
Nestled in the heart of County Sligo, Lough Arrow is a picturesque limestone lake that extends into County Roscommon, covering just over 3,100 acres. With an average depth of 9 metres, the lake is beautifully sheltered on three sides by rolling hills, offering breathtaking scenery. At its northern end, Lough Arrow serves as the source of the Unshin River, which flows northwest before joining the Owenmore River at Ballsodare-where it transforms into the Ballysodare River.
The lake is unique in many ways, with a relatively small catchment area, and it is predominantly spring-fed, resulting in clean and nutrient-balanced waters. Classified as a mesotrophic system, Lough Arrow contains moderate nutrient levels, making it an ideal habitat for a rich variety of aquatic life. Most notably, it is renowned for its stocks of native wild brown trout, making it one of Ireland's most revered wild brown trout fisheries.
About Us
The Lough Arrow Fish Preservation Association & District Anglers
The Lough Arrow Fish Preservation Association & District Anglers (LAFPADA) is the sole angling club on Lough Arrow, and we are dedicated to preserving this remarkable lake and its native wild brown trout for future generations. Our primary goal is to ensure the long-term sustainability of the lake as a wild brown trout fishery, while also safeguarding the broader ecosystem that thrives in this unique environment.
​Over the decades, our commitment has remained steadfast - to protect, manage, and conserve the lake's natural beauty, its aquatic life, and the angling heritage that has been passed down through the generations. You can find further information on the history of our club by clicking the link below.

Our Mission and Activities
Work closely with local stakeholders​
Including environmental agencies, local communities, and other conservation groups - to ensure the lake's ecological integrity is maintained.
Promote sustainable angling practices​
To protect the wild trout population and surrounding habitats, ensuring that future generations of anglers can enjoy the same waters we treasure today.
Invest in conservation initiatives​
Such as habitat restoration, water quality monitoring, and predator control.
Financially contribute to the betterment of the lake​
Through various fundraising efforts, grants, and partnerships that support conservation projects and sustainable lake management.

Get involved, join us in
our mission
By joining the Lough Arrow Fish Preservation Association & District Anglers, you're not just becoming a member of an angling club, you're contributing to the future of this important natural resource. Your support helps fund essential conservation projects, raises awareness about the importance of sustainable practices, and allows us to continue our vital work to protect the lake as a wild brown trout fishery.
​
Whether you are an experienced angler or a newcomer to the world of fishing, your involvement in LAFPADA ensures that the beauty and biodiversity of Lough Arrow will be enjoyed by generations to come.
​
Join us today, and be part of a legacy of conversation and stewardship.

Competition Dates 2026
All our competitions are ran on a catch,
photo, release basis
​
5th April - Mayfly Inn Perpetual Cup
​
25th April - Lough Arrow Stream Development Competition
​
TBC - Annual Mayfly Competition - Des
Mc Donagh Cup
​
16th August - Ken Murray Perpetual Cup
​
27th September - Jack Gildea Memorial Cup
(Hospice Fundraiser)
​

Keep in touch with club events and news by following us on Facebook
Get in Touch
We welcome all those who share our passion for conservation, fishing, and the natural beauty of Lough Arrow. Whether you're looking to become member, support our initiatives, or simply want to learn more, we'd love to hear from you!
Podcasts
Listen to Language of the Lough on the links below, a two part documentary broadcast on Ocean FM






