Ireland – Fly Odyssey

Fly odyssey UK director Gilly Bate has just returned from a visit to Ballynahinch Castle to explore the fly fishing opportunities provides by this magnificent hotel. Salmon fishing in Ireland, while staying at the Conde Nast recommended Ballynahinch Castle Hotel in the heart of Connemara is an experience not to be missed. The scenery is spectacular and the river stunning with seven beats offering deep pools, glides and riffles holding Atlantic salmon. Some of the fishing offers traditional spey casting but there is also variety with the deeper pools requiring movement of the fly and salmon may even be caught on the occasional dry fly or heavy nymph. A fabulous place to try out different styles of salmon fishing. There are also options on either the river or the Lower Ballynahinch lake for wild browns and sea trout with a record wild brown trout of 15 lbs 5 oz caught in September 2011. In the grounds of the hotel there is also a stocked lake of rainbows for beginners or for those on a shorter visit. Tuition and full tackle hire is available on site with the season starting on the 1st of February through to the end of September. Fishing may also be arranged to fish on the famous Lough Corrib which is only a 30 minute drive with anglers flocking from all over the world to fish on this great lake and especially during the famous mayfly fishing in early summer. Large ferox (cannibal) trout of up to 20lbs are caught every year on deep lures and fish up to 5lbs can be caught on the wet fly, dry fly or dapping. Daily fishing packages may be organised from Ballynahinch with local guides and a full picnic lunch provided. Early booking is advised during the mayfly season. There are further options for sea fishing, woodcock shooting in the winter months and clay shooting. The accommodation is first rate with the dining room offering high cuisine or the alternative authentic Irish bar; the perfect place to relax and soak up the atmosphere surrounded by fishing memorabilia. Ballynahich is the most delightful place for a break away for fishermen and non fishers alike all set in heavenly Irish countryside.