Irish wild brown river trout
Fishing for native brown trout in Ireland is an established tradition rooted in centuries of survival and history. Ireland's clean rivers and temperate climate make it an ideal habitat for Salmo Trotta, the native Irish brown trout. These wild trout are known for their wariness, beautiful coloration, and spirited fight, making them a rewarding challenge for anglers. The history of fly fishing in Ireland stretches back to at least the 17th Century, when early angling books described methods for catching trout using hand-tied artificial flies.
Successful fly fishing in Ireland requires a combination of skill, patience, and an understanding of both the trout and their environment. Anglers typically use lightweight fly rods and lines, presenting artificial dry and wet flies to mimic the natural insects on which trout feed. Mastery of casting technique is essential, as many of the smaller riverbanks have now become very overgrown. The experience and ability to "read" the water—identifying riffles, runs, and pools where trout are likely to lie is a big advantage. Irish wild trout can be elusive, and the angler's experience often determines success. Knowledge of seasonal insect hatches, water levels, and weather patterns is crucial. For example, during the famed “Mayfly Hatch” on the larger rivers and lakes, trout feed aggressively on the surface, providing thrilling dry-fly fishing opportunities.
Freshly caught native Irish brown trout
Many years ago, as a lad of 12 or 13, I used to try my hand at fly fishing on the Avonmore River in Rathdrum in Co. Wicklow. I would head off down by the old Comerford’s flour Mill (now a large farmers co-op) down ‘the bottoms’ between the Mill and the Viaduct. Many of those times, I invariably come across Jimmy Kelly or ‘Red Jimmy’ as he was known locally (red hair). Jimmy was born and lived most of his life, close to the river, in the Lower Street part of the town. He fished the Avonmore his whole life, he knew every inch of it and more importantly he knew the rhythm of the river. Through passion and experience, Jimmy was one of the finest fly fishermen in the entire country, and as soon as I came across him fishing the river, everything that I planned for the adventure seemed to disappear into oblivion. I would just sit on the river bank (sometimes for hours) just watching a master at work. His ability to cast a fly in under the very low overhanging trees with just a couple of feet clearance, was spectacular and was usually very quickly rewarded with a fine sized, but fighting wild brown trout.
The art and skill of fly fishing for native brown trout on Irish rivers
When he finished his days fishing, Jimmy would carefully select and cut a couple of hazel tree branches – trimming back the off shoots. He would hook one or two fish on each of the shoots, carrying up to 10 good sized wild trout on each branch, and he would head for home. When he finally arrived, most of the fresh brown trout were gifted to neighbours, friends and old folk on his way home. While I probably only caught a dozen fish in my entire life, watching Jimmy Kelly fish the Avonmore River more than compensated for my own shortcomings. Watching him cast with ease and style, listening to the swish of the line, watching his left hand movements as he controlled the floating fly and finally the urgent sound of the reel as he got a bite, I would never be able to match those skills and artistry. But the pleasure of watching a master, plus experiencing the motion and the atmosphere, have left me with fond memories, that have lasted a lifetime. 
Pan fried whole Irish brown trout with fried potato and wild mushrooms
Fishing for native brown trout in Ireland is not just a sport—it's a connection to nature, a glimpse into a culture and centuries of tradition. For those who venture to its rivers, the experience is deeply rewarding, offering both a challenge, satisfaction and tranquillity in equal measure.
Our wall photographs of fishing and native Irish brown trout are available to purchase in the galleries on this site and make a spectacular fishing themed display on most wall spaces commercial and private.
