A new survey to tap into the knowledge of trout anglers on Lough Sheelin, was launched last week by Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI).
Entitled Fleksi, the survey features questions for anglers about their catch and aspects of the fishery now, compared to when they first started fishing on the lake.
Anglers spend many hours observing nature and the fish they catch. This local ecological knowledge is valuable and has potential for citizen science that can provide important insights for fisheries management into the future.
Wild brown trout are known to feed opportunistically on seasonal gluts of prey such as mayflies, midges, sedge-flies, etc. To select artificial flies and lures that ‘match the hatch’, anglers closely observe the lake environment and its wildlife throughout the angling season.
Dr Shephard, senior research officer with IFI, said: “We know how important anglers are as stewards of our fisheries resource. With this new survey we want to use this unique insight to help track changes in trout stocks and ecosystems.”
Located in Co Cavan, Sheelin is one of Ireland’s most important wild brown trout fisheries, with a history of dramatic environmental changes over the last 40 years.
The Fleksi survey will give anglers an opportunity to share their knowledge as citizen scientists and to make a valuable contribution towards fisheries management on the lake.
Please take the opportunity to share your knowledge by following the link: https://www.fisheriesireland.ie/fleksi-survey-sheelin-anglers-2022Each participant will have the opportunity to enter into a draw for tackle prizes of one €200 voucher and two €100 vouchers.
Trout Masters Pairs
The Trout Masters Pairs Competition, hosted by Connacht Predator Anglers and sponsored by Ballina Angling Centre, recently enjoyed a great day’s fishing on Lough Corrib. Following verification, all fish were sportingly released.
Results: 1: Krzysztof Michonski and Lukasz Znameic; 2: Igor Klosowski and Rafal Pelec; 3; Simon Langan. Klosowski also caught the best trout at 57cm. Currently leading in the longest trout category is Marcin Gregorczyk with a trout of 87.5cm (21lb).
Angler of the Year
Lurgan Coarse AC ‘Club Angler of the Year League’ got going again after two years absence due to Covid. Lough Muckno was the venue and the Concra Wood section fished well considering a hard frost overnight.
Results: 1: Johnny McKinley, 5.150kg; 2: Philip Jackson, 4.725kg; 3: Kevin Maguire, 4.650kg; 4: David Herron, 4.600kg; 5: Scooby, 4.575kg; 6; Jim McAllister, 4.300kg. Only grams split the top six which is testament to how fair the venue is.
Trout qualifier
The Leinster branch of the Trout Angling Federation of Ireland (Tafi) held its final qualifier on Lough Owel last weekend. Declan Conlon emerged as outright winner with seven fish, one at 4.25lb, followed by Michael McShane on six and Sean Kirwan, also with six fish. Following measurement check, all fish were returned unharmed.
Winners will now go forward to the All-Ireland final in the autumn from which the top team will be selected to participate in the CIPS world championships next year.
KerryHospice Foundation charity event The 34th anniversary of ‘The Charity’ wet-fly fishing competition in aid of the Kerry Hospice Foundation and Saoirse Foundation will be held on Sunday, May 22nd, 2022 on Lough Lein in Killarney, Co Kerry.
To date, the competition has raised over €260,000 for various charities. Entry fees are: €35 with boat and engine (€50 without) and €20 for junior anglers.
Entry forms to be returned to Corry O’Flaherty, Lough Lein Anglers, 9 Coolegrean Park, Killarney. Tel: 064-663 3205 by Monday, 9th May.
If you have an angling story to share, please send it to me at angling@irishtimes.com
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