Lough Beagh

Address

Co. Donegal, Ireland

Fishery Information

Lough Beagh, also known as Lough Veagh, is a freshwater lake located in north County Donegal and forms a part of Glenveagh National Park. It is situated about 24 kilometres (15 mi) northwest of Letterkenny and nestled in the narrow Glenveagh valley, surrounded by the Derryveagh and Glendowan Mountains. The lake measures approximately 6 km (3.7 mi) long and 1 km (0.6 mi) wide and has several small islands at its northern end. The Owenbeagh River primarily feeds the lake at its southern end, and it drains northwards into the Owencarrow River, which connects Lough Beagh with Glen Lough, its northern neighbour.

What size do the fish go to?

Fish species in Lough Beagh include brown trout (including sea trout), Arctic char, salmon, minnow, and the critically endangered European eel. The resident brown trout population tends to be fairly small, running from ½lb to 1lb, but 2lb and 3lb fish are caught every season. The average weight for sea trout is 3 to 4lbs. There is also a resident population of Arctic Char in the lake, although they are not commonly fished for.

What tactics work well?

Given that bank fishing is not permitted at Lough Beagh, fly fishing is the primary method used by anglers. Recommended flies are similar to those used at Glen Lough, but the Fiery Brown and the Alexandra have proven effective at this location. Fishing generally starts around mid-July, once the resident birds have finished breeding, and it continues through to the end of September or October for sea trout. The lake sees the best fishing for sea trout from August onwards.

What facilities are on site?

Lough Beagh is located in the mountains, south of Cresslough, and forms the heart of Glenveagh National Park. Facilities at the lake include two boats with engines that are available for hire. These are necessary as bank fishing is not allowed. For further details and boat hiring costs, anglers are recommended to call Glenveagh National Park in Churchill at +074 37090.

Is parking available?

The lake is part of the Glenveagh National Park, and as such, it is expected that there are parking facilities available to visitors. For more accurate details, it would be best to contact Glenveagh National Park directly.