◀ Licences & rules

Bass 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.

Applies to:Bass

Bass regulations in Ireland are governed by EU fishing-opportunity rules and the stricter Irish national measures administered by Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI).

2026 rules

• 1 January to 31 January 2026: two bass per angler per day; minimum size 42 cm.
• 1 February to 31 March 2026: catch-and-release only with rod or handline. Bass may not be retained, relocated or landed.
• 1 April to 31 December 2026: two bass per angler per day; minimum size 42 cm.

IFI’s published “BASS 2026” page states the two-fish limit, the 42 cm minimum and the February–March release period. EU Regulation 2026/249 sets a three-fish ceiling for recreational anglers and explicitly permits more stringent national measures, so the Irish two-fish limit is the binding one.

Both sources were compared on 6 September 2026 and agree. Check them again immediately before retaining bass, because measures can change mid-season:

• Inland Fisheries Ireland regulations
• EU Regulation 2026/249

Keeping an undersized bass, retaining bass during the release-only period or exceeding the daily limit can result in enforcement action. This page is a planning aid, not a legal interpretation.