May

Olives continue to hatch throughout the month of May but it is the Mayfly that draws anglers from all over the world to watch large wild trout rise freely to our largest upwing fly. Anglers pray for a good wave so the can fish large traditional wet flies in the surface film and watch the spectacular takes. Dry fly patterns also work extremely well regardless of weather conditions as long as there are fly hatching.

There are noted areas on the lough where hatches are abundant and these areas can get very busy (if thats what you call it on a 44,000 acre lake). This is also the first time anglers get a chance to go ‘Dapping’, this is a very old method of fishing that employs the use of a very long rod, floss and live mayfly. It is a very productive method and although some people may view it as nothing more than bait fishing, I think it is one of the most relaxing, beautiful and traditional methods of catching a trout on Irish lakes. Mayfly can be bought from the local school children and it is great to see such excitement and interest in our wonderful sport.