Not even the cracking of a nearby clay-pigeon shoot could deter the appetite of the rainbow trout as they provided fantastic sport for 13 "hacks" at Courtlough, near Balbriggan, Co Dublin, last weekend.
Following a briefing over coffee it was down to business in pursuit of those silver beauties. Intermediate lines attached to Cat’s Whiskers, Blobs, Montanas and Boobies were to the forefront on a slow figure-of-eight retrieve.
Fishery manager Garrett Ruigrok’s prediction that all anglers, novice or otherwise, would catch fish at Courtlough certainly applied in our case. Derek Davis was first off the mark with a trout of about 2lb.
By lunchtime, we had all sampled the delights of this outstanding fishery, with master angler Peter O’Reilly leading the pack with seven.
The fun and games really got going during the afternoon session with bigger fish taking an interest. I was one of many who hooked up to a huge rainbow; in my case, it took me for “walkies” along the bank.
These were big fish in mint condition and with plenty of fight, with some reaching at least 10lb. “Not only did they fight like salmon, they actually looked remarkably similar,” was one comment.
Paddy O’Flaherty from BBC Northern Ireland had one of his best days. Working quietly close to a reed bed, all of his nine fish were huge. “My right arm is ready to fall off,” he said later. Peter increased his tally to finish with an impressive 16.
The Courtlough complex is vast and easily the most comprehensive outdoor sports facility I have ever come across. There is something to whet the appetite of even the most discerning sportsperson.
Take your pick from extreme activity climbing to clay-pigeon shooting, falconry, archery, rifle range, gun and tackle shop, cafe, bar and a magnificent four-acre fishing lake. It’s all there, just 30 minutes from the city centre.
Back at the cafe and comfort of a glowing log fire we tucked into a scrumptious meal which included a thick vegetable soup “you could trot an elephant on”. Dessert consisted of trifle and hot custard. Sure, where would you get it?
Newcomers mentalist Keith Barry and Grace McDermott from Mara Media also seemed to enjoy the day immensely and everyone was full of gratitude to Inland Fisheries Ireland staff Paul Bourke, David Byrne and especially Josie Mahon for their support.
At the prizegiving, Garrett Ruigrok said the fishery was up and running for two years and his next project was to build a lodge overlooking the lake.
For bookings and rates, call 01-841 3096 or fishing@courtlough.ie.
Results: 1. P O’Reilly, 16 fish; 2. P O’Flaherty, 9f; 3. F Keane, 9f; 4. D Evans, 8f; 5. D Davis, 7f. Longest fish: 60cm, M Neill; 76 fish caught and returned.
Inniscarra Lake
Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs Sean Sherlock recently opened the Coachford Greenway on the shores of Inniscarra Lake in Co Cork. The project, a huge investment for the region, will provide a 2.8km linear park in the form of a walkway for fishing, joggers, walkers and picnics.
In July, the National Coarse Fishing Federation of Ireland (NCFFI) hosted the 4th World Feeder Fishing Championships on Inniscarrra Lake and welcomed teams from 25 different nations. The event was a huge success and allowed the opportunity to showcase the facility worldwide.
Further to recent trials on Lough Garadice in Co Leitrim, the team selected to fish the FIPS-ed World Feeder Championships in the Netherlands next year is: Nigel Houldsworth, Cathal Hughes, Philip Jackson, Paul Leese, Francis McGoldrick and Richard Pratt.
Manager Brenton Sweeney, said: “I am delighted with the team who I know will work together to take Ireland forward in future championships.”
The NCFFI would like to thank sponsors Garbolino, Sensas Ireland and Irish Bait & Tackle for their continued support.
angling@irishtimes.com
