Fishing in Killarney

Earls Court's proximity to the lakes of Killarney makes it a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. There are three Lakes in Killarney, known as Lough Leane, Muckross Lake and the Upper Lake. Killarney and the surrounding district has some of the best Salmon and Brown Trout waters in Ireland and is an ideal base for the fishing enthusiast.

Trawling for salmon with either spoons or minnows is the most popular method used. Fly-fishing for trout with wet flies is very effective but spinners can also be used. The most popular flies are Bibio, Black Zulu, Jungle Cock, Bog Fly, Alder, and early in the season Hawthorns and Duck Flies.

The Lakes contain fourteen species of fish, including the Charr, a species of fish which usually occupies Sub-Artic lakes. Trout fishing on Killarney’s lakes is free and for a small licence fee, you can hunt for the magnificent wild Atlantic salmon.

On many of the nearby rivers and lakes for a small weekly or daily charge, you can fish for Brown trout, Sea trout, Rainbow trout and Salmon.

You will find some wonderful wild Brown Trout fishing in the Gap Of Dunloe / Black Valley region. This area is full of small lakes and streams. Especially for the dedicated Fly Angler, you will have great fun with Small Brownies.

River Flesk 

This is a medium-size spate river, it drains the West Cork mountains, and flows into Lough Leane, the lower reaches are deep but with enough flow to carry a fly. It gets a run of spring Salmon and a great run of Peel (grilse). Local knowledge of this river is vital. All methods of fishing are allowed (except maggots & ground baiting).

River Laune

This river drains the Killarney Lakes. There is excellent Salmon, Trout and Sea Trout fishing available. Late summer and September is about the best period for Brown Trout.

Killorglin is a prominent town west of Killarney on the N.70 Ring of Kerry touring route. The River Laune flows from Lough Leane near Killarney to reach the sea just north-west of Killorglin after a distance of approximately 22 Km.

The River Laune is a very good Spring Salmon river. The catches recorded from this river in recent years have been excellent.

Sea Trout fishing is possible usually in the May to June period. Local enquiries will provide current details on the availability of day permits.

Barfinnihy Lake

This lake, one of numerous stocked lakes in south-west Ireland. Rainbow Trout are stocked regularly during the season and is an excellent lake for beginners as rainbow Trout are more free taking than Wild Brown Trout. This lake is about 10 miles from Killarney on the Sneem Road Worm's spinners and flies are methods allowed.

Sea Fishing

Seacoast and deep-sea fishing options are but a short drive away on many points around the Atlantic Kerry Coast.

These include Kenmare, Dingle and Valentia, and also Cloghane, Caherciveen and Ballydavid.