Brid O’Malley was in touch from Ballynahinch Castle to report that the summer grilse have arrived after the nice fresh rain last Friday. The river rose a little, with great results this past weekend. 13 salmon were landed, and a few more got away. Tom McManus had great success with a hat -trick on Friday and another 3 fish were landed on Saturday. The usual traditional flies are working best – Silver Rat and Ballynahinch Badger and a few on the Silver Stoat too. The lower water is actually better and preferred at Ballynahinch as the salmon can still come in without difficulty and will stay in the lower beats until a big flood arrives.
So with the grilse running well now, there are fish showing up and down the river. There are also a lot of smaller sea trout around, which provide sport even for the novice learning to fly fish. For the more experienced anglers, catches into the double figures are very possible, even in one afternoon. There are some places available on the river at the moment, but booking is definitely advised.
Contact the hotel reception on 095 31006 to arrange fishing or visit www.ballynahinch-castle.com .
