A number of angling development projects in Mayo have been awarded funding to improve angling access in the area. The projects are some of 50 angling development projects across the country which will receive support from Inland Fisheries Ireland as part of its Capital Works Fund. The projects, which focus on improving angling access and infrastructure, will now be delivered in 2017.
In Mayo, the following projects were selected to receive funding (1 ) River Moy at Bohola/Straide for Angling Access for the East Mayo Anglers Association. This €4,269 project will improve access and safety for anglers through the provision of new stiles and footbridges at specific angling pools.
(2 ) River Moy at Foxford for Accessible Angling on River Moy for the East Mayo Anglers Association. This €10,000 project is a large scale project aimed at providing disabled anglers access to the River Moy. Inland Fisheries Ireland is part funding the initiative which will include the construction of 75 metres of boardwalk on the River Moy plus access ramps and railings. An access roadway, parking area and changing facilities will also be provided.
(3 ) Curragh Car Park, near Foxford, this €15,516 project for the Knockmore Salmon Anglers will see the upgrade to the existing Curragh car park at a popular angling spot along the River Moy for local and visiting anglers.
The Capital Works Fund was announced in October 2016 with local groups and individuals including local development associations, tidy towns, angling clubs and others invited to apply for funding. The scheme is part of Inland Fisheries Ireland’s National Strategy for Angling Development. The strategy aims to ensure that Ireland’s fish stocks and angling infrastructure are protected and enhanced with a view to ensuring a sustainable habitat and delivering the economic, health and recreational benefits they offer to communities across Ireland.
Inland Fisheries Ireland is aiming to grow the angling sector’s socio-economic contribution of €836 million per year by an additional €60 million annually through the strategy. This will be achieved by driving angling participation among domestic and overseas visitors, which in turn is supported by improving access to fishing and developing angling infrastructure.
