Lough Carra – Mayo’s Hidden Gem
Often described as “the poor relation” of its larger neighbours, Lough Corrib and Lough Mask, Lough Carra is one of the west of Ireland’s most underrated trout fisheries. Smaller in size at approximately 4,000 acres, but rich in character and opportunity, Carra offers superb fishing, breathtaking scenery, and a peaceful, unpressured experience that is increasingly hard to find.
The lough is divided into two distinct areas—the front and back lough—each offering its own challenges and rewards. While many anglers wait for the famous Mayfly hatch in late April or early May, those in the know understand that Carra comes alive much earlier. From early April, exciting sport can be had on duckfly and buzzer, often producing explosive takes in calm conditions. As the season progresses, olives and Mayfly provide excellent dry-fly fishing and consistent action.
For many, summer is when Lough Carra truly shines. Vast hatches of sedge (murragh) bring large trout to the surface late into the evening, as fish aggressively attack skittering flies close to the reed beds. These magical nighttime sessions are among the finest fishing experiences Carra has to offer.
Caenis hatches are prolific across the lough and, thanks to minimal angling pressure during early mornings, offer outstanding sport. Careful, stealthy fishing around Carra’s extensive reed beds often proves far more productive than on its larger neighbouring loughs.
Late summer and autumn continue to deliver superb fishing. On calm days, reed smut and flying ants can turn the surface alive with rising trout, providing memorable dry-fly sport right through the season.
Beyond the fishing, Lough Carra is one of the safest and most visually striking of the western loughs. Predominantly shallow—most areas are eight feet deep or less—and with few rocky shorelines, it is well suited to relaxed and confident boat fishing. Its marl bottom creates an almost Caribbean-like effect, with white shorelines and striking turquoise water. Watching a Carra trout charge your fly in crystal-clear conditions is an unforgettable sight.
So, when planning your next trip to Lough Corrib or Lough Mask, take the time to discover Lough Carra—the so-called poor relation that quietly delivers some of the finest wild brown trout fishing in the west of Ireland.
