Blue Shark Fishing in Ireland

Description

Chasing blue shark is an epic deep-sea pursuit, with July and August serving as the golden window for anglers. Cork leads the way for these migratory giants, with excellent opportunities also found in Clare and Galway. Almost all successful captures are made by boat, with Courtmacsherry, Galway Bay, and Dungarvan being top venues. Expect high-octane sport, with typical fish around 94 lb (42.64 kg) and record-class sharks topping 130 lb (58.97 kg). Mackerel is the essential bait for setting up a successful slick. Note that blue shark are highly mobile, so staying in contact with local skippers is vital. These are strictly catch-and-release specimens to ensure the health of the population. Pro tip: Dedicate time to building a strong, consistent scent slick using chopped mackerel to bring the sharks right to your boat.

Identification

Brilliant blue above. Long pointed snout. Long pectoral fins. Slender build.

Based on 146 historical Blue Shark observations from published Irish angling reports. Most frequently reported in Jul.

About this data: compiled from historical published catch reports (2019–2026). Reporting frequency reflects angling activity and does not necessarily equal fish abundance.