FISHING in Ireland’s county KERRY

Lough Currane: A renowned game fishing lake near Waterville in southwest Kerry, famous for its sea trout, salmon, and brown trout, surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery. Anglers can enjoy fly fishing from boats (ghillies recommended) for sea trout (some of Ireland’s largest) and salmon, with peak seasons from April to October. Expect a serene, wild setting with stunning views of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks. A state rod license is required for salmon and sea trout, and permits are available from local tackle shops or ghillies like Vincent Appleby (+353 87 2074882). Guided trips with experts like Neil O’Shea offer boat hire and tackle.
River Feale: A productive salmon and trout river near Listowel in north Kerry, flowing into the Shannon Estuary, with key fishing spots at “The Wall” in Finuge and near Listowel Bridge. Expect excellent salmon and brown trout fishing, best from spring to autumn, using fly or spinning methods. The banks near Listowel and Finuge are popular but can get busy, so arrive early. A state salmon license and permits are required, available from Halpin’s Fishing Store in Listowel (+353 68 22244). The lively town of Listowel, with its pubs and festivals, adds charm to the experience.
Killarney Lakes (Lough Leane, Muckross Lake, Upper Lake): A trio of freshwater lakes in Killarney National Park, offering exceptional game and coarse fishing for brown trout, salmon, and occasional pike. Anglers can fish for free (no permit needed) for brown trout, but a state license is required for salmon. Expect scenic boat or bank fishing amidst lush parkland, with chances to catch spring salmon or grilse on Lough Leane. Guided trips with Killarney Fishing Tours (+353 87 1229352) provide tackle and local knowledge. The vibrant town of Killarney offers nearby dining and live music.
Dingle Peninsula (Dingle Bay and Shore Fishing): A hotspot for deep-sea and shore angling along the rugged Dingle coastline, with charter boats departing from Dingle and shore fishing at spots like Slea Head and Brandon Point. Deep-sea charters (e.g., Dingle Boat Tours, +353 87 6726100) offer 2-hour trips for mackerel, pollock, ling, and cod, with a chance to see dolphins and seals. Shore fishing at Kells, Inch, or Brandon Rock yields bass, flounder, and wrasse. Expect dramatic cliffs and Atlantic views, with skippers filleting your catch for local restaurants like John Benny’s (€10 for fish and chips). No license is needed for sea angling (except bass).
River Caragh: A scenic salmon and sea trout river near Killorglin, divided into Upper and Lower Caragh, flowing through Lough Caragh into Castlemaine Harbour. Expect fly fishing in streamy upper waters or deeper lower stretches for salmon and grilse, with sea trout runs in summer. The river’s breathtaking scenery, framed by mountains, enhances the experience. A state license and permits are required, available from local tackle shops like Landers Outdoor World in Tralee. Guided trips with Atlantic Fishing Pursuits (+353 89 4068696) cater to all skill levels.
Blackwater River (Kerry Blackwater): A small but productive river flowing from Lough Brin to Kenmare Bay, known for salmon and sea trout, located near Kenmare. Anglers can target salmon (around 1,500 annually) and sea trout from March 17 to September 30, with fly fishing preferred (traditional patterns for low water, shrimp patterns for high). Expect a quiet, intimate fishery with day tickets available from the Blackwater Tavern (+353 64 6682003) or the fishing hut. The nearby town of Kenmare offers charming pubs and dining.
Permits and Licenses: A state rod license is required for salmon and sea trout fishing, available online (www.fishinginireland.info) (www.fishinginireland.info) or at tackle shops like Halpin’s in Listowel or TW Murray & Co in Cork. Trout fishing is often free, but permits for specific waters are needed, obtainable locally. No license is required for sea angling, except for bass (restricted May 15–June 15).
Guided Fishing: Local guides like Tony Payne Fishing Adventures (+353 86 0530862) for Killarney and Dingle, or John Quinlan (+353 66 9474721) for Waterville, offer tailored trips with equipment and instruction for freshwater or saltwater fishing.
Tackle Shops: Landers Outdoor World (Tralee, +353 66 7126644), Halpin’s Fishing Store (Listowel), and the Blackwater Tavern (Kenmare) provide tackle, bait, permits, and local advice.
Accessibility: Many venues, like Killarney Lakes and Lough Currane, offer boat hire, while shore fishing spots like Ballybunion and Dingle have good access. Check for disabled-friendly facilities at larger lakes.
Safety and Sustainability: Follow safety precautions for shore angling (life jackets for rock fishing) and adhere to catch-and-release policies for protected species like bass and salmon. Check tides and weather, especially for sea fishing.

County Kerry:

Ireland’s county Kerry is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, with the Ring of Kerry offering scenic drives past lakes and coastal cliffs. Killarney National Park features the serene Lakes of Killarney and historic Muckross House, while Dingle’s coastal trails and dolphin-watching opportunities add natural allure. Accessible by seasonal ferry, the Skellig Islands’ ancient monastic ruins make Kerry a compelling choice for outdoor adventure and history. Kerry is Ireland’s fifth largest county by size (4,701 square km) and 15th largest by population (156,458). Population peaked at 293,880 in 1841 and reached its lowest point, 112,785 in 1966. In terms of hospitality, Kerry is Ireland’s fourth most visited tourist county with around 877,000 international visitors per year.

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