River Moy

Salmon Fishing Season - Open from 1st February to 30th September

February - Mid-March:

The early season gives good fishing on the Upper Moy and its tributaries particularly the Ballyvary river. Usually at this time of the year the Lower river is at a winter high level with fish running through the upper reaches into lakes. Unusually low levels at this time of year could give good fishing in the Lower Moy but this would be very unpredictable.

Mid-March - Mid-May:

This time of year sees the bulk of the Moy Spring salmon catch with the month of April being the prime time. These fish average 12lbs. with several fish of 20-30lbs. taken in recent years.

Mid-May - Mid-June:

At this time some of the larger Spring fish run and these fish can average up to 16lbs. in weight. This run of fish is accompanied by a run of "Blackbacks". These fish weigh between 5-9lbs., beautifully proportioned, being very deep in body with a small head. They are considered more as a Spring fish than a grilse.

From mid - May small grilse, averaging 3lbs. appear in significant numbers peaking in late May. This run is joined and superseded by the main run of Moy grilse which appear in considerable numbers from early June.

June - July:

This is the season for the main run of Moy grilse with fish averaging 5lbs. As July progresses, the fish become fewer in number but larger in size.

August:

Fresh August grilse can average up to 8lbs. though fishing at this time is highly dependent upon weather and water conditions.

Early September - End of season:

During this back end period, there is a run of what are termed locally as "Harvest Fish". These fish are in the 8-12lbs. bracket and are true sea-liced silver salmon, with occasional fish of 15-20lbs. taken. Also, at this time, there is a general movement of "resident" fish from the estuary and lower river. These fish are often large grilse of 7-9lbs. and are relatively 'fresh' fish although not sea-liced.

Sea Trout Fishing

The tidal waters of the Moy River provide excellent sea trout fishing and boats and boatmen are available daily.

Pike Fishing

The Bonnifinglas lakes are the best in Ireland. The fish run large. Fishing is free. A boat is helpful but not essential. The best period is from September onwards. Derryhick and Levalley lakes are restocked with Pike, average 7kg up to 15kg.

Deep Sea Angling:

Famous sea fishing centres are Westport on the West Coast of Mayo and Killala on the North West Coast. Pontoon is between these famous sea fishing centres.