FISHING in Ireland’s county DERRY

River Foyle: A major river system spanning Counties Derry, Tyrone, and Donegal, renowned for its Atlantic salmon, grilse, and sea trout, with additional coarse fishing opportunities. Anglers can target salmon and sea trout from February to September, with thousands arriving from the Atlantic during spawning season. Expect fishing from piers, shores, or boats, with the inner Foyle offering calm waters and the outer areas providing open-sea access. Species like roach, bream, and pike are also present for coarse anglers. A DAERA rod license and local permits (season or day) are required, available from tackle shops like City Tackle in Derry City. Guided trips and boat hire are available, and the scenic Foyle estuary, near historic Derry City, enhances the experience.
River Roe: A scenic salmon and trout river flowing through Roe Valley Country Park, near Limavady, known for its brown trout, sea trout, and salmon. Visitors can enjoy game fishing in stunning gorges and lush woodland settings, with salmon and sea trout runs peaking in summer and autumn. Fly fishing and spinning are popular methods. Expect a tranquil experience with riverside walks and a 30ft waterfall (Ness) nearby. A DAERA license and permits from local angling clubs are required, available at tackle shops like GI Stores in Derry. The park’s museum and Ritter’s Tea Room add to the visitor experience.
Lower River Bann: A premier fishery flowing through Coleraine, managed by the Honourable The Irish Society, offering excellent salmon, trout, pike, and coarse fishing. Anglers can target salmon, brown trout, and sea trout, with coarse species like roach, bream, and pike also abundant. Expect private beats for game fishing (season/day rods available) and unrestricted stretches for coarse fishing. The river’s deep pools and fast flows provide challenging yet rewarding fishing, especially during summer salmon runs. A DAERA license and permits are needed, obtainable from local suppliers like Coleraine’s tackle shops. The river’s proximity to the Causeway Coast adds scenic appeal.
Binevenagh Lake: A public fishery near Limavady, stocked with rainbow and brown trout, ideal for fly fishing in a scenic setting under Binevenagh Mountain. Anglers can expect a peaceful fly-fishing experience with well-stocked trout, best fished from spring to autumn. The lake’s exposed location offers stunning views but requires caution in windy conditions. A DAERA license and local season permit are required, available from tackle shops or online. The nearby Binevenagh hike (4.5-5 hours) adds adventure for non-anglers. Bank fishing is accessible, with parking nearby.
Enagh Lough: A lake near Derry City, known for coarse fishing with species like pike, perch, roach, and bream. This is a great spot for coarse anglers seeking a relaxed day by the water, with pike up to 20 pounds and plentiful smaller fish. Expect bank fishing with easy access and a serene environment. A DAERA license is required, and permits can be sourced locally. The lake’s proximity to Derry City makes it convenient for urban visitors, with tackle shops like City Tackle nearby for supplies.
North Coast (Portrush and Ramore Head): The rugged North Coast, including Portrush Harbour and Ramore Head, offers excellent sea angling for mackerel, coalfish, pollock, and more. Shore anglers can fish from piers or rocky marks, while charter boats from Portrush provide deep-sea trips targeting codling, whiting, dogfish, and occasionally rays. Expect lively mackerel fishing in summer and stunning coastal views, with Rathlin Island trips offering larger species like shark. No permit is needed for sea angling (except for bass, with restrictions from May 15 to June 15), but boat hire requires booking through operators like Causeway Lass, which provides equipment and disabled access. Local tackle shops in Portrush offer bait and advice.
Permits and Licenses: A DAERA rod license is mandatory for freshwater fishing in Derry, available online or at tackle shops like City Tackle (Derry City, +44 (0)28 7126 2000) or GI Stores (Derry, +44 (0)28 3752 2335). Local permits are required for most game and some coarse fisheries, often obtainable from angling clubs or shops.
Guided Fishing: Professional guides, such as those at Fishing NI (discovernorthernireland.com), offer full- or half-day trips for salmon, trout, pike, and roach, with tuition and equipment provided. Contact local tackle shops for recommendations.
Accessibility: Many venues, like Enagh Lough and the Lower Bann, offer good bank access and parking. Binevenagh Lake has accessible paths but requires caution due to its exposed location.
Tackle Shops: City Tackle in Derry City and other local shops stock bait, tackle, and permits. Online suppliers like Wildhunter.ie deliver to Derry.
Sustainability: Anglers must follow local regulations, including bag/size limits and fish tagging for salmon/sea trout. Check www.nidirect.gov.uk for details

County Derry:

Ireland’s county Derry offers a rich historical tapestry, with the city’s 17th-century walls providing a walkable journey through its past. The Guildhall and Tower Museum explore Derry’s maritime and political history, while the Peace Bridge offers scenic views over the River Foyle. Derry is Ireland’s 15th largest county by size (2,067 square km) and sixth largest by population (252,231). Population peaked at 222,174 in 1841 and reached its lowest point, 139,693 in 1926. In terms of hospitality, Derry is Ireland’s 16th most visited tourist county with around 135,000 international visitors per year.

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