Bass angling guide Richie Ryan tried his hand at some ‘bow’ fishing last week:
Let me point out from the start that I’m a total amateur at fly fishing for rainbow trout. Southern County Fishing Resort in Garryhill Co. Carlow is a recent discovery for me. My brother Captain Fintan Ryan used to bring his son Ross fishing here as it’s very close to our hometown of Borris, Co. Carlow. Fintan had told me many times how good the trout angling was here. As stated before here, it’s a hidden gem with monster trout roaming the various waters.
Having stayed in Borris in the fabulous Step House Hotel, (thank you Amy Ryan for the voucher), it was only a short trip to the resort. On arrival, I met the owner Pat Foley who settled me in and wished me luck with the exciting news that an 18 Pounder was caught and returned yesterday! I had listened to a recent Ireland on the Fly podcast by Denis Goulding. So much excellent advice to consider, daunting. I’m used to using an indicator for mullet on the fly so I left that on the 6 Lb fluorocarbon. The indicator disappeared a few times, and, daydreaming as usual, I missed those opportunities. Pinching myself that I was fly fishing for trout in December, it was time to wake up and pay attention or end up with a blank.
Many changes of fly later I was eventually successful having hooked a steam train! Strip striking, which I always employ when fly fishing for mullet, was the secret. The trout was 6 to 8 lbs I reckon, anxious not to stress the fish too much pressure resulted in a broken leader. Another fly was tied and Pat was at my side for the next episode also. He told me he has no interest in fishing but absolutely loves to see anglers catching, especially on the fly. As can be seen from the photo it was no small quarry, 10 Lbs Pat reckoned, thanks for landing net neatly employed Mr. Foley! Another trout about half that size threw the hook just at the net and one more on the bank. Session over, I had to head to Dublin.
I’d like to thank Pat Foley for his kindness on the day, he really did want me to catch trout. I’ll definitely be back for another few sessions next year. If you want a winter fly fishing fix then I’d highly recommend Southern County Fishing Resort, Garryhill, Co Carlow. I should have listened to my brother Fintan so many years ago when he was recommending a trip here.
