Guided Predator Angling, based in Enniskillen, reported some hard days fly fishing for pike recently with guest Robin. Robin, originally from London but based in Kerry, had a long drive to get his pike-fishing fix, and there were plenty of pike to be had, with some of them a decent size, but none of the really big fish they were after.
The guys caught good numbers of eager jacks, but towards the end of the day they started to see pike moving in the shallow, weedy areas – a sure sign that they are starting to spawn – and that brought the session to a premature end!
A beautiful time of year to get on the beaches when wrapped up for the cold as the tail end of winter gives us those amazing skies and a changing of the seasons brings on the fishing.
Gavin had a few nice fish on the first outing with the new Tronix competition rod that he won at the Christmas charity beach competition. A lovely piece of kit and rod now christened.
The National Biodiversity Data Centre has a number of initiatives aimed at protecting Ireland’s biodiversity. One programme seeks to tackle the problem of invasive species, something that poses a serious threat to our environment, including all our waterways. Over the next while, we’ll be featuring some content from the NBDC, aimed at engaging and informing anglers about invasive species and what we can do to combat their spread. In the message below they urge clubs to make use of some freely available informative materials.
Help spread the word, not the invasives!
Invasive species can harm native wildlife, spread diseases that kill fish, and obstruct waterways and banks. Contaminated fishing gear, boats, and equipment can introduce these species to new water bodies. Many invasive plants and animals are tiny, difficult to detect, and capable of surviving for weeks on damp gear and equipment.
Building awareness of the issue and the ways in which we can take action is essential to stopping the spread of invasive species. Anglers can play a key role in this effort by helping to share and follow the Check, Clean, Dry message.
The National Biodiversity Data Centre has provided a range of guidance and awareness-raising materials for anglers and other water users on Invasives.ie. These resources can be printed and shared by your club or at events to provide guidance on how water users can minimise their risk of spreading invasive species to new waterbodies and to raise awareness around the potential impact of these species in Irish aquatic environments.
This post was compiled from angling reports shared on the Ardmore SAC Facebook page:
Ardmore SAC and Clashmore SAC came together on Saturday for their annual interclub competition, with a late change of venue required due to strong winds and an unfavourable forecast. The event was moved to Ardmore Beach, where anglers were greeted by a gentle surf and a following wind. Fishing began with most competitors opting to fish at distance, and early returns saw fish coming quickly for several anglers. It soon became clear that the lower pegs were producing best, with Mochara racing into an early lead and landing fish in quick succession, including a notable gilthead bream—an unusual catch for the time of year.
As the match progressed, Aidan O’Halloran found his rhythm and steadily closed the gap, setting up a head-to-head battle with Mochara by the halfway stage. Willie Kett and Joe Muir also fished consistently, applying pressure throughout. By the close of the competition, Aidan O’Halloran secured victory with an impressive 25-fish haul, followed by Mochara in second with 17 fish and Willie Kett in third with 12. Joe Muir claimed the pools, while Clashmore SAC took the overall bragging rights, finishing with 2,328 points to Ardmore SAC’s 1,730. Species landed on the night included dogfish, whiting, bass, dab, gilthead bream, rockling, flounder, and coalfish.
A full report and more photos can be viewed on the Ardmore SAC Facebook Page.
This post was compiled from angling reports shared on the Ulster Krakens Facebook page:
The Ulster Krakens Master Angler Qualifying League returned on Saturday, 21st February, after the previous match was cancelled due to unsafe road flooding. Committee members arrived early to inspect the venue at Waterfoot, and it was decided to fish from the play park end as the central car park remained closed. The beach was pegged and the draw held at 17:00, before anglers made their way to their marks for the club’s first zoned-format match, introduced this season due to increased membership. New anglers Paul and Ryan made their debuts and were welcomed into the field as fishing got underway at 18:00, with early action in both zones despite a slow start on the higher pegs.
Fish were spread around patchily at the outset, but as the tide turned, catches improved significantly across the beach, with anglers steadily filling scorecards in both zones. A wide range of species were landed in calm, clear conditions, including flounder, dab, plaice, coalies, codling, whiting, and rockling. Zone A produced 144 fish and Zone B 147, with the biggest fish of the night a 44cm coalie caught by Paul Hill. Ryan McAtee topped Zone A with 34 fish and claimed the overall win on his debut, while Yuki Back secured first place in Zone B following a strong return to competition. The match concluded at 23:00, with thanks extended to members who assisted an injured angler, and congratulations also offered to last year’s award winners as the club looked ahead to the next fixture.
A full report and more photos can be viewed on the Ulster Krakens Facebook Page.
The Piscari-Fly team discuss all things fly-fishing in their latest newsletter:
How’s the Fishing?
While the season has kicked off here in Ireland for wild trout on the rivers and lakes, it certainly hasn’t been an ideal start. Still high waters and coolish weather are stopping the early anglers getting any great numbers of trout. There has been a few trout caught around the country as seen on social media and sure it isn’t nice to get out on a bit of a drift on the Corrib to blow off the winter cobwebs and making you feel like spring is just around the corner. So anyone who is getting the opportunity to get out, enjoy it, stay safe and tight lines to you all. The start of March will see more fisheries open up and all will be open from St Patrick’s day so we look forward to that date here in Thomastown and getting back out on the rivers. Hopefully we will enjoy a good spring of angling. Every one is itching to get out now and we can even see a little stretch in the evenings so nearly there. We’re nearly out of the winter slump and look forward to the season ahead.
All Ireland Banks
The TAFI All Ireland banks take place next Saturday in Laois Angling Centre. We want to wish everyone on the Leinster Team the best of luck and everyone else too. All the practice is done now and it will be down to the draw on the day and who gets the bit of luck and what fish sticks. The best of luck to all teams and individuals on the day.
Laois Angling Centre
Up Next
The lads head to the The North West Angling Fair on Saturday 28th & Sunday 29th March 2026! Whether you’re a seasoned fly-fisher, a passionate beginner, or simply love the outdoors, the North West Angling Fair brings together top exhibitors, expert demonstrations, workshops, and family-friendly activities.
Irish Spring Angling Fair
It won’t be long now until the Irish Spring Angling Fair returns to Ardaire Springs Angling Centre — a highlight of the angling calendar and the biggest event of the year for Piscari-Fly, as well as one of Ireland’s premier fishing shows.
This fantastic event continues to grow year after year, and preparations are already well underway. Ned and his dedicated team have been working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure everything is in place for what promises to be another outstanding weekend. Exciting announcements will be made in the coming weeks about the expert demonstrators and fly tyers who will be attending, with some of the best talent in the sport set to share their skills and knowledge.
The weekend will be packed with demonstrations and seminars covering all aspects of angling, including salmon, trout, sea trout, bass, pike, and sea fishing. Whether you are a seasoned angler or just starting out, there will be something to inspire and inform everyone.
Alongside the angling attractions, visitors can also enjoy a classic car and tractor rally, laser shooting activities, and a wide variety of new trade stands showcasing the latest gear, equipment, and innovations in the sport.
The Kids Zone was a phenomenal success last year, proving hugely popular with both children and parents alike. We are delighted to see this returning once again, as promoting angling to young people is vital for the future of the sport. Encouraging the next generation to get involved ensures that our traditions, skills, and passion for fishing continue to thrive.
It promises to be an amazing May Bank Holiday weekend, full of development, learning, and community spirit. Events like this are incredibly important, especially as there are only a handful of such shows left in the country. They give us all the opportunity to meet fellow anglers, share knowledge, catch up with friends, and celebrate the sport we love.
If you’re free over the May Bank Holiday weekend, be sure to come along to Ardaire Springs. Bring the family, try your hand at fly fishing or fly tying, explore the stands, and enjoy everything the fair has to offer. There truly is something for everyone.
The TAFI National AGM took place on Sunday, 22nd February, in Portlaoise at 2pm, with an excellent attendance—one of the strongest seen in many years. The meeting was both productive and positive, reflecting the continued commitment and enthusiasm within the organisation.
Peter attended in his role as Provincial Chairman for Leinster and was honoured to be elected Chairman of the Trout Anglers Federation of Ireland. Having been a member of TAFI since the age of 16, Peter has dedicated the past 30 years to the organisation in various capacities.
Over the decades, Peter has proudly represented TAFI at both European and World Championships, competing under the TAFI banner as both a youth international and later as a senior angler. These experiences at the highest level of competition have given him invaluable insight into the sport, as well as unforgettable memories and lifelong friendships within the angling community at home and abroad.
It is a tremendous honour for Peter to take on such a prestigious leadership role within Irish angling. The sport has given him so much over the years—opportunities to travel, compete, and build lasting friendships—and he is deeply committed to giving something back. His long involvement at club, provincial, national, and international level provides him with a well-rounded understanding of the Federation and its members.
Looking ahead, Peter is excited about supporting the continued growth and evolution of TAFI. Like any organisation, there is important work ahead—from strengthening participation at grassroots level and supporting youth development, to promoting high-performance angling on the international stage. He is particularly passionate about encouraging the next generation of anglers and ensuring the Federation remains strong, inclusive, and forward-looking.
Peter looks forward to working closely with the newly elected committee, building on the solid foundations already in place, and guiding the Federation confidently into the future.
Congratulations to Mark on his appointment as Competitions Chairman for TAFI. A role that involves looking after our Provincial and National competitions and of course our International teams who fish the Fips Mouche European and World Championships, the 5 Nations and the Fips Mouche Masters Championship and Bank Championships. We wish Mark all the best in his new role and I am sure we will see some changes to TAFI brought in by the 2 lads over the year.
About us
Based on the River Nore just outside Thomastown, Co Kilkenny, Ireland. Piscari-Fly is a growing Fly Tying and Fly-Fishing business with a vast amount of experience and knowledge. If there is ever anything I can do to make my service better for you please feel free to suggest it to me and I’ll gladly try my best to accommodate your requests. Thanks again. Peter Driver.
As a small business we depend on the satisfaction of our customers and their word of mouth, google reviews are important to our online presence and we sure would appreciate your review. Just head over to this link and give us a quick review.
For all your fly tying and fly fishing needs. Stocking rods, reels, clothing water etc
Guiding
Want to improve or learn any aspects of your fly fishing? Then why not give us a shout and we will look after you. Fishing available locally on the River Nore at Thomastown and other club water by arrangement. We have also teamed up with Blackwater Trout and Salmon fishery to offer you an amazing fishing experience with over 8km of amazing river to be discovered.
Full & Half Guided days
One to one coaching
Master classes
Groups and Clubs welcome
Nymphing. Dry Fly. Wet Fly. Streamer. Dry Dropper
Instruction
Peter Driver is a qualified casting instructor with APAGI, and advanced qualified fly dresser with APAGI. He specialises in competition nymphs and fishing, Irish lake flies, streamers and lures.
As a qualified casting instructor with APAGI I Peter offers casting clinic’s and lessons, to suit your desires. Being able to cast correctly and have a good understanding of the mechanics of casting is a solid foundation in fly fishing that will pay off in your fishing, be it rivers or lakes.
This post was compiled from angling reports shared on the Ballybrack SAC Facebook page:
Ballybrack SAC kicked off the 2026 Master Angler Series on Sunday, 15th February at Kiltennel Beach, with conditions proving far calmer than forecast despite a westerly breeze. A total of 26 anglers, including long-standing members and newly affiliated ‘Brackers’, lined the shingle for the club’s first qualifying competition since 2025. Fishing began at midday and produced a mixed bag, though consistency was difficult early on. Anglers fishing mid-range banks with fish baits and worms landed patches of spurdog, along with dabs, whiting, rockling, and some quality flounder. Notable catches included a counting bass for Robbie Durning and a fine brill for Dave Coleman.
In Zone A, Paul Tyndall’s consistent approach and ability to pick off better-sized fish at range earned him first place overall, ahead of John Keane in second and Darragh Mulligan in third. Zone B proved tightly contested, with Stephen Glynn claiming victory after a strong, consistent performance, followed closely by Peter Taite and Dennis Brock. The juniors once again impressed, with Donnacha Brock winning on his Ballybrack debut after a close battle with Sean Keane, while Paul Crimmons secured a strong third place among the seniors. Pool prizes went to Eric Gasparro for a 45cm spurdog and Lar Mooney for a 32cm flounder. The Junior Cup for 2025 was awarded to Jesse Murphy, and the Senior Ballybrack Cup to Eric Gasparro, marking a strong and encouraging start to the 2026 season.
A full report and more photos can be viewed on the Ballybrack SAC Facebook Page.
It will come as no surprise to hear that rainfall amounts were well above average across parts of the midlands and east over the last 7 days, with accumulations ranging from around 180% to 480% of average. Dublin Airport recorded the most rain, with 58.5 mm, while the west and southwest remained the driest parts of the country once again, with Belmullet, Co. Mayo recording the lowest amount of rain with 15.9mm.
Trout and salmon fisheries have been opening in stages and this week many trout anglers finally got their fix in the ‘dry’ west of Ireland, as Corrib, Mask, Conn and a whole host of other fisheries opened for trout angling on Sunday, February 15th. Traditional early-season tactics include trolling the brickeen and artificial lures. Spring salmon are also targeted using trolling methods, but it was gusty and blustery winds that kept most boats at bay in Waterville this week, where anglers still wait for the first spring fish of 2026.
Away from the water, Dan O’Neill of South East Casting attended Italy’s biggest angling expo as a fly tyer and casting instructor. Dan was in the company of some well-known fly dressers and angling personalities, and he fit right in! You can read about his experience in his latest newsletter.
Wild Salmon and Sea Trout Tagging Scheme Regulations 2026
Minister of State with responsibility for Fisheries and the Marine, Timmy Dooley, has announced the launch of a second public consultation on the draft Wild Salmon and Sea Trout Tagging Scheme Regulations 2026. This consultation provides stakeholders and members of the public with a further opportunity to comment on the draft Regulations before they are finalised. The consultation will be open for 30 days, closing at 5:30pm on Thursday, 5th March 2026
Job Opportunities
Inland Fisheries Ireland has launched a national recruitment campaign to fill several seasonal roles, including Fisheries Officers and Research Assistants, with positions available across the country. The outdoor roles will begin in April and offer opportunities to work in rivers, lakes, and coastal environments. These seasonal opportunities would be well-suited to those with an interest in protecting, managing and conserving Ireland’s inland fisheries and sea angling resources.
And now the weather
Outbreaks of rain and drizzle will move northeastwards across the country on Friday night, becoming drier behind the rain. Mild with lows of 5 to 9°C in southwest winds.
A breezy and wet Saturday with outbreaks of heavy rain moving northeastwards across the country. Highs of 10 to 13°C with fresh southwest winds. Rain will clear southeastwards early overnight, leaving isolated showers. Mild with lows of 6 to 9°C in fresh southwest winds.
Bright and blustery with heavy showers on Sunday, becoming persistent in the afternoon. Highs of 9 to 12°C with occasionally strong southwest winds. Remaining blustery overnight with clear spells and scattered showers. Lows of 5 to 8°C with fresh southwest winds. A mixed outlook for early next week.
Don’t forget to double-check the forecast before heading off, and if you’re going to sea, check the tides.
We gave you a heads-up last week about the Irish ‘Team Wildhunter’, who are competing in the latest series of Fly vs Jerk. Well, at the end of the first episode, the lads were struggling a bit to connect with the fish. Episode 2, which dropped last Friday, showed the second half of the fishing on Day 1 of the competition. Did the lads’ fortunes improve after lunch…? Tune in here to find out:
Killybegs Fishing Trips were out for the first time this season. Despite very cold conditions, the crew managed to complete the full trip before the weather deteriorated. Fishing got off to a steady start, easing off around the turn of the tide before picking up again during the final couple of hours. The bulk of the catch consisted of pollack, along with two very large wrasse. The catch of the day, however, went to the youngest angler on board, who landed the biggest pollack.
