FISHING in Ireland’s county MAYO

Lough Mask: A large limestone lake near Ballinrobe, renowned for its wild brown trout and some coarse fishing for pike and perch. Anglers can enjoy fly fishing or trolling for brown trout (averaging 1-3 pounds, with larger specimens during mayfly season in May-June). Pike up to 20 pounds are also caught. Expect a scenic, tranquil setting with boat hire available from local operators like Cushlough Bay Boat Hire (+353 94 954 1222). A state rod license is required for trout, and permits are free for most areas, though some private beats need permits from local clubs. The nearby town of Ballinrobe offers pubs and accommodation.
River Moy: Ireland’s most prolific salmon river, flowing through Ballina and Foxford, also supporting brown trout and coarse fish like pike. Expect world-class salmon fishing (over 8,000 caught annually), best from June to September, using fly or spinning methods. Hotspots include the Ridge Pool in Ballina and East Mayo Anglers’ waters in Foxford. Brown trout and pike are also available. A state rod license and permits are required, available from tackle shops like Tiernan Bros in Foxford (+353 94 925 6731) or Ballina Angling Centre (+353 96 22628). Guided trips with experts like Judd Ruane enhance success. Ballina’s lively atmosphere adds to the experience.
Lough Conn: A large lake near Ballina, connected to Lough Cullin, famous for wild brown trout, salmon, and coarse fishing for pike and perch. Anglers can target trout (best during mayfly season, May-June) and salmon via fly or trolling, with pike fishing productive year-round. Expect a wild, scenic lake with boat hire from operators like Pontoon Bridge Hotel (+353 94 925 6120). No permit is needed for trout or coarse fishing, but a state license is required for salmon. The lake’s clear waters and surrounding hills make it ideal for a peaceful day, with nearby Pontoon village offering dining.
Clew Bay: A sheltered bay near Westport with over 100 islands, offering superb sea angling for mackerel, pollock, cod, and shark. Shore fishing from piers at Westport or Louisburgh yields mackerel and pollock, while charter boats (e.g., Clew Bay Charters, +353 98 26044) target deeper waters for blue shark, tope, and ling. Expect stunning coastal views and chances to spot seals or dolphins. No license is needed for sea angling (except bass, restricted May 15–June 15). Charters provide tackle and bait, and Westport’s vibrant pubs and seafood restaurants enhance the trip.
River Erriff: A premier salmon and sea trout river near Leenane, flowing into Killary Harbour, part of the Delphi Fishery. Anglers can fly fish for salmon (June-September) and sea trout (summer nights) in a dramatic, mountainous setting. Expect intimate beats with expert ghillies available through Delphi Lodge (+353 95 42222). A state rod license and permits are required, bookable via the fishery. The river’s clear waters and proximity to Connemara’s rugged beauty make it a bucket-list destination. Limited day tickets are available, so book early.
Achill Island (Shore and Deep-Sea Fishing): Ireland’s largest island, off Mayo’s west coast, known for sea angling from beaches like Keel and Purteen, and deep-sea charters. Shore anglers can target bass, flounder, and wrasse from sandy beaches or rocky marks, while charters like Achill Island Sea Angling (+353 87 236 3737) offer trips for shark, cod, and pollock. Expect wild Atlantic scenery and a chance to fish near cliffs and sea caves. No license is needed for sea angling (except bass). The island’s relaxed vibe, with pubs like Lynott’s in Dugort, adds to the experience. Check tides and weather for safety.
Permits and Licenses: A state rod license is required for salmon and sea trout, available online at www.fishinginireland.info or from tackle shops like Tiernan Bros (Foxford) or Ballina Angling Centre. Trout and coarse fishing are often free, but permits may be needed for private waters, obtainable from local clubs or shops. Sea angling requires no license except for bass.
Guided Fishing: Operators like Judd Ruane (+353 87 673 6969) for the River Moy or Angling Services Ireland (+353 87 6401018) offer guided trips for freshwater and sea fishing, with tackle and boats provided.
Tackle Shops: Tiernan Bros (Foxford, +353 94 925 6731), Ballina Angling Centre (+353 96 22628), and West Coast Tackle (Westport, +353 98 29000) stock bait, tackle, and permits.

County Mayo:

Ireland’s county Mayo offers dramatic scenery and ancient heritage, with the Cliffs of Moher’s rugged beauty and Croagh Patrick’s pilgrimage trail providing stunning vistas. The town of Westport features Georgian architecture and access to Clew Bay’s islands, while the Ceide Fields showcase a prehistoric farming landscape. Other attractions include the celebrity beaches of Achill Island. Mayo is Ireland’s third largest county by size (5,398 square km) and 18th largest by population (137,970). Population peaked at 388,887 in 1841 and reached its lowest point, 109,525 in 1971. In terms of hospitality, Mayo is Ireland’s tenth most visited tourist county with around 218,000 international visitors per year.

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