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An Unforgettable Fishing Adventure off the Coast of Cork, Ireland
Are you looking for a unique fishing experience filled with beautiful scenery, rich history, and plentiful catches? Look no further! Join us as we recount our incredible fishing trip off the coast of Cork, Ireland, with Captain Fergus Ward of “Fishing with Fergus.”
Setting Sail from Crosshaven
Our adventure began in Crosshaven, a charming village known for its scenic views and maritime activities. We booked our fishing charter through FishingBooker, opting for “Fishing with Fergus.” Captain Fergus Ward, the owner and captain of the boat, was not only knowledgeable but also made our trip incredibly enjoyable.
Fishing with Fergus: https://fishingbooker.com/charters/view/37395
The Journey Begins
We set out from Crosshaven with high spirits and a sense of excitement. The coast of Cork is renowned for its fishing spots, and we were eager to see what the day had in store for us. Our primary targets for the day were mackerel and Pollock.
Fishing for Mackerel
Our first catch of the day was mackerel. Mackerel fishing in Ireland is a bit different from the United States, where it is mostly used for bait. In Ireland and England, mackerel is enjoyed as a meal. The thrill of catching mackerel was exhilarating, and we quickly filled our buckets.
Catching Pollock: The Highlight of the Day
Next, we set our sights on Pollock. Pollock is an interesting fish, striking and fighting like a bass but with meat similar to cod. It’s not very popular in Ireland, so there’s an abundance of them. This was perfect for us Americans, as Pollock’s mild taste was exactly what we preferred.
The Fishing Experience
Fishing for Pollock involved drifting over what Captain Fergus called a reef—a pile of underwater rocks with vegetation, resembling an underwater forest. We used plastic worms as lures, and the Pollock struck aggressively. The fight was intense, and reeling them in was immensely satisfying. We caught plenty of Pollock, making it a successful day on the water.
A Word of Caution: Dogfish
During our trip, we also caught dogfish, a type of shark. Captain Fergus warned us about handling dogfish, as they can wrap around your arm and cause injury. It was a valuable lesson, and we appreciated the captain’s expertise and caution.
Seasickness and Rough Waters
The ocean was quite rough that day, the roughest Captain Fergus’s boat could handle. Out of the three of us, two got seasick, which was unusual since it typically takes a lot for me to get seasick. Jeff, with his experience fishing in the rough waters of Alaska, was the only one who remained unaffected.
Stunning Scenery and Rich History
One of the highlights of our trip was the breathtaking scenery. Ireland’s green landscape, dotted with remnants of lookout castles and historical sites, was visible almost everywhere. The sight of the landscape from the open ocean was truly mesmerizing and added a lot to our overall vacation experience. Ireland’s lush green fields and historical landmarks provided a stunning backdrop to our fishing adventure.
Navigating Currency Challenges
A note for fellow travelers: bring euros with you to pay the captain. Do not rely on exchanging your currency in the area, as there are very few places to do so. We had a difficult time exchanging money, even in pubs and stores, as they had limited cash on hand. Ireland is increasingly going cashless. Captain Fergus mentioned that he plans to accept credit cards soon, which will be a great help. We struggled to gather the cash needed for the charter and wished we had brought euros from the United States. Don’t make the same mistake—bring the necessary cash with you.
Returning to Cobh: A Convenient Twist
As we headed back, we mentioned to Captain Fergus that we were staying in Cobh, across the bay from Crosshaven. Fergus was kind enough to take us directly to Cobh, saving us time and hassle. If you let him know you’re staying in Cobh, he can pick you up there, which is a great convenience. This thoughtful gesture added an extra layer of convenience and hospitality to our trip.
Catching and Cooking Our Fish
At the end of the day, we had caught about 20 pounds of fish, including mackerel and Pollock. In our next video, we will show you how we cooked our catch. The Pollock, in particular, was delicious and perfect for those who prefer a milder-tasting fish. The joy of catching our dinner and then cooking it up added a memorable culinary twist to our fishing adventure.
Practical Tips for Future Trips
For those planning a similar trip, here are a few practical tips:
- Bring Euros: Ensure you have enough euros to cover the cost of the charter and other expenses. Currency exchange options are limited, and Ireland is moving towards a cashless society.
- Prepare for Rough Seas: If you’re prone to seasickness, bring appropriate medication. The waters can be rough, and it’s best to be prepared.
- Respect Local Wildlife: Be cautious when handling fish like dogfish, which can cause injury if not handled properly.
- Enjoy the Scenery: Take time to appreciate the stunning landscapes and historical sites. The views from the ocean are unparalleled and add a unique aspect to your trip.
Final Thoughts
Our fishing trip off the coast of Cork, Ireland, was an unforgettable experience. From the thrill of catching mackerel and Pollock to the breathtaking scenery and rich history, every moment was memorable. Captain Fergus Ward made our trip enjoyable and educational, sharing his expertise and ensuring our safety.
If you’re planning a fishing trip in Ireland, we highly recommend booking a charter with “Fishing with Fergus.” I have provide links about the charter. You can also find the details and a link to “Fishing with Fergus” in the description area below.
Book Your Adventure Today
Ready to embark on your own fishing adventure? Visit FishingBooker and search for “Fishing with Fergus” to book your trip. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a novice, Captain Fergus will ensure you have a fantastic time.
Conclusion
Ireland offers a unique fishing experience with its rich marine life, stunning landscapes, and historical sites. Our trip with “Fishing with Fergus” was a perfect blend of adventure, education, and relaxation. We hope our story inspires you to explore the beautiful waters of Cork and create your own unforgettable fishing memories.
Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to our channel for more exciting adventures. And if you have any questions or need more information, feel free to reach out. Tight lines and happy fishing!
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