Irish Specimen Fish 2017

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IrishSpecimen Fish2017

Website: www.irish-trophy-fish.com Coiste Éisc Mór na hÉirinn

ANNUAL REPORT OF THE IRISH SPECIMEN FISH COMMITTEE

The Irish Specimen Fish CommitteeFounded in 1955, the ISFC is an independent voluntary body, representative of angling interests in Ireland, whose principal function is to verify, record and publicise the capture of large (i.e. specimen) fish caught on rod and line by anglers in Ireland, both in freshwater and marine waters. The Committee also ratifies Irish record rod caught fish. The ISFC coordinates and administers the unique specimen awards scheme which is designed to recognize any angler who catches a specimen fish and to publicise the angling venue. Successful anglers are awarded a certificate and a commemorative badge. Specially commissioned silver medals are presented to captors of record fish and special awards are also made to captors of multiple specimen fish (on a cumulative basis). This report is a detailed listing of all particulars relating to specimen and record fish captures in Irish waters in 2017. Over 29,000 claims have been received by the ISFC over the past 62 years. This dataset is one of the most valuable and long-running time-series of its type.

Irish Specimen Fish Committee Members 2017Dr. Robert Rosell (AFBI), Chairman, Dr. William Roche, Secretary, Shane O’Reilly and Micheál Hennessy (Inland Fisheries Ireland), Alan McGurdy, Stewart McGrane (Game Angling), Dr. Edward Fahy, Dr. Patrick Boylan (Loughs Agency), Der Casey (Coarse Angling) and Brian Cooke (Sea Angling). Use of information contained in this report for press articles and publicity is encouraged.

It may be quoted without charge, provided the source is acknowledged.

The report is copyright and prior permission to reproduce the data for any purpose other than reasonable review or analysis must be obtained in writing from the Irish Specimen Fish Committee.

IRISH SPECIMEN FISH COMMITTEESome important points for claiming specimen fish:

1. Use official ISFC claim form and complete ALL relevant sections fully.

2. Print your name, address (including country) and telephone number in block capitals in Section 2.

3. Weighing: Fish MUST be weighed (on land) on CERTIFIED club scales etc. or alternatively, on a shop scales. If in doubt, use a shop scales. Fish must not be weighed on board a boat.

4. Scales must be certified annually by a competent independent authority and the certificate of accuracy must be current at time of weighing. Certificate must accompany each claim.

5. Fish scales, actual bodies or photographs of some species are required (See Section 4 of the Rules for details).

6. You MUST sign and date Section 6 of the Claim Form. Ensure witnesses sign the Claim Form.

Awards PresentationThe Annual Presentation of Specimen Awards

to anglers whose claims were accepted during 2017

will be held in

Clayton Hotel Dublin Airport Swords, Co. Dublin at 2.30pm sharp

on Saturday 17th February 2018

Irish anglers who are due awards are invited to attend

Cover: Sidney Kennedy with a Rosscarbery Golden Grey Mullet of 0.96 kg in August Back Cover: Smooth-hound for John Millerick

A Ballan Wrasse for Bill Ryan at the Bridges of Ross

Irish Specimen Fish Committee Annual Report 2017

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Chairman’s Review 2017 .................................2

New Irish Records ............................................3

Special Awards Categories10 Species Award ..........................................450 Specimens Award .....................................410 Specimens ................................................4Dr. Michael Kennedy Award ............................5Dr. A.E.J. Went Award .....................................5The Minister’s Award .....................................5Best International Specimen Fish Award .........5

Specimen Fish Claims ratified in 2017 ..........7

Freshwater Fish 2017

Coarse Fish and PikeBream ...........................................................7Carp ..............................................................9Dace............................................................11Pike (Lake) ...................................................12Pike (River) ..................................................12Tench ..........................................................14

Game FishBrown Trout (Lake) .......................................15Brown Trout (River) ......................................15Sea Trout .....................................................16

Marine Fish 2017Bass ............................................................17Black Bream ................................................17Bluemouth...................................................18Coalfish .......................................................18Dab .............................................................19Blackmouthed Dogfish .................................19Greater Spotted Dogfish ..............................20Lesser Spotted Dogfish .................................20Spur Dogfish ................................................21Flounder ......................................................26Gilthead Bream ...........................................27Grey Gurnard ...............................................29Ling .............................................................29Megrim .......................................................30Golden Grey Mullet......................................30Thick Lipped Mullet ......................................32Pollack ........................................................36

Pouting .......................................................36Painted Ray .................................................37Sting Ray .....................................................37Three Bearded Rockling ...............................38Scad ............................................................38Common Skate ............................................39Smooth-Hound ............................................42Stone Basse .................................................47Tope ............................................................47Whiting .......................................................49Ballan Wrasse ..............................................50Cuckoo Wrasse ............................................52

Special Notices for 2018Closing Date for Specimen Claims ................53Specimen Weight & Length Revision .............53Geographical Limit for Claims ......................53Weight-Based Specimens ............................54Length-Based Specimens .............................54New Record Claims......................................55Fish Species Identification ............................55Other Requirements ....................................58Administration ............................................59Establishing a new Specimen Fish Category ..59Notable Fish ................................................59Presentation of 2016 Awards .......................60Acknowledgements .....................................60Distribution of Specimen Awards ..................61Irish Specimen Fish Committee Accounts ......62Donations ....................................................63

Irish Record FishFreshwater Species, Marine Species ..............64

Schedule of Specimen Weights ....................66

ISFC Rules ........................................................69


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ISFC Chairman’s Review 2017Chairing the Irish Specimen Fish Committee is still a learning curve – I suspect it will remain so for many years to come. The 2017 angling season has witnessed another inclement summer. This genuinely is not just an angler’s excuse – in my day job some summer surveys could not be completed for the first time in decades due to persistently wet weather.

Claims numbers were reduced in 2017 - over 420 specimen claims were processed, across a wide range of species, including a new record for Golden Grey Mullet. The surge in claims for Spurdog and Smooth-hounds continues, with large fish of these species still present as they were the year before. Carp, mullet (thick-lipped and golden grey) are prominent in the listings also.

In 2017 Committee discussions produced significant progress in some areas. Issues around weight recording were to the fore leading to further expert advice being provided by NSAI on the suitability of ISFC weighing scale certification requirements. A balance needs to be struck between the accuracy of claimed weights and the

opportunity for as many captors of large fish to make a claim. While dedicated specimen hunters will buy or share access to high quality scales and pay to have these checked annually, there are always other anglers who catch an exceptional fish but are unprepared for specimen recording – ISFC clearly wants to be able to record these too.

Length based recording is one means of recording specimens and the introduction of additional length based species is a common request from anglers. A measuring mat does not go out of calibration and a good photograph on a clear scale is now a requirement for sharks, dogfishes and rays. Additional length based species are eligible from 2018 onwards; all new additions and length thresholds must be based on sound weight at length data over all size ranges. Offering length based specimens cannot circumvent the record fish problem – the long standing records are weight based fish, weighed on accurate scales on land. Nowadays, to return fish alive, anglers have to be inventive and well prepared to weigh potential boat-caught records or specimens on land.

It could be assumed that the species ISFC records and the sizes they achieve might remain constant over time, but not so. Hence the committee’s ongoing review of specimen thresholds where species have disappeared off the claims radar for a number of years. This may occur where stocks of a marine species are reduced through commercial fishing, or where there is natural variability in recruitment. Other reasons may include change in angler practices, catch and release, or climate change moving cold water marine species north and bringing warm water replacements to our shores. Invasive species may also have an impact, a new fish taking a slice out of the pie available to existing ones. In order to monitor change and contribute to greater understanding of species status ISFC may attempt to increase claim numbers by conservatively dropping the specimen threshold or, as in recent years, add a length-based option. The latter approach also allows ‘conservation species’ to be captured, measured and returned safely thereby recording species presence, distribution and size data. Good handling is paramount for these species. We can’t make it too easy – ISFC absolutely understands that catching a specimen has to be a challenge – the specimen hunter will have little satisfaction if it is too easy or the specimen weight is much lower than historically required. From 2018 onwards ISFC is offering length based options for pike, brown trout, bass, flounder and some rays, and reductions in specimen weights for rudd, angler fish, black bream, black sole, brill, cod, tub gurnard, haddock, hake, plaice and turbot. The latter species, high value fish, suggest impact by marine commercial fishing on the numbers of large older fish available. Weight increases have been applied to carp and smooth-hound.

Even the species themselves are not immutable - a relatively recent research focus on skate has shown that there may be a requirement to separate the Common skate (Dipturus batis) species-complex into two species, the flapper skate (D. cf. intermedia) from the slightly smaller blue skate (D. cf. flossada). The ISFC will examine this further in 2018.

This year few claims requiring DNA based identification – cyprinids, their hybrids and shads – were received. To reduce the considerable cost of processing these claims (20% of annual budget) ISFC has agreed with its DNA analyst that all 2017 claims will be processed in 2018, along with the 2018 claims. A small charge will be levied on anglers who claim these species to offset part of the cost.

ISFC funding levels are a major issue. While staff time for committee work is funded by IFI, AFBI/DAERA and other participating organisations, and given freely by anglers and other representatives, the ISFC remains on a downward trajectory of cash reserves to fund report production, award purchases etc. Core funding support is supplied by IFI, and DAERA (including marine and freshwater fisheries in Northern Ireland) has made a welcome contribution to the production of the report this year. Thanks are due for support from other long standing angler funders - and Mara Media have helped with venue funding. Put straight, unless the broad collective of stakeholders provide further support now and most particularly secure ongoing arrangements, there is only a cash reserve for perhaps three years life left in ISFC. The on-line donation facility on the ISFC website facilitates fuss-free donations and the Committee requests your support.

I must record that Bridie Fleming has taken well-earned retirement from IFI, but to the enormous relief of ISFC has kept on her meticulous claim checking work, with IFI technical support. This new arrangement has operated reasonably well and ISFC is truly grateful while it seeks a long term solution to ISFC administration support. One consequence of this change will be an earlier cut-off of end October for receipt of specimen claims in 2018.

Last but not least, congratulations to all who have had the skill, luck and pleasure of catching big fish in 2017. For another year, they can bask in the glory, enjoy the report and the pictures, continue to chase the even bigger ones that got away last time, and maybe even hope for that elusive record.

Dr Robert Rosell, Chairman ISFC December, 2017


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Report of the Irish Specimen Fish Committee 2017In 2017 the ISFC processed 422 claims; 382 were ratified, including one new record. A total of 17 were rejected for non-compliance with the rules and a further 23 will be queried further. This report presents the new record, the special awards and ratified specimen fish for 2017.

New Irish RecordFor fish exceeding the current Irish record weight

Golden Grey Mullet 1.29 kg, Rosscarbery, Co. Cork, 4 July 2017 – Ian Mulligan

Dr AEJ Went Award – Young Specimen Angler 2017, Amy O’Brien with a Golden Grey Mullet of 0.94 kg


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SPECIAL AWARDS CATEGORIES 2017

10 SPECIES AWARD

Francis McNeilly, Scaddy Road, Downpatrick BT30 9BS, Co. Down

2012 Dab / Painted Ray / Twaite Shad 2015 Thick Lipped Mullet

2013 Smooth-hound 2016 Carp / Gilthead Bream / Spur Dogfish

2014 Flounder 2017 Ballan Wrasse / Golden Grey Mullet / Pike (River)

50 SPECIMENS AWARD

Patrick Lombard, Dunmore, Clonakilty, Co. Cork Jerry O’Connor, Tonevane, Tralee, Co. Kerry

2008-2017 18 Carp 2009-2017 18 Carp

2010-2014 4 Gilthead Bream 2012-2014 3 Flounder

2011-2017 17 Golden Grey Mullet 2013 1 Gilthead Bream

2008-2017 26 Mullet - Thick-lipped 2017 3 Golden Grey Mullet

2012-2013 2 Rudd/Bream Hybrid 2012-2014 5 Painted Ray

2012 3 Roach/Rudd Hybrid

2011-2014 6 Rudd/Bream Hybrid

2011 1 Shad Hybrid

2012 2 Smooth-hound

2012-2014 2 Sting Ray

2010-2016 6 Thick Lipped Mullet

2010 2 Twaite Shad

10 SPECIMENS AWARD

Arie de Koning, Kersendreef 2, 4241 DS Arkel, The Netherlands 2004-2016

Paddy Higgisson, Hartlands Avenue, Cork 2014-2017

Stephen Hurley, Keelbeg, Union Hall, Co. Cork 2011-2017

Pat Kirwan, Bunting Road, Walkinstown, Dublin 12 1991-2017

Robert Reid, Claddagh Road, Ballyfermot, Dublin 10 2006-2017

Bluemouth – Donie O’Mahony


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DR MICHAEL KENNEDY AWARD

MULLET OF THE YEARDr Michael Kennedy, a pioneering fisheries biologist and one of the founders of the ISFC, had a lifelong research interest in mullet species. The Kennedy Award is for the best specimen (highest percentage of the record) and/or a new record of any of the three mullet species for that year.

Ian Mulligan, Dublin – 1.29 kg Golden Grey Mullet at Rosscarbery, Cork, 4 July 2017.

DR AEJ WENT AWARD

YOUNG SPECIMEN ANGLER OF THE YEARDr Arthur Went, a noted fisheries biologist and one of the two founder members of the ISFC, nominated this award which is for the best specimen of the year (based on the highest percentage of the specimen weight) taken by an angler aged 13 years or younger.

Amy O’Brien, Cork – 0.94 kg Golden Grey Mullet at Rosscarbery, Cork, 1 September 2017.

THE MINISTER’S AWARD Inaugurated by the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment, this “fish of a lifetime” award is for the best specimen fish of the year (other than a new record), and is presented to the angler who catches a fish which represents the highest percentage of the existing record.

Ian Mulligan, Dublin – 1.08 kg Golden Grey Mullet at Clonakilty, Cork, 22 June 2017.

BEST INTERNATIONAL FISH AWARD

This award is for the best specimen fish, (calculated as the highest percentage of the current record weight), taken by an overseas angler.

Eric Van Dijk, The Netherlands – 8.75 kg Greater Spotted Dogfish at Kenmare Bay, Co. Kerry, 5 June 2017.


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Heaviest Smooth-hound of 2017 for Micheal McCarthy

Specimen Carp for Des Chew on 11th April 2017


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Year of capture is 2017 unless otherwise stated.Length (L) assumed as forklength (FL) (cm) for freshwater species, bass and blue and porbeagle shark. Total Length (TL) for all other marine species.Country of residence of international angler denoted by relevant letter after surname.(J) after surname denotes juvenile angler.

SPECIMEN FISH CLAIMS RATIFIED BY THE COMMITTEE IN 2017

FRESHWATER FISH 2017

Coarse Fish and Pike

BREAMRecord 6.07 kg; Specimen Weight, 3.402 kg (7.5 lbs)

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)

VENUE DATE CAPTOR METHOD

4.42 9.75 – Lough Boderg 26-Apr James Dignam Maggots

4.31 9.50 – Lough Boderg 26-Apr James Dignam Maggots

4.20 9.25 64.0 Bawn Lake 14-Aug Noel Darcy Maggots & Sweetcorn

3.91 8.62 – Lough Boderg 26-Apr Luke Canavan Dignam Maggots

3.63 8.00 – Drumlaheen Lough 30-Apr James Dignam Maggots

3.63 8.00 61.0 Ardan Lake 09-Jun Dan Lynch Maggots


61 cm Bream for Dan Lynch


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BREAM CONTINUED....

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


3.52 7.75 – Bawn Lake 14-Aug Noel Darcy Maggots & Sweetcorn


3.46 7.62 62.5 Bawn Lake 23-Sep Glenn McCormack Maggots

3.46 7.62 61.0 Bawn Lake 26-Aug Amy O'Brien (J) Maggots

3.46 7.62 62.0 Bawn Lake 26-Aug Sidney Kennedy Maggots

3.46 7.62 62.0 Bawn Lake 26-Aug Mandy O'Brien Maggots

3.40 7.50 60.0 Bawn Lake 26-Aug Amy O'Brien (J) Maggots

Specimen Bream for Sidney Kennedy, Amy and Mandy O’Brien

Double specimen Bream for James Dignam


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CARPRecord 14.24 kg (32.4 lbs); Specimen Weight 5.443 kg (12 lbs)

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


9.19 20.25 70.0 The Lough, Cork 06-May Barry James Boilie9.13 20.12 75.0 The Lough, Cork 15-Aug Kristofor Im Boilie8.85 19.50 75.0 The Lough, Cork 15-Apr Paddy Higgisson Boilie8.39 18.50 64.0 The Lough, Cork 01-May Paddy Higgisson Boilie8.33 18.37 66.0 The Lough, Cork 11-Sep Barry James Boilie8.22 18.12 63.0 The Lough, Cork 08-Apr Paddy Higgisson Boilie8.16 18.00 – The Lough, Cork 06-Aug Sidney Kennedy Boilie7.43 16.37 – The Lough, Cork 03-Aug Amy O'Brien (J) Boilie7.40 16.31 70.0 The Lough, Cork 02-May Patrick Lombard Boilie7.37 16.25 69.0 The Lough, Cork 28-Jul Terry Jackson Boilie7.35 16.20 – The Lough, Cork 11-Apr Des Chew Boilie6.69 14.75 66.0 The Lough, Cork 01-Oct Jack McCarthy Boilie6.62 14.60 65.5 The Lough, Cork 27-Mar Francis McNeilly Boilie6.58 14.50 72.5 The Lough, Cork 03-Aug Amy O'Brien (J) Boilie6.58 14.50 76.0 The Lough, Cork 28-Jul Terry Jackson Boilie

Carp for Craig Murphy


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CARP CONTINUED....

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


6.49 14.31 74.5 The Lough, Cork 08-Aug Sidney Kennedy Boilie6.18 13.62 70.5 The Lough, Cork 25-May Patrick Lombard Boilie6.15 13.56 70.5 The Lough, Cork 08-Aug Sidney Kennedy Boilie6.12 13.50 63.0 The Lough, Cork 27-Jul Terry Jackson Boilie6.12 13.50 70.0 The Lough, Cork 22-Jun Kenneth Murphy Boilie6.07 13.37 71.5 The Lough, Cork 02-Aug Amy O'Brien (J) Boilie6.03 13.30 72.0 The Lough, Cork 10-Apr Greg Forrest Boilie6.01 13.25 68.0 The Lough, Cork 27-Mar Jerry O'Connor Boilie6.01 13.25 69.0 The Lough, Cork 12-Sep Joanne Kenny Boilie6.01 13.25 66.0 The Lough, Cork 09-Apr Kenneth Murphy Boilie5.98 13.19 70.0 The Lough, Cork 30-Mar Jerry O'Connor Boilie5.84 12.87 70.0 The Lough, Cork 14-Mar Kenneth Murphy Boilie5.82 12.82 58.0 The Lough, Cork 13-Jun Francis McNeilly Boilie5.76 12.70 58.0 The Lough, Cork 24-Sep Francis McNeilly Boilie5.75 12.69 66.0 The Lough, Cork 12-Sep Damian Allchorne Boilie5.73 12.62 62.0 The Lough, Cork 16-Mar Jerry O'Connor Boilie5.72 12.60 67.0 The Lough, Cork 10-Apr Craig Murphy Boilie5.68 12.52 62.0 Horsetail Lake 07-Sep Jim Gregg Biscuit Fly5.62 12.40 68.0 The Lough, Cork 10-Apr Greg Forrest Boilie5.58 12.30 64.0 The Lough, Cork 10-Apr Craig Murphy Boilie5.56 12.25 63.0 The Lough, Cork 21-May Daniel James Boilie5.56 12.25 68.0 The Lough, Cork 30-May Patrick Lombard Boilie5.53 12.19 59.0 The Lough, Cork 09-Apr Barry James Boilie

Greg Forrest with 5.62 kg Carp


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Damien Allchorne & Joanne Kenny with their specimen Carp from the Lough

DACERecord 1 lbs 2ozs (0.51 kg); Specimen Weight 0.3 kg (0.66 lbs)

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


0.3 0.66 30.0 River Suir, Carrick on Suir 28-May Nicholas McEvoy Bread

Barry James with a Lough special

Carp for Paddy Higgisson


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PIKE (LAKE)Record 42 lbs 12 ozs (19.391 kg); Specimen Weight 13.608 kg (30 lbs)

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


14.17 31.25 114.0 Lough Allen 25-Jan Annie Mullen Trout

The only specimen Dace of 2017 fell to Nicholas McEvoy

PIKE (RIVER)Record 42 lbs (19.051 kg); Specimen Weight 9.072 kg (20 lbs)

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


11.07 24.40 103.0 River Blackwater, NI 30-Oct Francis McNeilly Pollan

10.98 24.20 104.0 River Blackwater, NI 01-Nov Francis McNeilly Pollan

10.69 23.56 115.0 River Suck, Ballyforan 05-Jan Patrick Fagan Mackerel

10.46 23.06 109.0 River Blackwater, NI 20-Dec-16 Andrew Wolsey Roach

10.43 23.00 113.0 River Shannon, Athlone 10-Apr Liam McDonnell (J) Mackerel

9.19 20.25 – River Shannon, Rooskey 22-Jan Derek Greene Sardine

9.19 20.25 106.0 River Shannon, Athlone 31-Jan Shay McDonnell Mackerel

9.10 20.06 – River Suck, Athleague 29-Oct Declan Dempsey Whiting


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Patrick Fagan with the third heaviest Pike of 2017

Annie Mullen with a Lough Allen Pike The River Suck provided a specimen for Declan Dempsey in October

10.46 kg Pike for Andrew Wolsey in late 2016


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TENCHRecord 8.15 lbs (3.697 kg); Specimen Weight 2.722 kg (6 lbs)

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)



Dan Lynch with the only specimen Tench of 2017


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Game Fish 2017

BROWN TROUT (LAKE)Record 26 lbs 2 ozs (11.85 kg); Specimen Weight 4.536 kg (10 lbs)

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


5.90 13.00 73.7 Lough Derg, Killaloe 23-Jul Gerard McKeogh Roach

5.82 12.84 73.0 Lower Lough Erne 10-Jul Neville Maguire Tasmanian Devil

5.57 12.27 84.0 Lough Leane 28-May John Joe O'Brien Lure

4.56 10.06 74.0 Lough Corrib 19-Mar Patrick Sullivan Minnow

Brown trout from the Maigue for Gary Naughton

BROWN TROUT (RIVER)Record 20 lbs (9.072 kg); Specimen Weight 2.268 kg (5 lbs)

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


3.56 7.85 68.0 Cong Canal 17-Mar Mike Flannery Tantalisa Lure

2.29 5.04 61.0 River Maigue 02-Mar Gary Naughton Lure


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SEA TROUTRecord 16 lbs 6 ozs (7.428 kg); Specimen Weight 2.722 kg (6 lbs)

Length-based specimen (L-BS) threshold 64 cm (FL)

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


4.90 10.80 76.5 Tullan Strand, Bundoran 02-Apr James Cummins Sandeel

3.03 6.68 68.6 Lough Derrianna 07-Jul James Sayers Fly

2.80 6.17 69.9 Lough Currane 19-Apr Andy Wishart Rapala

2.75 6.06 71.0 Lough Currane 17-Jan Dan Lynch Rapala

Currane sea trout for Dan Lynch

James Cummins with his specimen sea trout from

the sea at Bundoran


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Marine Fish 2017

BASSRecord 17 lbs 13 ozs (8.08 kg); Specimen Weight 4.536 kg (10 lbs)

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


4.76 10.50 74.0 Rinboy, Fanad Head 06-Aug Joshua Higginson ABU Toby

4.65 10.25 77.0 Ballycotton 19-Sep Pat O'Shea Savage Gear

4.54 10.00 70.0 Youghal 14-Nov Killian McCormack Crab

BLACK BREAMRecord - ; Specimen Weight 0.9 kg (1.98 lbs)

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


1.18 2.60 42.0 Kilmore Quay 08-Sep Robert Shefford (UK) Ragworm

1.04 2.30 40.0 Wicklow 17-Jun Brendan Adams Mackerel Strip

Black Bream for Brendan Adams at Wicklow

Killian McCormack with his Youghal Bass


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BLUEMOUTHRecord 1.32 kg (2.91 lbs) ; Specimen Weight 0.9 kg (1.98 lbs)

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


1.04 2.29 39.0 Caherciveen 05-Jul Donal Domeney Mackerel

0.92 2.03 39.0 Caherciveen 05-Jul Donie O'Mahony Mackerel

COALFISHRecord 15.1 kg ; Specimen Weight 6.804 kg (15 lbs)

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


7.94 17.50 99.0 Kinsale 25-Jul Paul Ross Shad

7.76 17.11 101.0 Kinsale 25-Jul Ailbhe O'Sullivan Shad

7.60 16.76 106.0 Kinsale 25-Jul Philip Barry Shad

7.53 16.60 101.0 Kinsale 25-Jul Paul Ross Shad

6.87 15.15 95.0 Kinsale 24-May Ailbhe O'Sullivan Shad

6.87 15.15 95.0 Kinsale 25-Jul Kit Dunne Rubber Shad

Kinsale Coalfish for Kit Dunne

7.94 kg Coalfish for Paul Ross


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DABRecord 2 lbs 5.5 ozs (1.06 kg); Specimen Weight 0.6 kg (1.32 lbs)

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


0.60 1.32 35.0 Dunmore East 02-Jun Barry Murphy Crab

BLACKMOUTHED DOGFISHRecord 1.33 kg (2.94 lbs); Specimen Weight 1.0 kg (2.205 lbs)

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


1.08 2.38 68.0 Islandmagee 07-May David Craig Mackerel

1.04 2.29 69.0 Islandmagee 20-Aug Mark Todd Mackerel

1.04 2.29 71.0 Islandmagee 19-Apr David Craig Mackerel

1.00 2.20 71.0 Causeway Coast 20-Nov-16 Ross Macklin Mackerel

1.00 2.20 67.0 Islandmagee 20-Aug David Craig Herring

2016 Blackmouthed Dogfish for Ross Macklin


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GREATER SPOTTED DOGFISHRecord 23 lbs 13 ozs (10.801 kg); Specimen Weight 7.257 kg (16 lbs)

Length-based specimen (L-BS) threshold 125 cm Total Length

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


8.75 19.30 – Kenmare Bay 05-Jun Eric Van Dijk (NL) Mackerel

8.40 18.52 – Kenmare Bay 21-Sep Ronald Witsel (NL) Mackerel

8.03 17.70 – Kenmare Bay 08-Sep Jo Nieuwenhuijsen (NL) Mackerel

8.00 17.64 – Kenmare Bay 03-Oct Bram De Wilde (NL) Mackerel

7.98 17.60 – Kenmare Bay 20-Sep Pieter van den Berg (NL) Mackerel Strip

7.94 17.50 120.0 Kenmare Bay 04-Aug Mark Van Waayenburg (NL) Mackerel

7.92 17.46 135.0 Kenmare Bay 12-Sep Eric De Muynck (B) Mackerel Flapper

7.85 17.30 – Kenmare Bay 17-Sep Peter van den Berg (NL) Mackerel Strip

7.45 16.42 127.0 Kenmare Bay 13-Sep Johan De Greve (B) Mackerel

LESSER SPOTTED DOGFISHRecord 4 lbs 4ozs (1.928 kg); Specimen Weight 1.47 kg (3.25 lbs)

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


1.62 3.56 73.0 Cork Harbour 02-Sep-16 Dan Lynch Mackerel

1.61 3.55 74.0 Cork Harbour 11-Jun Pat Condon Mackerel

1.59 3.50 82.0 Cork Harbour 16-Jun Alastair Kennedy Herring

1.56 3.45 74.0 Cork Harbour 11-Jun John Dennehy Mackerel

1.56 3.44 81.0 Baltimore 19-Jul Stephen Hurley Mackerel Strip

1.52 3.35 73.0 Cork Harbour 24-Jul Robert McClean Ragworm & Mackerel

1.47 3.25 74.0 Cork Harbour 16-Jun Ewan Kennedy Herring


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Lesser Spotted Dogfish for Alastair Kennedy

SPUR DOGFISHRecord 11.058 kg (24.38 lbs); Specimen Weight 5.443 kg (12 lbs);


WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM) VENUE DATE CAPTOR METHOD

8.28 18.25 118.0 Rathlin 12-Aug Brian Foster Mackerel

8.22 18.12 – Wicklow 04-Apr John Millerick Mackerel

8.03 17.70 – Wicklow 05-Apr Peter Bolger Mackerel

7.94 17.50 112.0 Kenmare Bay 08-Apr Conor Hennessy Mackerel

7.91 17.44 116.0 Wicklow 05-Apr Peter Bolger Mackerel

7.80 17.20 111.5 Wicklow 06-Mar Pat Swan Mackerel

7.33 16.15 115.0 Wicklow 06-Mar Tom Burrell (USA) Mackerel

7.17 15.80 110.0 Wicklow 05-Apr Peter McCartin Mackerel

7.05 15.55 114.0 Wicklow 06-Mar Gordon Darker Mackerel

7.03 15.50 115.0 Wicklow 06-Mar Kit Dunne Herring

7.03 15.50 113.0 Wicklow 04-Apr Nicholas McEvoy Mackerel




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Spurdog for Conor Ward

Tom Collins fishing out of

Union Hall with a 106 cm Spurdog

John Millerick with a Wicklow Spurdog


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SPUR DOGFISH CONTINUED....

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)



6.26 13.80 105.5 Tralee Bay 21-Jun Philip Barry Mackerel Flapper

6.12 13.50 108.0 Wicklow 04-Apr John Millerick Mackerel


6.07 13.37 102.0 Kenmare Bay 08-Apr Conor Ward (J) Mackerel

6.01 13.25 106.0 Wicklow 20-Mar Shayla Cobb (USA) Mackerel

5.90 13.00 105.5 Ballycastle 4-Aug Terry Jackson Mackerel

5.67 12.50 101.0 Wicklow 11-Nov Stan Ryan Mackerel

5.65 12.46 101.5 Tralee Bay 27-Jul Eoin Joyce Mackerel Fillet

5.62 12.40 105.0 Wicklow 05-Apr Nicholas McEvoy Mackerel

5.49 12.10 – Wicklow 04-Apr John Millerick Mackerel

L-BS – 114.0 Red Bay 10-Jul-16 Arian Huijbregts (NL) Mackerel

L-BS – 113.0 Islandmagee 17-Jul Mark Todd Mackerel

L-BS – 112.0 Wicklow 06-Mar Tom Burrell (USA) Mackerel

L-BS – 112.0 Islandmagee 05-Jul David Craig Mackerel

L-BS – 113.0 Wicklow 20-Mar Peter Bolger Mackerel


L-BS – 110.0 Wicklow 20-Mar Peter Bolger Mackerel

L-BS – 110.0 Galway Bay 19-Jun Owen Trill Mackerel


L-BS – 109.0 Wicklow 04-Apr Des Chew Mackerel


L-BS – 109.0 Wicklow 11-Nov James Morris Mackerel

L-BS – 108.0 Wicklow 04-Apr Christy Lane Mackerel

L-BS – 108.0 Wicklow 06-Mar Kit Dunne Herring


24

SPUR DOGFISH CONTINUED....

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)


L-BS – 108.0 Wicklow 20-Mar Jeff Cobb (USA) Mackerel


L-BS – 107.0 Downings 09-Jul Robert McLurg Mackerel Fillet & Squid

L-BS – 106.5 Wicklow 06-Mar Pat Swan Mackerel

L-BS – 106.5 Hook Head 19-Jun Martyn Rayner Mackerel



L-BS – 106.0 Galway Bay 19-Jun Dave Trill Mackerel

L-BS – 106.0 Union Hall 27-Oct Tom Collins Mackerel

L-BS – 105.8 Downings 05-Jul Seoirse Sweeney (UK) Mackerel Strip

L-BS – 105.0 Wicklow 06-Mar Kit Dunne Mackerel

L-BS – 105.0 Galway Bay 19-Jun Owen Trill Mackerel

Arian Huijbregts from the Netherlands with a Red Bay Spurdog


25

Gordon Darker with a 114 cm Spurdog from Wicklow in March

Spurdog for Tom Burrell (USA)

Pat Swan with a Wicklow Spurdog


26

FLOUNDERRecord 4.91 lbs (2.229 kg); Specimen Weight 1.1 kg (2.425 lbs)

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


1.36 3.00 45.0 Lacken 05-Nov Ronan Doherty Peeler Crab

1.30 2.87 44.0 Wicklow Estuary 08-Nov Evan Ryan Maddies

1.25 2.75 44.0 Wicklow Estuary 08-Nov Darren Ryan Peeler Crab

1.13 2.50 42.0 Youghal 21-Oct Ronan Doherty Peeler Crab

1.10 2.43 46.0 Cork Harbour 14-May Donal Domeney Crab

Youghal was the venue for Ronan Doherty’s Flounder

Evan Ryan with his Wicklow Flounder


27

GILTHEAD BREAMRecord 3.505 kg; Specimen Weight 1.4 kg (3.08 lbs)

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


2.95 6.51 56.5 Clonakilty 28-Aug Mike Flannery Ragworm

2.78 6.12 58.0 Clonakilty Bay 30-May Eric Gosnell Lugworm

2.49 5.50 52.5 Clonakilty 13-Jul Andrew Wolsey Lugworm

2.30 5.06 53.0 Ballatrent 02-May Fiachra Kenny Lugworm

2.13 4.68 53.0 Clonakilty Bay 30-May Brendan Sheridan Lugworm

2.08 4.57 55.0 Clonakilty Bay 23-Apr Noel Cashman Peeler Crab

1.96 4.31 54.0 Ring, Co. Cork 20-Jun-16 Dara Tuohy Lugworm

1.84 4.06 48.0 Clonakilty 14-May Stephen Hurley Lugworm

1.67 3.69 47.0 Clonakilty 10-Jul Andrew Wolsey Lugworm

Noel Cashman with his specimen Gilthead

Clonakilty Gilthead for Stephen Hurley


28

Gilthead for Brendan Sheridan

Eric Gosnell with the second heaviest Gilthead of 2017


29

GREY GURNARDRecord 3 lbs 1 ozs (1.39 kg); Specimen Weight 0.68 kg (1.5 lbs)

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


0.86 1.90 49.0 Cork Harbour 02-Sep Pat Condon Mackerel

Pat Condon from Cork with the only specimen Grey Gurnard of 2017

LINGRecord 55 lbs (24.95 kg); Specimen Weight 11.34 kg (25 lbs)

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


11.52 25.40 125.0 Courtmacsherry 04-Jul Griffin Anderson Mackerel

11.40 25.12 118.0 Cork Harbour 22-Sep Sidney Kennedy Mackerel

Griffin Anderson with his Courtmacsherry Ling


30

MEGRIMRecord 1.85 kg; Specimen Weight 0.794 kg (1.75 lbs)

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


0.87 1.92 49.0 Aghada 05-Aug Alan Mulcahy Mackerel

0.79 1.75 46.0 Cork Harbour 21-Aug Dan Lynch Mackerel

GOLDEN GREY MULLETNew Record 1.29 kg (2.84 lbs); Specimen Weight 0.68 kg (1.5 lbs)

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


1.29 2.84 50.0 Rosscarbery 04-Jul Ian Mulligan Maddies

1.08 2.37 44.0 Clonakilty 22-Jun Ian Mulligan Maddies

1.06 2.34 – Rosscarbery 02-Sep Dan Smith Maddies

1.05 2.31 48.0 Clonakilty Bay 19-Jun Patrick Lombard Ragworm

0.96 2.12 48.0 Rosscarbery 01-Aug Sidney Kennedy Ragworm

Specimen Megrim for Alan Mulcahy

Desmond Frazer with his Golden Grey Mullet


31

GOLDEN GREY MULLET CONTINUED...

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


0.95 2.10 45.5 Cork Harbour 25-Jun Stephen O'Neill Maddies0.94 2.06 46.0 Rosscarbery 01-Sep Amy O'Brien (J) Ragworm0.91 2.00 43.0 Clonakilty 05-Jul Jerry O'Connor Maddies0.86 1.90 43.5 Cork Harbour 16-Jun Stephen O'Neill Maddies0.86 1.90 41.5 Clonakilty 16-Aug Craig Newsome Maddies0.82 1.81 38.0 Clonakilty 03-Jul Desmond Frazer Ragworm baited spoon0.82 1.81 43.0 Rosscarbery 25-Jul Jerry O'Connor Maddies0.79 1.75 42.0 Rosscarbery 01-Aug Sidney Kennedy Ragworm0.77 1.70 41.0 Cork Harbour 18-Jun Dave Jolly Maddies0.75 1.66 41.5 Rosscarbery 03-Jul Francis McNeilly Maddies0.74 1.62 44.0 Rosscarbery 12-Jul Sarah Lynch Maddies0.74 1.62 41.0 Clonakilty Bay 18-May Patrick Lombard Ragworm0.74 1.62 40.5 Red Strand 24-Jul Terry Jackson Harbour Rag0.73 1.60 40.0 Cork Harbour 16-Jun Stephen O’Neill Maddies0.72 1.59 42.0 Rosscarbery 04-Jul Nicholas McEvoy Maddies0.71 1.56 39.0 Rosscarbery 25-Jul Jerry O'Connnor Maddies0.71 1.56 40.5 Rosscarbery 01-Sep Sidney Kennedy Ragworm0.70 1.54 41.0 Rosscarbery 03-Jul Francis McNeilly Maddies0.68 1.50 41.5 Clonakilty Bay 02-Jun Patrick Lombard Ragworm0.68 1.50 40.0 Cork Harbour 25-Jun Dave Jolly Maddies

Golden Grey Mullet for Sarah Lynch


32

THICK LIPPED MULLETRecord 9.1 lbs (4.128 kg); Specimen Weight 2.268 kg (5 lbs)

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


3.18 7.00 64.0 Cork Harbour 27-Jul Maurice Cott Bread

3.12 6.87 60.0 Rosscarbery 18-May Ian Mulligan Bread Flake

3.08 6.80 60.0 Cork Harbour 04-Aug Maurice Cott Bread

3.06 6.75 57.0 Cork Harbour 18-Jul Joseph Marsella Bread

3.02 6.65 63.0 Rosscarbery 16-Aug Craig Newsome Bread

Thick Lipped Mullet for Maurice Cott

Izaak Bradley with 2.31 kg Thick Lipped Mullet


33

THICK LIPPED MULLET CONTINUED...

2.38 kg Thick Lipped Mullet for Craig Newsome

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


3.01 6.62 64.0 Rosscarbery 01-Sep Amy O'Brien (J) Bread

2.95 6.50 56.0 Rosscarbery 18-May Ian Mulligan Bread Flake

2.81 6.20 65.0 Vartry Estuary 27-May Des Chew Bread Flake

2.81 6.19 63.0 Rosscarbery 02-Sep Sidney Kennedy Bread

2.78 6.12 54.0 Rosscarbery 21-Jun Ian Mulligan Bread Flake

2.78 6.12 55.0 Rosscarbery 27-Sep Stephen Hurley Bread Flake

2.77 6.11 57.0 Strangford Lough 25-Sep Duncan Cole Bread

2.75 6.06 57.0 Strangford Lough 24-Sep Duncan Cole Bread

2.75 6.06 58.0 Clonakilty 10-Apr Jason Convery Bread

2.72 6.00 59.5 Rosscarbery 24-Jul Terry Jackson Bread Flake

2.66 5.87 59.0 Rosscarbery 06-Apr Patrick Lombard Bread


34

THICK LIPPED MULLET CONTINUED...

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


2.58 5.69 58.0 Rosscarbery 06-Apr Patrick Lombard Bread


2.49 5.50 52.0 Union Hall 28-May Stephen Hurley Bread Flake


2.45 5.41 58.0 Rosscarbery 31-Mar Patrick Lombard Bread

2.44 5.37 55.0 Rosscarbery 12-Sep Robert Reid Bread Flake

2.41 5.31 54.0 Rosscarbery 30-Sep Ciaran Ennis Bread Flake

2.39 5.27 56.0 Rosscarbery 16-Aug Peter McCartin Bread

2.38 5.25 59.5 Rosscarbery 05-Apr Izaak Bradley Bread Flake


2.38 5.25 55.0 Rosscarbery 04-Sep Amy O'Brien (J) Bread


2.38 5.24 59.0 Rosscarbery 16-Aug Craig Newsome Bread

2.34 5.15 62.0 Cork Harbour 22-Aug Ray Donnelly Bread

2.32 5.12 59.0 Rosscarbery 07-Aug Amy O'Brien (J) Bread

2.31 5.10 55.0 Rosscarbery 20-Apr Izaak Bradley Bread Flake

2.31 5.10 56.0 Vartry Estuary 25-Sep Des Chew Bread Flake

2.31 5.09 55.5 Arklow 18-Jun Craig Murphy Bread

2.28 5.03 57.0 Rosscarbery 24-Jun Duncan Cole Bread

2.27 5.00 52.0 Rosscarbery 29-Sep Brian Lowth Bread Flake

2.27 5.00 55.0 Vartry Estuary 18-Oct Des Chew Bread Flake

2.27 5.00 58.0 Cork Harbour 09-Jul Maurice Cott Bread


35

Duncan Cole Amy O’Brien with her 2.32 kg Thick Lipped Mullet

Terry Jackson admires his Thick Lipped Mullet


36

POLLACKRecord 19 lbs 3 ozs (8.703 kg); Specimen Weight 5.443 kg (12 lbs)

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


6.95 15.31 94.0 Union Hall 03-Jun Evan McGovern Baited Pirk

5.67 12.50 83.0 Ballycastle 24-Sep Brian Foster Jelly Eel

5.50 12.13 81.0 Killybegs 30-Nov-16 Richard Kennedy Baited Muppets

Evan McGovern with the largest Pollack of 2017

POUTINGRecord 4 lbs 13.5 ozs (2.2 kg); Specimen Weight 1.361 kg (3 lbs)

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


1.47 3.25 44.0 Union Hall 27-Sep Colin McCrindle (UK) Mackerel

1.36 3.00 39.0 Union Hall 27-Sep Don McGregor (UK) Mackerel baited feathers


37

PAINTED RAYRecord 17.21 lbs (7.806 kg); Specimen Weight 4.536 kg (10 lbs)

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


5.22 11.50 84.0 Cork Harbour 19-Sep Maurice Cott Sandeel

A Sting Ray for Deirdre Murphy O’Sullivan from Tralee Bay in April

STING RAYRecord 33.2 kg (73.19 lbs); Specimen Weight 13 kg (28.66 lbs)

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


13.95 30.75 110.5 Tralee Bay 29-Apr Deirdre Murphy O'Sullivan Crab

13.10 28.88 91.0 Tralee Bay 29-Apr Philip O'Sullivan Crab


38

THREE BEARDED ROCKLINGRecord 3 lbs 1 ozs (1.389 kg); Specimen Weight 0.794 kg (1.75 lbs)

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


0.82 1.81 41.0 Dunmore East 29-May Tony Tait Mackerel

0.80 1.76 45.0 Kilmore Quay 14-Sep Richard Stead (UK) Fish bait

Three Bearded Rockling for Tony Tait

SCADRecord 0.894 kg (1.97 lbs); Specimen Weight 0.68 kg (1.5 lbs)

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


0.73 1.62 44.0 Ling Rocks, Kinsale 29-Nov-16 Martyn Rayner Sabiki Hooks


39

COMMON SKATERecord 221 lbs (100.24 kg); Specimen Weight - kg (- lbs)


WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


L-BS – 217.0 Downings 09-Jun-16 Menno Dubbeld (NL) Mackerel Flapper

L-BS – 209.0 Union Hall 23-Apr Mike Sherwood Mackerel

L-BS – 208.0 Union Hall 23-Apr Ben Horgan Mackerel

L-BS – 208.0 Union Hall 03-Jul Robin van der Meer (NL) Mackerel

L-BS – 207.0 Union Hall 26-May Alan McEvoy Mackerel & Launce Cocktail

L-BS – 206.0 Union Hall 05-Nov Tomasz Kujawa Coalfish

L-BS – 204.0 Union Hall 05-Nov Mike Sherwood Herring & Coalfish

L-BS – 204.0 Union Hall 14-Aug Simon Watson (UK) Mackerel Flapper

Ab Kouwenhoven measures his 183 cm Skate Berry Kist with his 184 cm Skate


40

COMMON SKATE CONTINUED...

Nicholas Wise - specimen Skate Simon Watson - Skate

Michael Collins with a Union Hall Skate


41

COMMON SKATE CONTINUED...

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)


L-BS – 203.0 Downings 09-Jun-16 Piet Van Dorp (NL) Mackerel Flapper

L-BS – 203.0 Islandmagee 12-Jul Peter Ross Coalfish

L-BS – 201.0* Union Hall 19-Jun Stephen O'Donovan Mackerel & Launce Cocktail

L-BS – 200.0* Islandmagee 18-Jun David Craig Mackerel

L-BS – 200.0 Union Hall 03-Jul Robin van der Meer (NL) Mackerel

L-BS – 198.0 Union Hall 04-JulRobin van der Meer (NL)

Mackerel baited feathers

L-BS – 197.0 Union Hall 22-Apr Jim Clohessy Mackerel

L-BS – 197.0 Courtmacsherry 10-Aug Nicholas Wise (UK) Mackerel Head

L-BS – 193.0 Islandmagee 24-Sep David Craig Mackerel

L-BS – 193.0 Union Hall 06-Jul Stephen Hurley Mackerel

L-BS – 189.0 Islandmagee 21-Sep Peter Ross Coalfish

L-BS – 189.0 Union Hall 20-Jun Michael Collins Coalfish

L-BS – 188.5 Union Hall 08-Jul Stephen Hurley Mackerel

L-BS – 187.0 Islandmagee 05-Mar Mark Todd Mackerel

L-BS – 187.0 Union Hall 20-Jun Adam Smyth Coalfish & Launce Cocktail

L-BS – 184.0 Union Hall 03-Jul Berry Kist (NL) Mackerel Flapper

L-BS – 183.0 Union Hall 09-Jul Ab Kouwenhoven (NL) Mackerel Flapper

L-BS – 182.0 Union Hall 01-Jul Ton van Schaik (NL) Mackerel

L-BS – 181.0 Islandmagee 05-Mar Peter Ross Coalfish

* tail foreshortened; total length estimated from wingspan


42

SMOOTH-HOUNDRecord 11.27 kg (24.85 lbs); Specimen Weight 3.5 kg (7.72 lbs)Length-based specimen (L-BS) threshold 100 cm Total Length

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


8.28 18.25 120.0 Wicklow 09-Jun Michael McCarthy Crab

7.80 17.20 93.0 Wicklow 08-Jul Craig Murphy Crab

6.33 13.95 120.0 Courtown 07-Aug Patrick Fagan Crab

5.90 13.00 112.0 Wicklow 16-Jun Robert Reid Peeler Crab

5.44 12.00 111.0 Wicklow 19-Jun Kit Dunne Crab

5.33 11.75 109.0 Wicklow 21-Jun Keith Marsella Peeler Crab

5.13 11.31 113.0 Brittas Bay 5-Jul Paul Bray Squid/Crab

5.20 11.46 – Wicklow 09-Jul Gavin Moran Crab

5.10 11.25 110.0 Wicklow 05-Jul Stan Ryan Crab

4.99 11.00 103.0 Wicklow 13-Jun-16 John Millerick Crab

4.99 11.00 112.0 Wicklow 30-Jul David McCormick Crab

4.88 10.75 103.0 Wicklow 16-Jul John Millerick Crab

Dublin Smooth-hound for Bert McGregor


43

SMOOTH-HOUND CONTINUED...

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


4.76 10.50 96.0 Wicklow 19-Jun John Patrick Chew (J) Crab

4.76 10.50 107.0 Wicklow 05-Jul Stephen Hurley Crab

4.71 10.37 102.0 Wicklow 16-Jun Robert Reid Peeler Crab

4.63 10.20 101.5 Wicklow 08-Jul Craig Murphy Crab

4.54 10.00 96.0 Wicklow 10-Jul Des Chew Crab

4.45 9.80 100.0 Wicklow 08-Jul Darren Clarke Crab

4.45 9.80 102.0 Wicklow 03-Jul Sean McShane Peeler Crab

4.40 9.70 111.0 Courtown 29-Jul James McMahon Crab


4.25 9.37 102.0 Ballyhealy 14-Aug-16 Sean O'Shea Crab

4.20 9.25 100.0 Wicklow 16-Jun Ian Mulligan Peeler Crab

4.17 9.20 100.0 Wicklow 03-Jul Gordon Darker Crab

4.13 9.10 98.0 Wicklow 10-Jul Dan Smith Peeler Crab

4.13 9.10 97.0 Wicklow 08-Jul Laurence Murphy Crab

4.08 9.00 96.5 Wicklow 08-Jul Noel Lane Crab

4.08 9.00 100.0 Wicklow 16-Jul Peter Lynch Crab


4.08 9.00 101.0 Wicklow 08-Jul Steven Tyrrell Crab

4.04 8.90 100.0 Wicklow 19-Jun Kit Dunne Crab

3.97 8.75 97.0 Wicklow 24-Jun Reg Plunkett Peeler Crab

3.97 8.75 97.0 Wicklow 10-Jul Josie Mahon Crab

3.96 8.73 102.0 Ballymoney 24-Jun Ronan Doherty Peeler Crab

3.95 8.71 102.0 Wicklow 08-Jul Robert McClean Crab

3.86 8.50 102.0 Wicklow 28-Jun Jim Walsh Crab

3.86 8.50 95.0 Wicklow 16-Jul Thomas Lynch Crab

3.86 8.50 96.0 Wicklow 05-Jul Evan McGovern Peeler Crab

3.76 8.30 97.0 Wicklow 21-Jun Glenn Greene Peeler Crab

3.76 8.30 105.0 Wicklow 10-Jul Maurice Carolan Crab


44

Darren Clarke with his Wicklow Smooth-hound

John Patrick Chew and 4.76 kg Smooth-hound

John Hughes and 114 cm Smooth-hound

Jim Walsh with Smooth-hound on a wet day in June

Wicklow Smooth-hound for Josie Mahon


45

4.45 kg Smooth-hound for Sean McShane

Keith Marsella with his 5.33 kg Smooth-hound

Smooth-hound for Dan Smith


46

SMOOTH-HOUND CONTINUED...

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


3.74 8.25 97.0 Wicklow 16-Jul Peter Lynch Crab

3.74 8.25 97.0 Wicklow 16-Jun Ian Mulligan Peeler Crab

3.69 8.12 92.0 Wicklow 16-Jun Nicholas McEvoy Peeler Crab

3.67 8.10 97.0 Wicklow 08-Jul Willie Digan Crab

3.63 8.00 97.0 Wicklow 08-Jul Christy Lane Crab

3.58 7.90 – Courtown 15-Aug Gary Blake Crab

3.54 7.81 95.0 Ballyhealy 14-Aug-16 Sean O'Shea Crab

3.54 7.81 97.0 Howth 31-Aug Philip Browne Peeler Crab

3.52 7.75 98.0 Howth 31-Aug Bert McGregor Peeler Crab

3.29 7.25 103.0 Wicklow 12-Jun-16 John Millerick Crab

L-BS – 114.0 Dublin Bay 14-Jul John Hughes Crab

L-BS – 103.0 Wicklow 12-Jun John McLoughlin Crab

L-BS – 103.0 Wicklow 16-Jun Ian Mulligan Peeler Crab

L-BS – 102.0 Passage East 30-May Nicholas McEvoy Crab & Ragworm Cocktail

L-BS – 102.0 Wicklow 10-Jul Maurice Carolan Crab

L-BS – 102.0 Greystones 16-Jul John Hughes Crab

L-BS – 102.0 Wicklow 02-Jun David Farrelly Squid

L-BS – 101.0 Wicklow 22-Jul Mark Fitzgerald Crab

L-BS – 100.5 Greystones 16-Jul Darragh Hughes Peeler Crab

L-BS – 100.4 Howth 01-Sep Bert McGregor Crab

L-BS – 100.1 Howth 26-Aug Bert McGregor Peeler Crab

L-BS – 100.0 Greystones 16-Jul John Hughes Crab


47

STONE BASSERecord 11.72 lbs (5.32 kg); Specimen Weight 3.628 kg (8 lbs)

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


3.91 8.62 61.0 Union Hall 13-Aug Stephen Hurley Mackerel Strip

TOPERecord 66 lbs 8 ozs (30.159 kg); Specimen Weight 18.144 kg (40 lbs)


WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


25.40 56.00 166.0 Greystones 08-Oct Stephen Hanway Mackerel

23.59 52.00 155.5 Greystones 10-Aug Stephen Hanway Mackerel

21.77 48.00 164.5 Wicklow 06-Jul Stephen Buckley Mackerel

21.32 47.00 152.0 Wicklow 05-Jul Evan McGovern Mackerel

21.09 46.50 160.0 Greystones 05-Aug Peter Bolger Mackerel

21.01 46.31 159.0 Howth 04-Aug Bert McGregor Mackerel

20.87 46.00 155.0 Wicklow 03-Nov Karl Roche Mackerel

20.53 45.25 159.7 Howth 01-Sep Bert McGregor Mackerel Flapper

19.96 44.00 – Wicklow 01-Jul Frank Kool (NL) Mackerel

19.73 43.50 161.0 Greystones 16-Jul Rob McClean Mackerel

19.50 43.00 162.0 Wicklow 30-Jul Anne Hooijenga (NL) Mackerel

18.82 41.50 156.0 Wicklow 16-Jul Ian Mulligan Mackerel

18.60 41.00 – Wicklow 16-Jul Gavin Moran Mackerel

18.60 41.00 157.0 Wicklow 15-Jul Declan Byrne Mackerel

18.51 40.80 152.0 Wicklow 17-Jul Jimmy O'Connor Mackerel

18.28 40.30 148.0 Wicklow 17-Jul Anthony Greene Mackerel


48

TOPE CONTINUED...

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


18.14 40.00 163.0 Wicklow 06-Jul Stephen Buckley Mackerel

L-BS – 169.0 Islandmagee 17-Jul Mark Todd Mackerel

L-BS – 164.0 Greystones 30-Jun Pat Kirwan Mackerel

L-BS – 161.0 Howth 27-Aug Ronan Doherty Mackerel Flapper

L-BS – 161.0 Greystones 01-Jul Pat Kirwan Mackerel

L-BS – 160.0 Dun Laoghaire 04-Sep Hannah Thomas Mackerel Fillets

20.87 kg Tope for Karl Roche

Gavin Moran with Wicklow

18.6 kg Topein July


49

WHITINGRecord 4 lbs 14.5 oz (2.225 kg); Specimen Weight 1.361 kg (3 lbs)

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


1.70 3.75 59.0 Union Hall 14-Jul Piet Verkade (NL) Mackerel baited feathers

1.59 3.50 – Union Hall 17-Jul Micheál Hennessy Mackerel

1.59 3.50 52.0 Union Hall 08-Oct Mike Sherwood Mackerel baited feathers

1.59 3.50 58.0 Union Hall 15-Sep Stephen Hurley Mackerel

1.45 3.19 53.0 Union Hall 25-Oct Dan Lynch Mackerel

1.36 3.00 55.0 Union Hall 17-Jul Conor Hennessy Mackerel

Rob McClean – 161 cm Tope from Greystones


50

BALLAN WRASSERecord 4.3 kg (9.47 lbs); Specimen Weight 2.154 kg (4.75 lbs)

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


2.33 5.13 49.0 Bridges of Ross 17-Sep Bill Ryan Crab

2.32 5.12 50.0 Slea Head 29-Oct Evan McGovern Ragworm

2.30 5.07 52.5 Kilmore Quay 11-Sep William Walker (UK) Fish bait

2.23 4.92 50.0 Beara Peninsula 22-Aug Francis McNeilly Crab

2.22 4.90 47.0 Slea Head 18-Oct Izaak Bradley Crab

2.19 4.82 48.0 Bridges of Ross 16-Sep Bill Ryan Crab

2.18 4.81 48.5 Dingle 26-Sep Craig Murphy Crab

Evan McGovern and his Ballan Wrasse from Slea Head

Slea Head produced Izaak Bradley’s Ballan Wrasse


51

Kerry scored for Ballan Wrasse for Craig Murphy

Heaviest Ballan Wrasse of 2017 for Bill Ryan in Clare


52

CUCKOO WRASSERecord 2 lbs 7 ozs (1.106 kg); Specimen Weight 0.567 kg (1.25 lbs)

WT (KG)

WT (LBS)

L (CM)


0.74 1.62 37.0 Belfast Lough 14-Aug Terry Jackson Mackerel baited feathers


0.67 1.48 33.5 Cork Harbour 12-Jul Philip Barry Mackerel Strip

0.65 1.44 41.0 Ballycastle 27-Aug Brian Foster Ragworm

0.65 1.44 – Kenmare Bay 04-Aug Theo Kuijpers (NL) Shrimp


Cuckoo Wrasse for Brian Foster


53

Special Notices for 2018CLOSING DATE FOR SPECIMEN CLAIMS Fully completed claims must be submitted by 31st October each year. A charge of €10 will apply for each claim (Shad and Cyprinids) submitted for genetic analysis from 2018.

SPECIMEN WEIGHT & LENGTH REVISIONS All listed species were reviewed in 2017 - details of changes for 2018 in table below. Weight or length based specimen options are available for several additional species from 2018 onwards. Further review will occur in 2018 when more data are available. FL refers to Fork Length; TL refers to Total Length (see Page 55)

Species Current Threshold Revised StatusCarp 5.443 kg 5.9 kg IncreasedPike (Lake) - 115 cm FL Length based specimen option Pike (River) - 100 cm FL Length based specimen option Rudd 0.9 kg 0.8 kg ReducedBrown Trout (Lake) - 75 cm FL Length based specimen optionBrown Trout (River) - 57 cm FL Length based specimen optionAngler fish 10 kg 8 kg ReducedBass - 75 cm TL Length based specimen optionBlack bream 0.9 kg 0.794 kg ReducedBlack sole 0.7 kg 0.6 kg ReducedBrill 1.75 kg 1.6 kg ReducedCod 9.072 kg 8 kg ReducedSpurdog - - Review in 2018Flounder - 45 cm TL Length based specimen optionTub Gurnard 2.268 kg 2 kg ReducedHaddock 3 kg 2.5 kg ReducedHake 3 kg 2.5 kg ReducedPlaice 1.4 kg 1.2 kg ReducedRay - Blonde - 110 cm TL Length based specimen optionRay - Undulate - 85 cm TL Length based specimen option onlyShark - Blue 190 cm FL 185 cm FL Length based specimen optionSmoothound 3.5 kg 3.75 kg IncreasedSkate species - - Photographs of total length AND measuring

mat required for each fishTurbot 6 kg 5 kg Reduced

GEOGRAPHICAL LIMIT FOR CLAIMSThe geographical limit for claiming marine specimen fish is defined as the marine waters bound by the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland sectors of the European Economic Zone (EEZ), and on the north east coast by the midpoint between NI and the remainder of the United Kingdom landmass.


54

WEIGHT BASED SPECIMENS All fish must be weighed on scales which are verified for accuracy. ALL elasmobranch (Dogfish, Sharks, Skates and Rays) claims (weight or length based) require submission of a photograph showing the whole fish, measured on a measuring mat (with an end stop) or equivalent, with its length clearly discernible. Photographs of whole fish on a measure is likely to be a requirement for all claims in the future.

Weighing instruments and certification: Retail outlet scales are checked regularly by officers of the Legal Metrology Service (National Standards Authority of Ireland) or their equivalent and are acceptable for weighing specimen and record fish. Club or personalised (i.e. scales not normally certified by the Weights and Measures Authority for trade purposes) can be certified for accuracy. Such scales, if certified by a reputable agency/company, are acceptable to the Committee. Certification will be valid for one year from the date of issue of the certificate of accuracy. The manufacturer’s certificate of accuracy will not suffice. Weights from scales which are not certified at the time of weighing or certified in retrospect will not be accepted. Claims cannot be accepted in the case of fish which have been weighed on board a boat, UNLESS WEIGHED ON A CERTIFIED MOTION-COMPENSATED BALANCE.

The National Metrology Laboratory (NML) has provided a service to calibrate mechanical and digital fish scales (personal/club) based on EN 45501, from 0 – 100kg. The NML is responsible for establishing, maintaining and developing the national measurement standards for physical quantities and their dissemination to Irish users. NML operates as a division of NSAI (The National Standards Authority of Ireland).

Contact details: NSAI National Metrology Laboratory (Rory Hanrahan) Griffith Avenue Extension Glasnevin Dublin 9 Tel: 01 8082609 http://www.nsai.ie/Our-Services/Measurement/Calibration-Services/Fish-Scale-Calibration.aspx

Weighing scales and minimum weight: Scales must be appropriate to the size of fish being weighed. The minimum weight permitted is 10 times the scale interval (or weighing division) to ensure that fish are weighed on appropriate scales. This means that for scales with a 50g interval (or scale division) fish being weighed have to exceed 500g (1 lb 2 ozs) in weight. For a 2 oz interval a minimum weight of 20 ozs applies.

LENGTH-BASED SPECIMENSFish must be measured on a recognised measuring device with an end stop and suitable graduations.

Length-based claim procedure: Claims must be made on the existing claim form and angler to specify that length only is being measured. Eligible species for length based specimens are Pike (Lake & River), Brown Trout (Lake & River), Sea Trout, Angel Shark (Squatina squatina) (Monkfish), Bass, Flounder, Blue Shark, Common Skate (Dipturis batis complex), Greater Spotted Dogfish (Bullhuss), Porbeagle Shark (Lamna nasus), Smooth-Hound, Spur Dogfish, Tope, Blonde Ray, Undulate Ray (Raja undulata) and White Skate (Rostroraja alba).

The following evidence must accompany each length-based specimen claim:

(a) Photograph(s) showing fish placed belly down on properly extended measuring device with snout against perpendicular bar or plate with the actual recorded length (cm) visible. The snout tip will index


55

the 0 cm measurement accurately. Dorsal caudal lobe to be depressed into line with its body axis and total length measured as a point to point distance (not over the curve of the body) from the snout tip to the tip of the dorsal caudal lobe.

(b) Sex of the fish. Males can be identified by their claspers (modified pelvic fins) which are thin elongated paired fins situated behind the pelvic fins. Females do not have claspers but have an opening between the pelvic fins.

Suitable devices (measuring mats) are available from IFI, IGFA or tackle manufacturers.

Threshold values for all length based specimens (and wingspan measurements for ray and skate) are shown. Wingspan to be measured by placing fish on measuring mat. All to be measured as Total Length , EXCEPT freshwater species, and Blue and Porbeagle Shark.

Angel Shark, Common Skate, Porbeagle Shark, Undulate Ray and White Skate have been re-listed as length-based specimens only. The primary reasons for their re-listing are to (a) collect data on their distribution and status which is scientifically valuable and (2) to provide additional species for anglers to target as specimens. In re-listing these species, which have an exceptionally high conservation value, the ISFC requires that anglers handle them with the utmost care and that best practise is adopted for lifting and returning to the water. Fish slings or similar are recommended. Detail on exact capture locations (Latitude/Longitude) would contribute further to refining species distribution information but will not be published by ISFC.

NEW RECORD CLAIMSRecords will be weight based only.

Photographic evidence for new records: A series of clear photographs must accompany all record fish claims, except in the few cases where a body (or presentation of the fish) is required for species identification. Photographs must show the whole fish lying on a flat surface and include a measure of scale (measurement mat, ruler). Preferably it should be photographed on a measuring mat or similar. Supplementary photographs showing the fish being weighed and the recorded weight would assist in further claim substantiation.

FISH SPECIES IDENTIFICATIONGenetic fingerprinting of certain cyprinids and Shad species: To support claims for Roach, Rudd and their hybrids, or any Shad species claim, anglers must submit 3 scales from a fish in a dry envelope (not in a plastic bag or tin foil) and good quality colour photographs. The entire fish on its side with, the dorsal and anal fins fully splayed, and close up photographs of the head (side on) are required for each fish claimed (full detail in table on the next page).


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Only three claims may be submitted for any combination of Shad (i.e. Shad or suspected Shad Hybrids). No hybrids have been identified since 2011.

As genetic analysis of scales requires considerable time to process samples, anglers are requested to submit scale samples before 15th October.

Sample requirements for genetic analysis of selected cyprinids and shads for species/hybrid determination

Species Sample required Storage Additional information

Roach, Rudd and their hybrids

3 scales In an envelope with fish details and date

Good quality photographs required

Shad species 3 scales In an envelope with fish details and date

Ensure fish is retained in water as much as is feasible when taking scale sample

Notes: As all fish can be returned alive please handle carefully. Allow envelope to dry out to preserve the sample. Do not store scales or tissue in plastic as sample will degrade.

Guidance for anglers taking photographs for fish identification purposes: Photographs are acceptable for claim verification if they provide conclusive evidence of the identification of a fish species (Rule 4). A list of some external identification features for particular species identification are presented below.

Photographs, which should be taken as soon as possible after the fish is captured, must be in focus, clear and in colour, printed on good quality paper and show the relevant identification features. Photographs should include the name of the angler and date of capture. Close up photographs are required for many features and these photographs should fill the entire frame.

Digital images submitted by DVD, CD or email must be tagged with angler name, fish species, weight, length and date of capture.


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Species Features to photograph

(a) the whole body (lateral view) must be photographed for all species AND

(b) the specific features detailed below

All cyprinids (Dace, Roach, Roach/Bream, Roach/Rudd, Rudd, Rudd/Bream)

Whole body; body with fins extended and close ups of: (a) mouth - closed(b) dorsal fin(c) full lateral line(d) anal finThree scales to be taken

Angler Fish Whole body; head area showing head appendages uprightBrill Whole body; close up of skinCuckoo Wrasse Whole body; lateral view, close up of headDab Whole body; close up of skin and lateral lineFlounder Whole body; close up of lateral line scales close to headGolden Grey MulletThin-Lipped Mullet

Whole body and close ups of:(a) head including pectoral fin (lying flat)(b) mouth showing upper lip(c) underside of head

Grey Gurnard Whole body; close up of lateral line and headThick Lipped Mullet Whole body; close up of head showing upper lip (head-on), underside of

head to back of gillsHerring Whole body; keel of fishLesser Spotted Dogfish Whole body; underside of headMackerel Whole body; close up of stripes on backMegrim Whole body; headRay’s Bream Whole body; close up of headAll Gurnards Whole body; detail of lateral line, head with pectoral fin fully expandedRed Mullet Whole body; close up of headScad Whole body; close up of entire lateral lineShad - Allis, Twaite & Hybrid

Whole body; three scales to be taken

Smooth-hound Whole body and close ups of:(a) tail fin(b) underside of head showing mouth(c) back in region of dorsal fin

Three Bearded Rockling Whole body; close up of head and lower jaw area, and close up of area in front of dorsal fin

Torsk Whole body; close up of skin and dorsal and tail fin area

Additional details of important features are detailed in IFI’s Fish Identification Guide http://www.fisheriesireland.ie/Angling/angling-publications.html


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Examples of close-up images required for cyprinid identification. Photograph of fish on measuring mat (or similar) which show

general shape, position of fins and other features also required.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS Place of capture: For freshwater species all claims must include the name of the water in which the fish was caught (e.g. Monalty Lake) and in the case of the larger systems, the area (e.g. River Shannon – Rooskey). For marine species taken by boat angling the port of origin and the place of capture (examples: Burford Bank, 5 km West of Stags Head or Smiths) should be stated.

Metrification: Claims will be accepted under the metric and imperial systems unless legislation dictates otherwise. Since 2006, fish weights have been presented in kilogrammes in the Annual Report. Many anglers continue to use imperial measurements for fish and in 2010 ISFC decided to report in both metric (SI) and imperial metric systems.

Length measurements on claim form: A length measurement provides informative data about the species being claimed and additional verification information, and is requested for all species. Considerable length variation is evident for many species due to natural variability (time of year, sex, location, feeding etc) but it is likely that fish length measurement techniques are inconsistent also. Measurement mats are recommended to provide standardized measurements of specimen fish.

Closed seasons: Closed seasons apply to several species (e.g. bass, brown trout, salmon, etc). Any fish taken in the closed season will not be ratified.


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Maximum number of claims per species: A maximum of three (3) awards will be made to any particular claimant for any single species in any one year. If an angler achieves this target and subsequently captures a larger fish within the year, this fish can be claimed but the final number of awards for any species in a single year will not be more than three.

Exclusion from specimen status (stocked fish): Where species of fish are introduced to a fishery at or above the specimen weight, those species from that particular fishery will not be considered for specimen or record status. Escapees from fish farms in either freshwater or marine are also excluded.

ADMINISTRATION Captors Addresses: Because of difficulties in establishing eligibility for the 20 Species, 10 Species, 50 Specimen and 10 Specimen Awards, anglers are requested to inform the Committee of any changes in their address.

ESTABLISHING A NEW SPECIMEN FISH CATEGORYAn important function of the ISFC is to act as a focal point for data collection on the occurrence of notable, rare or unusual species taken on rod and line in Irish waters. In some instances this has led to species previously regarded as “unusual” being added to the list of eligible species. Examples from recent years include smooth-hound (Mustelas asterias) and three bearded rockling (Gaidropsarus vulgaris), (from 1983), garfish (Belone svetovidovi) (from 1986), torsk (Brosme brosme) (from 1988), trigger fish (Balistes carolinensis) (from 1992), bluemouth (Helicolenus dactylopterus) (from 2002), albacore tuna (Thunnus alalunga) (from 2002), golden grey mullet (Liza aurata (Risso)) (from 2005), gilthead bream (Sparus aurata L.) (from 2007), blackmouthed dogfish (Galeus melastomus) (from 2008), Black Bream (Spondyliosoma cantharus) (from 2009), and thin lipped mullet (Liza ramada) from 2011.

To begin the process of attempting to establish a new specimen fish category, anglers are requested to submit a completed claim form for each fish captured. This is to establish a database for the species and enable further investigation and comparison of future claims. Claims for 10 fish of that species must be submitted for it to be considered for possible inclusion on the listings. The specimen weight will be set from this dataset and other relevant data. The record fish will be ratified after 5 fish exceeding specimen weight are ratified.

With some species a body may have to be forwarded for positive identification. Other arrangements would apply for larger fish. The availability of a body will allow the Committee to verify positive identification of the species and the claims will allow monitoring of numbers and weights of the species. This facilitates assessment of the likelihood of capture, the likely specimen weight and the availability and seasonality of the species. It is difficult to legislate for every situation that may arise but the final decision will rest with the Committee and will be based on a balanced review of the information available. While this process is progressing some details of interesting fish captured will be reported in the annual report.

NOTABLE FISHA pink salmon (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha) measuring 51 cm and weighing 1.632 kg was caught by James Quinn on 27/06/2017 on the River Corrib at the Galway Salmon Weir Fishery. This fish is a non-native species and was retained for further biological examination.


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PRESENTATION OF 2016 AWARDSThe late Dick Warner, environmentalist, writer and broadcaster made the Annual Presentation of Specimen Awards at the Clayton Hotel Dublin Airport on 18 February 2017.

In March 2017, Dutch and Belgian anglers were presented with their specimen awards by renowned angling journalist Peter Dohmen, editor of the top Dutch sea angling magazine Zee Hengelsport, and Shane O’Reilly, Inland Fisheries Ireland, at VISMA, Rotterdam.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTSSpecial acknowledgements: Inland Fisheries Ireland continues to provide unstinting administrative support and other services to the ISFC and is sincerely acknowledged. Bridie Fleming, who retired from Inland Fisheries Ireland in 2017, continues to support all claims management activity within the ISFC and is a vital part of the continued success of the Committee. Sincere thanks to Myles Kelly, IFI and ISFC web manager, for his input throughout 2017. AFBINI continues to provide a specimen fish identification service for anglers in the northern part of Ireland and the ISFC is indebted to Dr Steven Beggs and ISFC Chairman, Dr Robert Rosell.

Charter skippers, club members, guesthouse owners, tackle dealers and the many staff from Inland Fisheries Ireland who follow up claims and ensure that the necessary paperwork is attended to are gratefully acknowledged.

Special thanks are due to the extremely cooperative staff of the National Metrology Laboratory NSAI for certification of anglers’ scales. DNA analysis undertaken by Dr. Jens Carlsson and his team at UCD has significantly advanced ISFC fish identification procedures.

Photographs: The majority of photographs in this report are taken by anglers. Anglers, charter skippers, fisheries staff and journalists are acknowledged for their photographs.

Homelyn Ray Total Length

Smooth Hound on IFI measuring mat


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DISTRIBUTION OF SPECIMEN AWARDSNationalities of anglers whose claims were ratified:

Year Irelandthe

NetherlandsUnited

KingdomGermany Belgium France Other TOTAL

(NL) (UK) (D) (B) (F)

1995 295 35 55 18 7 1 n/d 411

1996 307 27 69 6 4 2 n/d 415

1997 449 28 57 9 5 4 n/d 552

1998 344 46 53 6 5 4 n/d 458

1999 310 33 35 3 1 1 1 384

2000 403 41 48 13 1 0 2 508

2001 427 28 37 5 4 3 4 508

2002 471 23 43 7 6 2 7 559

2003 384 63 41 11 13 4 5 521

2004 412 48 38 3 9 4 4 518

2005 432 62 52 10 7 4 1 568

2006 351 44 42 2 10 0 2 449

2007 424 56 28 6 12 2 2 530

2008 429 46 23 1 3 0 0 502

2009 470 39 15 5 0 0 2 531

2010 521 45 26 6 5 1 3 607

2011 519 50 14 0 3 0 1 587

2012 578 40 18 2 1 0 1 640

2013 536 41 11 5 1 0 1 595

2014 476 23 15 1 7 2 2 526

2015 422 12 8 0 4 0 1 447

2016 416 45 10 2 9 0 3 485

2017 346 22 8 – 2 – 4 382

n/d = not determined


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IRISH SPECIMEN FISH COMMITTEE ACCOUNTS

Expenditure and Revenue Accounts - 1st January to 31st December 2016

2015 Expenditure 2016 2015 Revenue 2016

€ € € € €

Balance b/f from 2016

14062.57

5464.39 Printing 3620.67 Grants

1946.59 Awards Medals/Trophies 466.77 IFI 9000

Miscellaneous/Postage 2554.59 Loughs Agency

45 ISFC Meeting Expenses 106.5 200 TAFI 200

216.9 Awards Day Costs 195 8.89 Delphi 8.89

21.16 Bank Charges 26.63 100 ICSA

2000 Genetic Identification 2500

Donations

Angler Donations 635.92

Total 6915.57 9844.81 9844.81

Balance c/d 16991.81

23907.38 23907.38

Balance b/d 16991.81

“The ISFC has prepared a revenue and expenditure account for 12 months ended 31st December 2016 based on the movements in the bank. Upon review of the financial records provided we are satisfied that this income and expenditure account accurately reflects the underlying transactions”

Signed:

M. Martin & H. O’Rorke (Auditors)


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DONATIONSThe ISFC is a voluntary body and all of its activities are funded by grants/donations from diverse sources. All funders are gratefully acknowledged.

Benefactors in 2017 were:

Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI); Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA); Trout Anglers Federation of Ireland; Delphi Fishery Ltd; Peter Bolger, Ferrycarrig Road, Coolock, Dublin 17; Maurice Cott, Aghada, Whitegate, Co. Cork; Noel Darcy, Cloughbroudy Heights, Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny; Donal Domeney, Courtown Drive, Cork City; Patrick Fagan, St. Agnes Road, Crumlin, Dublin 12; Eric Gosnell, Marian Park, Church Road, Blackrock, Cork; Jim Gregg, The Meadow, Antrim, BT41 1EY; Halfway Angling Centre (Dan Lynch), Ballinhassig, Co. Cork; Myles Kelly, IFI, Dublin; Christy Lane, Harrington’s Square, Dillons Cross, Cork City; Noel Lane, Silverheights Avenue, Mayfield, Cork; Patrick Lombard, Dunmore, Clonakilty, Co. Cork; Joseph Marsella, Walkin Street, Kilkenny; Nicholas McEvoy, Francis Crescent, Grange Heights, Waterford City; Bert McGregor, Rivermead Park, St. Margaret’s, Co. Dublin; W. F. McLaughlin, Castle Gardens, Limavady, Co. Londonderry, BT49 0SD; Michael McVeigh, Fisherman’s Village Lodge, Downings, Co. Donegal; Joe Mulholland, Feede Cross, Dundalk, Co. Louth; Karl O’Leary, Meadowlawn, Raheen, Limerick; Donal O’Mahony, Kilmore, Innishannon, Co. Cork; Joey O’Neill; Stephen O’Neill, Ferndale, Carrigaline, Co. Cork; Frank Prendergast, Avoca, Caherciveen, Co. Kerry; Andrew Wolsey, Ballymacormick Road, Dromore, Co. Down, BT25 1QR

Measuring Rudd/Bream Hybrid

Measuring Homelyn Ray disc width


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IRISH RECORD FISH

FRESHWATER SPECIESSpecies Weight Date of Place of Capture Captor

lbs ozs CaptureBream 6.07 kg 24.6.2012 Ballywillan Lough Fishery,

Co. DownBryan Robinson

Carp 14.24 kg 26.10.2014 Loughgall, Armagh Aaron CumminsDace 1 2 8.8.1966 River Blackwater, Cappoquin John T. HenryEel 6 15 12.6.1979 Lough Droumenisa, Bantry J. MurnanePerch 5 8 1946 Lough Erne S. DrumPike (Lake) 42 12 25.9.2005 White Lake Larry KellyPike (River) 42 22.3.1964 River Barrow M. WatkinsRoach 1.425 kg 6.10.2002 Drumacritten Lake Terry JacksonRoach/Bream Hybrid 3.376 kg 3.5.2013 Monalty Lake, Co. Monaghan Jason DingleRoach/Rudd Hybrid 2.1 kg 5.5.2009 River Lagan, Co. Antrim Terry JacksonRudd 4 8 5.9.1996 Coney Lake Hugh GoughRudd/Bream Hybrid 7 10 19.10.1996 Monalty Lake Brendan DoranTench 8.15 20.6.1995 Ballyeighter Lake Nick ParrySalmon 57 1874 River Suir M. MaherBrown Trout (Lake) 26 2 15.7.1894 Lough Ennell Wm. MearsBrown Trout (River) 20 22.2.1957 River Shannon, Corbally Major Hugh PlaceSea Trout 16 6 29.10.1983 Shimna River, Co. Down Thomas McManus

MARINE SPECIESSpecies Weight Date of Place of Capture Captor

lbs ozs CaptureAngler Fish 42.985 kg 3.11.1985 Belfast Lough Sean NeillBass 17 13 21.10.2000 Doughmore Strand Emmet NaughtonBlack Bream – – – –Black Sole 6.32 28.12.1986 Ballycotton Eddie CullBluemouth 1.32 kg 28.7.2008 Caherciveen Sue TaitBrill 9 8 8.9.1984 Causeway Coast Deborah GreggCoalfish 15.1 kg 30.8.2003 Castletownshend Roger Barham (UK)Cod 42 1921 Ballycotton I.L. StewartConger Eel 72 June, 1914 Valentia J. GreenDab 2 5.5 2.10.2002 Cork Harbour Mick Duff (UK)Blackmouthed Dogfish 1.33 kg 10.8.2011 Red Bay, Co. Antrim Jan Vrieswijk (NL)Spur Dogfish 11.06 kg 3.6.2013 Red Bay, Co. Antrim Tom WalshGreater Spotted Dogfish 23 13 17.09.2003 Kenmare Bay Perry Dumay (NL)Lesser Spotted Dogfish 4 4 26.7.1982 Valentia Cor Heinis (NL)Flounder 4.91 2.10.1993 Ballyteigue Brian RussellGarfish (B. belone) 1.729 kg 28.5.2007 Cork Harbour Stephen O’NeillGarfish (B. svetovidovi) 1.11 5.8.1994 Courtmacsherry Eric Leijten (NL)Gilthead Bream 3.505 kg 17.8.2013 Dingle, Co. Kerry Jeremy Coleman (UK)


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MARINE SPECIES (Contd.)

Species Weight Date of Place of Capture Captorlbs ozs Capture

Tub Gurnard 12 3.5 8.8.1973 Bullsmouth, Achill Robert SeamanGrey Gurnard 3 1 21.9.1967 Rosslare Bay Brendan WalshRed Gurnard 3 9.5 17.7.1968 Belmullet James PrescottHaddock 5.39 kg 21.2.2010 Union Hall Tony SantryHake 25 5.5 28.4.1962 Belfast Lough H. W. SteeleHalibut 156 23.7.1972 Belmullet Frank BroganHerring 0.48 kg 17.9.2011 Red Bay, Co. Antrim Hamish CurrieJohn Dory 7 8 12.8.1984 Killala Bay Cleona WalkinLing 55 3.1.2004 Cork Harbour Ailbhe O’SullivanMackerel 4 2 18.9.1979 Ballycotton Ulrich Plassmann (D)Megrim 1.85 kg 26.7.1987 Killala Paul HenniganAngel Shark (Monkfish) 73 1.6.1980 Fenit, Co. Kerry James BoydGrey Mullet 9.10 26.9.1993 Cork Harbour Cay Heerwagen (D)Golden Grey Mullet 1.29 kg 4.7.2017 Rosscarbery Ian MulliganThin Lipped Mullet 2.86 kg 23.8.2014 Clonakilty, Cork Ian MulliganRed Mullet 0.82 kg 20.9.2010 Kilmore Quay Sue TaitPlaice 8.23 23.1.1982 Ballycotton Pier Edmund CullPollack 19 3 1904 Ballycotton J. N. HearnePouting 4 13.5 2.4.1983 Kilmore Quay John DevereauxThornback Ray 37 28.5.1961 Ling Rocks, Kinsale M. J. FitzgeraldBlonde Ray 37 10.10.2005 Cobh Paul TennantSting Ray 33.2 kg 19.5.1999 Tralee Bay Michael WallCuckoo Ray 5 11 3. 8.1975 Causeway Coast V. MorrisonUndulate Ray 18 11.6.1977 Fenit Ann-Mari Liedecke (DK)Homelyn Ray 8.28 28.9.1983 Cork Harbour Edmund CullPainted Ray 17.21 29.8.1994 Garryvoe, Co. Cork Edmund CullElectric Ray 40 kg 24.8.2002 Achill Shay BoylanRay’s Bream 6 4.25 26.8.1978 Valentia Martin Sarney (UK)Red Sea Bream 9 6 24.8.1963 Valentia P. MaguireTwaite Shad 1.64 kg 15.5.2015 St. Mullins Thomas LynchPorbeagle Shark 365 1932 Keem Bay, Achill Dr. O’Donel BrownBlue Shark 206 7.10.59 Achill Head J. McMonagleSix Gilled Shark 480 kg 16.6.09 Carrigaholt Joe WaldisCommon Skate 221 1913 Ballycotton T. TuckerWhite Skate 165 7.8.1966 Clew Bay Jack StackScad 1.97 6.9.1986 Clonakilty Master R. McCarthySmooth-Hound 11.27 kg 10.6.2016 South Wexford Dean QuigleyStone Basse 11.72 14.7.2005 Baltimore Tony Rainer (UK)Three Bearded Rockling 3 1 1.5.1990 Arklow Maurice LaurentTope 66 8 15.7.1979 Carlingford Lough Cyril YoungTorsk 4.858 kg 26.6.2006 Rosguill Jan de Bakker (NL)Trigger Fish 2.54 kg 7.9.2006 Slea Head Bob MossTurbot 34 9.6.1982 Cork Harbour Frank FlemingTuna – Albacore 29.96 kg 5.9.2007 Caherciveen Henry McAuley – Bluefin 440 kg 5.10.2001 Donegal Bay Adrian MolloyWhiting 4 14.5 19.3.1981 Kenmare Bay Comdt. M. J. O’ConnorBallan Wrasse 4.3 kg 20.8.1983 Clogher Head Bertrand Kron (F)Cuckoo Wrasse 2 7 15.9.1998 Causeway Coast Brian McLoughlin


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SCHEDULE OF SPECIMEN WEIGHTS AND LENGTHS (revisions for 2018 in bold)

IRISH RECORD WEIGHT

SPECIMEN WEIGHT LENGTH BASED

SPECIMEN

SPECIES IDENTIFICATION REQUIREMENTSlbs ozs kg lbs

FRESHWATER FISH

Bream (Abramis brama) 6.07 kg 3.402 7.5 –

Carp (Cyprinus carpio) 14.24 kg 5.9 13 –

Dace (Leuciscus leucisus) 1 2 0.3 0.66 Scales & photos

Eel (Anguilla anguilla) 6 15 suspended from ISFC listing

Perch (Perca fluviatilis) 5 8 1.2 2.646 –

Pike (Esox lucius) (Lake) 42 12 13.608 30 ≥115cm Fork Length –

Pike (Esox lucius) (River) 42 9.072 20 ≥100cm Fork Length –

Roach (Rutilus rutilus) 1.425 kg 0.907 2 Scales* & photos

Roach/Bream Hybrid 3.376 kg 1.6 3.528 Scales* & photos

Roach/Rudd Hybrid 2.1 kg 0.9 1.98 Scales* & photos

Rudd (Scardinius erythrophthalmus) 4 8 0.8 1.76 Scales* & photos

Rudd/Bream Hybrid 7 10 1.2 2.64 Scales* & photos

Tench (Tinca tinca) 8.15 2.722 6 –

Salmon (Salmo salar) 57 9.072 20 Scales

Brown Trout (Salmo trutta) (Lake) 26 2 4.536 10 ≥75cm Fork Length Scales

Brown Trout (Salmo trutta) (River) 20 2.268 5 ≥57cm Fork Length Scales

Sea Trout (Salmo trutta) 16 6 2.722 6 ≥64cm Fork Length Scales

Slob Trout (Salmo trutta) – 4.536 10 Scales

* for genetic profilin

SEA FISH

Angel Shark (aka Monkfish) (Squatina squatina)

73 No Specimen Weight ≥125cm Total Length Photo on measuring mat

Angler Fish (Lophius piscatorius) 42.985 kg 8.0 17.64 Body*

Bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) 17 13 4.536 10 ≥75cm Total Length –

Black Sole (Solea solea) 6.32 0.6 1.32 –

Black Bream (Spondyliosoma cantharus)

– 0.79 1.75 Body*

Bluemouth (Helicolenus dactylopterus)

1.32 kg 0.9 1.98 Photo

Brill (Scophthalmus rhombus) 9 8 1.6 3.53 Body*

Coalfish (Pollachius virens) 15.1 kg 6.804 15 Photo

Cod (Gadus morhua) 42 8.0 17.64 –

Conger eel (Conger conger) 72 18.144 40 –

Dab (Limanda limanda) 2 5.5 0.6 1.32 Body*


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IRISH RECORD WEIGHT


SPECIMEN


Dogfish – Blackmouthed (Galeus melastomus)

1.33 kg 1.0 2.205 Photo on measuring mat

Dogfish – Lesser Spotted (Scyliorhinus caniculus)

4 4 1.474 3.25 Photo on measuring mat

Dogfish – Greater Spotted (Scyliorhinus stellaris)

23 13 7.257 16 ≥125cm Total Length Photo on measuring mat

Dogfish – Spur (Squalus acanthias) 11.06 kg 5.443 12 ≥105cm Total Length Photo on measuring mat

Flounder (Platichthys flesus) 4.91 1.1 2.426 ≥45cm Total Length Body*

Garfish (Belone belone) 1.729 kg 1.0 2.205 Head and gills

Garfish (Belone svetovidovi) 1.11 0.3 0.66 Head and gills

Gilthead bream (Sparus aurata) 3.505 kg 1.4 3.08Photo (whole body, head shot showing mouth & eyes)

Gurnard – Grey (Eutrigla gurnardus)

3 1 0.68 1.5 Body*

Gurnard – Red (Aspitrigla cuculus) 3 9.5 0.907 2 Body*

Gurnard – Tub (Trigla lucerna) 12 3.5 2.0 4.41Photo (pectoral fins must be fully expanded

Haddock (Melanogrammus aeglifinus)

5.39 kg 2.5 5.51 –

Hake (Merluccius merluccius) 25 5.5 2.5 5.51 –

Halibut (Hippoglossus hippoglossus)

156 12.0 26.46 –

Herring (Clupea harengus) 0.48 kg 0.34 0.75 Body*

John Dory (Zeus faber) 7 8 1.814 4 –

Ling (Molva molva) 55 11.34 25 –

Mackerel (Scomber scombrus) 4 2 1.0 2.205 Body*

Megrim (Lepidorhombus whiffiagonis)

1.85 kg 0.794 1.75 Body*

Mullet – Grey, thick lipped (Chelon labrosus)

9.1 2.268 5 Body*

Mullet – Golden Grey (Liza aurata) 1.29 kg 0.68 1.5 Body*

Mullet – Thin Lipped (Liza ramada) 2.86 kg 1.5 3.31 Body*

Mullet – Red (Mullus surmuletus) 0.82 kg 0.4 0.88 Body*

Plaice (Pleuronectes platessa) 8.23 1.2 2.65 –

Pollack (Pollachius pollachius) 19 3 5.443 12 Photo

Pouting (Trisopterus luscus) 4 13.5 1.361 3 –

Ray – Blonde (Raja brachyura) 37 11.34 25 ≥110cm Total Length Photo on measuring mat

Ray – Cuckoo (Raja naevus) 5 11 1.6 3.53 Photo on measuring mat

Ray – Electric (Torpedo nobiliana) 40 kg 9.072 20 Photo on measuring mat


68

IRISH RECORD WEIGHT


SPECIMEN


Ray – Homelyn (Raja montagui) 8.28 2.268 5 Photo on measuring mat

Ray – Painted (Raja microocellata) 17.21 4.536 10 Photo on measuring mat

Ray – Sting (Dasyatis pastinaca) 33.2 kg 13.0 28.66 Photo on measuring mat

Ray – Thornback (Raja clavata) 37 7.0 15.43 Photo on measuring mat

Ray – Undulate (Raja undulata) 18 No Specimen Weight ≥85cm Total Length Photo on measuring mat

Ray’s Bream (Brama brama) 6 4.25 2.0 4.41 Body*

Red Sea Bream (Pagellus bogaraveo)

9 6 1.0 2.205 –

Rockling, Three Bearded (Gaidropsarus vulgaris)

3 1 0.794 1.75 Body*

Scad (Trachurus trachurus) 1.97 0.680 1.5 Body*

Shad – Allis (Alosa alosa) – 1.814 4 Scales

Shad – Twaite (Alosa fallax) 1.64 kg 1.2 2.65 Scales

Shark – Blue (Prionace glauca) 206 45.359 100 ≥185cm Fork Length Photo on measuring mat

Shark – Mako (Isurus oxyrinchus) – 90.718 200 Photo on measuring mat

Shark – Porbeagle (Lamna nasus) 365 No Specimen Weight ≥180cm Fork Length Photo on measuring mat

Shark – Six-Gilled (Hexanchus griseus)

480 kg 45.359 100 Photo on measuring mat

Shark – Thresher (Alopias vulpinus) – 54.431 120 Photo on measuring mat

Skate – Common (Raja batis) 221 No Specimen Weight ≥180cm Total Length Photo on measuring mat

Skate – Long Nosed (Raja oxyrinchus)

– 36.287 80 Photo on measuring mat

Skate – White (Raja alba) 165 No Specimen Weight ≥180cm Total Length Photo on measuring mat

Smooth–Hound (Mustelas asterias) 11.27 kg 3.75 8.27 ≥100cm Total Length Photo on measuring mat

Stone Basse (Polyprion americanus) 11.72 3.628 8 –

Tope (Galeorhinus galeus) 66 8 18.144 40 ≥160cm Total Length Photo on measuring mat

Torsk (Brosme brosme) 4.858 kg 2.5 5.51 Body*

Trigger Fish (Balistes carolinensis) 2.54 kg 1.474 3.25 Photo

Tuna – Albacore (Thunnus alalunga)

29.96 kg 12.0 26.46 Photo

Tuna – Bluefin (Thunnus thynnus) 440 kg suspended from ISFC listing

Turbot (Scophthalmus maximus) 34 5.0 11.02 –

Whiting (Merlangius merlangus) 4 14.5 1.361 3 –

Wrasse Ballan (Labrus bergylta) 4.3 kg 2.154 4.75 Photo

Wrasse Cuckoo (Labrus mixtus) 2 7 0.567 1.25 Photo

N.B. Where species identification states body required, high quality photographs showing relevant identification features (see Rule 4) may suffice.


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IRISH SPECIMEN FISH COMMITTEE RULES PLEASE READ CAREFULLY

(1) IRISH SPECIMEN FISH COMMITTEE: This Committee consists of representatives of the Irish Angling Federations and the Government Departments and official organisations interested in angling. Its objective is to verify, record and publicise the capture of large fish on rod and line in Irish waters. A list of Specimen Fish is published annually by the Committee. Only fish which can be fully vouched for as to weight and species can be accepted and listed by the Committee. Length-based specimens can be claimed for certain species (check listing). Except in exceptional circumstances, claims will remain valid for a period of one year following the year of capture.

(2) FAIR ANGLING: “Fair Angling” means any legitimate method of angling with rod and reel which is recognised as a fair and sporting method. A fish must be hooked in or in the immediate vicinity of the mouth when it has taken the bait or lure; fish which have been foul-hooked, even accidentally, are not eligible. A fish in respect of which a claim is made must be hooked, played and brought to gaff or net by the angler UNAIDED, though the fish may be gaffed or netted by another, and it is permissible for the person using the gaff to take hold of the trace or doubled line (in the case of big game fishing) to steady the fish when it has been played out and brought within reach. If a fixed rod holder is in use while boat fishing, and a fish strikes, the rod must be removed from the holder as quickly as possible. This is to ensure that the angler hooks and plays the fish with rod in hand. Where a fighting chair is employed, it must not have any mechanically driven device which aids the angler in playing a fish. Body harnesses (which attach the rod to the body) are permissible but must not be fixed to the chair. Gimbals must be free swinging including those which move in the vertical plane. Gimbals which permit the angler to rest or reduce strain while playing a fish are prohibited. Breakage of rod, reel or line, or alteration or substitution of tackle, while a fish is being played, disqualify it for claim or record purposes. A fish may not be shot, lanced, clubbed or harpooned before landing. Claims for fish caught during the statutory close season for the species (where this applies) cannot be accepted.

(3) WEIGHING: Fish must be weighed in the presence of independent, reliable witnesses on a properly certified scales, e.g., a shop scales or an official club scales which is covered by a calibration certificate from an appropriate service provider (e.g. NML). A weighing scales must be appropriate to the size of fish being weighed. The minimum weight will be 10 times the scale interval (or weighing division). Where weights are in large divisions (e.g. 1 lb/1 kg divisions) the weight of a fish must be rounded DOWN to the nearest actual division.

Claims cannot be accepted in the case of fish which have been weighed on board a boat, UNLESS WEIGHED ON A CERTIFIED MOTION-COMPENSATED BALANCE.

Please note: All club and personal scales MUST be certified annually by an independent agency. Weighing scales must be covered by a Certificate of Accuracy at the time of weighing. They cannot be certified in retrospect, i.e. after the fish has been weighed.


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(4) IDENTIFICATION: The identification of a fish must be fully documented where there is a possibility of confusion with another (and particularly larger) species. For this reason scales from the fish, high quality photographs (incl. close ups) or the actual body must be forwarded as actual proof of identification.

FISH SCALES must be submitted in respect of claims for SALMON, SEA TROUT, BROWN TROUT (including SLOB TROUT), RUDD, ROACH, and their hybrids, DACE and SHAD. Any brown trout taken in tidal waters, i.e., in the sea or in an estuary below the freshwater boundary as defined for that river will be regarded for claim purposes as a slob trout. About 10 scales gently removed from one shoulder of the fish should be sent with each salmonid claim. 3 scales are required from Roach and Rudd and their hybrids, and shad for genetic identification.

CLEAR, SHARP, CLOSE-UP PHOTOGRAPHS, showing the entire fish with its fins and other features easily seen, and not foreshortened or obscured by shadows or bystanders must be provided in the case of ALL CYPRINIDS, TOPE, SHARKS, SMOOTH-HOUND, SKATE, RAYS, BLUEMOUTH, MONKFISH, POLLACK, BALLAN WRASSE, TRIGGERFISH, COALFISH, ALBACORE, TUB GURNARD (pectoral fins of gurnard must be fully expanded) GILTHEAD BREAM (whole body and head shot showing mouth and eyes) and BLACKMOUTHED DOGFISH.

THE ACTUAL BODY must be forwarded for identification in the case of the following species: ANGLER FISH, BRILL, DAB, GARFISH (head and gills only), LESSER SPOTTED DOGFISH, FLOUNDER, GREY & RED GURNARDS, HERRING, MEGRIM, MACKEREL, GREY MULLET, GOLDEN GREY MULLET and RED MULLET, RAYS BREAM, THREE BEARDED ROCKLING, SCAD, TORSK, CUCKOO WRASSE and BLACK BREAM.

NB – Claims will be ratified where a photograph is of sufficient quality to provide conclusive evidence (i.e. key identification features clearly visible) to identify a fish, to the satisfaction of the Committee.

>99.5% of fish requiring supporting material for identification are identified by scales, genetics or photographic evidence.

RECORD FISH: Claim must be supported by a series of clear photographs showing relevant features for positive identification and a clear indication of fish length (i.e. whole fish on a measurement mat or similar). Record will be weight based only.

In the case of skates and rays, photographs of both back and belly surfaces should be provided and particulars of the coloration given (with particular reference to the presence of dark or grey spots, or streaks or patches on the belly side). Detailed photographs of the teeth should be furnished in the case of Porbeagle and Mako Sharks. In addition, there should be a clear close-up photograph showing the jaws and teeth exposed.


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(5) LIMITATION ON NUMBER OF CLAIMS: A maximum of three (3) awards will be made to any particular claimant for a single species in any one year. If an angler achieves this target and subsequently captures larger fish, these will be taken into account but the final number of awards for any species in a single year will not exceed three. By including this latter provision, it will ensure that the anglers competitive spirit is kept up and higher achievements could still be sought.

(6) SENDING FISH TO THE COMMITTEE:

Identification is mainly based on scale or photographic evidence but if a body is being forwarded please

(1) notify the Committee when a fish is being sent in for identification. Telephone: 01-884 2600. E-mail: [email protected]

(2) do not forward fish to the Committee before Bank Holidays or weekends; (keep in a cold store or preferably frozen if fish cannot be delivered quickly on or before Friday afternoon).

(3) attach a label to each fish forwarded for identification giving the captor’s name and address, date and place of capture and the weight of the fish.

(4) do not send fish in polythene bags or wrapped in aluminium foil as this causes rapid decomposition. Specimens should be wrapped in greaseproof paper and then in newspaper and brown paper.

(7) AWARDS: Anglers whose claims have been accepted by the Committee will be awarded special “Merit Badges” in the case of Specimen Fish and Silver Medals in the case of Record Fish. Specimen Fish Certificates will also be issued in respect of all ratified claims. Only one merit badge will be awarded to any angler per annum even where multiple claims are received. Specially commissioned awards are made to anglers for cumulative specimen fish captures of 20 species, 10 species, 50 specimens or 10 specimens. Other special awards are the Dr. Micheal Kennedy Award (Mullet of the year), the Dr. Arthur Went Award (Young Specimen Angler of the Year), the Minister’s Award (Fish of a Lifetime) and the Best International Specimen Fish Award (for the best overseas angler specimen).

CLAIM FORM SUBMISSION – Completed claim forms should be sent to: The Irish Specimen Fish Committee, Inland Fisheries Ireland, 3044 Lake Drive, Citywest Business Campus, Dublin 24, Rep. of Ireland (Tel. 00-353-1-884 2600) before 31st October every year. Where required for identification purposes (see Rule 4) fish should be sent to the same address. Scales from shad and cyprinid hybrids for genetic analysis must be forwarded to ISFC before 15th October.

For marine fish taken in Northern Ireland contact Dr. Steven Beggs, AFBINI, Newforge Lane, Belfast BT9 5PX, Ph: +44 (0) 28 9025 5503. Email: [email protected]

For freshwater fish taken in Northern Ireland contact Dr. Robert Rosell, AFBINI, Newforge Lane, Belfast BT9 5PX. Tel: +44 (0) 28 9025 5236, Fax: +44 (0) 28 9025 5004. Email: [email protected]


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Liam McDonnell with his River Shannon Pike

Patrick Fagan with the third heaviest Smooth-hound of 2017

The Irish Specimen Fish CommitteeFounded in 1955, the ISFC is an independent voluntary body, representative of angling interests in Ireland, whose principal function is to verify, record and publicise the capture of large (i.e. specimen) fish caught on rod and line by anglers in Ireland, both in freshwater and marine waters. The Committee also ratifies Irish record rod caught fish. The ISFC coordinates and administers the unique specimen awards scheme which is designed to recognize any angler who catches a specimen fish and to publicise the angling venue. Successful anglers are awarded a certificate and a commemorative badge. Specially commissioned silver medals are presented to captors of record fish and special awards are also made to captors of multiple specimen fish (on a cumulative basis). This report is a detailed listing of all particulars relating to specimen and record fish captures in Irish waters in 2017. Over 29,000 claims have been received by the ISFC over the past 62 years. This dataset is one of the most valuable and long-running time-series of its type.

Irish Specimen Fish Committee Members 2017Dr. Robert Rosell (AFBI), Chairman, Dr. William Roche, Secretary, Shane O’Reilly and Micheál Hennessy (Inland Fisheries Ireland), Alan McGurdy, Stewart McGrane (Game Angling), Dr. Edward Fahy, Dr. Patrick Boylan (Loughs Agency), Der Casey (Coarse Angling) and Brian Cooke (Sea Angling). Use of information contained in this report for press articles and publicity is encouraged.

It may be quoted without charge, provided the source is acknowledged.

The report is copyright and prior permission to reproduce the data for any purpose other than reasonable review or analysis must be obtained in writing from the Irish Specimen Fish Committee.

IRISH SPECIMEN FISH COMMITTEESome important points for claiming specimen fish:

1. Use official ISFC claim form and complete ALL relevant sections fully.

2. Print your name, address (including country) and telephone number in block capitals in Section 2.

3. Weighing: Fish MUST be weighed (on land) on CERTIFIED club scales etc. or alternatively, on a shop scales. If in doubt, use a shop scales. Fish must not be weighed on board a boat.

4. Scales must be certified annually by a competent independent authority and the certificate of accuracy must be current at time of weighing. Certificate must accompany each claim.

5. Fish scales, actual bodies or photographs of some species are required (See Section 4 of the Rules for details).

6. You MUST sign and date Section 6 of the Claim Form. Ensure witnesses sign the Claim Form.

Awards PresentationThe Annual Presentation of Specimen Awards

to anglers whose claims were accepted during 2017

will be held in

Clayton Hotel Dublin Airport Swords, Co. Dublin at 2.30pm sharp

on Saturday 17th February 2018

Irish anglers who are due awards are invited to attend

Cover: Sidney Kennedy with a Rosscarbery Golden Grey Mullet of 0.96 kg in August Back Cover: Smooth-hound for John Millerick

A Ballan Wrasse for Bill Ryan at the Bridges of Ross

Designed and Printed by: Turner Print Group • Longford • 043 - 3346275 ISSN 1649-6841

IrishSpecimen Fish2017

Website: www.irish-trophy-fish.com Coiste Éisc Mór na hÉirinn

ANNUAL REPORT OF THE IRISH SPECIMEN FISH COMMITTEE

Documents

Irish Specimen Fish 2017