Foyle Catchment | River Derg

Season: 1st April – 20th October

The Derg is a large (10-20 metre width) spate river with a fine head of wild brown trout. It is best known for summer salmon, grilse and sea trout which are generally at their best from late May to August. Some fresh water is required to encourage runs of fish, although grilse and sea trout will edge upstream without a flood. The River Derg has its source high in the Donegal hills, flowing out of the lough of the same name to join with the River Strule to form the Mourne downstream of Newtownstewart. The upper reaches are mountainous while the lower stretches flow through pasture and arable farm land. Wading can be tricky in places as the river bed mainly consists of large rocks and boulders with deep pools in the lower reaches. A wading staff and studded boots will be essential.  Day and season tickets are available from the various clubs that control the fishing on the Derg. Please note that whilst every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of angling club and associations boundaries it is essential you consult the club or association to confirm their upper and lower limits.

Species:	Salmon, Sea Trout (occasionally) and Brown Trout
Best Times:	July - August (Salmon) April - October (Brown Trout) July - August (Sea Trout)
Methods:	Fly, Spinning and Worm
Best Salmon Flies:	Shrimp patterns sized 8-10 Red, Gold and Silver Shrimp Wye Bug General Practitioner Wilkinsons Shrimp
Best Sea Trout Flies:	Watsons Fancy Teal Blue & Silver Black Pennell
Best Brown Trout Flies:	Hen Fly Lazy Brown Peter Ross Delphi Silver Dry Olives Sedges