Congratulations go to Donal Monaghan of North Kildare Trout and Salmon Anglers Association who recently won the Irish Trout Fly Fishing Associations (ITFFA) Leinster Rivers Championship Trophy. The 2013 match took place at the River Liffey on 19th May 2013 and was hosted by Ballymore Eustace Trout and Salmon Anglers Association.

Action shot of Brian Larkin from Kildare playing a Liffey beauty!
Action shot of Brian Larkin from Kildare playing a Liffey beauty!

Nineteen entries were received for this competition from which five anglers are selected to represent Leinster at the National Championship. Despite being flooded on the day prior to the match the Liffey was in perfect condition with good water levels and clarity. Whilst the trout proved difficult to tempt to the fly, the Liffey provided some absolutely fabulous action and produced some fantastic trout. The largest fish of the day which was also caught by Donal measured a remarkable 53cm and would have weighed in the region of 4lb.

Donal Monaghan receiving his trophy from Tony Doherty
Donal Monaghan receiving his trophy from Tony Doherty

Donal, who had four placings will represent Leinster at the 2013 National Championship which will take place on the 15th June at the River Blackwater in Cork. Donal will be joined by Fran Nugent (Dublin Trout Anglers) who finished in 2nd place with 4 placings, Noel O’Neill (North Kildare Anglers) who finished in 3rd place with 7 placings, Peter Doherty (Clane Anglers) who finished 4th with 7 placings and Tony Doherty (Clane Anglers) who finished 5th with 7 placings who will also represent Leinster.

The River Liffey is an absolutely fabulous game angling venue which produces several specimen trout annually.  With the mayfly fishing due to commence and the olive fishing in full swing the Liffey is well worth a visit. Effective flies for the Liffey include the Grey Flag, Ginger Quill, Greenwells Glory and various spider and nymph patterns. Visiting anglers should consult with local angling clubs to ensure that they have the necessary permission to fish their water.

We would like to wish the Leinster Team the very best of luck as they begin preparations for the National Championship!

Irish Trout Fly Fishing Association
Contact: Joseph Keena
Mobile Tel: 086 8722449
Email: [email protected]

Action shot of Brian Larkin from Kildare playing a Liffey beauty!
Action shot of Brian Larkin from Kildare playing a Liffey beauty!