Categories: Lead Story, Local News

by iNews

Share

Categories: Lead Story, Local News

by iNews

Share

By Ellie Rigby 

The Northwest Angling Fair returns to Strabane this weekend, bringing fishing enthusiasts for a celebration of angling at the Melvin Sports Complex.  

Taking place on Saturday and Sunday, the event will be the first major public occasion to utilise the venue’s new £3.2 million multi-sport hub extension.  

Organised by Derry City and Strabane District Council in partnership with the Loughs Agency, the fair attracts visitors from across the UK and Ireland. The event will feature a wide-ranging programme designed to appeal to beginners and experienced anglers.  

Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District, Ruairi McHugh, highlighted the importance of the event, describing it as a “wonderful celebration of every aspect of fishing and an opportunity for anglers of all levels to learn more about their craft.” He said: “Whether you’re a complete beginner looking to learn the basics or an experienced angler eager to refine your skills, there is something for everyone.” 

Mr. McHugh said, “Our region is blessed with world class natural resources for angling, with the Foyle, the Mourne, the Derg and the Finn rivers all located in close proximity to Strabane.”  

A packed schedule of events will include professional casting and fly-fishing demonstrations along the river Mourne, as well as masterclasses and interactive sessions. Visitors can explore a range of angling merchandise, with fishing tackle producers and fly-tying specialists showcasing latest innovations. 

Council Spokeswoman, Catherine Ashford said “We are looking forward to welcoming a world class lineup of fly dressers and casters to this year’s event.” Ms. Ashford said, “From expert demonstrations and technique masterclasses to sourcing the latest equipment, the fair offers a fantastic opportunity to connect with others who share a passion for angling.” 

There will be a strong focus on youth engagement at the fair, including an Under 16s Fly Tying competition and beginner friendly demonstrations.  

“We also want to celebrate the many young people in our region who already take part in the sport and create opportunities for those who are new to fishing.” Mrs. Ashford said.  

Related Posts

  • By Henry Robinson NWRC journalism student and Derry City FC fanatic Niall O’Doherty has vowed not to cut his hair until his beloved Candy Stripes win three games in-a-row. The Derry City supporter took his inspiration from fellow football fan Frank Ilett, a Manchester United supporter, who pioneered the challenge on TikTok by refusing to

    By Published On: October 15th, 2026
  • By Jason Le Masurier   A Halloween family fun run/walk is being organised as part of the 30th anniversary of Derry’s Children-in Crossfire charity.   The family-centred event on Saturday October31, starting at 10am,, will raise funds to support vulnerable children in Tanzania and Ethopia.   Richard Moore, chief executive of Children in Crossfire, said

    By Published On: October 8th, 2026
  • By Jason Le Masurier The Alley Theatre in Strabane is organising a colourful programme of workshops for children, families and adults, during the autumn at Strabane Library. From October through to December, the programme offers something for all ages and interests, from traditional crafts and upcycling to animation, ceramics, creative journaling, and festive making. Whether

    By Published On: October 8th, 2026
  • By Henry Robinson Almost half of all households in Northern Ireland don’t have a dishwasher, according to newly released figures. In the latest water usage survey, Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency has revealed that 43 per cent of households in Northern Ireland didn’t own a dishwasher, while only 18 per cent of households used

    By Published On: October 8th, 2026