#ANGLING - The winter shore angling season on Wexford's coast has been "exeptional" so far, writes Ashley Hayden in the Enniscorthy Guardian.

With cod shoals moving north into the Irish Sea, some impressive catches of codling have been reported at Tinnebearna and Courtown.

"The cod stock off Ireland's south coast, judging by the fish which I have encountered over the last three years, are now of egg-laying size," writes Hayden.

"Managed properly over the near future, Ireland may just have a working resource again, of benefit to both commercial and recreational interests."

Coalfish are also becoming more prevalent, and are providing great sport to Wexford's shore anglers.

Hayden writes: "Coalies are smash and grab raiders, darting in to grab your bait, hitting it hard before subsequently swimming away and re-grouping, only to have another go."

The Enniscorthy Guardian has more on the story HERE.

#ANGLING - The 24th Winter Shore Angling Festival will be hosted on Co Wexford's east-facing beaches from 26-28 January, the Gorey Guardian reports.

Ireland's Dave Roe will be aiming to repeat his winning effort last year in a strong field of contenders that will also include UK match angling greats Alan Yates and Chris Clarke.

Codling, whiting, dab, coalfish and rockling will be the top catches over the weekend competition, which last year had a total prize fund of more than €8,000.

And even those not competing will get a lot out of watching the best match anglers using the latest equipment and techniques to gain the edge over their opponents.

The festival entry fee is €150 and includes a presentation dinner. For further details and entry information, contact Warren Doyle at 086 806 9961 (evenings only) or [email protected].

The Gorey Guardian has more on the story HERE.