Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) has temporarily closed the Galway Fishery on the Corrib River due to unusually high water temperatures, with the aim of protecting vulnerable fish populations from heat-induced stress.

The fishery was officially closed to all angling activities on Tuesday, May 20, and will remain shut until further notice. This decision comes after water temperatures at the site exceeded 20 degrees Celsius on two separate occasions within a 24-hour period—a threshold known to significantly increase angling-related fish mortalities.

IFI says the closure is in line with scientific advice, which shows that water temperatures above 20°C can cause lethal stress in fish species, including brown trout and Atlantic salmon.

The Galway Fishery will only reopen once conditions improve, specifically when two consecutive readings record temperatures below 18°C, ensuring fish are no longer at risk of thermal stress.

Anglers with existing bookings will be contacted directly by IFI. Season permit holders for the high bank and OPW beats on the Corrib River are also affected, and fishing must be suspended until the fishery reopens.

In addition to the Galway Fishery, the Erriff and Moy fisheries—also managed by IFI—have been closed for the same reason. IFI warns that other State-owned fisheries, such as Cloongee and Ballyvary, are also experiencing elevated temperatures and advises anglers to check conditions before travelling.

Anglers are urged to take extra care when fishing in warmer waters. Those practicing catch-and-release should minimise air exposure for fish or avoid it altogether to reduce stress.

IFI is asking the public to report any sightings of distressed fish, fish kills, illegal fishing activity, or suspected water pollution to its confidential 24-hour hotline at 0818 34 74 24.

Contact details for further information: