Fishing
Kilkenny stands majestically over the River Nore, a rich salmonid resource that will delight and encapsulate anglers and fly fishing aficionados.
The Nore has a reputation for producing salmon every year though some of these waterways are in recovery and being reconstituted . For many years, the Mount Juliet estate has been regarded as one of the finest fishing houses in Ireland, providing some of the best salmon and trout fishing in the region.
Licences are available for catch and release with twelve named pools on the estate’s stretch of river, each offering a different challenge and opportunity for your enjoyment. The season runs from March to September and a fishing license is required (it should be sought from the estate).
River Trails
Try a lovely 10km walking trail following the Nore from Thomastown to Inistioge. You will pass the ruins of Grennan Castle built by Strongbow’s son-in-law in the 13th century AD, and Dysart Castle, home of philosopher, Bishop George Berkley.
The Three Sisters’ tranquil waters are teeming with flora and fauna – and waterways present trails, foraging outings and beautiful walks all along the riverbanks. For coarse fishing one of two rainbow trout lakes, one fly fishing only the other bait and fly at Castlecomer demesne, or perhaps rainbow the easy catch is to visit Goatsbridge Trout Farm for your supper!
Go with the Flow Canoeing Adventures
Whatever your preference, an evening casting flies on the sleepy waters will surely transport you to a relaxing experience of a day well spent – communing with nature. A sleepy enclave, don’t be fooled by the still waters.
For the active and outdoorsy, Go with the Flow brings you adventurous canoeing trips along Kilkenny’s beautiful waterways. Explore the scenic countryside, travelling through beautiful, unspoiled waterways along exclusive trails, traversing weirs and riding the rapids. Tours travel through dramatic landscapes, mysterious wooded valleys and navigations once used by the Guinness barges to deliver Ireland’s favourite tipple. Bring a picnic, or if you’re hardy, take a swim in tranquil sheltered waters – exhilarating!
Pure Adventure
Pure Adventure is based in the heart of the Barrow Valley in the picturesque village of Graiguenamanagh, Co. Kilkenny. Pure Adventure is a family-run business that is built on a passion for the outdoors and for water sports.
They offer a range of kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddle boarding and hill walking activities to suit all ages and abilities. All equipment is supplied and all guides are fully qualified and highly experienced.
