IFI gains conviction against man for illegal salmon fishing and obstruction
• Man threatens to “bash” fisheries officers’ “heads in” with rock
Inland Fisheries Ireland(IFI) has secured a conviction against a man for illegal salmon fishing in Co. Cork.
Seamus O’Brien of Mangerton Close, The Glen, Cork, was found fishing in a prohibited area at Inniscarra Dam, was trespassing, and did not have a permit to be in the ESB salmon fishery on the River Lee.
A court heard that when IFI staff issued Mr O’Brien with a €150 fine, he threw the fine notice on the ground and became very aggressive.
He threatened Fisheries Officers with a large rock, shouting that he would "bash their heads in".
Prohibited angling area at Inniscarra Dam, ESB salmon fishery, River Lee
Commenting after the verdict Sean Long, Director of IFI’s south western region, said: "IFI welcomes the successful prosecution in this case.
"Uncontrolled and illegal angling for salmon further endangers vulnerable fish stocks on our rivers, and our Fisheries Officers remain vigilant to this risk.
"Mr O’Brien’s violent threats in this incident – directed to Fisheries Officers going about their work – were wholly unacceptable.
"Sadly, dealing with such aggression is now often part of an officer’s day."
Entrance to ESB game fishery at Inniscarra Dam
Mr O’Brien was ordered to pay a €500 fine for obstructing fisheries officers, and a €100 fine for trespass on a private fishery. He was also ordered to pay €200 in costs to IFI.
The case was heard at Cork District Court on December 17th, 2025.
The incident took place on April 7th, 2025.
IFI urges the public to report instances of illegal fishing, water pollution, or fish kills to its confidential 24/7 number, 0818 34 74 24.
