The first salmon of the new year caught in Ireland was landed on Co Donegal’s River Lennon, it has been confirmed.
Kilmacrennan angler, James Kenny took the fish shortly after 1pm on January 1, the first time in 11 years that the first salmon of the year was caught on the opening day of the Irish season. The first salmon of the year is a much sought after accolade among Irish anglers.
While the Drowes River in south Donegal frequently takes the record for the first salmon of the year, the River Lennon has also held the record on occasions. Rising in the Glendowan Mountains, the River Lennon enters Lough Swilly at Ramelton. Mr Kenny, who is originally from Letterbarrow near Donegal Town, landed the fish at Watts Pool close to Ramelton.
After photographing, measuring the weighing the salmon, the Donegal man released it back into the river. Weighing around 8lb and measuring 67cm, the fish was taken on a Flying C barbless lure.
A life-long angler, Mr Kenny said that, while he has caught larger fish, his new year’s day catch was the most important. He said to land the first salmon in Ireland on new year’s day was a “dream come true”.
The first Atlantic salmon caught in Ireland last year was not recorded until February 1 when Co Waterford angler, Ray O’Dwyer landed a 6.25lb fish on the Munster Blackwater.
