2013

22ND MAY 2013

Water levels were very favourable on the Erriff during the week.  Monday 13th proved a successful day for John Krapzmuir, Canada,  fishing the Erriff for the first time. John caught and released a fish of 8lbs taken on a Park Shrimp in the Bridge Pool on Beat 9.  The following day Anthony Holden, Dublin caught one of 12lbs on a Cascade in the Gauge Pool on Beat 9. 

Fishing a Shadow Shrimp Enda Kenny, Co. Offaly caught a fish of 12lbs in the Holly Pool on Beat 8.  Paddy Gargan, Moycullen retained one of 9lbs and released one estimated at 15 lbs – both fish were caught on a Munro Killer in the Bridge Pool.  The final fish of the week was caught by Urgen Mantel in the Coronation Pool on a Willie Gunn and weighed 10.25lbs.

Paddy Gargan (on right) with Kevin Mitchell, who is holding Paddy's 9lbs fish taken in the Bridge Pool

15TH MAY 2013

Fishery manager Jim Stafford reports that there was little activity on the river for the first week in May.  However fishing improved during the week commencing the 7th of the month.  With water levels at 1.2 meters on the Aasleagh gauge Richard Kelly, Dublin landed a fish of a lifetime, a magnificently conditioned fish of 16lbs.  The fish was caught in the Garden Pool on a Collie Dog.  The same day Alan Colles caught a fish of 13lbs on a Curry Red Shrimp in the Coronation Pool on Beat 8. 

The river was unfishable for the next 2 days with levels recorded at 2.2 and 2.6 metres respectively. 

Levels dropped to 1.6 metres on the morning of the 10th.  Kevin Attride, home on holidays from the Netherlands, caught a fish of 9.75lbs at Altamont’s Dam on Beat 6. 

The Garden Pool produced another cracking fish for Martin Byrne, Skerries, Co. Dublin – the fish weighed 14lbs and was caught on a Willie Gunn. 

Local angler Peter Coyne caught another cracking fish of 12.75lbs on an Ally Shrimp in the Holly Pool on Beat 8.  Urgan Scheel, Germany caught one of 10lbs on a Collie Dog.

Water levels were recorded at 1.4 meters on the morning of the 12th.  Philip Clesham, fishing with a Thunder & Lightening landed a fish of 6.5lbs in the Holly Pool – this was followed by another one of 5.25lbs which was taken on a Cascade in the Coronation Pool – both fish were sea-liced.   The same day Hugh McGuire caught one of 11lbs in Humps & Hollows on Beat 6 on a Kylemore Killer.

This has been the best Spring fishing on the river for many years with a few more fish hooked and lost - we look forward to good runs of fish throughout the season.

           Martin Byrne with his fine 12lbs springer

8TH MAY 2013

Spring salmon are running the Erriff in good numbers now, and anglers have enjoyed some success. Gerhard Tröster, visiting from Germany, fished Beats 8 and 9 last week and landed 2 good salmon, one of 11lbs and the other 13lbs. Both fish were taken on a size 9 Munro Killer, and were both released safely. Gerhard and his friend Christoph had a great day and have promised to return in the future.

Heavy rain at times over the last few days has brought in more fresh fish, and Richard Kelly from Clonskeagh in Dublin landed a fine 16lbs fish yesterday off Beat 9.

 Richard Kelly from Dublin with his 16lbs beauty

The river peaked at 2.06 metres last night, and should remain fishable for the rest of the week, with excellent prospects for fishing.

To book fishing contact Jim at Aasleagh Lodge on 095 42252, or email erriff.fish@iol.ie

                                               Gerhard Tröster with his 13lbs salmon off Beat 9.

22ND APRIL 2013 - FIRST SALMON OF THE SEASON

There was no angling on the Erriff until the weather changed at the weekend. Following heavy rain on Wednesday and Thursday, the river had been in a spate at 2.5 meters, and the levels dropped to a fishable height at the weekend.

Conor O’Leary, from Dublin, who had been trying for the first salmon of the season for a number of years, finally succeeded and caught the first fish of the season in the Gauge Pool on Beat 9 on Saturday the 20th. The fish weighing 11.25lbs was caught on a Yellow & Black Shrimp pattern that Connor dressed himself. Another angler had hooked and lost a good fish on Beat 4 the previous day.

Donavin Brinklow caught 12 brown trout on wet fly in an afternoon session on Tawnyard Lough, and Delphi Rods accounted for 4 brown trout as well.

With the weather set to continue unsettled for the remainder of this week, water levels should keep the river in good condition for flyfishing, and prospects for a springer are good. To book fishing contact Jim at Aasleagh Lodge on 095 42252, or email erriff.fish@iol.ie

Conor O'Leary with his fine 11.25lbs spring salmon, the first Erriff fish of 2013

2012

15TH AUGUST 2012

Summer weather arrived at last in the Erriff valley, and with the Erriff being a spate river, water levels dropped off from 1.0m at the beginning of the week to 0.68m on Saturday  11th. Overnight rain on the 11th increased levels to 0.98 meters on the morning of Sunday 12th.   Overall angling conditions were poor in comparison to previous weeks.

Ken Mills, UK, caught 3 grilse in one day in the Gauge Pool on Beat 9.  Seamus Harrold, Limerick, caught one of 5 lbs on a Black Cascade in the Garden Pool.  Kevin Glynn, Dalkey, Co. Dublin landed 2 fish.  The Coronation Pool produced a 5.5-pounder for Richard Daly from Dublin.  Michael Tallon, Wicklow, released a 5 ½ pounder taken on an Ally’s Shrimp in the Falls Pool. Local angler Michael Wade, fishing a Collie Dog, landed the only salmon in the Erriff & District Anglers Competition held on Sunday. 

Tawnyard Lough produced 6 sea trout and over 200 brown trout to 3/4lbs for Kevin Crowley and Chris McCully in 2 days fishing in far from ideal conditions.

Fish of the week goes to Tobias Stern, Austria, on his annual fishing trip to the Erriff, who landed a salmon of 17lbs caught on an Ally’s Shrimp in the Falls Pool – Tobias also caught one of 5.75 lbs.  

Total catch for the week was 12 salmon and 9 sea trout.

Tobias Stern with his fantastic 17lbs salmon

8TH AUGUST 2012

The week started off with water levels at 0.8 meters on the Aasleagh Gauge on Sunday 29th July. Extreme heavy rains resulted in a massive spate of 2.16 meters on the 3rd which rendered the river unfishable for most of the day. Although levels were very high the water was relatively clean and levels had dropped to 1.24 meters the following morning.

David Gaffney, Kilkenny, caught 2 grilse on Beat 5 and Beat 9. Anthony Holden, Dublin, caught 2 grilse in the Falls Pool and Upper Garden Pool. 

Congratulations to Penny Tindal who caught her first ever salmon in the Garden Pool on a Shrimp Fly on the 1st August.  A Garry Dog produced a 6.5lbs. fish for Anthony Tindal which was caught in the Gauge Pool . Anthony also had 3 sea trout in the Square Pools which were safely released to the water.

Derek Harrison, Chester, U.K. released 2 grilse of 5lbs. each and his son Simon retained one of 5.75lbs. taken in the Coronation Pool on Beat 8 and released another of approximately 4 lbs. – all fish were taken on Shrimp patterns.  Niall Spellacy released a 4 pounder on Beat 4.  David Kirk released a grilse taken on a Collie Dog caught in Schoolhouse on Beat 3 and Trish Findlater returned a sea trout of 2lbs. caught on a Collie Dog on Beat 8.

James Keogh and Ian Fox, Dublin, had 3 grilse on Beats 6 & 7 – all on Cascades. Roy Craigie caught one on a Blue Charm. Fergus Crawford, Dublin, landed 3 grilse on Beat 7 & Beat 9 with  Tim Keane releasing a 5.5lbs. fresh run grilse caught in the Bridge Pool on a Cascade.  David Mooney, Killimor, retained one of 7.5lbs. which fell to a Stoat’s Tail in Nee’s Run on Beat 6 and released another caught in Altamont’s Dam. 

Greg Forde and son Christopher had their first salmon of the season in the Gauge Pool and in Kelly’s Bend– both fish were caught on Cascades. Local angler Michael Coyne landed a grilse in the Top Square Pool on Beat 9.

Seamus Hartigan and James Stafford had a very sporting afternoon on Tawnyard Lough with 8 sea trout and some 30 brown trout. The best sea trout caught was estimated at a good 4.5 lbs. Most successful flies included Green Peter, Invicta and Bibio – all in small sizes.  Delphi rods also accounted for 8 sea trout and several brown trout in two days fishing on Tawnyard.  All fish were safely returned to the water.

Fish of the week goes to Penny Tindal who caught her first ever salmon - a sparkling fresh grilse - the best sea trout of the season (so far) goes to Seamus Hartigan with a fish of 4.5lbs. from Tawnyard Lough.

Total catch for the week was 24 salmon and 26 sea trout.

31ST JULY 2012

Water levels were recorded at 0.7 metres on Sunday 22nd on the Aasleagh Gauge.  Heavy rain increased levels to 1.55 meters by midday on the 23rd.  Levels dropped to 1.1 meters on the 24th and increased to 1.4 meters on the 25th.  Levels then dropped slowly to 0.75 meters by the 28th of the month.

Alan Shatter, Clifden, caught one of 4.75lbs on a Bibio in Jenkin’s Pool on Beat 5.  James Keogh, Dublin released a grilse in the School House Pool on Beat 3, taken on a Cascade.  Robert Devriese, Dublin, had 2 grilse taken on Cascades in the Bridge Pool and Garden Pool on Beat 9.  Margie Crawford, N.I. caught one of 9lbs in the Falls Pool on a Cascade.  Mark and Mandy Broughton, UK, caught 4 on Beat 6 and Beat 9 – all fish were taken on Shrimp patterns.

  Margie Crawford and John Nelson with a 9lbs summer salmon taken by Margie

Hervé Rodrigue, France, released a 5lbs grilse taken on a Hairy Mary in the Black River Run on Beat 1, and another taken on the same fly in the Coronation Pool on Beat 8. UK visitor Will Masterson caught 3 - with one from the Straight on Beat 5, another from Beat 6 and one from Beat 9.  David Williams, UK, caught and released 5 sea trout and his brother Christopher Williams from Hong Kong, fishing the Erriff for the first time, caught his first 3 fly-caught salmon and 4 sea trout and returned all to the water again - all fish were taken on Cascades.

Kevin Attridge, originally from Achill but home on holidays from the Netherlands, had 3 in one day on Shrimp patterns.  Ian Keating, Partry, released a grilse taken in the Wall Pool at the top of Beat 1. Trevor Champ, Dublin, caught one in the Quarry Pool on Beat 2 and another in Coronation Pool on Beat 8.  Local angler Brian Graham caught one in the Black Banks on Beat 6 on a Shrimp Pattern.  Annie and Robert Rusby, UK, had one each form Black Banks and Coronation Pool on a Purple Shrimp Fly and Gold Willie Gunn.

Gael Kerschbaumer, France released a fish estimated at 11lbs, taken on a GP in the School House Pool on Beat 3.  Gerard Garnier and Paul Fariney both from France finished their second week on the Erriff with an additional 10 fish between them.

Fish of the Week goes to Will Masterson, with a fish of 12lbs caught on a Cascade in the Falls Pool on Beat 9.

Total catch for the week was 37 salmon and 15 Sea trout – 25 salmon and all 15 sea trout were released again.

23RD JULY 2012

Water levels on the Erriff were recorded at 0.86 meters on the 15th and 16th. Heavy rains increased water levels to 1.9m on the 17th.  Thereafter levels fell slowly to 0.7m by the 21st. With ideal water conditions fresh-run salmon and sea trout continued to enter the river. Enda O’ Connell, Newcastle upon Tyne, grassed 3 fish in the one day - best fish 7lbs. Enda was unlucky to lose 2 bigger fish – all fish were taken on a Cascade of his own tying.  Andrew Beattie, on an annual week-long visit to the fishery, had 8 salmon and 6 sea trout – all were returned to the river – Andrew also lost another 8 fish - most fish were taken on Cascades of various sizes.  Stephen Ward’s party, all from the U.K. on an annual visit to Aasleagh Cottage and the Erriff, had 13 salmon and 13 sea trout including fish for Stephen, Tony Uttley, and Fred Mitchenson, with best fish going to Derek Bailey at 7.5lbs.

 Hervé Rodrigue, France caught 3 fish - best fish 7 lbs was caught in the Cottage Pool on Beat 4.  Desmond Edwards, Lisburn, N.I. caught one in the Holly Poll and lost another in the General’s Reach at the top of Beat 8.  Mount Falcon rods also had 2 salmon from the Island Rock and Coronation Pool Beat 8. The Coronation Pool on Beat 8 produced a salmon of 7.75lbs for Michael Adamson, Dublin – his first Erriff salmon. Fishing with Michael, Rory McCullagh, Dublin caught his first ever salmon of 5lbs in the Black Banks on Beat 6 on a Willie Gunn tube fly. 

It was another successful annual visit to the Erriff for Gerard Garnier and Paul Fariney both from France. Their combined catch was 17 for their first of two weeks fishing on the Erriff – this was Paul’s first time salmon fishing and he accounted for 7 fish.  Gael Kerschbaumer, also from France, had 4 fish for his first week – catching 3 fish on the one day on a Cascade on Beat 9. Fish of the week, a fresh run 12.25-pounder, was caught on a Cascade in Poleen on Beat 4 by Ian Keating, Partry, Co. Mayo, who having weighed the fish sportingly released it again.  

Total catch for the week was 51 salmon and 40 sea trout – ALL fish were taken on fly. A total of 34 salmon and all sea trout were sportingly released back to the river - several  of the salmon retained were identifiable as part of a smolt release into the lower section of the river during April 2011. 

At the time of writing the report (23rd) heavy rain has resulted in another spate of 1.5 meters – so given favorable weather conditions prospects look good for the coming week.

Gerard Garnier releasing a nice fish last week

15TH JULY 2012

Water levels on the Erriff were still above average for the week.  Levels were recorded at 0.76 meters on the 8th.  Heavy showers increased levelsto 1.1 meters on the 9th and 1.2 meters on the 10th.  With no further rain of any significance levels fell to .72 meters by the 14th of the week.  Overall angling pressure on the river was light during the week.

Fishing a Cascade in the Falls Pool on Beat 9, Barbara Ceillier, Dublin, caught a fresh-run grilse of 5lbs.  Alexander Mills & Gareth Beattie from Co. Tyrone had 3 fish from the School House Pool on Beat 3 and the Sea Pool and Upper Garden Pool on Beat 9 – best fish weighed 5lbs. Arthur Muckian and his son James had one each in the Falls Pool on a Red Shrimp and Orange Cascade.Bill Bullick caught one of 6lbs in the Colonel’s Run on Beat 6 on a Curry’s Red Shrimp, and Jim Wilson, Mount Falcon,released a grilse taken on a Coolraw Killer in the General’s Reach on Beat 8. 

Brian Stark, N. Irl., fishing the Erriff for the first time, caught a grilse in the Garden Pool on a Cascade and lost another. Hazel Clarke, U.K., caught one on a Stoat’s Tail in the Garden Pool on Beat 9.  Anthony Holden landed one in the Bridge Pool on Beat 9 on a Cascade.  Andrew Beattie, U.K., caught 2 in the Falls and Sea Pools on a Curry’s Red Shrimp.  Annual French visiting angler Gerard Garnier caught 3 fish all on Beat 9 on a Cascade and released all fish to the water again.Total catch for the week was 15 salmon and 8 sea trout.

At the time of writing the report heavy overnight rain on the 16th has increased levels to 1.6 meters on the Aasleagh Guage – so prospects look good for the coming week.

Lady Hazel Clarke with a nice Erriff grilse taken on Beat 9 late in the evening

8TH JULY 2012

Weather conditions and clear water levels at 1.3 meters were very favourable on Sunday Ist July – the levels then fell slowly to 0.75m by the end of the week. High water conditions combined with spring tides of  4.7m brought a run of  salmon and sea trout into the river.

Michel Winthrop, France caught a grilse of 5lbs on a Lady Fallacia in the School House Pool on Beat 3.  The following day Michel Le Paire caught a sea-liced fish of 7.75 lbs in the Sea Pool on a Shrimp Fly.  John Lyons, Clonbur caught a grilse of 5lbs in the Sea Pool on a Cascade.  A Willie Gunn was very successful for Urgan Mantle, Clonbur who caught and released 3 sea-liced fish - two of 5lbs and the other estimated at 6lbs – the fish were caught in the Garden Pool, Gauge Pool and the Sea Pool on Beat 9.   Dr. John Casey, Clifden released a sea trout of 2.5lbs taken on a Silver Doctor in the Quarry Pool on Beat 2 and also a grilse of 5lbs caught in the Garden Pool. The Cattle Pass on Beat 1 produced a 6lbs fish for Philip Clesham – a few days later Philip caught another 7lbs fish on a G.P. in the Dog Pool on Beat 2.

Mick Brown, Dublin released a fish of 7lbs taken on a Yellow Shrimp Fly on Beat 7. Dermot Seymour released a fish of 4.5lbs taken on a Cascade in the Cottage Pool on Beat 4 and lost another 2. Michael Wade, manager of Delphi Lodge, caught 3 fish on Beat 5 on a Collie Dog – best fish 8lbs.  Alan Hartnett, Dundalk, fishing for sea trout on Beat 2 caught and released 6 sea trout for 5lbs and landed a salmon of 7lbs in the dark at 11.30pm – all fish came to a Bibio.   

Fish of the week, a sparkling fresh-run fish of 10.5lbs, was caught by Frank Hughes, Dublin on a Cascade in the Quarry Pool on Beat 2. Derrintin & Tawnyard Loughs produced some 20 brown trout up to 1lb for Donavin Brinklow in 2 afternoon fishing trips.  The best fish was estimated at 1lb – all were caught on a Bibio & Daddy Long Legs and all were sportingly released. 

Total catch for the week was 16 Salmon, 17 Sea Trout and 22 Brown Trout. 

Although water levels have dropped off a good run of sea trout all in excellent condition continue to enter the river and salmon can be seen coming in on every tide.

30TH JUNE 2012

Favorable water conditions prevailed on the Erriff for most of the week with water levels staying above 0.8 meters on the Aasleagh Gauge. Levels were recorded at 1.5 meters on the 24th. The river fell gradually to 0.8 meters by the 27th. There were a further 3 small spates during the week with a big one of 1.6 meters on the last day of the month.  The run of salmon and grilse continued on every spate. Sea trout also continued to return both in good numbers and also in excellent condition. However the sea trout did not feature to any great extent in the rod catches as the size of flies being fished were overall too large to attract the sea trout.

David Gaffney, Dublin, caught a good grilse of 6lbs in the School House on a Shrimp Fly. Jim Wilson, Mount Falcon, caught a grilse at The Hill on Beat 5. Colin Edwards, U.K. released a grilse taken in the Garden Pool on a Cascade and lost another in the Bridge Pool also on Beat 9.  Fishing the Erriff for the first time, Sue Clarke from London caught her first Irish Salmon in the Falls Pool on Beat 9 on a Cascade. Tight lines continued for the following 2 days for Sue with 2 other good grilse of 5lbs from the Garden Pool on Beat 9 and from Joyce’s Sand Hill on Beat 5 – all 3 fish were sportingly released. 

Raphael Amat, France, also fishing the Erriff for the first time, caught and released grilse estimated at 5lbs and 7 lbs on Beat 9 and also returned 2 sea trout.  David Kirk, Dublin caught a grilse of 4.5lbs in the Bridge Pool, and released 2 good sea trout of 1.5lbs each. Alistair Thorley, U.K., on an annual visit to the Erriff, caught 5 fish - with 3 in one day -Alistair retained one of 9.5lbs taken in the Colonels Pool on Beat 6 and released the other two - all 3 fish were taken on a Pot Bellied Shrimp.  Mark Helmore, Clare, caught a grilse of 5lbs on a Shrimp pattern in The Straight on Beat 5.  Jim Barry, Dublin, caught a grilse in the Gauge Pool on Beat 9 and lost another two at the net – Jim’s son Kenneth, on a brief visit from London was unlucky to lose a good salmon in the Gauge Pool on his first visit to the Erriff. Overall angling pressure was light on the fishery for most of the week with a total catch of 16 salmon and 8 sea trout. 

The overall catch for the month was 57 salmon and 30 sea trout which again was a big increase on the combined rod catch for previous 2 years.  If the runs of salmon and sea trout which have as yet to peak continues it looks like being another very good season on the Erriff.

Raphael Amat releasing a nice grilse.

27TH JUNE 2012

Water levels on the Erriff were perfect at 1.4 meters on Sunday 17th.  The local angling club held a competition on the river - Peter Coyne came first with 2 fish which weighed in at 16.75lbs, which were caught on an Orange Shrimp and Collie Dog in the Falls Pool on Beat 9. Second was Brian Graham with one fish of 8.25lbs, which was caught in the Black Banks on Beat 6 on a Shrimp Fly. Several other fish were hooked and lost on the day. 

Alain Metayer, France, a member of Michel Winthrop’s party, grassed a beautiful fresh run springer of 12.75lbs on his first day ever salmon fishing – the fish was taken on a Lady Fallaci in the Garden Pool on Beat 9.  Changing beats in the afternoon Alain sportingly released a 10lbs fish taken on the same fly in the Black Banks Pool on Beat 6.  Rene Boutonnet, a member of the same party, caught a sea-liced fish of 10.25lbs, which was taken on a Cascade in the Falls Pool from the right hand bank.

Alain Metayer with his 12.75lbs salmon

James Keogh, Dublin had one for 9.5lbs taken on a Cascade in the Boat Pool on Beat 5, and he also released another estimated at 8.5lbs. The following day he had a fresh run grilse of 4.75lbs from the Sally Pool on Beat 7.

 Heavy rains resulted in a huge spate of  2.2 meters on the morning of the 21st, which rendered the river unfishable for the rest of the day. The river was in good order the following day - Stuart Woodhead, Scarborough, U.K., had a grilse and 2 good sea trout taken in the Holly and Coronation Pools on Beat 9.   Tom Harrington, Limerick, had a fish of 5.75lbs and released another of 5lbs which were caught in Altamont’s Dam and Colonel’s Pool on Beat 6.  The following day Tom caught another of 7.5lbs in the Cottage Pool on Beat 4.

Bill Aston, Ballinrobe, released 2 fish estimated at 5lbs each, which were caught on an Orange Micro Tube in Toad’s Pool behind the island on Beat 4.  Alan Hartnett, Dundalk released a fish estimated at 5.5lbs and 2 good sea trout which were taken on a Cascade on Beat 6.  Peter Hunt, Clonbur, released a 6lbs fish taken on a Collie Dog in the Broken Bridge Pool on Beat 5.

Overnight rains increased levels to 1.5 meters on the 23rd. Stuart Price, fishery manager at Mount Falcon, released a 9lbs fish taken on an Orange Shrimp in the Mering Pool on Beat 7 and also went on to catch fish of 5lbs and 6lbs in the Guage Pool on Beat 9.

The total catch for the week was 18 salmon and 12 sea trout.  At the time of writing the report sea trout in excellent condition continue to enter the river and the grilse run is promising with the main run expected in July.

20TH JUNE 2012

Several spates resulted in good fishing conditions for much of the period, and also encourage fish to run the river in good numbers. Among those to land fish were Deirdre Herbert, Dublin, who landed her first ever salmon. Deirdre was also the first lady angler to catch a salmon on the river this season – the fish weighed 6lbs 6oz and was taken on a shrimp fly in Doyle’s Pool on Beat 6.  William Sullivan, Boston U.S.A., also fishing the river for the first time, released a sea-liced grilse taken in the Upper Garden Pool on Beat 9.

Prolonged heavy rain resulted in a massive spate of 2.7 meters on the 8th, which rendered the river unfishable, but brought a run of both springers and grilse into the river.  The following morning levels had dropped to 1.6 meters and angling conditions were good. A Yabbie was the successful fly for Dr. Eoin Bresnihan, Oughterard who caught a sparkling fresh fish of 9.25lbs in the Garden Pool on Beat 9.  Mr. Robert Devriese, the Belgian ambassador to Ireland, released a grilse taken on a Hairy Mary in the Glenacally Pool at the top of Beat 5.  Michael Parry, UK, on his annual visit to the lodge and fishery, had a red letter day on the Erriff catching 3 salmon in the one day - one each from the Top Square Pool and the Garden Pool on Beat 9, and another estimated at 9.5 lbs which was released in Doyle’s Pool on Beat 6.  A Red Shrimp Pattern produced 6 fish for the week for Selby Knox, also a regular visitor from the UK.  Selby also caught 3 fish in the one day with water levels at 0.8 meters on the gauge on the 13th of the month.

Selby Knox with two of his fish

Donal Chambers, Athy, Co Kildare, took a 6.75lbs fish from the Black Banks on a Cascade on the 14th. With heavy rain, water levels reached 1.8 meters on the 15th.  Terence Miley, Cong, had 2 grilse from Nee’s run on a Vambeck.  James Keogh, Dublin, caught one of 8.75lbs on a Cascade in the Twin Rocks. Urgan Mantle, Clonbur, caught a fish of 8lbs on a Shrimp Fly in the Broken Bridge Pool on Beat 5.  John Lyons, also from Clonbur, released a fish of  7lbs taken on a Cascade in the Glenacally Pool on Beat 5.  John Dardis, Kildare, had a sea-liced grilse of 5lbs taken from the Bridge Pool and lost another estimated at 10lbs in the Sea Pool.  A Black Shrimp fly produced a fresh run fish of 9lbs from the Garden Pool for Peter Hunt, Clonbur. The last fish of the week, a 10lbs springer, was caught in the Falls Pool on an Erriff Green & Gold.  

Peter Hunt with his 9lbs fish

On Monday, at the time of writing this report, another run of spring salmon and grilse could be seen coming in on the tide and showing in the Garden Pool and Falls Pool before passing up through the fish counter. The first of the sea trout run were also observed in excellent condition passing through the fish counter.  With good water levels these fish will be able to reach the higher beats.The total catch for the period was 22 salmon and 10 sea trout.

There are still places available for a casting and flyfishing course for ladies, which will take place from Thursday the 5th to Sunday the 8th of July, led by qualified casting instructor mark Corps. All accommodation and meals are included, as well as tuition in all aspects of flyfishing and salmon fishing, and plenty of time on the river to practise the skills acquired. The cost for 3 nights B&B, lunch and dinner, and fishing tuition is €500 per participant. Partners can stay for €300, and may fish the river on the other beats for free. Contact Aasleagh Lodge for information and booking.

23RD APRIL 2012 - FIRST SALMON OF THE SEASON - THEN A SECOND, AND A THIRD!

The wait for the first salmon of the season is over. On Saturday James Keogh from Dublin landed the first fish of 2012, a fine 9lbs bar of silver, at the Garden Pool on Beat 9. The fish took a Cascade fly. Hearty congratulations to James! On Monday James returned for another try, and this time he landed 2 beautiful fresh fish, one of 8lbs and the second of 9lbs, from the Garden Pool and Sea Pool on Beat 9. Both fish took a Gold Cascade fly, and the second fish was caught in bright sunshine!

Water conditions are perfect at the moment and should continue so for the next while, with showery rain forecast for the week. With 3 fish caught in such a short period, it looks like a run of spring fish is underway, so book a rod now if you can! Call Jim at the lodge on 095 42252 for details.

James Keogh with his 9lbs fish, the first of 2012

2011

27TH SEPTEMBER 2011

25 salmon last week, bringing the season total to over 500 fish, a big increase on both last year, and the 10 year average, so things are looking up for the future! 8 sea trout caught as well. Full details of catches to follow. At time of writing, a big flood today saw the river at bank high level, but it is dropping now, and with fairly dry weather forecast for the next few days, the last 3 days of the season should see perfect water levels and good fishing.

18TH SEPTEMBER 2011 - ANOTHER BRILLIANT WEEK - 79 SALMON!

Water levels on the Erriff were extremely high at the start of the week, with a spate of 2.5 metres recorded at Aasleagh Gauge on Sunday the 11th.  The river was unfishable and levels had dropped marginally to just 2.2 metres on Monday. After dinner on Monday saw the first anglers throw a line. Levels dropped to perfect conditions for fly fishing and maintained so throughout the week averaging 1.4 to 1.6 metres. In total 79 salmon were caught for the week with 20 of those caught on Saturday the 17th.  There were 19 sea trout also caught for the week.

 A number of anglers caught their first salmon ever on the Erriff this week, including Alberto Gavigan who caught a fresh grilse on the Falls Pool, Beat 9 to a shrimp pattern fly.  On 18th September Sean Hayde, England caught his first salmon to an Erriff pattern on Beat 8 which weighed 4 lbs. Mr. Bernard Vedrines caught his first salmon on 15th September at the Black Banks on Beat 6 which weighed just under 4 lbs.  Marc Parinot, France caught his first salmon on the 12th September on Beat 4 which weighed 5 lbs. 

The Muckian and Duffy party from Dundalk, Co. Louth had 10 salmon for 3 days angling during the week. The Winthrop party from France caught 7 salmon for 5 days angling while at Erriff Fishery, best fish weighing 12 lbs. The Chambers party had a very successful weeks angling with 22 salmon caught ranging from 4 to 7 lbs.  Most of these salmon were released alive.  The level of catch and release on the Erriff has become more popular of late with anglers more interested in conservation of salmon stocks. 

The Lynas party N.Ireland, had 9 salmon for just 1 day angling, the heaviest fish being 11lbs, likewise all fish were released. Enda Kenny and his father Pat from Enfield had 10 salmon between them for 2 days angling, heaviest fish weighing 9 lbs caught at the Quarry Pool on Beat 2. Most of the salmon were released.  Mr. F Hompesch from Germany caught 3 salmon on Munroe Killer and Kylie Shrimp for 6 days angling. Another fine example of catch and release angling was displayed by Galway man Neil Spellacy who caught 4 salmon at the Tawnyard Pots Beat 3 on an Allys Shrimp and released all fish alive. Tom Gillen from Ballymena had four fish for three days over the weekend all released with the best fish 7.5lbs on a shrimp fly in the Coronation pool. 

Local Erriff Anglers fished Beats 9 and 2 on Sunday 18th with a water level of 1.7 metres. Michael Coyne, Leenane landed 1 salmon just under 5 lbs to an Ally’s Shrimp on Beat 9.

The river is, to put it mildly, fishing its head off at the moment, and with frequent rainfall water levels are perfect for the fly. Fishing could be really good over the last 10 days of the season, so book a rod now if you can! Call the lodge on 095 42252 to inquire about availability.

13TH SEPTEMBER 2011 - Report up to Sat 10th

It was a week of very mixed weather conditions with heavy rains and gale force winds at times. With the heavy rains the river rose very quickly on the night of the 5th.  Levels remained high but very clean for the week.

Peter Huggard, U.K. caught 7 salmon and 1 sea trout for the week. Anthony Luke and Mary Henry, Nunnington N. Yorks. caught 3 fish on Quarry Pool on Beat 2 on a Willie Gunn and a further 3 on the Coronation Pool on Beat 8  - best fish estimated at 13lbs, all fish were sportingly released. Mr. John Martin Smith, Irl. caught 2 in Humps & Hollows and in the Colonel’s Run on Beat 6 on a Silver Stoat. Louis Brody, U.K. caught his first Irish salmon in Yellow Banks on Beat 5. Jim Wilson, Foxford released a fish estimated at 9lbs taken on a Coolrow Killer on Beat 7. Lal Flahery & Alan McGurdy caught 3.

Thomas Gillen with a nice fresh grilse taken off Beat 9 today (13th September)

Wolfgang Sesselmann, Germany and his son Martin caught 6 for the week and the other member of the Party Ingolf Russ caught his first ever two salmon – best fish 7.5lbs taken on a Cascade in the Yellow Banks on Beat 5. Kirsty Anna Macleod, Inverness shire, Scotland fishing the Erriff for the first time caught 3 fish in the Falls and Garden Pool. Urgan Mantle, Clonbur released a 5.5 lbs. fish caught in the Straight on Beat 5. Friday the 9th was a brilliant day for Stuart Price and Martin Davison who caught 5 fish and released 4 of them – all fish were taken on Beat 6. Jack Prendergast, Dublin released a fish taken in the Horseshoe Pool at the top of Beat 3. Liam Maloney from Dublin released one taken on a Cascade in Humps & Hollows. 

At the time of writing the river has dropped after a 2.5 meter spate on Sunday, and is now in perfect condition for the fly.

Total catch for the week was 42 salmon (27 Released) and 8 sea trout.

6TH SEPTEMBER 2011

Water levels varied on the river during the week with a good spate fining down on Saturday. Robert Devriese, Dublin caught 5 fish for 3 days fishing on a Silver Cascade and Shrimp Fly. Tobias Stern, Austria, a regular annual overseas rod on the Erriff caught 7 for the week - mainly on various Cascades and Shrimp patterns. Dr. John Casey, Clifden caught 3 in 1 day on a Collie Dog in Nee’s Run and the Colonel’s Pool on Beat 6. Conor O’Leary, Dublin returned one of 6lbs taken on a Daddy in Yellow Banks on Beat 5.

Patrick Gorman, Cong had 2 in a morning's fishing on Beat 9. Enda Kenny, Enfield, Co. Meath caught a sparkling fresh grilse in the Coronation Pool on a Shadow Cascade. Rene Boutonnet, France another annual overseas visitor to the Erriff caught 5 and 1 good sea trout and lost several more good fish for the week – Rene caught 3 salmon in the one day in the Upper Garden Pool on a Shrimp Fly.

It was a red letter day for Derek Killeen, Dublin who caught his first ever salmon and went on to catch another 2 – all fish were taken on a Claret Dabbler on Yellow Banks on Beat 5. Richard and Hugh Maguire had one each taken on a Silver Stoat and Cascade in the Sally Pool on Beat 7. Local angler Stuart Fleming and Paddy Lynch, Dublin caught 6 brown trout on Derrintin Lough in an afternoon. 

The total catch for the week was 28 salmon (16 released) and 9 sea trout which includes 1 salmon and 4 sea trout from Tawnyard Lough.

At the time of writing the report there is a massive spate of 2.1 meters so water levels will be good for the next number of days

2ND SEPTEMBER 2011

A small spate this morning combined with high tide of 4.7 meters resulted in a run of sea liced salmon through the counter at Aasleagh Falls. Goof fishing for the weekend...?!

31ST AUGUST 2011

The week started off with levels at 1.1m on the  Aasleagh Gauge. Levels dropped slowly until very heavy rains resulted in the river rising rapidly to 2.0m on the evening of the 23rd. Levels were recorded at 1.6m the following morning and the river was somewhat coloured for most of the first half of the day but started to clear in the afternoon. The rise in water levels brought more fresh fish into the river and it was spectacular to see so many salmon trying to jump Aasleagh Falls. Most anglers fishing the river during the week caught fish.

  Patrick Kenny, Enfield caught 2 on a Shrimp fly in the Garden Pool & Sea Pool.  Nicholas Nicholson, Co. Clare had 5 salmon for the week from the Washing Pool on Beat 4, Humps & Hollows, Black Banks on Beat 6 and the Middle & Lower Garden Pool on Beat 9 - all fish were taken on a fly named Flame, one of his own patterns. Brothers Jean & Jacques Calver from France, on a return visit to the Erriff, had a good week catching 10 salmon and 6 sea trout - all fish with the exception of one which was retained for smoking were sportingly released – best fish was estimated at 8-9lbs. Arthur Muckian, Dundalk had two fresh-run fish taken in the Gauge Pool and Sea Pool on Beat 9. Christopher Thornton, U.K. caught and released a fish of 6lbs taken on a Connemara Black in the Broken Bridge Pool on Beat 5. Young Christopher Forde, Oughterard very sportingly released his first salmon of the season - a fresh grilse of 5lbs taken in the Middle Garden Pool on a Cascade.  

A Black Shrimp was successful for Niall Wickham, Drogheda who released a fish taken at the Twin Rocks on Beat 7. Donavin Brinklow returned a sea trout of 1.5lbs taken on a Black Shrimp fly in Black Banks on Beat 6. Nicholas Fenton, N.I. caught 2 fish on a Cascade. John McCullough retained one of 6lbs and released another 2 in addition to 7 sea trout. Aidan Crean landed 4 sea trout and 1 grilse taken in the Sea Pool on Beat 9. Gerry Dooley released one of 7-8lbs taken on a Shrimp Fly and lost another 3 at the Twin Rocks on Beat 7. Mary Harkin, daughter of Rory Harkin of Rory’s Fishing Tackle Shop in Temple Bar Dublin, fishing the Erriff for the first time caught 3 of which 2 were released.   

Total catch for the week was 37 salmon and 22 Sea Trout, which keeps the season catch well above 2010, which was a good year too. With fresh fish continuing to run, September looks like it could be a good month again for salmon on the Erriff.

22ND AUGUST 2011

Angling conditions were good with the water level at 1.2 metres on Sunday 14th. Levels fell slowly to 0.65 meters by Wednesday morning and rains brought the level back up to 0.9 meters by evening time. With intermittent heavy showers levels were at 1.0 meters by Friday and dropped off to 0.9 meters on Saturday – overall levels were good for the week although a little bit on the sunny side with a scarcity of up stream wind at times.

David Mooney, Killimor caught & released two fresh-run grilse taken on a Cascade in the Gauge Pool on Beat 9. It was a first fish on the fly for 12 year old Finlay Caffery, Athy a sea-liced grilse taken in the Sea Pool on a Black Shrimp Fly. Hugh Jamison & Martin Wilson, N.I. had a brace of fish from Mickey’s Run ON Beat 7 - both fish were taken on a Cascade.

The Erriff & District Anglers had a Competition Day on Sunday 14th, with 5 rods catching 6 fish on Beats 2, 6 & 9 - heaviest fish was taken by Stuart Fleming at 5.75lbs while Conor O’Leary had 2 with one from Beat 9 and the other from the Quarry Pool on Beat 2.

Richard Daly (Dublin) with a nice grilse above the falls

Vaughan Lewis, U.K. caught & released 3 fish all taken on a Gold Stoat in Yellow Banks, Beat 5. Kevin Duffy, Dundalk had 3 including a 7lbs fish taken in the Boat Pool on Beat 5. A Black Pennell was successful for Anthony Tindal, Dublin taking a sea-liced grilse in the Garden Pool - his son William caught 2 in the Falls Pool including his first ever salmon and returned another one.

Paul Smith, Co. Offaly returned a grilse taken in the Coronation Pool on an Orange Shrimp. Stephen Jones, Dublin returned one taken in the Falls Pool on a Cascade and lost a big fish after some twenty minutes on a single-handed trout rod. Jeremy Argall, Brest, France fishing the Erriff for the first time had his best ever salmon fishing, catching 6 fish for the week and lost several more including one in the Quarry Pool on Beat 2 – a small Stoats Tail tube variant was the most successful fly.

Fishing a Sunray Shadow Dr. John Casey, Clifden caught and released 4 salmon in a morning session on Beat 9. Malachy O’Callaghan, Dublin released a fish caught on a Shrimp pattern in the Coronation Pool Beat 8. Dr. Eoin Brenham, Oughterard caught and released 2 fish taken on an Erriff Badger.

A total of 34 salmon and 16 sea trout were taken for the week of which 22 salmon were returned again to the water.

Although the main run has peaked nevertheless sea-liced fresh fish continue to enter the river and it is hoped that this reduced but steady run will continue into September. Anglers planning future trips are advised to have a selection of darker flies in smaller sizes such as 12 & 14 and to have a selection of sink tips or an intermediate fly line.

15TH AUGUST 2011 - 80 SALMON - BEST WEEK FOR MANY YEARS!

Water levels were recorded at 0.9m on Sunday the 7th, and with good angling conditions rods there was fantastic fishing with rods catching 18 salmon that day. Water levels and angling conditions remained good for the following two days and a further 10 fish were caught. Levels were recorded again at 0.8m at 8a.m. on the morning of the 10th, however the weather pattern changed dramatically and by 9.30a.m. with extreme heavy rainfall the river level rose to 1.8m.  The spate peaked at 2.1m a few hours later and water levels remained high for a number of days falling slowly to 1.0m by the end of the week.  With suitable water levels a great run of fresh fish entered the river.

Brian Holloway, a regular U.K. visitor to the Erriff, had a fantastic week landing 11 salmon for the week with most of the catchreturned again to the river –  best day 4 fish taken on a Hairy Mary & Cascade. Kenneth Mills, U.K., a regular rod on the river in recent years had 9 for the week, mostly taken on an Orange Shrimp pattern. New rods on the river Michael Whitehead and Tom Byam-Cook, U.K. had 2 each and lost several more.  Mr. Herve Rodrigue, France had 4, best fish 12.25lbs taken in the Falls Pool on Beat 9.  Niall Wickham, Drogheda, Co. Louth caught one of 14.1lbs in the Washing Pool on Beat 4. Dr. Margaret Downes, Dublin had 4 for the week.

Richard Daly, Kevin Glynn and Edward Murphy all from Dublin had 8 fish between them.  Cascades and Shrimp patterns in various sizes were the most successful flies and apart from a few fish all the catch was taken on fly.  This was the best weeks fishing on the river for many years and it was good to see decent sized grilse up to 7lbs featured in the rod catch.  Total catch for the week was 80 salmon and 43 sea trout.   

At the time of writing the report the river is in perfect condition after more rain yesterday, and water levels should remain good for fishing for the next few days.

Jane Beattie (NI) with a nice Erriff grilse

Video taken Sunday August 7th

6TH AUGUST 2011 - RAIN ON THE WAY

There were high tides up to 4.5 meters in the Killary early in the week – salmon and sea trout were continually splashing on the high tides. The high-water mark reached 1.45 meters and fresh fish continued to enter the lower river even though the river levels were recorded at 0.6 meters on the Aasleagh Gauge.  Water levels remained constant at 0.6 meters  from the  31st to the 5th.  Heavy showers on the 6th resulted in levels rising to 0.9 meters.

 Mark Broughton caught 2 in the Falls Pool and Bridge Pool on a silver Stoat. Mandy Broughton caught a sparkling fresh run fish of 9lbs in the Falls Pool on a Stoat’s Tail s14.  John Nelson, NI. Caught one of 5lbs. on a Cascade in the Sea Pool.  Margie Crawford had 3 on a Cascade and Ally Shrimp all from Beat 9.  A Stoat’s Tail was successful for Mr. Charles Lister, UK who caught his first ever salmon – the fish estimated at 10lbs. was returned again to the water.  Mr. Ian Morgan, UK caught a fresh run grilse in the Falls Pool on a Cascade variant.  Mr. Timothy Fairhurst, had 4 grilse including 1 from Jenkins taken on a Jock Scott – all fish were released again.  Dr. Bart & Liam Maloney  had 4 – best fish 7.5 lbs. taken on a Willie Gunn.  Connor O’Leary, Dublin returned a fish taken on a Shrimp Fly in the Coronation Pool Beat 8. 

Angling conditions were poor on Tawnyard Lough which produced a few sea trout and numerous numbers of small brown trout to half a pound.  

Total catch for the week was 21 salmon and 14 sea trout .  At the time of writing the report angling conditions have improved and good fishing is expected this week. Plenty of rain forecast this week which should get fish moving.

Mandy Broughton (UK) with a fine 9lbs fresh salmon

30TH JULY 2011 - LOW WATER!

Water levels continued to fall from 0.7 meters to 0.6 meters for the period and the river was baked in bright sunshine for most of the period.  Water temperatures were recorded between 18 and 20 degrees Centigrade.   There were less rods out on the river and catches were down on the previous week.  Mr. Robert and Annie Rusby, U.K. caught a fish each in the Sea Pool and Garden Pool on Beat 9.  Mr. Jean Boidron and Mr. Gerard Garnier France had one each from the Sea Pool on Cascades. Fresh fish continued to show in the estuary on every tide and with the high water temperatures few fresh fish entered the river

24TH JULY 2011

Water levels and angling conditions were excellent during the week beginning the 18th July with great cloud cover and strong winds. Water levels were recorded at 1.6 meters on the Aasleagh Gauge and with regular very heavy showers the river held up well for several days and fresh grilse entered the river on every tide. Stephen Ward, Tony Uttley, D. Bailey, all from the U.K. and fishing the Erriff for the first time had a good week catching 9 sparkling fresh grilse and 5 sea trout mainly on Cascades.  

G. Garnier, France fishing the Erriff for 25 years had his best day ever on the river with 3 fish from Beat 1 in a morning session and 7 fish from Beat 9 in the afternoon – all fish were taken on Cascades and 8 were sportingly released, best fish 11.25lbs.  Andrew Beattie continued his week beating last years personal best (11) having 13 grilse and 6 Sea Trout  for the week – once again a Cascade was the most successful fly pattern – 10 grilse were sportingly released.  A Red Shrimp fly was successful for Wilfred Foster, N.I. taking a fresh run grilse from the top Square Pool. A. Caffrey, Athy caught a grilse of almost 5lbs in the Falls Pool on a Willie Gunn and another of  7lbs in the Bridge Pool on Beat 9. 

Andrew Beattie releasing one of his 13 grilse landed this week

Nigel Larke, Tipperary caught 2 grilse on Cascades on his first day salmon fishing – both fish were sportingly released. Dessie Edwards, N. Irl. had 3 fish –one from Kelly’s Bend on Beat 4 and two more from the Bridge Pool and the Falls Pool on Beat 9. Jimmy Keogh, Dublin had 4 fish from Poleen on Beat 4 and the Falls Pool on Beat 9 – best fish weighed 6lbs – Jimmy also released a 6lbs coloured fish taken in Poleen.

Gael Kerschbaumer, France had 2 from the Hawthorn Run on Beat 7 and the Sea Pool on Beat 9, and another fish from the Meadow Flats on beat 1 (released). Mike Carpino, U.K. had a sparkling fresh grilse fishing the Bridge Pool from the left bank. D. Byfield, U.K. fishing the Erriff for the first time had one from Deadman’s on Beat 2 and another from Joyce’s Sand Hill on Beat 5. Black Banks on Beat 6 produced a 6.75lbs fish for David Gaffney.   Fergus Crawford released two grilse from the Garden Pool and Sea Pool on Beat 9.  

 A total of 48 salmon and 34 sea trout were taken during the week. At the time of writing the report water levels have dropped off  to 0.7 meters and water temperatures have reached 18C. Grilse and sea trout can be seen splashing on the tide and fresh grilse are still entering the river.

17TH JULY 2011

Water levels were very low from Monday 11th to Friday 15th July. The river was baked in bright sunshine and few anglers fished the river. However despite the poor angling conditions Eva Hompesch, Germany, took a sea-liced grilse in the Sea Pool on Beat 9 on 11th. The weather pattern totally changed on Sat 16th with heavy rains and storm force winds. Water levels rose quickly and soon the river was in excellent condition. Jean Boidron, France caught an 8lbs fish on a Cascade in the Boat Pool on Beat 5. Gerard Garnier also from France caught 4  - best fish 8lbs caught on a Cascade in the Quarry Pool on Beat 2. Ken McMillan and Andrew Boyd caught one each in the Coronation Pool and the General’s Rock on Beat 9. David Williams, U.K. had 3 all from Beat 9 and Will Masterson also from the U.K. had 2 from Beat 6 – best 7.75lbs taken on a Cascade from the Colonel’s Pool on Beat 6. A Bann Special was successful for Steve Smith, U.K. who caught a fish of 8.75lbs in the Hawthorn Run on Beat 7. The following day Steve caught 4 fish in the Sea Pool on a Tosh tube fly. 

                                                                                                           Stephen Ward playing a grilse in the Falls Pool

8TH JULY 2011

Water levels were low for the first few days of July and few anglers fished. Rain on the 5th increased water levels and angling conditions improved. Markus Muller caught a well conditioned sea liced grilse of 5lbs in the Garden Pool on a Black Shrimp fly. David Gaffney landed 3 grilse in the Coronation Pool on Shrimp Fly. The following day (6th July) heavy rain resulted in a massive spate of almost 2 metres on the Aasleagh Gauge. Mr. J. Holden, Dublin had 3 grilse taken on Cascades – all from Beat 9. Sea trout in good condition are also being caught.

Michael Vincent, Athy caught a 9.5lbs fish at Altamont’s Dam on Beat 6 on a Black Shrimp.  Thomas Dolan, all the way from the U.S.A. and fishing the Erriff for the first time, reported one of the best days salmon fishing in his life, catching 4 salmon and 2 sea trout on Beat 6 and landing 2 salmon and sea trout which he sportingly released.

Anthony Holden with a 7.5lbs grilse from Beat 9

27TH JUNE 2011

Water levels were good at the start of the week at 1.2 meters on the Aasleagh Guage. Mr. David Kirk, Dublin caught 2 fresh run grilse on the 17th. in the Garden Pool and Sea Pool on Beat 9 on a Blue Charm & Cascade and also returned a good sea trout.  Mr. Jean Louis Istasse, Belgium has a grilse from the Garden Pool and returned a sea trout.   A Gold Cascade & Claret Shrimp were successful flies for brothers Ken and Niall Wickham, Co. Louth who caught 3 fish two of 7 lbs and one of 6.25lbs from Glenanane Stones and Twin Rocks on Beat 7.  Mr. Michel Winthrop Party, France had 9 salmon and several sea trout  - best salmon 9.25lbs to Mr. Patrick Devilder from Beat 6 – Michel also had a fish of 8.25lbs from the Sea Pool on Beat 9.   

 James Stafford had 2 - best 10lbs from the Falls Pool on an Erriff Green & Gold. 

Mr. David Jourdan, France fishing the Erriff for the first time had 2 on the 18th. - best 8lbs on a Cascade from the School House Pool on Beat 3 – and then had another from Deadman’s Pool on Beat 2 a few days later on returning from a successful pike and trout fishing trip to L. Mask.  

Water levels were recorded at 1.3 meters on the 19th.  Mr. H. Jamison, N. Ireland took a fresh run grilse from the Middle Garden on a Black & Silver Cascade. 

Mr. Selby Knox, UK. caught 2 best 9.25lbs taken on a Silver Stoat from the Black Banks on Beat 6. A Red Shrimp was successful for Mr. Michael Parry who caught a sea liced grilse in the Colonel's Pool on Beat 6.   Joyce’s Sand Hill produced a fish of 5.25lbs for Mr. B. Marshall UK.  Mr. Conor O’Leary, Dublin released a 6lbs fish taken on a s12 Shrimp Fly in King’s Pool on Beat 4.  Fishing the School House Pool two days later Conor released a fish of 12lbs taken on a Cascade – Conor also had good sport fishing small wet flies for Brown Trout  (catching 12) on Derrintin Lough .

                                                                                             Michel Winthrop (Fr) with a nice grilse this week

Water levels were recorded at 1.6 meters on the 25th.  Mr. Paul O’Meara, Dublin fishing the Erriff for the first time caught a fish of 11lbs in Kelly’s Bend Beat 4 on a Yellow Flame-thrower.

Sunday 26th, with water levels at 1.35 meters, local anglers Peter Coyne & Stuart Fleming caught fish of 6.5lbs and 9.5lbs on a Shrimp Fly & Willie Gunn tube from Altamont’s Dam and the Colonel’s Pool on Beat 6.   Mr. C Whitton, UK fishing the Erriff for the first time took 2 fish best 6.25lbs from Glenanane Stones and the Sally Pool Beat 7 on a Stoat’s Tail and Cascade.

Overall there is a vast improvement in the number of Salmon and Sea Trout entering the river.  Sea liced springers up to 12lbs in addition to good quality grilse are still passing through the fish counter above Aasleagh Falls.  Sea trout are not being caught in numbers on the river, which would suggest that many ran straight up to Tawnyard lough which would be well worth fishing. 

15TH JUNE 2011

Good numbers of springers and some grilse moving through the counter this week. Bernd Gregan caught and released a nice 8lbs fish from Poleen on Beat 4. The fish took a black shrimp pattern. Other anglers to score included Urgan Mantle, with a fine fish of 10lbs, and Jim Stafford, with a grilse of 5lbs.

8TH JUNE 2011

The first grilse of the season has been landed by David Gaffney from Dublin, who had a nice fish of 5lbs 2oz, taken in the Garden Pool on Beat 9 on a size 12 Cascade. Water levels are excellent excellent and we have good numbers of springers, grilse and sea trout running

David Gaffney with the first grilse of 2011

30TH MAY 2011

Overall water hevels were high during the week. There was a spate of 2.5 meters recorded on the Aasleagh GaUge on the 23rd. Water levels were 1.9 meters on the 25th. With suitable water conditions the run of Spring salmon continued into the river.

Saturday 28th was a super day for Seamus Nee, Athlone on the river. Water levels were recorded at 1.4meters with the river running clear - Seamus fishing with single barbless hooks caught and released 2 fish estimated at 10lbs and 15lbs taken in the Willow Pool on Beat 6 on a Cascade size 6. He also hooked and lost another fish in the Colonel’s Pool and another in the Sea Pool.

Another angler hooked and lost a fish in the Garden Pool. There is plenty of availability during the coming weeks on the fishery.

14TH MAY 2011

 Friday 13th May was a lucky day for Niall Wickham, Drogheda, Co. Louth who caught a sea-liced 7 pounder on a Cascade in the Coronation Pool on Beat 8. Niall followed this up with another fish of 6.5lbs, which he sportingly released. The fish was taken on a Cascade off Poleen on Beat 4 in the afternoon.

Niall Wickham with his 7lbs fish

7TH MAY 2011 - FIRST SALMON OF THE SEASON!

Great news, the first salmon of the season was landed by local angler, Peter Coyne. The fish weighed 7lbs, and was taken from the Falls Pool on a shrimp pattern. Another fish was hooked and lost in the Garden Pool. Water conditions are suitable for the coming week.