Pike Fishing on Loch Erne: A Morning to Remember
We hit the water by 7am. Loch Erne was calm, the surface smooth as glass, with a low mist drifting across the water. Quiet, still, and exactly the kind of morning you hope for on a fishing trip.
I was joined by my son and our guide, Gerard from Borderfishing—an experienced local angler who had us on fish in no time.
What We Used
We trolled throughout the morning using oversized swimbaits designed to imitate natural prey.
- Target species: Northern pike
- Technique: Trolling
- Lures: Large swimbaits imitating trout, bream, and roach
- Gear: Supplied by the guide
- Water: Calm and clear early, wind and rain later in the day
Some of the swimbaits were bigger than fish I’ve landed on past trips. But they got results.
The Catch
The fishing was consistent from the start. By late morning, we’d landed a total of 7 pike between us.
- Largest pike: 22 pounds
- Fighting style: Strong, aggressive, and fast
- Release: All fish were safely returned
It was one of the most productive mornings I’ve had fishing in Northern Ireland.
Wildlife on the Loch
In between strikes, we took in the sights and sounds around us. Loch Erne is full of birdlife, and this trip was no exception.
- Herons
- Grebes
- Cormorants
- And a highlight: a group of swans cutting across the mist
Weather Shift and a Perfect Finish
The calm didn’t last. Around midday, rain swept in fast and hard. We made the call to head back in. No complaints—we’d already had a great session.
To top it off, Gerard surprised us back at shore with fresh venison steaks. Cooked right there, still warm, and deeply flavorful. It was the perfect end to the fishing trip.
Final Thoughts
This was pike fishing done right—early start, expert guide, consistent action, and unforgettable scenery. Loch Erne continues to be one of the top freshwater fishing spots in Ireland, especially for those targeting big, hard-fighting pike.
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