Angling for a big catch for vital charities on Lough Léin in annual fly-fishing contest

THE countdown is on to the 31st annual Lough Lein Open Wet-Fly Charity Competition which takes place on Sunday, April 22.

A fishing event that manages to cast its appeal far and wide, upwards of 100 anglers from all over Ireland are expected to make their way to the stunning shores of Lough Lein for what is always a competitive day’s fishing.

There is a strong charity aspect to the event and this year’s competition will be held in aid of Acquired Brain Injury Ireland and Irish Pilgrimage Trust.

“It’s an event that we look forward to every year and the fact that every penny raised goes to charity is what drives us,” said Tim O’Sullivan of Lough Lein Anglers Association.

Over €200,000 has been raised for various charities since the competition started which is a huge source of pride for the anglers and their sponsors.

This year’s competition runs from 10:30 to 5:30pm and there will also be raffle prizes to the tune of €850 on the day: a €500 prize sponsored Lee Strand; a €250 prize sponsored by Killarney Avenue Hotel, and €100 sponsored by Kerry Coaches.

“The success of the competition is down to the anglers who, to their credit, sell the tickets that we send out to them with their entry forms.

“We’re also fortunate to have such good sponsors who cover the cost of running the competition and Lee Strand is our main sponsor since we started,” Tim added.

For entry forms and tickets for the competition contact Tim on 087 936 4886 or Corry on 087 671 3077.

Photo by Valerie O’Sullivan David McCarthy, Acquired Brain Injury Ireland, Corrie O’Flaherty, Chairman, Patsy O’Flaherty, Jerry Dwyer, Manager Milk Operation Lee Strand, Sponsor, Rory O’Flaherty, Helen O’Donoghue, Irish Pilgrimage Trust launching the 31st Lough Lein Anglers Fly...