Lough Currane


Lough Currane, also called Lough Leeagh, is a lake in County Kerry, Ireland. Waterville lies on its western bank, close to the Atlantic Ocean, it empties into Ballinskelligs Bay. The numerous townlands which lie on its southern bank, including Cappamore, Eightercua and Gortnamackanee, are collectively known as Glenmore. It covers an area of and is long and at the widest point. The lake is notable for the Early Medieval monastery on Church Island. It is associated with had the St. Finan Cam, who inhabited the island c. 7th century. To the south of the lake is Inis Uasal, an island dedicated to St. Finan. The Annals of Inisfallen mention that Amchad, the "anchorite of God" was buried on the island in 1058.

Angling

The lough is famous for its salmon and Sea trout fly fishing, having a good run of both spring salmon and grilse in addition to regularly producing specimen sea trout with some running to over 10 lb. From June the lake contains a prolific number of smaller sea trout, know locally as 'Juners', analogous to the Scottish Finnock. In recent years the run of sea trout has reduced dramatically. The Lough was designated catch and release via a by law in 2019 in an effort to conserve stocks. As of 2024 the catch and release law remains in place.