FISHING in Ireland’s county ROSCOMMON

Lough Ree: Ireland’s second-largest lake, straddling Counties Roscommon, Longford, and Westmeath, renowned for coarse fishing (pike, bream, roach, tench) and some brown trout. Anglers can target large pike (up to 30 pounds) and shoals of bream and roach, with hotspots like Athlone and Portrunny on the Roscommon side. Boat fishing is highly effective, with rentals available from operators like Shannon Boat Hire (+353 86 253 8266). Expect a scenic lake with islands and reed beds, ideal for a full day’s fishing. No state license is needed for coarse fishing, but a state rod license is required for trout, and permits may be needed for certain stretches, available from tackle shops like Athlone Angling Hub (+353 90 647 8777). Guided trips enhance the experience, and nearby Athlone offers vibrant pubs and dining.
River Shannon: Ireland’s longest river, flowing through Roscommon at Carrick-on-Shannon and Roosky, famous for coarse fishing (bream, roach, tench, pike) and some trout and salmon. Expect productive bank or boat fishing for bream (up to 5 pounds) and pike, with popular stretches like Jamestown Canal and Roosky. Trout and salmon are present in upper reaches, best fished in spring or autumn with fly or spinning methods. A state rod license is required for salmon and trout, and permits are available from tackle shops like Carrick Angling Centre (+353 71 964 1747). The river’s scenic flow through Carrick-on-Shannon, with its lively restaurants and boat cruises, adds to the experience. Guided trips are offered by local experts like Angling Services Ireland.
Lough Key: A picturesque lake near Boyle within Lough Key Forest Park, known for coarse fishing (pike, bream, roach, perch) and some brown trout. Anglers can enjoy bank or boat fishing for pike (up to 20 pounds) and large bream shoals in a stunning park setting with a castle and treetop walks for non-anglers. Boat hire is available through Lough Key Boats (+353 71 966 2212). No state license is needed for coarse fishing, but a state rod license is required for trout, and permits may be needed from Lough Key Angling Club, available locally. The lake’s clear waters and family-friendly park make it ideal for a day trip.
Lough Gara: A large lake near Monasteraden, excellent for coarse fishing with pike, bream, roach, and perch. Expect productive coarse fishing, particularly for pike and roach, with bank access at multiple points and boat hire available locally. The lake’s shallow, reedy waters create a peaceful, rural setting, perfect for anglers seeking solitude. No state license is required for coarse fishing, but permits may be needed from local angling clubs, available at tackle shops in Boyle or Ballaghaderreen. The nearby village of Monasteraden offers basic amenities.
River Suck: A major Shannon tributary flowing through Ballinasloe, known for coarse fishing (bream, roach, tench, pike) and some brown trout. Anglers can target large bream and pike from banks near Athleague or Donamon, with trout fishing viable in faster stretches using fly or spinning methods. Expect a quiet, scenic river with good access points. A state rod license is required for trout, and permits may be needed from local clubs, available at tackle shops like Midland Angling in Ballinasloe (+353 90 964 2440). The river’s proximity to historic sites like Donamon Castle adds cultural appeal.
Permits and Licenses: A state rod license is required for trout and salmon, available online at www.fishinginireland.info or from tackle shops like Athlone Angling Hub (+353 90 647 8777) or Carrick Angling Centre (+353 71 964 1747). Coarse fishing requires no license, but permits for specific waters may be needed, obtainable from local angling clubs or shops.
Guided Fishing: Operators like Angling Services Ireland (+353 87 6401018) or Midland Angling (+353 90 964 2440) offer guided coarse and game fishing trips with boats, tackle, and tuition. Contact tackle shops for local guide recommendations.
Tackle Shops: Athlone Angling Hub, Carrick Angling Centre, and Midland Angling (Ballinasloe) stock tackle, bait, and permits. Online suppliers like Wildhunter.ie also serve Roscommon.
Accessibility: Lough Ree and the River Shannon offer good bank access, with some disabled-friendly platforms. Smaller lakes like Lough Gara may have limited facilities, so check with fishery managers.
Sustainability: Catch-and-release is encouraged for trout and protected species, with bag/size limits enforced. Check www.fishinginireland.info for regulations, especially on the Shannon and Lough Ree.

County Roscommon:

Ireland’s county Roscommon combines historic sites with tranquil landscapes, with Roscommon Castle’s imposing ruins offering a glimpse into medieval Ireland. Lough Key Forest Park provides boating and treetop canopy walks, while the Arigna Mining Experience explores the county’s industrial past. Other attractions include the sacred site of Rathcroghan, linked to ancient mythology. Roscommon is Ireland’s 11th largest county by size (2,463 square km) and eighth smallest by population (70,259). Population peaked at 253,591 in 1841 and reached its lowest point, 53,519 in 1971. In terms of hospitality, Roscommon is Ireland’s 31st most visited and Ireland’s second least visited tourist county with around 25,000 international visitors per year.

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