The Rye Water rises in Co. Kildare and flows in a south-easterly direction for 12 miles. It then joins with the Liffey at Leixlip. Although the river has been drained it is generally fast flowing over a stoney bottom. There are reasonable stocks of brown trout in this river which gets good hatches of olives and sedges.
Stocks and stretches
The stretch of the Rye Water from Sandford’s Bridge to the Leixlip Aqueduct is controlled by Leixlip and District Angling Association. Access to this stretch is from Kellystown Lane and from the towpath beside the Aquaduct. There is very good quality trout fishing, particularly in spring. Fish average 10 oz but trout to over 3 lbs recorded every year.
Fly hatches
Excellent hatches of olives emerge at various times of the year. Good hatches of sedges also occur in the late evenings from the middle of May up to the end of Sept. Anglers are required at all times carry a permit or display a membership badge at all times. This can and will be examined by officers from Intel or the Angling Association. This stretch is owned by Intel Ireland Ltd. and leased to Leixlip Angling Association.
Angling Bye-Law
Angling Bye-law No. 982 of 2020 prohibits the use of any fish hooks, other than single or double barbless hooks, and also prohibits the use of worms as bait in angling for all species of fish.
Location
Rye Water, Leixlip, Co. Kildare.
Fish Species
Brown Trout
Season
Brown trout: 1st March – 30th September
Methods:
(Fly Fishing only with a Catch and Release policy for ALL Fish.)
Best Flies
- Dry flies: olives & sedges, sizes 14 – 16
- Wet flies; patterns including gold heads size 12 – 16.
Angling Club
Leixlip & District Angling Association control fishing on this river:
Membership Secretary: Michael O’Callaghan.
Telephone: 00 353 87 2042149.
Fishing Tip
Try fishing a small nymph suspended under the dry fly on evenings when the fish are rising short.
Day Ticket
Day tickets are available for visiting anglers who wish to fish the Rye Water. They can be obtained from The Leixlip Amenities Centre, Collinstown, Maynooth Road, Co. Kildare. Tel: 624 3050
Access to fisheries
Access does not imply a right of way. Anglers should ensure that, they have the necessary permission to enter or cross private lands. Where possible anglers should walk along the river bank.
Country Code
Closed gates and ensure that fences are not broken or damaged. Take care with crops and livestock. Do not discard litter or light fires. Park vehicles in designated areas and in such a manner that they do not cause obstruction. Please follow the principles of Leave No Trace when fishing.
