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River Tolka
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The Tolka river rises near Dunshaughlin in Co. Meath and flows in a southeasterly direction for approximately 14 miles before entering the sea at Clontarf on the north side of Dublin City. For nearly half its length it flows through urban sprawl, and ironically, the best trout fishing is within this area. The Tolka is an extremely rich river, which holds some wild trout. It is mostly a ‘put and take’ fishery and is stocked by the local angling club who have permits available. In recent years some very big specimen trout (over 5lbs) have been recorded by anglers using worms in the Mulhuddart stretch. The best fishing is from Finglas Bridge to Abbotstown Bridge. Access is mostly on the Eastern bank with the exception of a pedestrian footbridge from Ballyboggan Road on the southern bank of Tolka Valley Park. The river supports hatches of olives, midges, gnats and a small hatch of sedge. Some sea trout fishing is available on the lower reaches of the river. Fishing on this river is controlled by the Tolka Trout Anglers Club and riparian owners.
Location: The main towns and cities are Dunshaughlin and Dublin City. River Tolka, North County Dublin.
Fish Species: The Tolka contains stocks of Brown Trout & Sea Trout
Season:
Brown Trout: 17th March - 30th September
Sea Trout: 1st February - 12th Octctober.
Methods: All legitimate methods are allowed including fly fishing, worm fishing and spinning.
Best Flies: Olive patterns including bwo and sherry spinner, small sedge patterns, hawthawns, black gnats and midges.
Angling Club: Tolka Trout Anglers Club: Secretary, Mr. Eamon Lynch, 46 Dunard Avenue, Navan Road, Dublin 7. Tel: 838 9630
Fishing Tip: Try fishing a heavily weighted goldhead through the deep pools early in the year.
Permits: A seasonal permit is required to fish the Tolka. These can be obtained from the Club Secretary or from the following tackle shops; Rory’s, Henry’s and ABC.
Access to Fisheries: Access does not imply a right of way and anglers should ensure that, they have the necessary permission to enter or cross private lands. Where possible anglers should walk along the river bank or lake shore.
Country Code: Anglers should ensure that gates are closed and that fences are not broken or damaged. Care should be taken with crops and livestock. Litter must not be discarded and no fires are allowed. Vehicles should be parked in designated areas and in such a manner that they do not cause obstruction.
Errors and Inaccuracies: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that the information contained in this webpage is accurate, no responsibility will be accepted by the Eastern Regfional Fisheries Board for any errors or inaccuracies contained herein. Any errors brought to our attention will be corrected immediately.
Further Information: For further information please contact:
Des Chew, Inland Fisheries Ireland, Dublin Angling Initiative, 15a Main Street Blackrock, Co. Dublin. Tel: 01 2787022
- or -
Inland Fisheries Ireland,15a Main Street, Blackrock Co. Dublin
Tel: 00 353 1 2787022 Fax: 00 353 1 22787025 email: info@erfb.ie
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