- River Nore: One of Ireland’s “Three Sisters” rivers, flowing through Kilkenny City and Thomastown, famous for salmon, brown trout, and coarse fish like pike, bream, and roach. Anglers can target salmon (best February to September) and brown trout using fly or spinning methods, with notable beats at Inistioge and Thomastown. Coarse fishing yields pike up to 20 pounds and large shoals of bream. Expect scenic riverbanks with historic sites like Kilkenny Castle nearby. A state rod license is required for salmon and sea trout, and permits are available from local angling clubs or tackle shops like Kilkenny Angling Centre (+353 56 7721820). Guided trips are offered by experts like Jason O’Riordan.
- River Barrow: A major river forming Kilkenny’s eastern border, known for coarse fishing (pike, bream, roach, perch) and some game fishing for salmon and trout. Expect productive coarse fishing, particularly for pike and bream, with bank access near Graiguenamanagh and St. Mullins. Salmon and trout are present in upper stretches, best fished from spring to autumn. The river’s tranquil setting, with views of the Blackstairs Mountains, is ideal for a relaxing day. A state license is needed for salmon, and permits can be sourced from local clubs or tackle shops in Graiguenamanagh. Boat hire is available for deeper waters.
- River Suir: A premier game fishing river touching southern Kilkenny near Piltown, celebrated for its salmon, brown trout, and sea trout. Anglers can enjoy fly fishing for salmon (spring and summer runs) and brown trout, with sea trout active at night in summer. Expect fast-flowing waters and scenic stretches near the Tipperary border. A state rod license and permits from local angling clubs (e.g., Carrick-on-Suir Angling Club) are required, available at tackle shops like TW Murray & Co in Carrick-on-Suir. The river’s proximity to historic villages adds cultural appeal.
- Kings River: A tributary of the River Nore near Callan, offering excellent brown trout fishing and some coarse species like pike and perch. Expect intimate fly fishing for wild brown trout (averaging 1-2 pounds) in a quiet, rural setting, best from March to September. Coarse anglers can target pike in deeper pools. A state license is needed for trout, and permits are available from Kilkenny Angling Club or local tackle shops. The river’s clear waters and lush surroundings make it ideal for a peaceful day, with Callan’s historic sites nearby.
- Thomastown Ponds: A series of small, managed ponds near Thomastown, stocked with carp, tench, rudd, and roach, ideal for coarse fishing. Anglers can expect a family-friendly coarse fishing experience, with carp up to 10 pounds and plentiful smaller fish. The ponds are easily accessible with bank fishing and parking. No state license is required for coarse fishing, but day tickets are needed, available from Thomastown Angling Club or local tackle shops. The nearby town of Thomastown offers pubs and cafes for a post-fishing break.
- Permits and Licenses: A state rod license is required for salmon and sea trout fishing, available online at www.fishinginireland.info or from tackle shops like Kilkenny Angling Centre (Kilkenny City, +353 56 7721820) or Halpin’s Fishing Store in nearby Waterford. Coarse fishing typically requires no license, but local permits are needed, obtainable from angling clubs or shops.
- Guided Fishing: Local guides, such as Jason O’Riordan (+353 87 2986961) or Angling Services Ireland, offer tailored trips for salmon, trout, and coarse fishing, with equipment and instruction provided.
- Tackle Shops: Kilkenny Angling Centre and TW Murray & Co (Carrick-on-Suir) stock tackle, bait, and permits. Online suppliers like Wildhunter.ie also serve Kilkenny.
- Accessibility: Most venues, like the River Nore and Thomastown Ponds, offer good bank access. The River Barrow has some disabled-friendly platforms near Graiguenamanagh.
- Sustainability: Catch-and-release is encouraged for salmon and trout, with strict bag/size limits. Check www.fishinginireland.info for regulations, especially on the Nore and Suir.
County Kilkenny:
Ireland’s county Kilkenny is a county of medieval charm, with Kilkenny City’s castle and St Canice’s Cathedral showcasing well-preserved architecture and round towers. The Dunmore Cave offers intriguing limestone formations, while the Nore Valley’s walking trails provide scenic beauty. Other attractions include the historic Jerpoint Abbey’s intricate carvings. Kilkenny is Ireland’s 16th largest county by size (2,062 square km) and 21st largest by population (104,160). Population peaked at 202,420 in 1841 and reached its lowest point, 60,463 in 1966. In terms of hospitality, Kilkenny is Ireland’s eleventh most visited tourist county with around 207,000 international visitors per year.
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