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Canal between Kiltybardan & St John’s Lake, County Leitrim

This canal is a well sheltered and prolific fishery with plenty of room for a dozen or more anglers, though it is rare to see anyone fishing here – despite local reports of a bite-a-cast from roach, skimmers and hybrids. Pole fishing is the perfect approach but any method with casters, corn and maggot is likely to provide a decent days sport.

There is a steady, but slow, draw from right to left along the main bank from a firm bank. Expect all sorts of fish to appear because both connecting lakes have good numbers of bream and tench.

Species: Bream, tench, roach, hybrids, pike and perch.
Best baits: Worm, red maggot, caster and corn.
Popular methods: Pole fishing is the better option, though a waggler means you can take advantage of the far bank cover.
Local tackle shop: No local tackle shop – nearest is 10 miles Carrick-on-Shannon Rod Licence: No licences needed or permits required.

Access: Good parking and a short walk to the nearest swims. Directions: From Ballinamore head for Carrick-on-Shannon, 1.5 miles turn right at the garage on to the R208. Exactly one mile turn left at sign for St John’s Lake – about one mile- to car park alongside the canal.