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IRELAND
http://www.delphilodge.ie
Delphi is one of the most famous salmon fisheries in the West of Ireland. Its wide variety of fly fishing, both on river and lake, its spectacular setting and its 170-year angling history, help to make it very special.
Add in its unusually long season, its fantastic lodge and its highly successful salmon enhancement programme and you have one of the most sought-after spots in Europe for serious salmon anglers.
The number of fishermen is strictly limited to just twelve per day (or only eight in February and March). Fishing rotates between the river and lakes on a half-daily basis to provide maximum variety of scenery and opportunity. And, with very limited exceptions in the case of Doolough, all fishing is by fly only.
Spring salmon run into Delphi on any flood from January to May. Normally weighing between eight and twelve pounds, these big fish require dedicated pursuit. Be prepared to fish hard in bad weather over several days. With luck, you’ll land a fresh-run springer - a truly memorable experience for any angler.
Grilse and summer salmon arrive at Delphi from late May onwards, with the runs peaking in late June and early July. They normally weigh between three and six pounds. If the river is low, the lakes can provide the action. If the river is in flood, the chances of taking a lively, sea-liced four-pounder are excellent.
Delphi Lodge is a wonderful 1830s country house in one of the most spectacular settings in Ireland. It is a celebrated fishing lodge, previously owned by the Marquis of Sligo, that offers luxury accommodation amid breathtaking scenery.
With twelve bedrooms (all with private bathrooms and many with lake views), Delphi Lodge is open to fishers and non-fishers alike. The great mix of guests, many from overseas, the relaxed informality and the houseparty atmosphere make it a very special Connemara hideaway.
Delphi Lodge is emphatically not a hotel. It has no room service, bellhops or a la carte menu. Everyone eats together at a huge oak dining table, presided over by owner Peter Mantle or by the captor of the day’s biggest salmon. It is a fishing lodge, but also a private country house of the highest quality.
The bedrooms are charmingly furnished and the beds exceptionally comfortable. Downstairs, fine reception rooms include a cosy library (packed with fishing books), a billiard room and a large drawing room overlooking the lake. Throughout the house are many mounted specimen fish caught at Delphi, along with other antique fishing memorabilia and paintings.
Cliodhna was recently voted 'The Best Chef in the West of Ireland' by Food & Wine magazine. And Peter's amazing wine list, featuring over 300 fairly-priced wines, is much thumbed and provides welcome relief on dour days. Picnic lunch baskets are also available for fishermen, though most come back to the Lodge for lunch.
BUSINESS INFORMATION
Delphi Fishery
http://www.delphilodge.ie
Galway, IE
Fish Types: Salmon and Seatrout
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