FISHING in Ireland’s county MONAGHAN

Lough Muckno: A 325-hectare lake near Castleblayney, considered one of Ireland’s finest coarse fishing venues, hosting angling festivals. Anglers can target bream, roach, rudd, hybrids, tench, perch, and pike (some specimen-sized) at well-developed spots like White Island, Black Island, Concra Wood, South Lodge, and Toome Point. Expect drive-to pegs, parking, and match-standard facilities, with depths up to 20m. Boat hire is available through operators like The Glencarn Hotel (+353 42 974 6666). No state license is needed for coarse fishing, but check the Conservation of Coarse Fish and Pike Bye-law No. 950, 2017, for regulations. The lake’s proximity to Castleblayney’s leisure park offers additional activities like waterskiing.
2. Monaghan Blackwater River: A river rising in the Bragan Mountains and flowing through Monaghan town, known for wild and stocked brown trout and Dollaghan (a unique Lough Neagh trout). Expect fly fishing for brown trout and Dollaghan, especially after sunset, using sea trout tactics and flies like Teal Blue or Connemara Black. Popular spots include upstream and downstream of Milltown and Rathconnell Bridges and the Silver Stream area. A state rod license is required, and permits are available from the Monaghan Anglers Association via local tackle shops like M.C. Graham (+353 47 71453). The river’s scenic flow through Monaghan town offers a mix of urban and rural angling.
3. Rossmore Park Lakes: A cluster of shallow lakes (Twin Lakes, Castle Lake, Priestfield Lake, Barnhill Lake) in Coillte Forest Park, 3km southwest of Monaghan town, ideal for coarse and pike fishing. Anglers can target roach, rudd, perch, and specimen pike using pole and float rigs in these reed-fringed lakes (depths to 2.5m). Expect foot-only access with good pathways, so a tackle trolley is advised. No state license is required, and fishing is generally free. The forest park’s trails and sculptures add to the experience, though swim clearance may be needed due to reeds. Parking is excellent but lakeside access can be challenging.
4. Emy Lough: A 60-hectare state fishery near Emyvale, managed by Emy & District Angling Club, known for brown trout and pike. Expect fly fishing for brown trout (3-5 pounds) and pike (up to 25 pounds) from March to September. The lake has a walkway for easy bank access and good parking. A state rod license and permits are required, available at Gormley’s Shop (+353 47 87573). Boat hire is available, but private boats are prohibited. The wooded margins and nearby village amenities make it a pleasant spot for a day’s fishing.
Lough More: A 30-hectare lake on the Monaghan-Tyrone border near Tydavnet, known for wild brown trout, including Ferox trout. Anglers can fly fish for brown trout (best May to September) using sedge and midge patterns, with boat fishing most effective. A state rod license and permits from Lough More Anglers Association are required, available locally. Expect good access and parking, but check local regulations if fishing across the border. The lake’s remote setting offers a peaceful experience with scenic views.
Peter’s Lake: A small, match-standard lake (less than 1 hectare) in Monaghan town, ideal for coarse fishing with tench, roach, bream, hybrids, and pike. Expect pole fishing for tench (up to 5 pounds) and other coarse species in a beginner-friendly, urban setting with 20 pegs and firm banks. No state license is needed, and fishing is free. Excellent parking off Glaslough Street and disabled access make it ideal for all anglers. Summer lilies may require float tactics. Monaghan’s nearby pubs and cafes enhance the visit.
Permits and Licenses: A state rod license is required for trout and salmon, available online at www.fishinginireland.info or from tackle shops like Anglers Choice (Carrickmacross, +353 42 966 3747) or Lakeside Angling (Castleblayney, +353 87 9394990). Coarse fishing is generally free with no license required, but some waters need permits from local clubs.
Guided Fishing: Operators like those at The Glencarn Hotel (+353 42 974 6666) offer pike and coarse fishing guidance, with boat hire and tackle provided. Contact tackle shops for local ghillies.
Tackle Shops: Anglers Choice, Lakeside Angling, and M.C. Graham (Monaghan, +353 47 71453) stock tackle, bait, and permits, with online options like Wildhunter.ie.
Accessibility: Peter’s Lake and Lough Muckno have disabled-friendly facilities, while Rossmore Park Lakes and smaller waters may require walking. Always check access conditions.
Sustainability: A catch-and-release policy is promoted, especially for pike and trout. Check bye-laws, like No. 950, 2017, for Lough Muckno,

County Monaghan:

Ireland’s county Monaghan offers a serene blend of rolling hills and cultural heritage, with the Monaghan County Museum showcasing local history through artefacts and exhibits. The scenic Rossmore Forest Park provides walking trails amidst lakes and woodlands, while Castle Leslie’s historic estate offers a glimpse into aristocratic life. Other attractions include the county’s traditional lace-making heritage and quiet countryside. Monaghan is Ireland’s sixth smallest county by size (1,291 square km) and fifth smallest by population (65,288). Population peaked at 200,442 in 1841 and reached its lowest point, 45,732 in 1966. In terms of hospitality, Monaghan is Ireland’s 25th most visited tourist county with around 58,000 international visitors per year.

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