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Small coarse fishing river in Sligo offering free fishing for perch, roach, bream, pike and eel. Typical Irish river habitat with modest flows, suitable for float and leger techniques.
River pike on the Bellanamean River are typically leaner than lough fish but fight harder in the current. Medium-sized plugs (8-12cm), spinnerbaits and rubber shads worked along the far bank produce well. In autumn and winter, deadbaiting in the slower pools accounts for the larger specimens.
Coarse fishing access on the Bellanamean River is generally free and open to all. Salmon and sea trout require an IFI licence; check for stretches managed by local angling clubs which may require a separate permit. Most clubs welcome visitors.
The Bellanamean River holds pike, perch, roach, bream, eel, rudd. Pike are widespread and provide excellent sport on lures and deadbaits.
Coarse fishing is free in Ireland; a state licence is required for salmon and sea trout. Check with Inland Fisheries Ireland before visiting.
These methods are most effective for the species present on this stretch of river:
River pike are often leaner and more aggressive than their lough counterparts. Lure fishing with medium-sized plugs (8–12cm), spinnerbaits and rubber shads works well, particularly when worked close to overhanging banks and reedbeds. Upstream deadbaiting in slower pools accounts for the larger fish in autumn and winter. Use a 15kg wire trace at all times.
River coarse fishing in Ireland is often best with a waggler or stick float allowed to drift naturally through productive glides and pools. Loose-feed with maggots or casters little and often to build a swim. Feeder fishing with groundbait is effective in deeper, slower stretches for bream. Trotting a float downstream with the current is a highly enjoyable way to cover water and locate feeding fish.
River eels are targeted after dark using worm or small deadbait fished on the bottom in slower pools and eddies. While not glamorous, eel fishing can be very productive on Irish rivers and produces a reliable action on quiet nights.
River fishing in Ireland varies significantly by season — here is a guide to what to expect throughout the year:
River coarse fish begin moving as water temperatures rise. Pike are still feeding well in the cooler water. A good time to locate holding pools.
River levels typically drop and clarity increases — fish become visible and more wary. Evening dry fly fishing for trout can be exceptional. Coarse fish congregate in deeper, cooler pools and eddies during the heat of the day.
The best time for specimen coarse fish as fish feed heavily. Pike reach peak condition and feed aggressively on baitfish shoals.
River levels are typically higher and more coloured. Pike fishing is at its best in slow, deep pools. Grayling (where present) thrive in cold, clear water. Exercise caution around swollen rivers and always fish with a companion where possible.
Ireland has some of the most accessible fishing from the UK, with multiple ferry routes running year-round. The most popular crossings for anglers with heavy kit are the Fishguard–Rosslare and Holyhead–Dublin routes. Northern Ireland venues are best accessed via the Cairnryan–Belfast crossing.
Ireland's game and coarse fisheries are managed by Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI). Coarse fishing (carp, bream, roach, pike) is largely free on most public waters — no licence required. Game fishing (trout, salmon, sea trout) requires an annual licence and often a beat permit. Always check IFI guidance at fishinginireland.info before your trip.
Coarse fishing on the Bellanamean River is free in the Republic of Ireland. A state rod licence from Inland Fisheries Ireland is required for salmon and sea trout.
Located in Sligo, the Bellanamean River is a classic Irish river with pike, perch, roach, bream, eel and rudd fishing. Always respect riparian landowners and check local rules before fishing.