Game Fishing

Northern Ireland offers world-class game fishing, with clean, clear waters teeming with wild Salmon, Grisle, Sea Trout and our unique Lough Neagh Dollaghan.

With hundreds of miles of river, large and smalll freshwater lakes and sea loughs, anglers have a wide choice of venues. Salmon, Grilse, Sea Trout, Brown Trout, Dollaghan, Gillaroo and Sonaghan - we have the range of fish to match the challenge. The wide expanse of Lower Lough Erne, for instance, is the perfect habitat for Brown Trout, as are many of the tributaries of Lough Neagh namely the Moyola, Maine, Six Mile Water and Crumlin Rivers; these same rivers are also known for for their Salmon and Dollaghan, the latter being a unique species of Lough Neagh migratory brown trout.  Some superb Grisle, meanwhile, can be found in the nearby Lower Bann system from June onwards. 

The North Antrim Coast boasts some excellent angling; the Bush River, located just minutes from the world famous Old Bushmills Distillery, is one of the greatest treasures of the region, while Sea Trout may be found in the rivers surrounding Ballycastle (namely the Margy, Carey or Glenshesk) and further south in the Glenariff River.

Game fishing is possible from February through to October, although certain designated rainbow waters allow your season to last a full twelve months.

Check with DCAL, Loughs Agency or a local tackle shop regarding which permits are required in each area.