@Offender The majority of waters in Ireland are owned either privately or are owned by the State. A fishing permit issued by the owner of the waterway gives you the right to fish for varying periods ranging from a day to a season.
The only legal way to catch freshwater fish in Ireland is by rod and line. It is illegal for one person to use more than two rods at a time.
It is illegal to use live fish as bait.
You must obtain a State Fishing licence, tags and a separate fishing permit in order to fish for salmon and sea trout. Prices and duration of permits will vary. (See how to apply).
Most fisheries close on 30 September each year (with a few exceptions that close on various dates between 15 September and 12 October). Check with your local IFI office for further information.
It is illegal to keep or kill any sea trout in Connemara (western Ireland) or the Ballinakill district (above Connemara).
It is illegal to sell rod-caught salmon or sea trout over 40cm between 1 January and 31 October in any year.
On some waters, "fly-only" regulations or other restrictions may in place. Check with the owner of the waterway or your local Fisheries District Office for more information.
