Andrew goes Wild

Irish anglers are lucky, having access to a plethora of venues where wild fish across a variety of species can still be caught. It was with great pleasure that, following a request for angling information, I introduced David Woods and his brother Andrew, who requires special needs assistance, to the wonderful River Barrow. Across from the UK on a short break, Andrew loves to fish and with their chosen accommodation close to St Mullins, one would be hard pressed to find a better wild fishery for an early summer coarse angling session.

UK coarse angler Andrew Woods with a fine River Barrow hybrid.

Possessing a great memory, very aware and capable but limited regarding mobility, Andrew needed help in particular with tackling and baiting up. Assessing the risks and applying a sensible approach it was decided to have a crack after the bream which frequent the fishery at this time of year. Feeder fishing the rising tide utilising red and white maggot along with castors for bait it wasn’t long before Andrew connected with a fine hybrid. A succession of beautiful red spotted trout followed accompanied by some large dace, a run of fish that prompted a return visit the following day.

Coarse fishing at St Mullins, Co. Carlow, baiting up.

Picking a more accessible swim on this occasion it wasn’t long before Andrew’s quiver tip commenced hopping, the culprits being dace and those beautifully marked trout. Other species to feature were roach and a few squirmy, slippery eels. St Mullins donned its best suit of clothes, the sun shone, Emer and Martin O ‘Brien’s Mullichain Cafe satisfied rumbling tummies and Andrew by his own admission had a great time with fish steadily coming to his rod.

Andrew Woods having a cracking time at St Mullins, Co. Carlow.

Having fished for smooth hounds off Bournemouth pier and caught sea trout on the Hampshire Avon, Andrew gives the nod towards wild as against managed venues every time. Yes there is a tad more planning and effort involved for the carers, but the returns, well they were palpable. I would like to thank David for getting in touch with me, enabling Andrew to experience wild Irish fishing was a joy. Tight lines to you both until we meet again……….

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