Introduction
Atlantic salmon fishing with rod and line in freshwater using methods such as the worm, shrimp, lure or fly has long been a way of life, outdoor recreational sport and means of providing a sustainable, nourishing meal for many families here in Northern Ireland when food wasn't so plentiful.
However, growing concerns surrounding declining numbers of returning Atlantic salmon and the current state of our waterways of late due to numerous sources of pollution has led many anglers to seek alternative options to full the ever growing void.
In this article, we will explore some of the alternatives to Atlantic salmon fishing in Northern Ireland that not only provide an exciting fishing experience but also contribute to learning sustainable angling practices.
1. Trout Fishing
Trout fishing is a great alternative with numerous rivers and lakes offering trout fishing opportunities both public and private.
Anglers can enjoy the thrill of catching these beautiful fish whilst being surrounded by rural tranquillity and deploying very much the same familiar methods on the worm, spinner or fly.
Wild brown trout population's are generally more stable than Atlantic salmon in Northern Ireland making it a more sustainable choice. ( C&R still advised )
Local lakes get stocked regularly with good fighting brown trout & rainbow trout. This offers a great sustainable alternative for anglers of all abilities. Some venues have multiple ponds with various species and methods permitted. Some lakes are fly only.
*Always check the rules, regs and methods allowed before embarking on your angling journey.
2. Coarse Fishing
If you're looking for a diverse fishing experience, coarse fishing is an excellent option. Coarse fishing encompasses a wide range of fish species, including carp, bream, and roach. There are many fisheries across the UK and Ireland with a handful in N.I that offer coarse fishing opportunities. This provides anglers a chance to learn new tactics catching different species whilst enjoying the tranquillity of secluded freshwater lakes.
3. Sea Fishing
Sea angling is a fantastic and exciting alternative to Atlantic salmon fishing in Northern Ireland.
Cost effective, no permit needed when not targeting salmon & sea trout, not so many rules and regs, scenic views second to none and the coastal waters being home to a wide variety of species including Cod, Mackerel, Pollock, Gurnard, Bass and Shark. Most saltwater fish are more than willing to take a well presented bait, lure or fly.
Anglers can charter local boats for mackerel when in season for 2-3 hours around the bay or head out to the deeps for the full day where catch and release methods are deployed on tope shark, blue shark, huss, hounds wrays, ling, congers and other large specimen's.
(L.R.F) Light Rock Fishing with shads and lures targeting smaller species like the many types of Wrasse that we are privileged to have gracing our shores while taking in the beautiful coastal scenery is a great opportunity not to be missed.
4. Pike Fishing
Pike fishing is a popular option for anglers seeking a different kind of challenge. Dead baits, wire traces, fish oils and life-like lures imitating small fish like roach and trout are tactics deployed.
Pike are predatory fish known for their aggressive strikes and powerful fights much like salmon. Pike anglers tend to camp out for hours maybe even days waiting for that adrenaline filled take.
5. Hiring a Guide
In Northern Ireland there no regulations covering tourist guiding, most professional guides are free-lance and self-employed.
If having trouble finding a family friendly guide that's well versed on the area do not hesitate to contact us for help.
Conclusion
While Atlantic salmon angling in Northern Ireland still has its allure, exploring alternative options can be equally rewarding.
Whether you choose fishing for rainbow trout on rural lakes with amenities, sea fishing the deeps on a charter boat for a variety of saltwater species or getting your head around coarse / pike fishing, you can still enjoy the thrill of that take.
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