, 2012 and Mr Ryan has promised that they will be reviewed at this stage. The new “management plan” involves ceasing the commercial eel fishery, closing the market and ensuring upstream migration of juvenile eels at barriers.
Irish Times, 16/05/09. Read the article 'Ryan signs controversial eel ban into law'.
Friday, 15 May
First steps taken in plan to restore salmon to Lee
THE FIRST steps in an ambitious 50-year programme to restore the natural run of salmon to the Upper Lee and its tributaries have been taken near the Cork-Kerry border. Yesterday 3,000 year-old smolts were hauled by fisheries officers on to a giant fish tank from a specially-built pool.
Irish Times, 15/05/09. Read the article 'First steps taken in plan to restore salmon to Lee'.
Tuesday, 12 May
Bibio fly snares a Beltra
ANGLING NOTES: AN INVITE from a long-standing friend of 35 years is sufficient notice to visit the Newport River in Co Mayo. Pat Smith, of Irish rugby and cricket fame, and now wine connoisseur, is keen for me to sample the delights of this fishery and the cuisine of Newport House.
Irish Times, 13/05/09. Read the article 'Bibio fly snares a Beltra'.
West’s angling industry remains under threat
The survival of the sea trout angling industry in the west of Ireland remains under threat after 20 years of debate, according to the chairman of the Western Regional Fisheries Board, Lal Faherty. There was no doubt of the link between the salmon farms and the demise of both wild salmon and sea trout, Mr Faherty said at the opening of the board’s new administrative headquarters at Earl’s Ireland recently. Yet after 20 years of unresolved debate, the impasse between marine salmon farms and the industry remained.
Galway Advertiser, 07/05/09. Read the article 'West’s angling industry remains under threat'.
Tuesday, 05 May
Turnabout for trout
ANGLING NOTES: SOME OF THE highest results ever obtained from a fish stock survey were recorded recently by teams from the central and western regional fisheries boards on Lough Carra, Co Mayo. Dr Martin O’Grady, senior research officer, Central Fisheries Board, who led the teams, said: “We are delighted with results of the survey. They show that the trout stock is one of the largest and most balanced trout stocks ever recorded in a survey of an Irish trout lake in the last 30 years. Lake trout anglers should keep a close eye on Carra this year and in coming seasons.”
Irish Times, 04/05/09. Read the article 'Turnabout for trout'.
Thursday, 30 April
Fury as French anglers endanger Lough Derg
LOCAL angling clubs this week expressed outrage at the threat to Lough Derg fisheries from the use of live carp as bait by visiting anglers.
Their anger follows the seizure of a boat near Killaloe by Shannon Regional Fisheries Board officers on routine patrol. French anglers in the boat were found using the carp on their fishing rods.
Limerick Leader, 30/004/09. Read the article 'Fury as French anglers endanger Lough Derg'.
Tuesday, 28 April
Eel ban the right decision to save a species
IN RECENT years we’ve heard a lot about the decline in stocks of salmon and sea trout in Ireland and abroad, but less about the plight of the humble eel. But eels are in real trouble, even more trouble than salmon and sea trout. In 2002 the International Council for the Exploration of the SEA (ICES) declared that stocks of European eels were so depleted they were now "outside safe biological limits". The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has carried out a study which resulted in eels being declared critically endangered. This is the last category before extinct.
Irish Independent, 27/04/09. Read the article 'Eel ban the right decision to save a species'.
Angling for donations
ANGLING NOTES: ANGLERS ALWAYS rally in support of fundraising efforts towards worthwhile charities. Their monetary assistance at local and national level, whether by way of fundraising competitions or donations, is phenomenal, and is greatly appreciated by each respective organisation. For the past five years I have participated in the “Charity”, a fly-fishing competition on Lough Lein in Killarney, Co Kerry. Now in its 19th year, this event has raised a staggering €150,000 for such diverse recipients as Multiple Sclerosis, Irish Wheelchair Association and Friends of Chernobyl.
Irish Times, 27/04/09. Read the article 'Angling for donations'.
GONE FISHING: ENJOYING IRISH PIKE ON THE FLY
John Wilson: Irish pike caught on the fly rod provided boat partner John Horsey with some truly memorable battles. We were on the beautiful, 125 acre Castle Hume Lough, which is connected to the lower Lough Erne system near Enniskillen in Northern Ireland, overlooked by the famous Lough Erne Golf Resort (anyone staying at the resort incidentally, can fish there).
Daily Express, 26/04/09. Read the article 'GONE FISHING: ENJOYING IRISH PIKE ON THE FLY'.
Monday, 20 April
EU eels under threat
THE Minister of State at the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Seán Power, addressing the Joint Oireachtas Committee on European Affairs, outlined Ireland’s compliance with the European Council Regulation establishing measures for recovery of the stock of European eel. Scientific research by the International Council for Exploration of the Sea showed that the eel population is so depleted it is now outside safe biological limits. The EU has therefore brought forward a council regulation to establish a new framework for the protection of the European eel.
Irish Times, 20/04/09. Read the article 'EU eels under threat'.
More trouble brewing on fish farming front
MENTION the words ‘fish farm’ and foaming at the mouth will suddenly strike salmon fishermen, sea trout ticklers, environmentalists and the 'compleat' angler. Nothing provokes such revulsion and loathing from the exponents of the art of ideal leisure and contemplation than the alleged damage that commercial fish farms do to the environment.
Southern Star, 18/04/09. Read the article 'More trouble brewing on fish farming front'.
Belturbet tops in Ireland for fishing say French anglers
The recession may be here and the Government may be taxing us to the hilt, but there are grounds for optomism on the tourism front, particularly with the return of the continental anglers for the excellent fishing around Belturbet and other areas of Cavan. The proprietors of Fitzpatrick’s Holiday Farm at Puttigan, Belturbet, Sean and Mary Fitzpatrick told The Anglo-Celt this week that continental visitor numbers are up.
Anglo Celt, 15/04/09. Read the article 'Belturbet tops in Ireland for fishing say French anglers'.
Wednesday, 15 April
Hundreds of fines issued for breaking fishing rules in southwest last year
A SUBSTANTIAL quantity of illegal fishing equipment and fish was seized last year by the South Western Regional Fisheries Board, and hundreds of on-the-spot fines were issued to anglers for non-compliance with log-book regulations, the board’s annual report has disclosed.
Irish Times, 15/04/09. Read the article 'Hundreds of fines issued for breaking fishing rules in southwest last year'.
INVASION OF LOUGH CORRIB RESULTS IN BIOSECURITY PLAN LAKES
The Western Regional Fisheries Board is recommending that a Biosecurity Zone be created for Loughs Mask and Carra. Following growing concern after the accidental introduction of several alien invasive species to Lough Corrib, the Zebra Mussel Control Initiative commissioned a Biosecurity plan for Lough Mask.
GalwayNews.ie, 15/04/09. Read the article 'INVASION OF LOUGH CORRIB RESULTS IN BIOSECURITY PLAN LAKES'.
Spring run in full flow
ANGLING NOTES: WATER levels were perfect for angling on the Galway Weir despite the changeable weather, and 17 salmon were recorded. Dublin anglers showed the locals how to do it last week with Dave O’Reilly catching three salmon on fly and releasing two while Lorcan Buckley landed a fine fish of 6.1kg (13.5lb), also on fly.
Irish Times, 13/04/09. Read the article 'Spring run in full flow'.
Monday, 06 April
Bord disputes petition
I RECEIVED the following correspondence from Donal McGuire of An Bord Iascaigh Mhara, which I give in full in the interest of balance: “I refer to your column of the March 23rd, and in particular the piece you carried regarding a petition to halt salmon farming in Bertraghboy Bay in Connemara.
Irish Times, 06/04/09. Read the article 'Bord disputes petition'
Tuesday, 31 March
New plan for fisheries
ANGLING NOTES: THE Government has approved a plan to restructure inland fisheries, the Minister of State at the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Seán Power has announced. The decision relates to the rationalisation of State agencies and will lead to savings of €300,000 annually, the Minister said.
Irish Times, 30/03/09. Read the article 'New plan for fisheries'.
Government €2.6m payout to salmon fishermen
The government has paid 20 fishermen more than €2.6m to hang up their nets in a bid to avoid the extinction of wild salmon in Irish rivers. The commercial fishermen, who averaged pay-outs of €132,000 each under the Salmon Hardship Scheme, were the highest earners among 1,044 applicants sharing almost €25m over the past two years, as part of a move to revive salmon rivers.
Sunday Times, 29/03/09. Read the article 'Government €2.6m payout to salmon fishermen'.
New study to identify canals’ potential
WATERWAYS Ireland, in conjunction with Dublin City Council and Fáilte Ireland, is undertaking a study to identify the recreational, tourism and commercial potential of the Royal and Grand Canals.
The project will seek to examine existing activities on the canals and identify achievable projects.
Northside People, 27/03/09. Read the article 'New study to identify canals’ potential'.
Wednesday, 25 March
'Wild salmon' case dismissed by judge
A JUDGE dismissed charges against a well-known fishmongers yesterday despite finding that seafood labelled as "wild" had in fact contained salmon from a fish farm.
Irish Independent, 25/03/09. Read the article ''Wild salmon' case dismissed by judge'.
Charges against Wrights of Howth are dismissed
CHARGES AGAINST a seafood company that it misleadingly labelled as “wild” packets of salmon for sale have been dismissed by the Dublin District Court.
Irish Times, 25/03/09. Read the article 'Charges against Wrights of Howth are dismissed'.
Foreign shrimp may pose threat to Derg fish
Fears for the future of angling on Lough Derg have been expressed following the discovery of a foreign freshwater shrimp that has made its home in the waterway.
Dr Dan Minchin of the Lough Derg Science Group recently discovered the shrimp, Hemimysis anomala at Dromaan Harbour and at Castlelough, sparking fishery board fears that it could pose a threat to angling on the lake.
Nenagh Guardian, 21/03/09. Read the article 'Foreign shrimp may pose threat to Derg fish'.
Monday, 23 March
New petition bid to halt salmon-farming
ANGLING NOTES: AFTER the reintroduction of salmon farming to Bertraghboy Bay at Ballynahinch in Connemara, a strongly worded message been sent to the Minister for Agriculture, Brendan Smith, urging immediate steps to outlaw salmon-farming in the estuary. An on-line petition which, at time of going to press, has reached 1,376 signatures.
Irish Times, 23/03/09. Read the article 'New petition bid to halt salmon-farming'.
Call for laws to prevent foreign fish threat
Ciaran Mullooly, Midlands Correspondent, reports the Shannon Regional Fisheries Board wants new laws to prevent foreign fish destroying the angling sector.
Six One News, 20/03/09. Watch the video clip: "Call for laws to prevent foreign fish threat"
Monday, 16 March
'Alien' plant threatening waterways
THE GOVERNMENT has been urged to take measures to stop importation of “alien” invasive plant and animal species which are having a serious impact on freshwater environments. Two regional fisheries boards have issued appeals for action on the eve of the national holiday which commemorates the saint who allegedly rid the island of reptiles.
Irish Times, 16/03/09. Read the article ''Alien' plant threatening waterways'.
St. Patrick's Day and a fish on the road
Now we've made it from Saint Valentine's to Saint Patrick's, only three days short of the vernal equinox -- all about renewal, and that inimitable, brilliant Irish green. Once upon a time, in March, in the week of Saint Patrick, I fished the salmon in the Bundrose River, far in northwestern Ireland.
Daily Camera, 16/03/09. Read the article 'St. Patrick's Day and a fish on the road'.
Foreign shrimp danger to lakes
A NON-native species of shrimp has invaded Lough Ree and Lough Derg and could force out native fish species from the country's angling lakes.
Irish Independent, 14/03/09. Read the article 'Foreign shrimp danger to lakes'.
Lost your job? Don't despair come fishing with us - for free
Eddie McCarthy, who developed Ballyhass lakes near Mallow, is spearheading a 'Start to Fly Fish' project, offering people who have recently been left unemployed to the opportunity to take up a new interest — free. Groups of ten are being offered free tuition in fly fishing, workshops, equipment and fishing permits to open a new direction in their lives.
The Corkman, 12/03/09. Read the article 'Lost your job? Don't despair come fishing with us - for free'.
District Court Briefs: Illegal fishing offences
Five Latvian fishermen who all had an address at Sweetmans Farm in Lusk, County Dublin and came down to fish at Lisnananagh Lough at Stradone found themselves in court facing illegal fishing offences.
Anglo Celt, 11/03/09. Read the article 'District Cout Briefs: Illegal fishing offences'.
Wednesday, 11 March
Invasive weed found near Lough Corrib
Fisheries Board scientists are concerned about the discovery of an innocuously-named fern in a Lough Corrib catchment. The reddish aquatic plant Azolla filiculoides, or Water Fern, has invaded a tributary of the River Clare that flows into the lough.
RTE News, 11/03/09. Read the article 'Invasive weed found near Lough Corrib'.
Monday, 09 March
Biggest salmon yet
ANGLING NOTES: ANGLER John Murray from Ballymote, Co Sligo, has been announced as the winner of the 2008 Central and Regional Fisheries Boards catch-and-release incentive scheme competition after releasing 30 salmon during last year’s fishing season. Dr Ciaran Byrne, chief executive of the Central Fisheries Board, said, “John has made a huge contribution to salmon conservation in Ireland..."
Irish Times, 09/03/09. Read the article 'Biggest salmon yet'.
Monday, 02 March
Weir and wonderful
ANGLING NOTES: SALMON Watch Ireland (SWI) has lodged a formal complaint with the European Commission about the Irish management system for salmon farms. The complaint contends that farms are responsible for the high levels of sea-lice infestation in juvenile salmon (smolts) migrating from rivers to feeding grounds in the sea. At the outset it must be stated that SWI is not opposed to properly controlled salmon farms.
Irish Times, 02/03/09. Read the article 'Weir and wonderful'.
