The Loughs Agency has confirmed changes to tag allocation and conservation measures for the 2026 angling season across its river systems.

For the opening period of the season, no blue tags will be issued, meaning that all rivers within the Loughs Agency’s area will operate on a full catch-and-release basis until 1 June 2026.

From 1 June to 20 October 2026, Roe anglers will be issued with one black tag per licence, reduced from the previous allocation of two. Once this tag has been used, anglers are requested to continue fishing on a catch-and-release basis for the remainder of the season.

These measures are intended to support the sustainable management of fish stocks while maintaining angling opportunities.

Further guidance, including best practice for catch-and-release methods, is available on the Loughs Agency website: What We Do - Angling Support - Guides - Loughs Agency