The NCFFI reports on the All Ireland Canal Championships fished at Prosperous last week…
30 April: This weekend saw 35 anglers from across the provinces take to the banks of the Grand Canal at Prosperous for the annual All Ireland championships. The competition was fished over two different sections at Digby Bridge and Salins.
There were very few small fish present but plenty of roach to 2lbs; it was tough for some but those that caught had the bigger fish with roach, tench and some bream resulting in some lovely catches to 11kg.

Fint Brennan is our champion for the second year in a row with 3.7kg on Saturday and 10.25 on Sunday for the winning weight of 13.95kg. In second place was Joe Nolan, on his first return to match fishing after a 2-year absence with 13kg and in 3rd Pat Bartley with 11.35kg.
Congratulation to the winners and everyone who took part! Thank you to sponsors Waterways Ireland, Dowlings Prosperous for their hospitality, to Sean Ward and John Connolly for their organisation and to all who helped out on the bank.
If you want to partake in some match fishing on the Grand Canal the Leinster clubs run regular open matches plus a selection of festivals attended by overseas anglers too – for details visit https://bit.ly/2HFJzDv
The Junior Canal Championships takes place at Prosperous on Saturday 19th May with categories for the U20, U15 and relaxed novice section. Come on Dad’s and Grandparents bring along the kids for a fun day in the outdoors! Contact Sean Ward 086 811 5526.
The National Coarse Fishing Federation of Ireland
The National Coarse Fishing Federation of Ireland are the National Governing Body for coarse and predator angling as recognised by Sport Ireland and Sport NI. www.ncffi.ie