FISHING in Ireland’s county SLIGO

Lough Gill: A large, scenic lake near Sligo town, renowned for wild brown trout, salmon, and coarse fishing for pike, perch, and roach. Anglers can target brown trout (averaging 1-3 pounds) and salmon using fly or trolling methods, with peak seasons in spring (Mayfly hatch, May-June) and autumn. Pike fishing is productive year-round. Expect a tranquil setting with views of Benbulben and boat hire available from operators like Lough Gill Tours (+353 71 914 1523). A state rod license is required for salmon and trout, and permits may be needed for certain beats, available from tackle shops like Barton Smith Sports in Sligo (+353 71 914 1910). The nearby Parke’s Castle adds historical appeal.
River Moy: A world-class salmon river crossing into Sligo from Mayo near Ballina, also supporting brown trout and coarse fish like pike. Expect top-tier salmon fishing (best June-September) with fly or spinning methods in stretches like the Cathedral Beat near Ballina, which extends into Sligo. Brown trout and pike are also present. A state rod license and permits are required, available from tackle shops like Geraghty’s Fishing Tackle in Ballina (+353 96 22555). Guided trips with experts like Sligo Angling Services (+353 87 250 2288) enhance success. The river’s flow through lush countryside and proximity to Sligo town’s vibrant pubs make it a rewarding destination.
Sligo Bay: A sheltered bay along Sligo’s coastline, with shore fishing at spots like Rosses Point and deep-sea angling via charters from Sligo town. Shore anglers can catch mackerel, pollock, and bass from beaches or piers at Rosses Point or Strandhill, while charters like Sligo Boat Charters (+353 87 973 2048) target deeper waters for cod, ling, tope, and blue shark. Expect stunning coastal views with Benbulben in the background and chances to spot seals. No license is needed for sea angling (except bass, restricted May 15–June 15). Charters provide tackle, and Sligo’s seafood restaurants, like Eithna’s By The Sea, offer a post-fishing treat.
River Garavogue: A short river flowing through Sligo town into Sligo Bay, known for salmon, sea trout, and brown trout. Anglers can fly fish or spin for salmon and sea trout (best July-September) in urban stretches near Sligo’s bridges or quieter downstream areas. Expect a compact, accessible fishery with a mix of wild and stocked trout. A state rod license and permits from the Sligo Angling Club are required, available at Barton Smith Sports. The river’s proximity to Sligo’s cultural hub, with live music and cafes, adds to the experience.
Lough Arrow: A limestone lake near Boyle, famous for its wild brown trout and some coarse fishing for pike and perch. Expect excellent fly fishing for brown trout (1-4 pounds) during the Mayfly season (May-June) or autumn olive hatches, with trolling also effective. Pike are caught in deeper waters. The lake’s clear waters and scenic hills create a peaceful setting. Boat hire is available from Lough Arrow Angling Club (+353 71 966 5858), and a state rod license is needed for trout. No permits are required for most areas. The nearby village of Ballinafad offers basic amenities.
Easkey River: A small, productive river near Easkey village, known for salmon and sea trout, flowing into the Atlantic. Anglers can target salmon (June-September) and sea trout (summer nights) using fly or spinning methods in intimate, fast-flowing waters. Expect a wild, coastal setting with good bank access. A state rod license and permits from the Easkey Angling Association are required, available at local tackle shops or online. The nearby village of Easkey, with its surfing and pubs, complements the fishing experience.
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 Barton Smith Sports (Sligo, +353 71 914 1910) or Geraghty’s Fishing Tackle (Ballina, +353 96 22555). Trout and coarse fishing may not require permits in some areas, but check locally. Sea angling requires no license except for bass.
Guided Fishing: Operators like Sligo Angling Services (+353 87 250 2288) or Northwest Angling (+353 87 672 9257) offer guided trips for freshwater and sea fishing, providing tackle and boats.
Tackle Shops: Barton Smith Sports and Geraghty’s stock tackle, bait, and permits. Online suppliers like Wildhunter.ie serve Sligo.
Accessibility: Lough Gill and the River Moy offer good bank access, with some disabled-friendly platforms.

County Sligo:

Ireland’s county Sligo is renowned for its poetic heritage and coastal scenery, with the Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery offering one of Europe’s oldest prehistoric sites. The Benbulben mountain provides striking hiking trails, while Strandhill’s beaches are ideal for surfing. Other attractions include the historic Lissadell House and its gardens. Sligo is Ireland’s 22nd largest county by size (1,796 square km) and seventh smallest by population (70,198). Population peaked at 180,886 in 1841 and reached its lowest point, 50,275 in 1971. In terms of hospitality, Sligo is Ireland’s 17th most visited tourist county with around 133,000 international visitors per year.

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