Salmon Fishing on the Blackwater
February / March - Early spring fish averaging 8.5lbs. The water levels are generally high at this time of year and the temperature of the water is cold, so spinning is generally the preferred option, using spoons, large devon minnows or 'flying Cs.' Rods should be about 10' - 12' long. Fly fishing is possible with a 14' - 15' rod, floating line with a fast sinking tip (i.e. 6" / sec) with a 2-3" tube or cone fly. The use of worms, prawns and shrimps is not allowed. This is in an effort to conserve salmon stocks.
April / May - The main spring run where fish average 10lbs. Fly fishing should be in full swing by this time using 14' rods. Flies can be varied according to the prevailing water conditions - i.e. high water - large flies size 6-8, low water - small flies size 8-12. Spinning, again with a 10-12' rod using devon minnows or 'flying Cs.'
June/July/early August - Grilse of 2-5lbs weight normally run at this time. Some larger summer salmon may be caught. If good conditions prevail then fly fishing is the preferred method using a floating line with either a sink tip or intermediate tip, nylon casts of between 10-12lbs and flies about size 10-14. For high water, light spinning tackle may be used effectively.
Late August / September - Late summer salmon and grilse, and early autumn salmon. Fish from 3-20lbs weight. Tackle is governed by water levels. In low water 12-13' rods are adequite using a floating line with a slow or intermediate tip. If the water is high, a 14' rod is preferred using a sink tip with flies size 8-10. Spinning in low water using light equipment, lures and 'flying Cs', etc. Higher water levels, use heavier rods with larger lures and spoons.
Waders
Chest waders are advisable on the Gaihra beat, but easy wading is possible on account of the gravel river bed. Care must be taken not to wade too deeply as this could disturb the fish.
Fishing tackle is aviailable locally from Tite Lines in Cappoquin. Salmon licences are also available from these outlets.
The Salmon Life Cycle
The Marine Institute, Foras na Mara, have an excellent description of the life cycle of salmon. Click on the link to learn more.
Orientation
When you come to fish on the Gairha beat we will arrange to meet you in person, provide you with the latest river reports and a detailed map of the beat showing the best pools in which to stalk your prey. We will also show you where to park your car and the location of the various access points to the river. We would be happy to advise you on what equipment to use for the best results, depending on the current state of the river at the time.
Equipment & First Time Instruction
We do not normally rent or hire rods and other equipment, as you are expected to provide your own. However we can usually arrange for a suitable set of equipment for a first time pupil taking instruction from one of our ghillies if they do not yet own their own, on the understanding that if you damage it you will be charged for the estimated cost of repair or replacement.
Ghillie Guided Fishing
A ghillie is available to help you make the most of your fishing at Gairha by accompanying you along the beat, showing you the best pools if you so require. Our ghillies are professional instructors and offer expert tuition in the art of fly casting, both to the complete beginner and also coaching to those who wish to improve their technique and knowledge. Please advise us at least 24 hours in advance if you would like to avail of one of our ghillies. Ghillie fees must be paid directly to the ghillie.
National Catch Restrictions for 2021*
Click here to view the full IFI regulations for 2021. Jan 1st - May 11th - 1 fish per day** Only fly rods and spinners are permitted on the Gairha beat. *Per rod. |
National Licences & local permits
Angling in Ireland is regulated by Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI), a State body established in July 2010. Anglers are legally required to be in possession of a licence when fishing for salmon or sea trout. Licences can be purchased from a number of sources, including fishing tackle shops, IFI offices and some fisheries. Alternatively you can purchase a licence on-line here. A licence does not confer the right to fish; a fishing permit is also required and must be separately obtained from us. Please click on the Rates tab, above, to view our daily and weekly rates for a permit to fish the Gairha beat.
