Kilkee & Surrounding area, Co. Clare - 28/09/07 to 08/10

This is the diary of two English men (Andy and myself), whose annual holiday to Kilkee in Co. Clare between the 26th September and 8th October saw us visit many marks in the local area. Points to note, unless otherwise stated those in attendance were just ourselves, results only reflect my own catches (doubles indicate catching more than one fish at a time) and tides are given for Galway, but close enough. I hope you find the information useful and at times amusing.

Day 1 - 26th September 2007 Venue: Castle Point (Dunlickey) Duration: 15mins
Tide: 11:21 - 0.6m (flood) Water State: Clear & Choppy
Weather: Sunny, 14ºC Wind Speed: 3-4 Direction: N.E.
Bait: Feathers Rigs: As Bait Catch & Release: Always (apart from Mackerel!)
Results: Mackerel - 7 (3 doubles)

Report: Having driven across from the East coast after an overnight stop, we quickly unpacked the car and sorted the house out, which overlooks Kilkee Bay on the Strand (nice). Although we brought our own frozen bait, there's obviously nothing better than fresh so we both picked up a rod, sorted some feathers out and within an hour of arriving we had our first fish in the bucket! There were only a couple of others on the Point so we both had plenty of room. Only wanting enough for bait, I think we had three casts each and put away 15 for the evening a the next couple of days. Dunlickey is great for getting what you need very quickly and how some people seem to spend hour after hour up there getting far more than is really necessary beats me. It surely can't be for personal use so what they do with them all is a mystery, unless some can enlighten me?

Day 1 - 26th September 2007 Venue: Carrigaholt Pier Duration: 2hrs
Tide: 17:34 - 5.3m (ebb) Water State: Clear & Calm
Weather: Sunny Spells, 12-14ºC Wind Speed: 3-4 Direction: N.E.
Bait: Mackerel, Black Lug Rigs: 1 & 2 hook flappers Catch & Release: Always (apart from Mackerel!)
Results: Whiting - 5, Pollack - 12, Coalfish - 1, Dab - 1, Mackerel - 2, Red Mullet - 1 (4 doubles)

Report: Armed with our fresh Mackerel caught earlier in the day and a selection of frozen stuff, we headed off to the very comfortable Carrigaholt Pier to fish the tide down for a couple of hours. Having been here before we knew that we wouldn't get anything big but would be assured of at least getting our line pulled. Fishing one out with a strip of Mackerel and one down the wall with either Mackerel or Sandeel, it wasn't long before the tiny Pollack obliged. Quickly getting fed up with those (too easy!), I reverted to casting this rod out a bit further to cover more ground. This resulted in other species being landed, including a surprise Red Mullet, which I hadn't caught from this pier before.
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Fish%20Identification/MulletRed.jpg[/img]
The Whiting too were a bit of a surprise as again we hadn't caught these at this time of year, but the biggest surprise was the lack of Dogfish which were always previously a certainty. We packed up before it got dark so didn't have a go for the Conger on the outside wall, apart from which the tide was getting well down too.

Day 2 - 27th September 2007 Venue: Kilkee Beach Duration: 2½hrs
Tide: 18:14 - 5.6m (high) Water State: Clear & Calm
Weather: Sunny, 14ºC Wind Speed: 0-1 Direction: E.
Bait: Sandeel, Lug Rigs: 1 & 2 hook flappers Catch & Release: Always
Results: Blanked!

Report: The morning saw us go of for more bait collecting, but this time for crabs and lug. A quick trip back to Carrigaholt was in store as we knew we could get tons of crabs under the Oyster sacks (thanks to Jim the Farmer) and lug could be dug at the inner pier. An hour later and we had a bucket full of crabs and a couple of score of lug, which again was all we would need for the time being.
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00485.jpg[/img]
On our way back we stopped at Bourkes Tackle Shop to see Michael and get the low down influenced our plans for today. Having already contacted him before we arrived and also Bill Ryan (http://www.chillwithbill.com), we knew that the Bass were very active and that good catches had been taken from the beach. This all seemed too easy and despite it being a flat calm day with bright sunshine, we decided to give the beach in the bay a go. Oh what a good idea that was - NOT! Neither of us had an inclining of a bite and indeed not even a crab in sight, though we did find a dead Trigger Fish washed up - interesting!. Of course, the previous week there had been gales and a big surf running and so it was ideal. Not really surprising we had nothing in flat clam seas, but at least we didn't have far to go and Andy could get dinner ready while fishing immediately opposite!
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00458.jpg[/img]
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00459.jpg[/img]

Day 3 - 28th September 2007 Venue: Kilkee - Pink Cave Duration: 1½hrs
Tide: 12:36 - 0.2m (low) Water State: Clear & Calm
Weather: Sunny, 14-15ºC Wind Speed: 0-1 Direction: E.
Bait: Sandeel, Storm Imitation Sandeel Rigs: Float fished Sandeel, Deep Spinning Catch & Release: Always
Results: Pollack - 4 (3 of 3lb, 1 of 4lb approx)

Report: The previous day, we walked around the West End of the Bay, past the Cafe and over to the Pollack Holes looking for possible low water marks that we could get too. We found this excellent platform that looked ideal with lots of gullies and casting straight out into the Atlantic. Turned out this place was called Pink Cave, so named after the cave that was there that had a pink appearance.
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00555.jpg[/img]
This looked too good to miss, especially as the tide was a Spring Low, the weather perfect and the sea flat as a pancake. Andy started off dropping down the side for Wrasse we collected yesterday, while I went straight for the deep water spinning method - ala Henry Gilbey, but with a 13ft carp rod, rotten bottom and a 4ft trace connected to a Storm imitation sandeel. Casting out straight into the Atlantic and what I hoped was deep water, my first few retrieves were nervous and fast as I didn't want to lose too much gear. Not having any success with that, I then got a bit braver and let the business end drop to the bottom and retrieved more slowly. BANG - snag number 1 and a lost set of gear! Oh well, the place did look fishy and if they were there, they were going to be where the snags were, so I didn't let this deter me. Tackling up again, I started once more and managed to get it back a couple of times and even had a Garfish follow it in once - very encouraging, but then I got too brave and lost another set. Having seen the Garfish, I decided to switch to the float and stuck on a real Sandeel in the hope of the aforementioned Garfish or possibly a Bass. Letting the float just do it's own thing in the current, I got bored after 10mins or so and switched back to the long distance spinning with the imitation. Working out where the seabed went up and down and where the really bad snag was, I persisted when suddenly it felt I was snagged once more, but when I tried pulling it out this time it pulled back!!!! Game on. After a short but exciting fight, out popped a very nice plump Pollack, which we reckon was about 3lb. Isn't it great when a plan comes together.
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00465.jpg[/img]
Having succeeded with one method I went back to the float and wouldn't you know it, had a bite straight away! Great, that Garfish that followed me, but no - yet another Pollack of about the same size! Fabulous fun on light gear and a 2lb test curve carp rod. Being successful in both methods, I then returned to the spinning method as at least this kept me busy, if a little costly in gear. Persisting with this method yielded yet another Pollack of about 3lb, quickly followed by another one and a little bit bigger.
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00466.jpg[/img]
All the while this was going on, Andy had tried and failed with the Wrasse, traditional spinning for Bass (though he did have a follow) and float fishing! An excellent session for me, but not so great for Andy. Brilliant mark, but not one to fish alone, on a Neap tide of with any swell running (as will be seen later!).

Day 3 - 28th September 2007 Venue: Castle Point (Dunlickey) Duration: 15mins
Tide: 18:54 - 5.6m (mid flood) Water State: Clear & Calm
Weather: Sunny, 16ºC Wind Speed: 0-1 Direction: N.E.
Bait: Feathers Rigs: As Bait Catch & Release: Always (apart from Mackerel!)
Results: Mackerel - 13 (6 doubles)

Report: Experience dictates that Castle Point is always crammed full of 'feather chuckers' at the weekend and so a quick ride round was in order to pick up the bait to see us through. However, this wasn't to be any 'normal' trip. On the road to the Point we were following this car that was going quite slowly, nothing unusual in that as a lot drive slowly. However, this person eventually stopped in the middle of the road, with no form of indication so I wasn't sure of the reason for stopping, nor could I manoeuvre round him as there was no room. He then proceeded to put the car into reverse. Ok, I thought, he'll wait until I back up a bit before moving himself, but you guessed it - no! I barely had time to engage reverse myself when he accelerated straight into me, just like you see joyriders do on tv. Road Rage I thought, maybe I had been travelling too close when he was going slow and took exception to it. I naturally feared the worst and fully expected the front end of my car to be caved in, so it was a great relief to discover the only damage was a cracked number plate. Phew! The chap was a Frenchman, obviously on holiday and was very apologetic but said he reversed to take a loot at a sign and didn't see my there. How you can miss a great big huge silver Mercedes in your mirrors before moving is beyond me, more of a case of didn't look more like! I'm not sure who was the more surprised - me when he reversed or him hitting something unexpetedly! Have you heard the one about the Englishman, Frenchman and Irishman? Got to be a joke in there somewhere! Anyway, having determined the was no damage to worry about and no injuries, we continued on our way. Yet again, just a few casts each and we had a couple of dozen in the bucket, which would be ample.

Day 3 - 28th September 2007 Venue: Carrigaholt Pier Duration: 2hrs
Tide: 18:54 - 5.6m (high) Water State: Clear & Calm
Weather: Cloudy, 14-15ºC Wind Speed: 1-2 Direction: S.E.
Bait: Mackerel, Sandeel Rigs: 1 & 2 hook flappers Catch & Release: Always (apart from Mackerel!)
Results: Whiting - 11, Scad - 1, Mackerel - 1, Pollack - 1, Dogfish - 1

Report: Pushing a bit today, so our third trip was a relaxing revisit to Carrigaholt. Yet again, being assured of fish we did the usual of casting out and going down the wall, returning a variety of species and at last - my first Dogfish! We didn't stay too long, just until it got dusk as we were just about beat by then.
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00468.jpg[/img]
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00471.jpg[/img]

Day 4 - 29th September 2007 Venue: Bridges of Ross Duration: 1hr
Tide: 13:16 - 0.3m (ebb) Water State: Clear & Calm
Weather: Sunny, 14-15ºC Wind Speed: 1-2 Direction: N.E.
Bait: Crab, Mackerel Rigs: 1 hook paternoster, rotten bottom Catch & Release: Always
Results: Wrasse - 3 (2 of 2lb), Dogfish - 1

Report: Whilst driving to Bridges, we came across the usual countryside Traffic Jam!
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00472.jpg[/img]
On our previous trip to Bridges, we fished the gully inside the bay immediately below where you park, but I had always fancied one on the seaward side but had been unable to get to it because of the weather. This time it was perfect so while I headed for that, Andy set off for the gully.
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00473.jpg[/img]
Things didn't look too promising as I could see the bottom, but the water was really clear and there must have been a good 10ft in which to fish in. Resisting the temptation not to bother, I tackled up with a single hook paternoster to 30lb line and a rotten bottom, with half a hard back crab on the hook. The bites were instant and I soon pulled out a couple of nice plump Wrasse. A third followed soon after but bites were beginning to dry up (I'm sure those that were put back told the others and they all swan off elsewhere!). I then switched to a chunk of Mackerel to see what else maybe down there and was surprised to pull out a Dogfish, especially is such clear and shallow water. After an hour, I got bored and returned round the top to find Andy had also got bored and had about the same number of Wrasse. Very poor by previous years standards but we soon found out why. At the bottom of the wall where you walk down were three fish boxes full to the brim with Wrasse up to 4lb, all taken by (I assume) an illegal gill net which was laid out along the wall. No idea what the purpose of netting all those Wrasse was for, unless it was for pot bait, but i know it certainly had a big detrimental effect on the fishing. Sad and disappointing day.

Day 4 - 28th September 2007 Venue: Poulnasherry Bay Duration: 2hrs
Tide: 19:37 - 5.5m (flood) Water State: Clear & Calm
Weather: Cloudy, 14-15ºC Wind Speed: 1-2 Direction: S.E.
Bait: Sandeel, Mackerel Rigs: 1 & 2 hook flappers Catch & Release: Always
Results: Blanked!

Report: Having had previous reports of the Bay being full of Bass and the best place to go for Ray and Bull Huss, we thought we would give it a go. Arriving at the end of the Track, the field was full of cows and Andy didn't fancy walking through there, so we walked round the corner only to find we couldn't get all the way round because the water came all the way up to the fence ( a piece of luck as it turned out), so we walked back a little way and fished just to the left of where you park the car.
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00474.jpg[/img]
Knowing this place is full of crabs, it was a case of timing the casts to work out how soon you needed to reel in before wasting your time with bare hooks. About 10mins seemed to be the limit, after which there was no point bothering. We have never had much from this mark (just a few Dogfish) and have tried all states of the tide at various points with different tactics. Are there any fish here? Well the answer to that is yes as there were loads of Bass splashing about at high water, which coincided with dusk, but we didn't have our spinning gear with us so all we could do was sit back and admire. One surprise though was how far the tide came up and we found ourselves virtually fishing from inside the field! Good job we didn't walk round to where I originally intended to go as we would have been cut off.
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00476.jpg[/img]
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00477.jpg[/img]
A pleasant evening, even though we blanked here once again!

Day 5 - 30th September 2007 Venue: Kilkee - Pink Cave Duration: 1¼hrs
Tide: 13:58 - 0.5m (ebb to low) Water State: Clear & Choppy
Weather: Sunny, 17-18ºC Wind Speed: 0-1 Direction: E.
Bait: Storm Imitation Sandeel, Spinner Rigs: Spinning &, Deep Spinning Catch & Release: Always
Results: Blanked!

Report: Having had significant success here on Day 2, we decided to make the most of the weather and low tides and returned to give it a proper go. Unfortunately we arrived a little too early (11am) and had to wait an hour before it was safe enough.
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00478.jpg[/img]
There was a little more swell running today, which needed to be watched plus the tide wasn't going to go out as far so the other eye had to be kept on the time. With one eye on the watch and one on the sea, it's no real surprise we blanked as we didn't have any left to look for the fish! The extra swell seemed to play havoc with the tackle, throwing into the snags almost everytime. I did get one take, but what with watching the water, it got me into the kelp and I couldn't get it out. Nothing big but a shame nonetheless.
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00483.jpg[/img]
This was considerably more uncomfortable than our first trip down here and despite the dropping tide, we decided to cut our losses, think of safety first and go elsewhere.

Day 5 - 30th September 2007 Venue: Inishmurry - aka New Quay Duration: 1½hrs
Tide: 20:22 - 5.2m (high) Water State: Cloudy & Calm
Weather: Sunny, 18-19ºC Wind Speed: 0-1 Direction: E.
Bait: Sandeel, Mackerel, Blueys Rigs: 1 hook flapper & flowing Catch & Release: Always
Results: Blanked!

Report: Thought we would try and save the day and try our luck right up the river at Inishmurry. The first year we came here I pulled out a big Bull Huss that we reckon was approx 18lb, but now think it may have topped 20lb (see my Gallery). However, both that year and again last year, we were absolutely plagued by crabs with bait only lasting literally minutes. We should have learnt the lesson and had it not been for that Bull, we probably would have done. It's a shame as it is such a lovely spot to fish, if a bit spooky with the rusting hull of the ship 'Matricia' behind you!
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00491.jpg[/img]
Fishing into the channel between the pier on the island, weed was once again a big issue and the biggish tide didn't help either, although the flow wasn't that strong.
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00487.jpg[/img]
Unfortunately the crabs were still there in force and I reckon any fish that accidentally swan up that channel would get pounced upon if they stopped swimming for the briefest of moments. The best catch we had was 8 crabs on a Mackerel head fished along side the wall in the hope of a stray Conger. They are so mad that they hang on eating away even after they have been pulled out the water! Mental. I don't think we will be returning again, not unless we see conclusive proof that this place does actually produce something.

Day 6 - 1st October 2007 Venue: Castle Point (Dunlickey) Duration: 30mins
Tide: 14:45 - 1.0m (half ebb) Water State: Clear & Calm
Weather: Sunny, 17-18ºC Wind Speed: 2-3 Direction: N.E.
Bait: Feathers Rigs: As Bait Catch & Release: Always (apart from Mackerel!)
Results: Mackerel - 9 (3 doubles)

Report: Having got the weekend 'feather chuckers' out of the way, we returned to replenish our fresh stocks as the Friday bait was now getting rather stale (but intentionally). On our arrival, there were 4 others already there but only 3 were on the usual spot, 1 old chap filling plastic bags and a couple of Poles.
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00493.jpg[/img]
Deciding it was a bit too much for us both to fish at the same time, we took it in turns to catch one before the other had a go. However, this time the Mackerel were playing hard to get and it took as twice as long as usual to get what we needed! In addition, the size varied wildly with some of the smallest Mackerel I have ever seen (Pike anglers dream) to a couple over 2lb each! Unfortunately, the biggest disappointment was the absolute disgusting mess the place had been left in after the weekend. Loads of brightly coloured line just lying everywhere for birds to get caught up in,, plastic bottles, general domestic rubbish and rubber gloves. I'm sure anyone who has ever fished there knows exactly what I mean and also knows exactly who is responsible for such a mess, however you simply can't say it out loud but safe to say it's a cultural thing. We have the same problem on our Piers at Dover for exactly the same reason and it's a great shame to see such beautiful spots in Ireland succumb to the same treatment. The irony is all the signs at Castle Point that state it is a litter free zone and there's a fine of 3,000 euros for dropping litter. Are these purely for decoration as not many seem to be taking any notice! It would only take one council official to sit up there at the weekend during the Summer and they would boost the council coffers immensely! I'm sorry to say it's an absolute disgrace that nothing is done about it, but we haven't found an answer either at Dover and if you say anything you find knives are drawn and threats made, so what can you do?

Day 6 - 1st October 2007 Venue: Carrigaholt Pier Duration: 2½hrs
Tide: 21:12 - 4.8m (high) Water State: Cloudy & Calm
Weather: Cloud to Clear, 13-14ºC Wind Speed: 2-3 Direction: E.
Bait: Lug, Sandeel, Mackerel Rigs: 1 & 2 hook flappers Catch & Release: Always
Results: Whiting - 9, Poor Cod - 1, Dogfish - 1, Pollack - 5 (2 doubles)

Report: After blanking for 3 trips on the bounce, we thought it would be a good idea if we got back to catching something at least so off to Carrigaholt we went - yet again. The intention this time was to have a go at the Conger after it got dark, but with a force 3 Easterly blowing in your face and cloudy water, it was going to be uncomfortable so we didn't bother in the end. Instead we just did our normal thing of chucking out and seeing what turned up. As it turned out this wasn't a great deal, although a Poor Cod added to our list of species caught so far.

Day 7 - 2nd October 2007 Venue: Bridges Of Ross Duration: 3½hrs
Tide: 09:34 - 4.6m (ebb) Water State: Clear & Calm
Weather: Cloud to Sun, 13-18ºC Wind Speed: 0-1 Direction: E.
Bait: Mackerel Rigs: 1 hook paternoster, rotten bottom Catch & Release: Always
Results: Pollack - 1, Trigger Fish - 1 (2lb)

Report: Ever since we started fishing Bridges, we were always told you should go up the track that has a blue rope across it, just after the bridge before you get to the sign posted parking area, so we though we should give it a go this time. Wow, what scenery and what a fishing spot! The sea was flat calm and we didn't know what to expect, although we had been briefed on Wrasse, Conger and possibly Trigger Fish.
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00497.jpg[/img]
Andy cast out into a deep gully at the base of the cliff and laid his rod down on top of the rock. A bit risky I thought given that we didn't know what was down there, but there you go.
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00498.jpg[/img]
Not long after he had a small tap on the end of his line and leaning into it, his rod buckled and went berserk!
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00501.jpg[/img]
The Conger were there and he had a good 'un on. He managed to get it out of the gully and leaning over to try and handline it up, I reckon it was 15lb+. Unfortunately we had tackled up pretty light for Wrasse and hopefully Triggers and as soon as I got is head out of the water the line just parted like cotton. Tackling up again, but this time with heavier gear, it wasn't long before he was into another and fortunately this time it was a lot smaller. This one came out pretty easily and it didn't take long to wind it up.
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00502.jpg[/img]
Although it was only a strap, it was still one nil to Andy
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00503.jpg[/img]
I had a few takes and suffered the same fate as Andy's first in that the line parted as soon as it was attempted to be lifted, but I was more interested in possible Trigger Fish as I had never caught one before and there was great talk of loads being around. Persevering, I came out of the gully and fished small bits of Mackerel on small hooks on the shelf right underneath the cliff. First off I had a small Pollack and soon after the rod just buckled in two. Leaning into it, I had a short but aggressive fight and was overjoyed to see a Trigger break surface. This made my day.
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00508.jpg[/img]
We didn't get anything else after this, but what a fantastic day and yet another brilliant mark found.

Day 8 - 3rd October 2007 Venue: Cappagh Pier Duration: 3¾hrs
Tide: 10:35 - 4.2m (high) Water State: Clear & Choppy
Weather: Rain to Sun, 12-13ºC Wind Speed: 5-6 Direction: W.
Bait: Mackerel, Sandeel, Squid Rigs: 1 & 2 hook flappers Catch & Release: Always (apart from Mackerel!)
Results: Mackerel - 3, Dogfish - 6, Coalfish - 1, Wrasse - 1, Red Gurnard - 1

Report: Cappagh is probably our most favourite pier to fish due to its ease of access, depth of water and the assurance of a variety of species. However, this is probably why it is a favourite with many others and this was our fourth attempt to fish this pier having found it occupied with 'feather chuckers' every other time. Thankfully this time we had it all to ourselves and immediately 'set up camp' at the end to ensure no-one else could push in.
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00510.jpg[/img]
It wasn't long before we started pulling all sorts of stuff out and at last we finally found out where the Dogfish were hanging out. Who said these things don't fight? The only surprise of the day was a Red Gurnard which added another species to the ever growing list. (Photo taken from stock)
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Fish%20Identification/Gurnard.jpg[/img]

Day 9 - 4th October 2007 Venue: Carrigaholt Pier Duration: 4hrs
Tide: 11:56 - 4.0m (high) Water State: Clear & Calm
Weather: Sunny, 17-18ºC Wind Speed: 2-3 Direction: S.
Bait: Mackerel, Feathers Rigs: 2 hook flappers Catch & Release: Always (apart from Mackerel!)
Results: Pollack - 31, Coalfish - 6, Mackerel - 14, Grey Mullet - 1 (6 doubles)

Report: Having not even considered that the Shannon held Mullet until we saw Henry Gilbey on TV fishing this pier last year, today was the day we decided to have a go ourselves as this is what we were really there for. Armed with a bucket full of old smelly Mackerel and a laundry bag to hold them in, we set off on a perfect sunny day and the hope that we would be alone. Unfortunately this was not to be the case but we pressed on regardless knowing that we would only be fishing down the side of the outer wall. Thankfully the only occupant was not a 'feather chucker' but a fellow Brit also on holiday. First thing to go in was obviously the 'rubby dubby' with half a dozen mashed up Mackerel - pooh what a pong! Within minutes the small Pollack had come to the surface of the crystal clear water and were getting very excited about the smell. Surely it would only be a matter of time before the Mullet also made an appearance.
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00514.jpg[/img]
In the meantime we occupied ourselves with catching a few of these tiny little fish and chatting to the other chap.
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00519.jpg[/img]
Lending some of our bait, the other chap started to catch a few things and then he pulled in something that I had never seen before in real life - an OCTOPUS!!!
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00529.jpg[/img]
This was really weird and fascinating all at the same time, but apparently quite common in this part of the world. Andy then pulled in the one thing that really freaks me out - a big Spider Crab!
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00531.jpg[/img]
These just send shivers straight through my spine (bad childhood experience) and I really hate the sight of them - even dead ones! Having got over that shock, a quick look at how the 'rubby dubby' was doing revealed some ghostly dark shapes moving around - at last, the Mullet had arrived so it was all go. The fishing went something like this - Pollack, Pollack, Pollack, Pollack, Mackerel, Pollack, Coalfish, Pollack.........., you get the picture. Couldn't keep the pesky things away from our baits long enough for the Mullet to take a proper look, but at least it wasn't spooking them. After many false bites and seeing them suck the bait in only to spit it out again, we started to understand why Henry got so wound up when he fished for them, gee these are really tough to catch!
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00539.jpg[/img]
I eventually got lucky and seeing one take the bait I finally got a hook up. It shot off out to sea, tearing line as it went - great fun on really light gear. However, after the first initial run that was about it and understandable when it came to the surface - it was tiny and the smallest Mullet I had ever hooked! I could have probably swung it over the top it was that small, but better safe than sorry so we netted it. Unfortunately this bit of action did spook them and we had to wait half an hour or so for them to return. At this point I didn't bother to fish as I wanted Andy to get one and sure enough he did - about the same size! Can you see it?
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00534.jpg[/img]
After this, they seemed more interested in the crab shells being washed off the steps and no matter what we did, we couldn't get them interested in our baits so we called it a day. Fantastic, irritating and incredible fun all in one go.

Day 10 - 5th October 2007 Venue: Glin Beach Duration: 5½hrs
Tide: 13:45 - 4.0m (high) Water State: Clear & Calm
Weather: Sunny Spells, 18-19ºC Wind Speed: 0-1 Direction: S.
Bait: Sandeel, Mackerel, Blueys Rigs: 1 hook flapper & flowing Catch & Release: Always
Results: Dogfish - 1

Report: Before we set of on our holiday, the only report we had of Rays being caught was at Glin on the south side of the Shannon. I had always wanted to give this place a go as it read very well and is used as a competition venue so I managed to persuade Andy to get up early and we set off for the Killimer/Tarbet Ferry. Having been instructed on where to fish, we stopped at a layby on the east side of Glin just after the Pier. Not sure if this was the right spot but it seemed right as it was about a mile outside the town and there were steps leading down to the beach. Oh well, we were there so gave it a go
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00543.jpg[/img]
We first setup to the left of the steps as this seemed less weedy close in, but after my first two casts were wedged solid immediately I tried to retrieve, I decided to move as I couldn't afford to lose too much gear today. Moving to the right hand side of the steps, I found some clear ground and everything looked just perfect for a brilliant day.
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00549.jpg[/img]
However, our experience of the estuary should have told us how the day was to go - yep, you guessed it, crab after crab after crab. I did manage to pull out one little Dogfish but Andy didn't even have a bite! I can only assume this place fishes better earlier in the year as I'm afraid we weren't impressed, but then again we haven't been impressed with the Shannon so far and reckon it's living on past reputation although the same is probably true of almost everywhere these days. It was a shame we didn't get anything, but the location and scenery more than made up for it and catching isn't all that's important - it's just the being there that counts and beats any day at work anytime.

Day 10 - 5th October 2007 Venue: Poulnasherry Bay Duration: 30mins
Tide: 20:26 - 1.8m (low) Water State: Clear & Calm
Weather: Cloudy, 16ºC Wind Speed: 0-1 Direction: S.
Bait: Spinner Rigs: As Bait Catch & Release: Always
Results: Blanked!

Report: One of these mad cap moments. On our way back from Glin, we decided to give Poulnasherry another go on the basis that we knew there were 'loads' of Bass in there - yeah, right! A quick half an hour at the point resulted in not a single thing being seen or even the slightest tap. It could have been brilliant or it could have been a complete waste of time and unfortunately it turned out to be the latter, but hey, that's what we were there for.

Day 11 - 6th October 2007 Venue: Bridges of Ross Duration: 3¼hrs
Tide: 15:00 - 4.2m (high) Water State: Clear & Rough
Weather: Sunny, 18-19ºC Wind Speed: 1-2 Direction: S.
Bait: Sandeel, Mackerel Rigs: Float fished Sandeel, 1 hook paternoster Catch & Release: Always
Results: Pollack - 1

Report: Andy's son Gary had come over from Greystones on the East coast for the weekend, so before we set off to Carrigaholt we took him round Kilkee Bay to show him the Pink Cave and where I had caught the big Pollack from. What a near disaster that was! Although there was only a light breeze, it had changed direction and was pushing up a significant swell from the south. Coupled with the fact that we were now into Neap tides, the water hadn't gone down so far.
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00556.jpg[/img]
Having watched the waves for a short time, we decided it was safe enough to venture down to the spot so long as we were very careful and kept an eye on things. Andy showed Gary the cave and took a few pictures while I wasn't happy about it at all, telling them we didn't have long. No sooner had I said this than I spotted a 'sequence' of rollers heading our way, far lager than anything than had already breached the rocks. I had already started to make my way back up as soon as I saw them far out, but they were considerably bigger than even I thought they were and as I got closer I just screamed RRRRRUUUUUUNNNNNNN!!!!!!! Thankfully the rocks were covered in Barnicles and and afforded good grip so both Andy and Gary got out in time - just, but is was a very close run thing and had they remained they would have most definitely been washed away.
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00557.jpg[/img]
Having cheated death, we then headed off to Carrigaholt for some Mullet fishing, but when we arrived it was full of 'feather chuckers' and one was even sitting in a chair on top of the container unit! It was obvious we wouldn't get in so a quick change of plan and we headed of to Bridges for a bit of Conger bashing. On arrival, the swell at Bridges was also quite large and was making the bay quite rough. Being high up we were quite safe, but a wary eye is always a good idea. On the far side of the bay were 11 'feather chuckers' who seemed to be totally oblivious to the apparent danger.
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00571.jpg[/img]
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00572.jpg[/img]
>From where we were, it looked odds on that someone would go in but I suspect the pictures make it look more dramatic than it really was and the distance between the platform and the swell was in fact quite sufficient. Taking a look at these pictures though, is it any wonder why so many people get washed away these days? Surely this has to be the best advert for NOT fishing in rough weather! Anyway, back to our fishing and it was pretty dire I'm afraid. The extra heavy swell took our gear into the snags straight away and only one Conger was contacted - and lost. Float fishing, Gary had a small Pollack and a Garfish, while I managed just one small Pollack. Poor old Andy blanked yet again! Another great day for sights though and I think all the 'feather chuckers' survived.
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00573.jpg[/img]
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00576.jpg[/img]

Day 12 - 7th October 2007 Venue: Carrigaholt Pier Duration: 1¾hrs
Tide: 15:48 - 4.5m (high) Water State: Cloudy & Calm
Weather: Cloud to Sun, 14-15ºC Wind Speed: 2-3 Direction: S.E.
Bait: Sandeel, Mackerel Rigs: 2 hook flapper Catch & Release: Always (apart from Mackerel!)
Results: Pollack - 7, Mackerel - 1, Whiting - 1, Grey Mullet - 1

Report: Ok, back to Carrigaholt Pier again! I know, getting a bit samey but it is easy fishing and we wanted to show Gary all these Mullet that hang around. However, the wind had got up a little and stirred up the water but maybe this would make them more confident in taking the bait. Down went the 'rubby dubby' and sure enough the Pollack soon appeared. By now though I was getting a bit bored with this predictability and didn't do an awful lot. Gary was loving it though (newbie to fishing) and couldn't get enough so I just stayed out the way and let him do his own thing. Both Gary and Andy caught all the usual stuff but I had lost interest by this stage.
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00582.jpg[/img]
I was more interested in the Mullet and kept a close eye on the activities down the wall. With the cloudy water, it made things difficult to spot any fish, let alone differentiate, but suddenly I did spot a quick flash of silver and knew there was one down there. Not drawing attention to myself, I quickly dropped the bait over and the Mullet immediately came up to have a look. The cloudy rougher water had made them more confident and they were really keen for it. After a couple of false takes, I soon connected with one, but again it was very small. Andy wasn't too happy that I didn't tell him they were there, but the was busy with Gary and it would have been rude to interrupt, wouldn't it? Anyway, after a short but exciting battle, the fish was soon on deck and quickly returned.
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00581.jpg[/img]
Unfortunately that was the last we saw of them so Andy didn't get one - shame!!!

Day 13 - 8th October 2007 Venue: Cappagh Pier Duration: 3hrs
Tide: 16:26 - 4.7m (high) Water State: Clear & Calm
Weather: Cloud to Showers, 15-16ºC Wind Speed: 2-3 Direction: S.
Bait: Sandeel, Mackerel Rigs: 1 & 2 hook flappers Catch & Release: Always
Results: Dogfish - 1, Red Bream - 2, Pouting - 1, Whiting - 1, Pollack - 1, Dab - 1, Goby - 1

Report: Our final day and we decided to try and go off Cappagh Pier again. Thankfully we were lucky and no-one was there again, so we did the usual and spread ourselves. The fish once again came willingly up to high water, after which the bites tapered off. However, I did notice regular small taps, but using big chunks of Mackerel on a big hook, I assumed that these were just very small Whiting so didn't really bother that much with them. It wasn't until I hooked one of the bites that it all became obvious. They were very small Red Bream!
[img]http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q89/MrFishy_photos/Ireland%202007/DSC00584.jpg[/img]
I had never caught one of these before, anywhere and so was very pleased. Scaling down the tackle to smaller hooks and little bits of Mackerel, I quickly got another but the bites were a devil to hit! Andy managed to pull in 3 Bream, but I then did him with a Pouting and a Goby (Black). Fortunately all the rain that was forecast seemed to miss us or was very light and we packed up just before it set in for the night. However, little were we to know that this would be the start of many troubles that evening! Having got back to the house, unloaded and finally relaxed following a very successful holiday, the heavens opened. Not long after, we heard a gurgling noise coming from he toilet and then I noticed water coming out from under the cooker, across the kitchen and heading straight down towards the front door, which was duly opened to let it all out. Not only was it water but raw sewage too!!!! Oh my god, all hand to the pumps - literally. Furniture went flying, things were stacked on top of each other and buckets and mops working ninety to the dozen! Obviously the drain either couldn't cope with the downpour or they were blocked, but why on earth was it coming up from under the cooker? First things first though and try to clean the mess up as best we could. Having got on top of it, I went up to see Michael Bourke and if he had the number for Dynorod or something to take a look, but instead he lended me a set of drain rods, which was as good as. You can say what you like about Michael, but he certainly is a very helpful chap. On getting back to the house, Andy had called Gary and after a series of phone calls we found out that it had flooded before and there was a manhole under the cooker, which would explain why it came out there.
Anyway, to cut a long smelly story short, after much huffing and puffing, poking drain rods here there and everywhere, even having the main drain cover up in the street, a good hard shove finally freed whatever had caused it and all the excess went swiftly away. It was a blooming good job we were still there as if we hadn't have been, I can't begin to imagine what sort of state it would have got into.

Holidays Highlights:
Having an accident while stationary with a Frenchman who 'didn't see me' even though I was right behind him!
Catching my first ever Trigger Fish and one of the intended targets this year
Saving my mates life from a rogue wave, although it was more a preventative measure that an actual act of saving
Catching my first ever Red Bream
Rodding drains on the last night (my Dad would have been proud of me!) and putting my hand in the most disgusting of places
But unfortunately the one endearing image that returns is the atrocious litter left everywhere 'feather chuckers' have been.

Overall Results:
Pollack - 63
Mackerel - 50
Whiting - 27
Dogfish - 14
Coalfish - 8
Wrasse - 4
Dabs - 2
Grey Mullet - 2
Red Bream - 2
Red Gurnard - 1
Red Mullet - 1
Scad - 1
Poor Cod - 1
Trigger Fish - 1
Pouting - 1
Goby - 1
And Andy had 1 Conger

I hope you enjoyed all that and reached the end. We certainly did and will be back again next year to see what we can get up to again.

Jim.
It's never a holiday - always an adventure.

I'm open to correction but that has to be the most comprehensive report ever posted on this site!
Fair play lads. Shocking about the gillers but some nice species there

Jim, round of applause, that was fantastic reading. The fishing might not have been as fantastic as it could have been for you but it made a super read. Epic stuff and fair play to you for taking the time to put together a report as informative as it was entertaining and sharing it with the rest of us. Well done man.

Guys, you’ve left me speechless with the quality and the comprehensiveness of this report. Did I say wow? And you got some good number of species as well!

Btw, I just got myself in trouble – hitting a print button. 46 pages report?? Can you imagine the queue that has built up at the printer??

Guys, once again, well done!

wow,epic 8) but you didn't catch a red gurnard, you got a rarer variety called a tub gurnard. for me what really stands out is the red mullet.

that was one of the best reads I have read including any magazine never mind a forum. Thanks for taking the time to type it all out. alot of info on there for novices out there. again cracking report fellas and glad to hear u got some new species. well done

what a great report, high impressed lads enjoyed it all, sounds like the holiday had more action than you wanted, well done on the new speices

great report and a great read.

will have to venture south of lahinch once in while i think.

is castle point that ridiculously high cliff where you're 200feet away from the sea? too bloody high for me.

and i know what you mean about the mess left behind, was there a few times over the summer and it was a right mess.

dave

well done. best report ever. ever.

And a special thanks for the recon. on the red Bream caught a few at cappagh one day but took no pics and wanted an identification. Thought they may have been GH....

:shock: :shock: speachless, cracking stuff there lads... muist try a few of those places now, I never had any success at carigaholt pier, maybe worth another shot i think..

excelent report, think i'll read it again :wink:

[quote="stevecrow74"]:shock: :shock: excellent reporting was there much weight to the red mullet ?

excellent report,well done but jaysus how long did it take ye to type it out, would have taken me at least a week,cracking report good luck

Well done on the fishing and the report was superb.

great report!!! :D

Great report and sounds like you had a grand holiday over here, drain rods and all :lol: Brillant to see the red mullet and red bream too 8)