132 people took part in the survey by Inland Fisheries Ireland.
More than nine in ten trout anglers at Lough Sheelin are now releasing more fish than when they started fishing.
A new survey by Inland Fisheries Ireland involved 132 participants at the lake, which borders Westmeath, Meath and Cavan.
Catch-and-release methods ensure trout stock have a greater chance of survival within the freshwater lake.
The research used a method developed by IFI called Fishers’ Local Ecological Knowledge Surveillance Indicators, which is designed to track environmental impacts and changes in fish stocks through local information sources by asking anglers about different aspects of the fishery now, compared to when they started fishing on the lake.
Dr Cathal Gallagher, Head of Research and Development at IFI, says:
"The trends, over the four decades studied in the research, were mostly positive regarding the abundance and size of trout in the lake and its ecosystem.
Respondents commented they now believe the lake is currently fishing well.
However, some expressed concerns about threats to Lough Sheelin’s trout stocks, including pollution, pressure from angling activity, poor water quality, and protection of fish.
This research highlights the growth in awareness of fish conservation among anglers.
Seasoned fishers on Lough Sheelin have a deep understanding of the lake’s surrounding ecology that’s been developed through long-term interactions with the natural environment."
Gardaí Begin Murder Investigation After Child And Woman Dies In Offaly House Fire
Ashling Murphy Murder "Wrongly Accused" Granted Bail Over Theft Charge
Young Boy And Woman Killed In Offaly House Fire
Laois Makeup Artist Warns Of Expired Suncream Dangers
Lynx and Wolves In Ireland Pose Minimal Threat - Offaly Biodiversity
€4.5m Going To Midlands Suckler Farmers
Westmeath Writer Nominated Posthumously For Award
Seven Midlands Hotels Nominated For Gold Medal Hotel Awards
Cabinet Approves Major Expansion Of Midlands Garda HQ And Prison
Memorial Day Honouring Ashling Murphy Takes Place In Offaly
Midlands Town Left Shocked After Death Of Young Woman
Concerns Highlighted On Drones Spotted Ahead Of Zelenskyy Visit
€6m Westmeath Lotto Jackpot Winner Comes Forward
Israel’s Participation Sparks Eurovision Withdrawals From Ireland And Others
Teachers Union Calls For More Permanent Posts Amid Recruitment Challenges
Offaly Garda To Receive Bronze Medal And Bravery Award
Laois TD Questions Effectiveness Of Utilities Commission In Regulating Uisce Éireann
€6m Lotto Jackpot Ticket Sold In Mullingar
Grinch Themed Late Late Toy Show Lights Up the Midlands
Strong Friday Winds Forecast