Reeling it in for the trout as heat forces fishing suspension in Tipperary
Cashel Golden Tipperary Anglers Association halt fishing as rising river temperatures put trout at risk
The Cashel Golden Tipperary Anglers Association has announced the suspension of all fishing on its waters due to rising river temperatures caused by the recent spell of hot weather.
In a statement issued to members on July 12, the decision had been made to protect local trout stocks from the effects of thermal stress and low oxygen levels in the water.
Chairman Derek Cagney said the committee had taken the difficult but necessary step of introducing a voluntary suspension until conditions improve. A total suspension is now in place and members are asked to refrain from all angling on association waters until an official update is provided.
The association explained that when river temperatures rise above 18 to 19 degrees Celsius, oxygen levels in the water fall significantly, leaving trout under considerable stress. In these conditions, fish can struggle to recover after being caught, even when anglers carefully follow catch and release practices.
In a statement Chairman Derek Cagney said: “As stewards of our local environment, we have a duty to prioritize the welfare and survival of our fish stocks over our own fishing interests. We believe that a temporary sacrifice now is essential to ensure the long-term health of our river populations.”
The committee said it will continue to monitor river temperatures and conditions on a daily basis and will notify members when it is safe to resume fishing.
The association has also appealed to members to report any distressed fish or signs of environmental issues. Concerns can be reported on 089 2225555. For broader environmental concerns, people are requested to also contact the Inland Fisheries Ireland confidential hotline at 0818 34 74 24.