Angling at Castlewellan Lake
This is a very popular fishery, which is stocked regularly with brown trout and rainbow trout.
Key information
| Nearest town | Castlewellan |
|---|---|
| Area/length | 41.6 hectares |
| Species | Brown and rainbow trout |
| Season | 1 March to 31 October |
| Methods | Fly fishing, spinning and worm fishing. From boats fly fishing only. |
| Daily bag limit | Four trout per rod |
| Size limit | Minimum takeable size 25.4cm |
| Boats | Fishing is allowed from non-mechanical and electrically powered boats |
| Licence | DAERA game rod licence: Game rod licence prices from DAERA |
| Permit | DAERA game angling permit: Game angling permit prices from DAERA |
| Facilities for people with disabilities | See below |
Facilities for people with disabilities
There is a tarmac car park for people with disabilities beside the water. The path around the lake is quarry dust surfaced. Wheelchair access to the water's edge is possible near the castle between the slipway and the boat jetty.
A limited number of keys for the car park are available from Newry, Mourne and Down District Council in mid-February, on a first come, first served basis, which allows access around the lake by car.
General facilities
The lake is one of the main attractions in Castlewellan Forest Park. Other facilities include a car park, cafeteria, caravan, camping and barbecue facilities. There are also various scenic walks. It is possible to visit the Arboretum and the Annesley Garden.
How to get there
Castlewellan is on the main Downpatrick to Newry Road (A25). The entrance to the forest park is signposted in Castlewelllan.
From Newcastle, take the A50 northwards.
From Banbridge, take the A50 in a south-easterly direction.
Anglers must pay to park in the forest car park.