Active Pursuits in Galway Bay Coast

Fishing

As you might surmise, this area is prime territory for sea fishing, especially for mackerel, pollock, cod, turbot, and shark. To find a boat-rental service in the area where you plan to stay, contact the Inland Fisheries Ireland, Teach Breac, Earl's Island, County Galway (tel. 091/563118; www.wrfb.ie), for recommendations. A fishing license costs around €36 per day or €50 for 3 weeks. Rental of rods and reels plus bait is likely to run another €35 to €50 per day.

Those who prefer trout fishing might want to check out the Crumlin Lodge Fisheries, Inverin, County Galway (tel. 091/593105). This fishery has a lake stocked with sea-reared rainbow trout and allows two fish per person to be taken per day. Prices range from around €16 to €50, depending on whether you fish from a bank or a boat; ghillies (guides) are available for approximately €40 extra. Fishing starts at 9am daily; reservations must be made at least a day in advance.

Swimming

The Silver Strand at Barna and the beach at Spiddal are clean, sandy, and ideal for swimming.