FISHING in Ireland’s county KILDARE

County Kildare, known for its lush landscapes and proximity to Dublin, offers a variety of fishing opportunities, primarily focused on coarse fishing, trout, and some pike in its rivers, canals, and lakes. While not as renowned as coastal or western counties for angling, Kildare’s waterways provide accessible and productive fishing. Below is a list of the best fishing locations in Kildare, with brief descriptions of what visitors can expect, based on available information.

Grand Canal (Naas to Sallins): A historic canal running through Kildare, with key fishing stretches near Naas, Sallins, and Robertstown, known for coarse fishing and some pike. Anglers can target roach, bream, tench, perch, hybrids, and pike (up to 15 lbs.). Feeder or float fishing with maggots, worms, or groundbait is effective, especially at wider sections like Naas Harbour. No coarse fishing license is required, but pike fishing may need a permit from Waterways Ireland. Expect calm, accessible towpaths, ideal for families or casual anglers, with nearby amenities in Naas. Local tackle shops like Tackle & Bait in Naas provide gear.
River Liffey (Newbridge to Celbridge): A major river flowing through Kildare, offering brown trout, some salmon, and coarse fishing, with productive stretches near Newbridge, Clane, and Celbridge. Brown trout (0.5-2 lbs.) are caught with fly fishing or spinning, best in spring and summer. Coarse species like roach, dace, and pike are also present, especially downstream. A Fáilte Ireland rod license (€20 for 21 days, available online or at tackle shops) is required for trout and salmon. Expect scenic, semi-rural settings with accessible banks, though urban pressure can make fishing challenging. Local clubs like the Kildare Angling Federation offer permits and advice.
Barrow River (Athy to Carlow): The River Barrow, flowing through southern Kildare near Athy, is a top coarse and pike fishery, with some trout in upper reaches. Anglers can catch bream, roach, hybrids, perch, and pike (up to 20 lbs.), with tench in slower sections. Feeder fishing (30-50m with groundbait) or pole fishing works well. No coarse fishing license is needed, but a rod license is required for trout. Expect wide, slow-flowing waters with good bank access and a peaceful setting. Athy’s tackle shops and angling clubs provide bait, permits, and local knowledge.
Pollardstown Fen: A unique alkaline fen near Newbridge, fed by springs, offering small-scale trout and coarse fishing in a natural reserve. Brown trout (small, up to 1 lb.) are targeted with fly fishing, requiring delicate techniques due to clear waters. Roach and perch are also present. A rod license is needed for trout, and fishing is regulated by Inland Fisheries Ireland to protect the fen’s ecosystem. Expect a tranquil, biodiverse setting with limited access, ideal for experienced anglers seeking a quiet escape. Contact local clubs for permits.
Royal Canal (Maynooth to Kilcock): A scenic canal in north Kildare, known for coarse fishing and pike, with accessible stretches near Maynooth and Kilcock. Roach, bream, tench, perch, and pike (up to 12 lbs.) are common, caught with feeder or float fishing using maggots or corn. No coarse fishing license is required, but pike may need a Waterways Ireland permit. Expect well-maintained towpaths, suitable for beginners, with a peaceful, rural atmosphere. Tackle shops in Maynooth or Leixlip supply equipment, and the canal’s proximity to Dublin makes it convenient.
Lakes at Leixlip (Rye Water and Liffey Reservoirs): A series of small reservoirs and lakes near Leixlip, including the Rye Water and Intel Lakes, managed for trout and coarse fishing. Stocked rainbow trout (1-4 lbs.) are caught via fly fishing, with some brown trout and coarse species like roach and perch. A rod license and permits (via Leixlip Angling Club or Inland Fisheries Ireland) are required for trout. Expect small, managed waters with good bank access, ideal for day trips. The urban proximity means moderate fishing pressure, but catches are consistent with proper technique.
Licenses: A Fáilte Ireland rod license is required for trout and salmon fishing (€20 for 21 days, available online or at tackle shops like Tackle & Bait in Naas). No license is needed for coarse fishing, but permits may apply for pike or specific waters (check with Waterways Ireland or local clubs).
Guides and Facilities: Kildare’s angling clubs, such as the Kildare Angling Federation or Leixlip Angling Club, offer permits and advice. Tackle shops in Naas, Newbridge, and Maynooth provide bait, gear, and local knowledge. Guided trips are less common but available through Inland Fisheries Ireland contacts.
Techniques: Fly fishing (dry flies, nymphs) or spinning is used for trout, while feeder/float fishing (20-40m with groundbait, maggots, or worms) suits coarse fish. Pike fishing employs lures or dead bait.
Conservation: Catch-and-release is encouraged for trout and pike in many fisheries, with size limits (e.g., 12 inches for trout). The Barrow and canals have strong coarse fish stocks, but sensitive areas like Pollardstown Fen require careful fishing to protect ecosystems.
Accessibility: Kildare’s fishing spots are easily reached by car or public transport (trains to Naas, Maynooth, or Athy), making them ideal for Dublin-based visitors or tourists.

County Kildare:

Ireland’s county Kildare blends historic sites with lush countryside, with the National Stud and Japanese Gardens offering a unique mix of equine heritage and serene landscapes. Castletown House, a grand Palladian mansion, provides historical insights, while the Curragh’s open plains are ideal for walking. The ancient Hill of Allen adds archaeological depth, making Kildare an engaging stop for culture and nature. The new Shackleton Experience has opened in Athy. Kildare is Ireland’s eighth smallest county by size (1,694 square km) and seventh largest by population (247,774). Population reached its lowest point, 57,892 in 1936. In terms of hospitality, Kildare is Ireland’s 15th most visited tourist county with around 168,000 international visitors per year.

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