Angling at Dungonnell Lough
This long and narrow reservoir lies in windswept moorland on the upper stretches of the Clough River. The shores near the dam are rocky and very good for shore fishing.
Key information about Dungonnell Lough
| Nearest Town | Ballymena |
|---|---|
| Area/length | 28 hectares |
| Species | Brown trout |
| Season | 1 March to 31 October |
| Methods | Fly fishing, spinning and worm fishing |
| Daily bag limit | Two trout per rod per day |
| Size limit | Minimum takeable size 25.4cm |
| Boats | Fishing from boats is not allowed |
| Licence | DAERA game rod licence: Game rod licence prices from DAERA |
| Permit | DAERA game angling permit: Game angling permit prices from DAERA |
General information
On the south side the shore is firm for most of the distance. The west shore is more marshy as you go east and care should be taken. The peninsula on the north side just above the dam gives a pleasant change with a sheltered bay in the lee side.
The reservoir contains native brown trout from the inlet spawning streams that grow to 2.5kg. Bait fishing with worms is a common method in this area.
Traditional wet flies with dark patterns such as Black Pennell or Bibio are considered to be the most effective on this water especially near the feeder streams.
How to get there
Take the A43 (Waterfoot and Cushendall) from Ballymena. Turn right at the crossroads as you approach Cargan, into Gortnageagh Road about 9.94 miles out of Ballymena. Follow the road for 0.62 miles. Turn left at the sign for Dungonnell Water Treatment Works. Dungonnell Lake is 1.11 miles.
Touring and long stay caravan sites are available at Glenariff Forest Park nearby.