Fishing and Boating

As the surrounding area in Westport is renowned for its blue flag beaches, it is no wonder that fishing and boating are hugely popular activities for locals and tourists. Clew Bay is one of the most beautiful bays in Ireland and is comprised of 365 islands, one for every day of the year, according to Folkloir. Clare Island, Clew Bay’s largest island, guards the entrance to Clew Bay and as the bay is overlooked by Croagh Patrick, the area boasts some of the most stunning views to be seen in the west of Ireland. The Great Western Greenway is also just a stones throw away.

westport CRUISES

Clew Bay stands as one of the most significant attractions for tourism in the west. It is also home to around 400 seal and other wildlife. The Westport Cruises sail close to the home of the seal colony, to observe them in their natural habitat. Furthermore, the cruise also exhibits panoramic views of the historical mountain, Croagh Patrick (also known as “The Reek” locally). Listen to tales of Grace O Malley, the pirate Queen and her adventures or learn about the paradise island owned and inhabited by the infamous John Lennon.

Visit http://westportcruises.com/ to learn more about the Westport Cruises and to look up sailing times. Located at the Harbour (The Quay), Westport, Co. Mayo with daily guided tours running from May – September. Tel. 087-6066146.

SEA ANGLING

The Sea Angling grounds of Clew Bay are a sea anglers dream, as they are recognised as being amongst the best in Europe. The inshore waters of Clew Bay offer excellent shallow water angling and fly fishing. Almost every known species of fish existing in Irish waters has, at some time, been recorded in Clew Bay. The Helm on The Quay provides Sea Angling and sightseeing trips of Clew Bay, Ireland’s hidden heartlands.

Boats can be chartered for angling, cruising or exploring some of Clew Bays reputed 365 islands. Telephone: (098) 41562. For angling charter trips. Telephone: (098) 26514 / 64865 /26899.

Information is also available from Tourist Office.

Tel: 098-26398. Web: www.thehelm.ie www.facebook.com/TheHelmWestport

FRESH WATER ANGLING

The fresh water angler is also well catered for with several productive rivers and lakes within easy reach of the town. Salmon, sea trout and brown trout can be found in most rivers, while the larger lakes such as Lough Mask are capable of producing ferox trout and very large pike.

SAILING & yachting

Rosmoney, Westport is the base for Mayo Sailing Club. A picturesque cruising ground exists among the archipelago of islands in the east of Clew Bay. There are slipways at Rosmoney, Westport Quay and Old Head suitable for launching dinghies and trailer-sailers.

From regular summer cruising along the west coast and its islands, to wilderness expeditions to the Antarctic and Arctic, Mayo Sailing Club members have demonstrated their enthusiasm for sailing. On the racing front members have been to the fore in open events along the west coast, along with the Round Ireland Race, and recently some members winning the World Student Yachting Championships – arising from the very competitive club racing which has evolved at home at MSC. To learn more, visit http://mayosailingclub.com/.