Excellent fishing reported from Mask

Ronan Cusack reports excellent fishing on Lough Mask over the past week as fly hatches get into full swing.

Mayfly, Campto Buzzer and prolific hatches of Olives have been reported from most areas across the lake.

Ballinrobe & District Anglers held the David Walsh Memorial Cup on Sunday last. This was a pairs competition and was supported by 64 anglers from across the country. Conditions were tough with blistering sunshine and flat calm. Buzzer and nymph fishing was not allowed which restricted everyone to fishing dries or pulling small wets. First place went to local anglers Adrian Gorman and Kevin Egan with 2 fish for 4.85lbs. In second position was Sean McAvoy and Declan McAlorum with 3 fish for 3.87lbs. Third place went to last year’s winner Aidan Heffernan and Kenneth Greally with 2 fish for 3.56lbs. Heaviest fish prize was won by Fermanagh angler Gareth Foley with a trout of 2.32lbs.

Denis Kelleher and Phil Brooks had a day to remember on Friday last landing 9 fish all over the 13” limit on wet-flies. Phil also fished for a day with Richie Cameron and they finished with 5 trout on wets (best fish 1.75lbs). Sean McAvoy and Declan Murphy had a lively day on Monday boating 11 good trout. Hugh Jameson and 7 angling friends from Northern Ireland stayed at Hall’s angling Centre for 3 days this week and they had over 50 trout for the 3 days.

Weather conditions are to improve for the rest of the week so the outlook remains good.