ANGLING NOTES:ANNAMOE Trout Fisheries took centre stage last Friday week for the gathering of media anglers to compete for the coveted Fáilte Ireland Perpetual Crystal Trophy at the natural scenic venue on the banks of the Avonmore River in Co Wicklow.
Organised by Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI), the objective was to raise the profile of Annamoe and Wicklow generally, as a destination for angling holidays. Sponsorship and support were provided by Dublin Angling Initiative (DAI), Fáilte Ireland, Emerger Tackle, Courtown Angling Centre and Glendalough Hotel.
The trout at Annamoe are free-rising, hard-fighting and in mint condition. But then, proprietor Brian Nally knows a thing or two about these fish. Having bred rainbows and pioneered their sale throughout the country in the 1980s and 1990s, he is one of the most knowledgeable people on the species in Ireland.
I was fortunate to catch the first fish of the day on my first cast and before John Buckley of Total Fly Fishingmagazine had time to assemble his rod. However, as the day progressed John stormed out in front to finish in first place with 14 fish while I struggled to catch four. To rub salt into the wound, one of John's fish was tagged, which earned him a weekend break at the Glendalough Hotel.
Taking advantage of the glorious sunshine, Brian laid on a fabulous barbecue on the lawn with a selection of salads and barbecue rainbows, and washed down with a glass or two of wine.
Batteries recharged, part two turned out a different ball game, as competitors changed peg positions and the fish lost interest, probably because of the near-tropical conditions. However, Fergal Keane of RTÉ managed a further three to bring his tally to five and David Dinsmore from Irish Anglermagazine closed in with four fish, including the longest at 46cm.
By close of play, a total of 36 fish, some to 2kg, were recorded by the 12 contestants. In keeping with good conservation practice, barbless hooks ensured all fish were returned unharmed.
Over dinner in the Glendalough Hotel, Dr Ciaran Byrne, IFI chief executive, presented the prizes and thanked the media participants for their continued support. He had a special word of thanks for Des Chew and Josie Coleman. “Although everything has changed with the onset of IFI, the DAI has kept going. Your contribution is much appreciated,” he said.
While the three-acre rainbow lake is open all-year, Brian has added another string to his bow by opening a stretch of the Avonmore that runs parallel to the lake. This is a beautiful stretch of river which is ideal for the wild brown trout enthusiast.
Chest waders and wading stick are advised. Fishing is, of course, restricted to a close season.
A separate children’s fishing pond is open from May to September. Contact 0404-45470 or annamoefishery@eircom.net.
- Fishing on Maskwas described last week as fantastic by local anglers. Pat Smith from Meath had a super day with five trout, best 6.37lbs on a Black Pennell. Ronan Cusack and Padraig Kerrigan from Ballinrobe landed 12 (best 1kg, and sportingly returned).
Kevin Egan from Partry had wonderful sport in the evenings with eight fish for three outings, all on buzzers. Ger Linehan from Cork had 16 fish over three rod days and Adrian Gorman from Dringeen Bay had one of his best day’s wet fly fishing with 10 trout for about 15lbs (all returned).
- Environment Agency Waleshas revealed that over £400,000 (€452k) of rod licence fees was invested in projects to improve fishing in Wales last year. The news comes as tens of thousands of anglers prepare to renew their fees for the new season.
Funds generated from rod licence sales and the Welsh Assembly are used to improve the fishing environment and access to fishing beats. The work is delivered in partnership with businesses, clubs and local organisations.
- Milford & District FlyAngling Club will host the President's Cup Open Competition on Lough Fern, Co Donegal, this Saturday from noon until 6pm. Only wild brown trout over 11ins allowed, with prizes for heaviest trout. Further details: 086-838 4882.
angling@irishtimes.com