Lough Lene hosts trout fly fishing competition

It's considered one of the jewels of Westmeath's angling crown and this weekend Lough Lene hosts a trout fly fishing competition.

Located between the villages of Castlepollard, Collinstown and Fore the angling Mecca of Lough Lene is known for its great fishing, with brown and rainbow trout the prize many fishermen seek.

Tommy Fagans says this weekend's competition will draw competitors from all over the country: “There are ten teams entered, with each team comprising six anglers.

“We have fishermen from all over Ireland taking part. From Cork and Kerry in the south to up as far as Ballycastle in Antrim, and Donegal.”

Tommy says it will be a busy day: “It's a full day of fishing. This is the second year. It went very well last year and we hope to build on that to make it an annual event in the years to come.”

Entries are available online in November and the event quickly books out. Register at Tommy Fagans point before the anglers commencing their fishing. Many of the competitors have been practising over the last five days.

The day may attract spectators who can view the beauty of Lough Lene, which has all kinds of birds and wildlife, including mute swans, herons and moorhens. The lake is a must see for nature lovers or people who love the peace and quiet that Lough Lene has to offer.