IFI gains conviction and fine/costs of €1,250 against man for illegal fishing at Connemara salmon river
Inland Fisheries Ireland(IFI) has secured a conviction against a man for using an illegal fishing method at a catch-and-release salmon fishery in Connemara.
Mr Edward McDonagh of Ballybane, Galway city, was observed angling by IFI officers on Ballynahinch River, upstream of Ballynahinch Lake.
IFI fisheries officers inspected his equipment and identified the use of worms and barbed hooks.
Commenting Dr Rachel Cooper, IFI’s regional director in Galway said: "This method of angling is prohibited on catch-and-release salmon fisheries as a conservation measure for declining stocks.
"This successful prosecution is part of IFI’s very determined efforts to protect the State’s fisheries resources in our rivers, streams, and lakes."
Stock photo of two fishing rods beside a river.
Mr McDonagh was found in contravention of bye-law 1003/2023, which prohibits the use of worms as bait and the use of hooks other than single/double barbless hooks at catch-and-release salmon and sea trout fisheries.
He must pay a fine of €500, and pay €750 towards IFI’s costs.
The case was heard at Clifden District Court on April 24th, 2025.
The incident took place on July 26th, 2024.
Information on regulations applicable to salmon and sea trout rivers is available here.
IFI urge the public to report illegal fishing activity, habitat destruction, or fish kills to its confidential 24/7 number, 0818 34 74 24.
