Mayo anglers voice growing concern over salmon numbers on River Moy

Growing concern over the number of salmon being caught in the River Moy has prompted the Ballina Salmon Anglers Association to seek a meeting with local councillors.

Anglers fear the situation could have serious implications for angling, tourism and the wider Mayo economy.

Members of the association have requested the opportunity to address the February meeting of the Ballina Municipal District after expressing dissatisfaction with Inland Fisheries Ireland’s (IFI) proposed response to what they describe as a developing crisis on the river.

The request was formally proposed at this week’s monthly meeting of the Ballina Municipal District by Independent Councillor Joe Faughnan and was unanimously approved by councillors.

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Speaking to MidWest Radio, Councillor Faughnan said the anglers are deeply concerned that IFI’s proposals could have “detrimental consequences for angling and tourism right across the Moy Valley.”

“They want to come into the municipal district meeting next month and outline their concerns directly to councillors,” he said. “By bringing in the Ballina Salmon Anglers Association, it gives them the chance to put their side of the story on the table.”

He highlighted the significance of salmon fishing to the region, describing it as central to Ballina’s identity, culture and economy.

“Salmon fishing, especially on the River Moy, is extremely important to the town’s identity, economy, culture and tourism. It’s one of the key reasons Ballina is known nationally and internationally as the Salmon Capital of Ireland,” Councillor Faughnan said.

Concerns were also raised at the meeting about the apparent decline in salmon numbers and the reliability of current fish counters on the river.

“There are question marks over the counters on the Moy, and that was raised during the meeting,” Councillor Faughnan added.

“With the major economic impact salmon fishing has on the area, it’s vital that we sit down, talk this through and make sure any decisions are right for the region.”

The Ballina Salmon Anglers Association is expected to make a presentation to councillors at the next municipal district meeting, where they will outline their concerns and seek clarity on IFI’s plans for the river.