It was a very wet start to the week, with nearly river bank full or in flood now. Thankfully we have a settled spell of weather for a few days, which will help alleviate flooding concerns.
Galway Weir and the River Corrib in full flow this week.
Last week saw the first salmon from Lough Currane, with Dominic McGillicuddy catching and releasing a 9lbs fresh fish on fly. Well done that man. And the River Moy also saw its first salmon of 2021, with local angler Peter McHigh landing an 11lbs salmon on worm at the back of the weir in Ballina.
Loughs Conn and Cullin opened last week, and the few local anglers close enough to fish it enjoyed some success.
Sea angling has been quiet around the coast, with the poor weather and Covid restrictions not helping, but the Killybegs Mariners members have enjoyed some good fishing in the harbour.
It was otherwise very quiet on the fishing front, so we had time to browse Youtube for inspiration. For those into pike fishing, Marcin Kantor has produced a nice video showing flyfishing for some big 1m+ pike from last autumn. Marcin was fishing from a bellyboat, a great method that allows the angler to get quite close to fish without spooking them.
And fly anglers who like targeting bass, sea trout and pollack may get some inspiration, and tips, from Ian O’Grady’s excellent instructional videos where he ties a number of popular saltwater patterns.
Finally, congratulations to the Lough Ree Lanesborough Angling Hub whose Access for All boat project along with the voluntary crew have been honoured by the National Lottery for the tremendous work they have done in helping to bring people with disability out on the Shannon.
And now the weather…
Finally a bit of settled weather! High pressure bringing a lot of dry and calm weather. There will be a mix of cloud and some sunny spells, with some light rain or drizzle at times. Cool at night with a risk of frost and fog as winds ease.
Current indications suggest high pressure will remain dominant after midweek, bringing generally settled conditions, although patchy rain and drizzle will occur at times. Daytime temperatures will trend near or slightly above average for early March.
Safe fishing to all and tight lines, especially here in Ireland.
Kevin Crowley
Catch, Photo, Release
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