Licences & rules
Rules change. Always confirm current bye-laws with Inland Fisheries Ireland before fishing.
Need the rule for one trip?Choose the location, target, date and retention intention to get a sourced decision path.
Check my tripBass Fishing Regulations
In 2026, bass must be released during February and March. Outside that period an angler may retain no more than two bass per day, each at least 42 cm. Ireland's two-fish limit is stricter than the EU three-fish ceiling and is the one that applies.
- Effective
- 2026-01-01 to 2026-12-31
- Review by
- 2026-11-30
- Verified
- 2026-09-06
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.
- Effective
- 2026-01-01 until superseded
- Review by
- 2026-11-30
- Verified
- 2026-07-13
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.
- Effective
- 2026-06-01 until superseded
- Review by
- 2026-11-30
- 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.
- Effective
- 2026-01-01 to 2026-12-31
- Review by
- 2026-11-30
- Verified
- 2026-06-23
Sea Trout and Salmon Licence
Fishing for sea trout and Atlantic salmon requires a State rod licence in Ireland. River seasons vary: most close by 30 September and only some remain open for sea trout through 12 October.
- Effective
- 2026-01-01 to 2026-12-31
- Review by
- 2026-11-30
- Verified
- 2026-07-14