The Lough Arrow Fish Preservation Association & District Anglers (LAFPADA) can trace its roots back to 1904, making it one of the oldest angling clubs in Ireland. Over the years, the club has weathered numerous changes and challenges, yet its core mission has remained steadfast: the preservation of Lough Arrow and the protection of its native wild brown trout.
 

1904 - 1920s

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The origins of the Society can be traced to 1904, when it was founded by Col. Gethins of Ballindoon, who served as its President for many years. Alongside him was Mr. George Acheson, the Society's first Secretary, with The Earl of Kingston acting as the patron.

 

The mission of the newly formed Lough Arrow Fish Preservation Society was clearly laid out in an article published in the Fishing Gazette on January 25th, 1908. The article outlined the Society’s primary goals, stating:

 

“The object is to provide funds for the prevention of poaching in the winter months, up the numerous streams that run into the lake where the trout breed. It also aims at the destruction of pike and the prevention of netting trout.”

 

In the early years, the Society focused on safeguarding the trout populations of Lough Arrow, taking on the challenges of poaching, predator control and other threats to the fishery. By the early 1920s, the Society had evolved, and the name was changed to The Lough Arrow Fish Preservation Association.

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1930s - 1940s

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The 1930s marked a significant development for the club with the establishment of a hatchery on the Hollybrook Estate, then owned by Major Sheriff, a prominent supporter of the Association. At a stream flowing into Rinn Ban Bay, mesh-covered boxes were used to hold ova stripped from native brown trout. These ova were encouraged to hatch, and the resulting fry were distributed throughout the streams feeding into Lough Arrow. This initiative played a crucial role in maintaining the native trout population and sustaining the health of the fishery.

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The hatchery operated successfully for several years, but as time passed, it became increasingly difficult to maintain. The war years, along with a decline in available personnel to oversee the hatchery, led to its closure in the late 1940s. Nevertheless, the club’s efforts continued, and it remained well-supported by anglers and enthusiasts alike.

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1950s - 1980s

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Though the hatchery had closed, the Association remained active in the community, organizing angling competitions and fundraising events, whilst still carrying out important conservation works. The annual dance fundraiser became a much-anticipated highlight of the year, gathering both members and the wider public to celebrate the club’s successes and raise much-needed funds for preservation efforts.

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1987 - 2009

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From 1987 to 1990, the club went through a turbulent period known as the Rod War, a contentious dispute that led to a split within the club. This division resulted in the formation of a new club, the Lough Arrow & District Angling Club, in 1990.

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For nearly two decades, both clubs operated independently on Lough Arrow, but despite their differences, each contributed to the upkeep and preservation of the lake. During this time, both clubs jointly organized a very successful International Angling Competition held on Lough Arrow in 1999, 2000, and 2001. The event proved to be a huge success, attracting anglers from across Ireland and abroad.

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2009 and Beyond

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After years of division, a spirit of cooperation and common sense prevailed. On May 5, 2009, the two clubs—Lough Arrow Fish Preservation Association and Lough Arrow & District Angling Club—came together to form a new unified entity: The Lough Arrow Fish Preservation Association & District Anglers.

 

This amalgamation marked the beginning of a new chapter for the club, one that sought to build on the strength and heritage of both organizations. The new association has continued to thrive, growing from strength to strength, and remains committed to its founding principles: preserving the lake’s natural environment and ensuring that Lough Arrow remains a sustainable and thriving wild trout fishery.

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Looking Ahead: A Commitment to Conservation

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Today, the Lough Arrow Fish Preservation Association & District Anglers continues to build on its 100+ years of history. The club remains at the forefront of efforts to conserve the lake’s ecosystem, collaborating with local authorities, environmental groups, and other stakeholders to maintain the health of Lough Arrow and its surrounding environment.

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Our mission, like that of our founders, is simple yet crucial: to preserve the wild brown trout population, protect the natural habitat, and promote sustainable fishing practices for future generations.

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Explore the History Further

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Contained below are various articles related to the club, dating back to 1904. These documents provide valuable insights into the history of the club and the significant moments that have shaped its present-day efforts.