Chasing Silver: The Allure of the Twaite Shad at Saint Mullins

Here at FishNorthWest.ie, we talk a lot about the thrill of the catch. But for head guide Martin, the greatest thrill isn’t just size or numbers—it’s the pursuit of the new. It’s about adding another species to the life list, understanding its habits, and earning a capture through skill and learning.

This relentless passion recently led him to the famed banks of the River Barrow at Saint Mullins in County Carlow, with one glittering, silver target in mind: the Twaite Shad.

For those who haven’t experienced it, Saint Mullins during the shad run is a special kind of madness. The air hums with the energy of anglers lining the banks, all connected by a single purpose. The water itself seems alive, frequently broken by the frantic, rolling splashes of shad chasing baitfish. It’s a spectacle of nature that every Irish angler should witness at least once.

Martin, armed with a light lure rod and a box of tiny shiny spoons and spinners, was in his element. He

wasn’t just there to fish; he was there to learn. He watched, he asked questions, and he adapted his tactics by the minute.

Then it happened. A solid thump on the line, followed by an explosion of energy. What happened next is the stuff of angling legend. A shad doesn’t just fight; it acrobats. It leaps, it shakes, it dives, and it runs with a startling power that seems to defy its size.

As Martin played the fish, a grin spread across his face. “It fights like a mini-tarpon!” he laughed, referring to the famed silver king of tropical flats. The comparison is astute. Both species are renowned for their blistering runs and spectacular head-shaking leaps. After a spirited battle, he guided a beautiful, mint-silver Twaite Shad into the net—his first ever.

The sense of accomplishment was palpable. It wasn’t just a fish; it was a victory earned through curiosity and effort.

It reinforced a core belief we hold dear: Anyone can catch a fish, but it takes a true angler to catch lots of different fish. It’s the curiosity to seek out new quarry, the humility to be a beginner again, and the dedication to learn the unique ways of each species that separates a catcher from an angler.

Martin’s shad adventure is a perfect example of what FishNorthWest.ie is all about. It’s not just about guiding you to the biggest pike or tench; it’s about fostering that spirit of adventure and sharing in the pure joy of discovering Ireland’s incredible diversity of freshwater sport.

Feeling inspired to chase a new species of your own?

Get in touch with Martin at www.fishnorthwest.ie to start planning your next angling adventure!