The fishing at Ballyhooly is divided into three beats which rotate on a daily basis. Each beat accommodates up to three rods with two exclusively used by Ballyhooly residents while the third is reserved for a local syndicate. Two ghillies are provided as part of the fishing package for those staying at the castle.

The majority of the fishing is double bank and there is excellent fly water throughout the whole stretch. Wading is considered relatively easy with a bed consisting almost entirely of shingle.

Double handed rods with floating lines and perhaps an intermediate for the later run are most commonly used through the summer months and the three beats combine to produce a respectable annual average return over the last six years of 300 salmon.

Ballyhooly Castle is perfectly situated in County Cork, midway between Fermoy and Mallow and offers commanding views over the Blackwater itself. Ideally located one hour north of Cork airport, ninety minutes from Shannon and only three hours from the ferry port of Rosslare, it is easily accessible. Travel to and from the fishing is therefore relatively painless.

With the fishing comes the house, built beside the mediaeval castle in the 1920s and very recently refurbished. An extremely comfortable family home, it offers accommodation comprising four double and two single rooms, four bathrooms and dining, drawing and rod rooms. Three staff cater to your every whim with Mrs Ryan overseeing all domestic arrangements.

Let on a weekly basis, Ballyhooly and the Blackwater encapsulate the unique opportunity to fish Ireland’s most famous salmon river whilst being looked after in tremendous style both on the river and in the house.

It is also the perfect base from which to explore this stunning area of Ireland, rich in history and verdant landscapes. It is ideal for a private party with guests who like to take an occasional break from the river to explore and sample the delights this part of southern Ireland has to offer. With a very high level of returning guests, interested parties are advised to enquire as early as possible to avoid disappointment.

Rod
A double handed rod from a 13'-15' for a 9-10 weight line for the salmon fishing and a single handed 7-8 weight rod is recommended for sea trout fishing.

Lines
Sink tip or sinking lines are used in the early season and then intermediate or full floating lines in the summer months.

Flies
This is a guide of flies that can be used here:

Salmon

• Willie Gunn
• Collie Dog
• Ally's Shrimp
• Blue Charm

Please also try any of your own flies

Trout

• Mayflies
• Hawthorn
• Wulf's Grey and Royal
• Most Sedge patterns

Again please experiment with your own favourites.

Other Items
Rain is common in the emerald isle, so do take a wind and rain proof coat with you at all times.

Wonderful rural countryside, historic houses and gardens and beautiful coastline. Riding, walking and sightseeing.

Season
March until the end of September.

Time Difference from GMT
No difference.

Electricity
240v.

Currency
The Republic of Ireland's official currency in the € Euro.

Visa Requiremnets
None for EU residents.

Medical Requirements
Although there are, at present, no specific inoculations necessary for travel to Ireland, it is important to check with your doctor about recommended vaccinations prior to your trip.

Insects
There are very few biting insects in Ireland, and none that would be considered as serious.

Tenants are requested to arrive in the afternoon at the commencement of the tenancy and leave in the morning on the day of departure.

The season starts in March and finishes in October.

Each rod must be in posession of a Southern Regional Fisheries Board Licence which covers a period of 21 days at a cost of £30.00. These will be available at Ballyhooly.

By Air: To Cork then Car Hire.
By Sea: Car Ferry from Pembroke Docks or Fishguard to Rosslare.
Ballyhooly is about a 3 hour drive by car from Rosslare and about a 1 hour drive from Cork.