◀ Locations

River Bandon

West/Mid Cork · river

Fish you'll catch here

Atlantic SalmonSea Trout

How to fish it

Fly FishingSpinning

Gear & bait

Fly Rod SetupBeginner spinning setup FliesMetal lures

When to go

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The River Bandon is a salmon and sea trout river of West and Mid Cork, rising in the uplands above Dunmanway and flowing eastward through the town of Bandon and past Innishannon before entering the tidal reaches that eventually join Kinsale Harbour. It is a modestly-sized spate river characteristic of the southwest of Ireland — responsive to rainfall, with runs of fish following summer and autumn spates.

The Fishery

The Bandon holds both Atlantic salmon and sea trout. As with all Irish salmon rivers, the character and quality of the fishing depends heavily on water levels — fish run well after a spate, and low summer water can make conditions difficult until rain arrives. Sea trout enter the tidal sections and lower reaches during the summer months.

Bandon Angling Association manages angling on sections of the river and is the main local body for anglers wishing to fish. The association is the best point of contact for current information on beats available, permit costs, and local conditions.

Seasons, Permits and River Status — Verify Before Fishing

The Bandon is subject to the same annual framework as all Irish salmon rivers: its open, catch-and-release, or closed status is set each year by Inland Fisheries Ireland based on scientific stock assessment. Season dates and any day or annual permit requirements are also subject to change.

This page does not state season dates, river status or permit specifics for the Bandon, because these details are time-sensitive and change from year to year. Before fishing:

• Check the current annual salmon river classification with IFI: https://store.fishinginireland.info/salmon-fishing-regulations/
• Contact Bandon Angling Association for current permit availability and local club rules
• Ensure you hold a valid State salmon rod licence before fishing for salmon or sea trout

See the Salmon and Sea Trout Regulations page for a full explanation of the licence, gill tag, logbook and annual river-status framework.

Methods

Fly fishing is the classic method for both salmon and sea trout on a spate river of this size. A 10 ft single-handed rod in a #6 or #7 line is well suited to the Bandon’s width. Wet fly, shrimp patterns and small tube flies account for most salmon; lighter gear and smaller patterns work well for sea trout.

Spinning is also effective, particularly in higher water. Bar spoons and tobies in the 15–25 g range are good starting lures in coloured water.

Where it is