The River Moy rises in the Ox Mountains of County Sligo. From there, it flows south-west into County Mayo before turning north and eventually emptying into Killala Bay. Stretching for approximately 110 kilometres through north-western Ireland, the Moy is renowned as one of the country's finest and most productive salmon rivers. After landing in Dublin and collecting our rental car, we set off on a three-hour drive through the gentle Irish countryside before reaching our accommodation: a charming cottage located about 10 kilometres outside the town of Ballina.

Accustomed to fly fishing for salmon in remote wilderness settings, it felt somewhat unusual at first to pursue these fish in the heart of a town. Yet the experience quickly revealed its unique charm. Tradition and history permeate every corner of the place, and it becomes immediately apparent how deeply fishing is woven into the fabric of local life.

Our trip took place early in the official salmon season. It was a calculated gamble. By visiting before the peak fishing period, we hoped to avoid the crowds while also increasing our chances of encountering the first, and often largest, salmon of the season as they began their upstream migration.

Fishing for salmon and sea trout on the Moy requires a state licence, which can be purchased online. In addition, access to individual beats must be booked separately and is subject to its own fee structure. Our plan was to fish the town beats in Ballina, among the most sought-after sections of the river. The beats we selected require advance reservations, which can only be requested during the final days of the preceding year, a reflection of both their popularity and the limited number of anglers permitted each day. .

From a fly-fishing perspective, the most attractive and iconic pools are undoubtedly the famous Ridge Pool and the adjoining Cathedral Pool. The Ridge Pool is a long, sweeping stretch of water fished from the left bank, with access gained downstream of the salmon weir and its cascading falls

Above: The beginning of the Cathedral pool

The Cathedral Pool, by contrast, is fished from the right bank and is distinguished by seven triangular underwater rock platforms that project into the river like a series of groynes. Each platform is equipped with its own staircase and safety railings, providing anglers with secure and convenient access to the water and allowing them to cover the pool effectively.

Above: The Cathedral pool staircase leading to the river

We hold two permits for the Cathedral pool. Non-resident fishing hours are from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Before heading out, you must register for the day's fishing at the Ridge pool office, which is located directly on the river on the left bank.

Above and below: Fly anglers on the Ridge pool

A most courteous warden-manager walks you through the details of the pool, offering advice on the best tide conditions and fly colors. All this takes place under the watchful eye of an imposing, mounted salmon, weighing over 30 pounds,caught in 1993. The office remains open throughout the fishing day and offers complimentary coffee, should you find yourself in need of a break.

At this time of year, we are the only anglers fishing the Cathedral pool. Based on our chat at the registering office, we learned that a few salmon were spotted just past Ham Bridge at the very head of the pool, while others were seen right before Lower Bridge at the tail. The river is perfectly suited for a two-handed rod, and the steady, uniform current allows for flawless Spey casting.

During our short visit, we had the chance to fish the river on both overcast and sunny days. Having the pool entirely to ourselves, we combed every corner, though unfortunately in vain. On our final day, a few salmon were spotted leaping just below Ham Bridge, where the main current carved out a deep pool. According to habitual anglers, the best results at this time of year with higher water come from using intermediate lines and sink tips.

We tried classic patterns alongside some that had brought me luck on other rivers with similar conditions, but the salmon were simply not in the mood. The anglers in the Rigdge pool reported the exact same experience. While we didn't catch any salmon, it was a privilege to fish one of the most prolific rivers in Ireland and Europe.
Just as I was about to wrap up this report, I got word that the first salmon was caught on a fly. Someone landed a 7-pound silver bullet yesterday!