Watershed Fly Fishing

At Watershed Fly Fishing, we specialize in guided fly fishing trips in Ireland. Our expert team of fly fishing guides is dedicated to offering unforgettable experiences on the River Shannon system.

Watershed Fly Fishing is owned and operated by Johannes Bulfin who grew up fishing the waters he now guides on.

As a child the pike, that would often be as long as I was tall, would fill me with awe. Pursuing these monsters, as well as the aesthetically beautiful native Brown Trout, became an obsession that never waned.

I have lived in Finland for over eight years which gave me invaluable insights into pike fly fishing, the Nordics are traditionally known for their innovation and pushing boundaries. Various techniques and flies have been born there. Perch fly fishing is a prime recent example of this. I have also fished in England, France, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, across the US, South Africa and Kenya.

Banagher Water Readings
Level: 2.13m
Temperature: 16°C
Day Pass - All Ages
Pike (Boat) - One Guest

Jan 1st - Dec 22nd 2026

River Shannon
Purchase
Day Pass - All Ages
Pike (Boat) - Two Guests

Jan 1st - Dec 22nd 2026

River Shannon
Purchase
Day Pass - All Ages
Trout - One Guest

Mar 1st - Sep 30th 2026

River Shannon
Purchase
Day Pass - All Ages
Trout - Two Guests

Mar 1st - Sep 30th 2026

River Shannon
Purchase
Day Pass - All Ages
Perch - One Guest

Mar 1st - Sep 30th 2026

River Shannon
Purchase
Day Pass - All Ages
Perch - Two Guests

Mar 1st - Sep 30th 2026

River Shannon
Purchase

Address: Derrinlough House, Five Alley, Birr, Co Offaly, R42 VH33

Watershed Fly Fishing operates across the River Shannon system. You should expect to meet your guide at an easy to find pre-arranged meeting point, which will be clearly communicated to you after a discussion with your guide around a week before your fishing date regarding location, conditions, type ot water, and target species. You will have full input into this discussion.

Map image

At Watershed Fly Fishing, we specialize in guided fly fishing trips in Ireland. Our expert team of fly fishing guides is dedicated to offering unforgettable experiences on the River Shannon system.

Watershed Fly Fishing is owned and operated by Johannes Bulfin who grew up fishing the waters he now guides on.

As a child the pike, that would often be as long as I was tall, would fill me with awe. Pursuing these monsters, as well as the aesthetically beautiful native Brown Trout, became an obsession that never waned.

I have lived in Finland for over eight years which gave me invaluable insights into pike fly fishing, the Nordics are traditionally known for their innovation and pushing boundaries. Various techniques and flies have been born there. Perch fly fishing is a prime recent example of this. I have also fished in England, France, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, across the US, South Africa and Kenya.

View Club Rules in New Tab

1. Safety First

Life Jackets: Must be worn at all times. Provided for all passengers.

Weather: The guide has final say on weather-related decisions. We don’t fish in lightning or unsafe conditions.

Alcohol & Drugs: No drugs. Moderate alcohol, we’re not going to deny you a beer on board but please be sensible.

Footwear: No cleats, studs, or heavy boots. Please wear soft-soled, non-marking shoes.

2. Gear & Casting

Rod Use: Bring your own or use our provided high-quality fly rods. Please handle gear with care.

Casting Area: One angler at the bow and another at the aft unless otherwise directed. Watch your backcast—no false casting over others.

Hooks: Barbless hooks only. Sunglasses essential. Will be provided if you don’t have your own.

3. On the Boat

Stay Seated When Underway: Remain seated while the boat is moving.

Tidy Deck: Keep gear stowed when not in use. Minimise clutter to prevent tripping hazards.

4. Catch & Release Policy

Conservation-Focused: We practice catch-and-release.

Fish Handling: Your guide will assist with handling and photographing fish for minimal stress to the fish.

5. Respect the Resource

Leave No Trace: No littering. Everything you bring on the boat must go back with you.

Wildlife: Respect all wildlife and other anglers on the water.

Three Steps to Reporting a Water Pollution Incident:

1. Contact IFI

Phone: 0818 34 7424

Or register your complaint online via: Fisheries Ireland Feedback

2. Contact EPA

Phone: 1800 365 123

Submit an environmental complaint to the EPA online: EPA Complaints

Or register your complaint via the mobile app download:

3. Contact Irish Water

Phone: 1800 278 278

Or register your complaint via email: operations@water.ie

Note: Please provide your personal details when registering your complaint to ensure that it is actioned and registered correctly.

Other details requested:

  • Time/Date and location of incident
  • Any evidence to support the claim (e.g. photos, videos)