Inland fisheries to sponsor angling events nationwide

Inland Fisheries Ireland’s Sponsorship Programme is awarding €30,000 in support for 83 angling events and initiatives in 2024.

The programme is a key funding mechanism by Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) to promote sustainable angling tourism in rural areas - while also assisting initiatives for beginner and young anglers.

IFI’s investment will support 37 coaching events for novice and juvenile anglers, 26 events run by fishing clubs/federations, 12 locally-hosted international competitions and will also assist elite teams competing overseas in 2024.

The events in Donegal being sponsored by IFI are :

• Getting Community Hooked on Angling workshops, organised by the Deele Community Anglers, Raphoe
• Half-day Angling Trips, organised by the Arranmore Charters, Arranmore Island
• Defence Forces All Army Sea Fishing competition, organised by the Defence Forces Sea Angling Club, Rathmullan
• World Sea Boat Championships Under 21s, organised by the Irish Federation of Sea Anglers, Rathmullan

“IFI has allocated €300k in sponsorship support in the past decade. Stated Suzanne Campion IFI’s Head of Finance and Corporate Services.

“This has made angling in Ireland more accessible, more sustainable, and more attractive to young people and families. 

“Based on uptake in previous years, we expect more than 800 overseas anglers to take part in competitions featuring in 2024, with an additional 600 novice anglers expected to try fishing.

“Our annual sponsorship initiative attracts both domestic and overseas angling tourism to rural communities, thus contributing significantly to local economies.

“Angling can be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities, and one beginner’s fishing trip can turn into a lifetime’s recreational pursuit.”

Inland Fisheries Ireland’s allocations will also boost elite training pathways, and support women’s teams and four youth teams to represent Team Ireland at international events abroad.

IFI sponsorship can include financial support, biosecurity support, equipment loans, staff assistance, or a combination as required.