March was a difficult month weather-wise on Corrib, with unseasonably cold winds from the east on many days, and plenty of rain on others. That said, when conditions were suitable, duckfly hatches were reasonably good. The hatch started early, around the 10th, with the best fishing in the week after St. Patrick’s Day. Given the conditions, buzzer fishing took most fish caught on the fly, with short periods of surface action on the better days when dry fly and emergers did well. Best fish we heard of was 6.5lbs, and anglers noted a lack of fish over 4lbs this year, although there were plenty of 2-3lbs fish.

Trolling also produced some fine fish. Young angler Sean Ward had a PB ferox of 78cm, guided by Tomi Kurman. Over the St. Patrick’s Day weekend guests on Tomi’s boat had ferox to over 80cm, all on the troll. Guide Jasper Mathews also found some fine ferox for his clients, with German angler Arnulf greatly enjoying his trip, landing some fine fish despite cold and windy conditions.

Olives are starting to appear now, as well as some early sedges. It will not be long now before the first mayfly appear, and the peak angling effort of the season.

 

Competition Time

Competitions are getting into full swing on Corrib, with many clubs holding events over the next few weekends.

Saturday 13th April

Collinamuck Angling Club are holding the Butt Cup, with all legal methods allowed. Fishing from 11am – 6pm, last registration at 10.30am at the pier in Collinamuck, weigh-in at 6pm.

Sunday 14th April

Cong and District Angling Club Annual Wetfly Competition. Fishing 11am – 6pm, registration 10.30am at the Roach Pond, Lisloughrey. Weigh-in at 6pm.

Kilbeg Anglers Club competition, non-members €20. €400 worh of prizes. Fishing from 11am-6pm, registration 10.15 – 10.45 at Kilbeg Pier. For more info contact 089 4507213

Annaghdown Angling Club host the Freedom Cup with the kind agreement of the Nolan family, following the very recent passing of Des Nolan. This will be the first time that the competition will be held without the presence of Des. The Nolan family presented the trophy many moons ago and have sponsored it ever since then. Fly-fishing only, fishing 10.30am-6pm.

Saturday 28th April

Cornamona & District Anglers host the Annual Hospice Pairs Flyfishing Competition. This is a catch-and-release competition that raises valuable funds for the Galway Hospice. Fishing from 11am – 6pm, registration at the Carrick Shore. Lots of great prizes, €50 entry per angler which goes to a great cause. For more info contact Eamon Gavin at 087 7785713