Markus Muller, Angling Information Manager from the IFI office in Ballina reports on recent pike fishing in the North West Mayo area
Pike Angling
Undoubtedly, the Foxford area with its many different lakes such as Levally, Conn and Derryhick provides some of the best pike flyfishing opportunities in the country. Knowing the excellent flyfishing potential of these waters, regular visitors, Paul Dennis and Wayne Oldfield, both Dublin, met up with local angling guide Kenny Sloan for a day’s fishing. Conditions were good with a moderate southerly breeze. The pair flyfished on several lakes around Foxford and ended up with a fantastic 18 pike for the day.
The biggest fish fell to Wayne, a fine wild Irish pike around the 18 lb. mark, while Paul’s best pike was estimated at 15 lbs. Many more good low doubles were also caught and all fish were safely returned to the water to be caught another day. Pink & white as well as brown & yellow colored streamer patterns worked best. Both anglers intend to return for a day’s fly fishing for brown trout later in the season.
Fantastic sport on the fly – wild Mayo pike! (Paul Dennis, Dublin, with one of 18 fly caught pike)
To book a day’s guiding or boat hire contact Kenny Sloan on +353 (0)949256501 or +353 (0)87 9670310 or visit www.pikemania.co.uk
Murphy’s Boat Hire, Massbrook, also reported some good pike fishing for their clients. A party of pike anglers from France had a total of 10 pike trolling lures, best at 14 lb.
