This should be of help to you in identifying a suitable contact person such as a local tourism service, accommodation provider or tackle shop etc. These guidelines below are based on recommendations of the Expert Group in relation to FMD controls and have been prepared by the Department of the Marine and Natural Resources in consultation with the Department of Agriculture, Food and Rural Development, the Department of Tourism, Sport and Recreation and the Central and Regional Fisheries Boards. The guidelines are applicable to all persons involved in the angling sector including domestic and visiting anglers, fisheries boards, private fishery owners and tourism angling promoters. The content and application of the guidelines will be kept under constant review . General Anglers should, until 11th May, refrain from fishing where this involves entry onto land to which animals of susceptible species may have had access in the previous 28 days.
Susceptible species are cattle, sheep, pigs, goats and deer.
With effect from 11th May persons engaged in angling may access such land provided they behave responsibly. Contact with susceptible animals must be avoided, footwear and clothing should be cleaned and disinfected before and after use and dogs must be kept under effective control at all times Fishing activity should not take place within any area declared by the Department of Agriculture, Food and Rural Development to be a restricted zone. Where in doubt, angling clubs and individual anglers should consult with their local regional fisheries board in relation to specific areas of intended fishing activity. The Fisheries Boards will assist in designating suitable fishing areas where practicable. Baits Anglers who wish to use baits of animal origin e.g. maggots, larvae, worms, etc., should only use such baits where they can be sure that all the material has been sourced in the State and not from a restricted zone.