For those of us living out west, the Atlantic is more than just a view – it’s a way of life. And when it comes to sea angling, few places rival the west coast counties of Galway, Mayo and Clare.
Whether you are a seasoned hand or just dipping your toe in, the waters here offer some of the richest and most diverse sea fishing in the country.
Galway Bay – A game angler’s playground
Galway is something of a jewel when it comes to sea angling. From the sheltered waters of Galway Bay to the more rugged Atlantic coast, it’s a mixed bag in the best possible way. The bay itself, stretching from Spiddal to Kinvara, is home to everything from mackerel and pollack to the odd tope or blue shark further out.
Charter boats operate regularly from Galway Docks, Spiddal and Rossaveal, offering both short trips and full-day deep-sea adventures. There’s also the option to fish from shore, with Salthill and Blackrock proving popular local spots. One of the standout features of angling in Galway is the variety: reef fishing, bottom fishing, drifting, trolling – you name it, it’s there for the taking.
Inland Fisheries Ireland notes that Galway Bay is also a great location for beginners and families. With its calm conditions and abundance of smaller species, it’s a brilliant way to introduce younger generations to the joys of fishing.
Mayo – wild waters and serious sport
Mayo’s coastline, particularly around Killala Bay and Blacksod, offers some of the most thrilling sea angling experiences in the country. Known for its deeper waters and stronger currents, it’s a prime location for larger species such as conger eel, ling, and even skate.
Killala, in the northeast of the county, is well-regarded for its excellent boat angling. Species like ray, spurdog and bull huss are commonly caught, while further out, anglers may encounter blue shark – a real bucket list catch for many.
The Mullet Peninsula is a paradise for shore anglers. With its endless rock marks and beaches, you can target bass, flounder, and sea trout depending on the season. According to Inland Fisheries Ireland, Belmullet is one of the top destinations for shore fishing in the west, and with good reason – the sheer range of species is unmatched.
Clare – rock marks and rugged beauty
Clare’s coastline, dramatic and wind-swept, is a dream for anglers who don’t mind a bit of a scramble for the perfect spot. From Loop Head to Doolin, there are rock marks aplenty, and the fishing can be as rewarding as it is challenging.
The Clare coast is well-known for its bass fishing, particularly around Lahinch, Spanish Point and Kilkee. These spots are also ideal for spinning and plugging, with bass often found in the surf just beyond the breakers. For the more adventurous, cliff fishing around Loop Head offers the chance to hook into pollack, wrasse, and conger eel.
Boat angling is also an option, with Kilrush and Carrigaholt acting as bases for charter boats heading out into the Shannon Estuary and beyond. Anglers here can expect everything from tope and ray to the elusive monkfish.
A growing community and sustainable fishing
Sea angling isn’t just about the catch – it’s about community, conservation, and connection to the coast. Inland Fisheries Ireland continues to work closely with local clubs and skippers to promote sustainable fishing practices and ensure future generations can enjoy these waters too.
Across Galway, Mayo and Clare, you’ll find a vibrant network of anglers, tackle shops, and clubs, all willing to share tips, stories and maybe even a secret spot or two – though you will have to earn that.
Whether it’s your first cast or your thousandth, sea angling in the west offers an experience rooted in the raw beauty of the Atlantic. And as any local will tell you, there’s nothing quite like hauling in a fish with the salt on your skin and the ocean at your back.
