Man (73) escapes conviction over illegally fishing salmon in Mayo

A Mayo man who was caught illegally fishing salmon will escape a conviction if he pays costs to Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI).

Patrick McAndrew, aged 73, of Porturlin, Ballina, pleaded guilty to a number of offences when he appeared before Belmullet District Court.

He admitted to the unlawful possession of a net, possession of salmon, the use of a boat to carry out the offending, and refusal to provide his name to IFI officers.

The case originally came before the court in May where an outline of the evidence was heard.

However, on that occasion, the presiding judge James Faughnan refused jurisdiction on the grounds that the matter was "far too serious to have in the district court."

However, when the case returned for mention last week, Judge Ciaran Liddy agreed to hear the case.

Judge Liddy was told that on July 15, 2025, fisheries officers learned of illegal fishing activity off the north Mayo coast.

The suspect fishing vessel was moored out of Porturlin Harbour and IFI officers launched their rib.

Men on board the fishing boat were observed disposing of ropes and weights. Salmon was later found dumped overboard.

Those on board the fishing boat refused to stop or give their names when fisheries officers pulled alongside them.

IFI officer Michael Wilson said all requests to stop the boat were refused. He said the decision was taken to pull back as the situation was becoming dangerous.

The court was told that the fishing boat could be identified through its markings and number.

Solicitor James Ward, representing IFI, said the organisation was seeking €3,464 in costs.

McAndrew has no previous convictions.

His solicitor Peter Loftus said his client has been a fisherman all his life and had a previously unblemished record.

“He took a chance on the date in question,” said Mr. Loftus.

Judge Liddy said he was not impressed with McAndrew's interaction with fisheries officers, adding: “It wasn’t exactly his finest day."

The judge said he was prepared to give McAndrew the benefit of the Probation Act if costs are paid.

The case was adjourned until September 9 next for finalisation.

* Funded by the Courts Reporting Scheme.