Licences & rules
No rod licence for sea angling
Recreational sea angling from the shore or a boat does not require a state rod licence in Ireland. Salmon and sea trout are the exception and need a licence.
Source: https://fishinginireland.info/regulations/ · Verified 2026-07-13
Bass Fishing Regulations
Bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) is separately and tightly regulated under EU and Irish bye-laws. Rules change yearly — anglers MUST check IFI's current regulations page before keeping any bass.
Source: https://fishinginireland.info/regulations/ · Verified 2026-06-22
Sea Trout and Salmon Licence
Fishing for sea trout and Atlantic salmon requires a State rod licence in Ireland. Sea trout fishing is also prohibited from 13 October to 31 December each year.
Source: https://fishinginireland.info/regulations/ · Verified 2026-07-13
Salmon and Sea Trout Angling Regulations
Fishing for Atlantic salmon and sea trout in Ireland requires a State rod licence and logbook. Retained fish must be tagged where harvest is permitted, and annual river-specific rules apply. Always verify with IFI before fishing.
Source: https://store.fishinginireland.info/salmon-fishing-regulations/ · Verified 2026-06-23
Pollack Fishing Conservation Rules (2026)
From 1 June 2026, a recreational angler may retain no more than three pollack per day in Irish waters. Further pollack must be released.
Source: https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-climate-energy-and-the-environment/press-releases/conservation-measures-introduced-for-recreational-fishing-of-pollack/ · Verified 2026-07-13