Dungloe Lough is one of the lakes in the Rosses fishery, just east of Dungloe. Come for the trout fishing, or take the signed Cope Mountain extension of the town’s river walk for a look at the water.
Fishing the lough
Inland Fisheries Ireland lists Dungloe Lough within the Rosses Anglers Association waters. You need the association permit before fishing. Its local tackle shop listing gives the current contact for Charlie Bonner’s in town. Ask about permit prices, boat availability and species-specific rules before you go. A permit for the water and a licence to fish for salmon or sea trout are separate requirements where applicable.
What you will mostly catch is wild brown trout. Salmon and sea trout run the system too, but the lake also holds the critically endangered European eel, which should go straight back if it takes your hook.
Walking from town
Start at the Garden of Remembrance on Gweedore Road. Sport Ireland’s route entry gives 2.1 km for the Dungloe River Walk, with a further 1.6 km on the Cope Mountain extension. Follow the green arrows for the extension beside the lake. Allow about an hour for both sections and keep dogs on a lead.
If you don’t fish, the lake is still worth a short walk rather than a special trip. Use the signed paths from town and turn back when you have had enough.
About the lough
The lough is small, roughly 1.4 km long and 0.7 km wide, with five low islands named Flat, Fern, Black, Brush and Wren, and sits about a kilometre east of the town. It is fed by neighbouring Lough Craghy on its eastern side and drains west through the Dungloe River. The town’s Irish name, An Clochán Liath, ‘the grey stepping-stones’, remembers the line of stones people once used to cross that river, before the first Dungloe bridge was built in 1762.
Practical information
Use the signed town parking near the Garden of Remembrance trailhead. Arrange your fishing permit, food and drink in Dungloe before you set out, and do not expect facilities at the lakeside itself. Donegal weather turns fast, so bring a waterproof whatever the forecast.
Nearby
Dungloe is a good base for the wider Rosses. Burtonport has the ferry to Arranmore Island and is a short drive away, as is Maghery Beach. Carrickfinn Beach and Donegal Airport are roughly fifteen minutes north, the Crolly Distillery and visitor centre (opened in 2020) is a short drive, and Mount Errigal is around 20 km east if you want a proper climb. Check current opening arrangements before you go.
Do the practical bits in town first, then give the lough the morning, rod or no rod.