I was recently invited along on another sampling trip to get some data on pollack for IFI scientists, who are working on establishing some baseline data on the Irish pollack stock to aid fisheries assessments. As most sea anglers know, pollack numbers have declined to the point where commercial fishing for them is now halted, and angling catches have suffered too.
We set out with skipper Kevin MacGabhann aboard his boat, the Maighdean Mara, a 43-ft Aquastar with loads of space for anglers. Kevin is a highly experienced skipper with a vast knowledge of the best fishing marks in Galway Bay, so we knew we were in good hands. The weather was perfect, with light winds, although there was a ground swell that made sea conditions a bit lumpy, although this eased as the tide changed, with almost flat calm seas by evening when the rain arrived just as we arrived back into Ros a Mhil.
Starting on some deeper reefs than the last time out, we were soon into some nice pollack, with several going over 60cm. With spawning season imminent, many were in superb condition, and despite their preoccupation with finding a mate, were feeding hard and quick to take a bit. Feathers, baited hokkais, and jighead lures were all taken readily, with the lures picking out some of the better fish. Along with the pollack were plenty of coalfish, also in great condition and fighting hard all the way to the surface.
Some nice ballan and cuckoo wrasse also came aboard, with some of the male cuckoos displaying stunning colours.
All in all it was a great day, the research team recorded plenty of data and everyone enjoyed a great day fishing. Great to see such good sport so early in the season, and with settled weather in the forecast, why not get a day afloat yourself over the coming weeks?
Go Fishing
Galway Bay Fishing
A regular Galway Bay Safari is from 9am to 6pm. The Maighdean Mara will pick up your party from the pier at Spiddal, County Galway. The boat is yours for the day, though of course skipper Kevin will advise you where the best fishing is to be found. Tackle hire is free.
Address: Galway Bay Safaris, An Boluisce, Spiddal, Co. Galway.
Telephone: +353 91 553888 or +353 86 8547890
Email: [email protected]
