◀ Locations

Shepperton Lake

Near Skibbereen, West Cork · lake · ⭐ Beginner-friendly

Fish you'll catch here

Rainbow Trout

How to fish it

Fly Fishing

Gear & bait

Fly Rod Setup Flies

When to go

Check with the fishery; typically spring–autumn

Shepperton Lake (sometimes referred to as Shepperton Lakes) is a put-and-take rainbow trout fishery near Skibbereen in West Cork. Like Lough Bofinne to the northwest, it is managed as a stocked game fishery providing accessible, day-ticket fly fishing for rainbow trout. The fishery is well suited to beginners and to visiting anglers who want a straightforward day’s game fishing without the permit complexity of the regulated wild salmon and sea trout fisheries.

The Fishery

Rainbow trout are stocked regularly and provide responsive, sporty fishing on the fly. In a put-and-take setting, the fish are generally willing takers — attractor lure patterns (Cat’s Whisker, Viva, Blob patterns in orange and black) will catch in most conditions. When fish are closer to the surface and feeding on insects, standard wet flies and even dry flies can be very effective.

Fish typically average 1–3 lb, and the setting in West Cork’s green countryside makes for a pleasant day even when the fish are not feeding actively.

Permits and Rules

A day ticket is required from the fishery. No State salmon rod licence is needed for rainbow trout in a put-and-take lake. Specific rules (fly only or not, bag limits, barbless hooks) are set by the fishery — confirm before fishing. Rules may change between seasons.

Getting There

Skibbereen is approximately 85 km from Cork City on the N71. Contact the fishery directly for current directions and access details, as arrangements may have changed since this page was last updated.

Where it is