Salmon Flies
The salmon flies of Irish rivers can be roughly classified as shrimp flies, hair wings and tube flies. Whilst shrimp flies are probably the most popular atlantic salmon flies in Ireland, tube versions of these are also becoming popular, especially for spring salmon fishing and high water conditions.
There is tremendous variety within the shrimp fly family and Irish fly tyers are innovating at a lightening pace. There are those who'd say that any shrimp fly will do damage, but at the same time each region seems to have its favourites. Red and Orange shrimp patterns are popular salmon flies all over Ireland. Yellow is popular in Donegal, especially on the River Finn. Darker colours are popular in the West.
Conditions play a big part in the choice of atlantic salmon flies. In clear bright conditions some people will turn to purple coloured shrimp salmon flies. Yellow is a good colour for peaty water and for higher water. It seems like the brighest salmon flies are best for Grilse.
The selection of salmon flies below will get you started. Any of these will catch salmon on their day. Dont get too hung up on patterns if the water is good because practically any of these salmon flies will take fish. In poor conditions its best to have a chat with the locals to see which flies work best.
Shrimp - Salmon Flies
Hair Wing - Salmon Flies
| Blue Charm | Garry Dog | Glenfarclas |
| Golden Grilse | Grilse Fly | Hairy Mary |
| Munro Killer (Dark) | Silver Badger | Silver Doctor |
| Thunder & Lightening | Willie Gunn |
Tube - Salmon Flies
| Collie Dog | Delphi Badger |
