Cast & Catch NI — Your Guide to Fishing in Northern Ireland
Welcome to Cast & Catch NI, your one-stop interactive map and guide to fishing across Northern Ireland. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or exploring local waters, this page has everything you’ll need to fish legally, safely, and enjoyably.
How the Map Works
- Public Angling Estate (PAE) waters are shown as shaded areas. These are government-managed lakes, rivers or reservoirs open to the public.
- Private Fisheries are shown as markers. These are privately owned or managed lakes, fly fisheries, or club waters.
- Use the toggles to switch PAE waters or Private Fisheries on/off.
- Click on any water or marker to see details like name, species available, permits needed, amenities, and contact info.
- Filters (County, Water Type, Species) and the search box help you find exactly what you want.
Cast & Catch NI — Your Guide to Fishing in Northern Ireland
Welcome to Cast & Catch NI, your one-stop interactive map and guide to fishing across Northern Ireland. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or exploring local waters, this page has everything you’ll need to fish legally, safely, and enjoyably.
How the Map Works
- Public Angling Estate (PAE) waters are shown as shaded areas. These are government-managed lakes, rivers or reservoirs open to the public.
- Private Fisheries are shown as markers. These are privately owned or managed lakes, fly fisheries, or club waters.
- Use the toggles to switch PAE waters or Private Fisheries on/off.
- Click on any water or marker to see details like name, species available, permits needed, amenities, and contact info.
- Filters (County, Water Type, Species) and the search box help you find exactly what you want.
Licences & Permits
To fish in Northern Ireland you must follow the law. Here’s what tourists and occasional anglers need to know:
| Requirement | What You Need |
|---|---|
| Rod Licence | You must have a DAERA rod licence if aged 12+. A GB or Republic of Ireland licence is not valid here. More info. |
| Permit / Day Ticket | A rod licence alone is not enough. You also need a permit for a specific water. For PAE waters, buy from DAERA. For private fisheries, buy direct. Buy online. |
| Tourist Licences | Short-term licences (3-day, 14-day) are available for visitors. Perfect if you’re only here on holiday. DAERA info. |
| Game vs Coarse Fishing | Game = salmon, trout, char. Coarse = pike, bream, perch, roach. Make sure your licence and permit cover your target species. |
| Rules & Regulations | Know the open seasons, bag limits, and local rules. You may be checked by Fishery Protection Officers. Clean your gear to prevent invasive species. |
Where to Buy
- Online: Buy DAERA licences and permits directly through NI Direct.
- Tackle shops: Many stock short-term licences and day tickets.
- Private fisheries: Purchase directly on site or via their websites (click a marker on the map for details).
Tips for Visitors
- Carry your licence/permit at all times — you can be asked to show it.
- Check the weather and water safety before heading out.
- Wear a lifejacket if using a boat.
- Respect the countryside — leave no trace.
- Dawn and dusk often offer the best fishing conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a licence for sea angling?
Normally no, unless you’re targeting salmon/sea trout or fishing designated inland waters that meet the sea.
Do children need a licence?
Under-12s don’t need a rod licence, but may still require a permit depending on the fishery.
How many rods can I use?
Game licences usually allow one rod; coarse licences often allow two. Always check the terms.
Visitor Checklist
- ✔ Rod licence (or tourist licence)
- ✔ Permit / day ticket for chosen water
- ✔ Correct gear & bait
- ✔ Safety equipment
- ✔ Knowledge of bag limits & seasons
- ✔ Respect for local land & environment
