Due to the heatwave we are experiencing in Ireland at present, flyfishing for salmon and trout has almost come to a standstill with water temperatures reaching critical levels for salmonids and spate rivers almost disappearing due to severe drought conditions.

However, we thought this is the time to explore new horizons and went off to try our hands on something completely different…

With the help of our friend Donal, skipper of the “Leah”, we ventured out on Killala Bay to target spurdog on fly! For a couple of years, Donal had been talking about the possibility of fishing for Spurs with fly gear as he had got them on ordinary mackerel feathers before. And Yes, as predicted, it was possible to attract the fish almost to the surface and we were able to sight cast for them. At times, we even got takes blind casting while stripping in line.

With their powerful runs these fish (all ranging between 10 & 15 lbs.) tested the brakes of our reels and provided excellent action on the fly. Well, these fish don’t fight like blues but are more than an alternative for adventurous fly anglers along the Irish Coast. We are not sure, but according to Donal this probably was the first time spurdog were caught on fly in Irish waters…

We would like to thank Donal Kennedy for this extraordinary experience. Without his expert local knowledge this wouldn’t have been possible! But now let’s hope for some rain…

Go fishing…
To book a day’s fishing in Killala Bay contact Donal Kennedy on +353 (0)86 8174509 or visit www.dkennedyangling.net. D. Kennedy Angling is a family run Angling Charter Business operating out of Enniscrone, Co. Sligo and Killala, Co. Mayo. Trips on the mv Leah offer a fantastic fishing experience, from a full day’s shark fishing to a short mackerel fishing trip. As well as catering for the serious angler we offer a range of other services including family trips, pleasure trips and dolphin watching…

By Markus Muller
Source: www.fishinginireland.info.