River Mourne, Northern Ireland

Widely recognized as the best salmon river in Northern Ireland, the River Mourne is the largest tributary in the Foyle drainage system. An estimated average of 80,000 Atlantic salmon return to the system every year, of which a large portion enter the River Mourne. Pescatravel offers fishing on some of the best private waters the Mourne has to offer. Flowing from Newtownstewart to Strabane, the Mourne is a large fast flowing salmon river up to 100 meters wide in many areas. From May on fishing for Atlantic salmon can be quite good, though the best salmon fishing is generally in September and October. On the other hand, beginning around mid-July, the Mourne generally receives an excellent run of sea-run brown trout.

Like other rivers in the Foyle system, the Mourne generally fishes best after a good flood, once the river has stabilized or begun to drop. Nevertheless, good fishing can be had at specific pools all along the river even during moments of low water. Given its proximity and the contrast in size and physiology the River Mourne is a perfect complement to its sister river the Finn. After a flood it also tends to come into prime shape just as the fishing drops off on the Finn.

Through our partner Glenmore Rivers, PescaTravel offers its clients access to several excellent private beats on the Mourne including waters belonging to the Brookeborough Estate near Sion Mills and two other private beats upriver.

To best cover the river, as a norm we recommend 13 to 15 foot two handed rods, though in low water conditions the river can be comfortably fished with a one handed rod. Additionally guest should take note that the use of a wading staff is essential for safety due the fast flowing currents and the irregular rock bottom of the river in many areas.