The prize for the largest skate, bagging the €2,000 prize fund was Padraic Munnelly who caught a skate with a wingspan of 72.5″ aboard Mary Gavin Hughes Boat, The Shamrock. The festival, which was launched by Minister Michael Ring, TD,    was fished in beautiful weather conditions. IFI provide a RIB for the two days as a safety boat and boat for photographers film crews covering the event.

Minister of State Michael Ring launched the angling festival
Minister of State Michael Ring launched the angling festival. L eft to right - Vinnie Keogh (The Helm), Assistant Inspector Padraic O Malley, Inspector Walter Butler, Minister Michael Ring, Fisheries Officer Alan Mc Donnell and Fisheries Officer Barry Kelly

This is one of three Skate that was caught in the first day being released back into Clew Bay.
This is one of three Skate that was caught in the first day being released back into Clew Bay.

Skipper, MAry Gavin Hughes helps Padraig Munnelly raise his trophy at the presentation of his €2000 prize
Skipper, Mary Gavin Hughes helps Padraig Munnelly raise his trophy at the presentation of his €2000 prize

For more photos see The Helm, Westport Facebook page The Helm, Westport Facebook page.