Antrim Fly Fair

My name is Desmond Paul (Dessie to everyone) and I’m from Garvagh, Co. Londonderry, Northern Ireland. I’m 61 going on 16 and have fished my local Agivey river since I was 10. I got into Lough fishing in my early 20s and love to get out on Erne and Melvin as often as possible. I have a bit of a love affair with Lough Melvin having won both the Ulster title and the Melvin Open in the past.

I started tying Trout and Salmon flies in my early teens, getting advice from Bert Atkins uncle Jim Stewart ... he knew what he wanted in a shrimp fly and his knowledge has stayed with me ever since. I continue to tie traditional flies, mainly Lough flies and I’m honoured to represent Vicuña dubbing in their development of a sustainable product and in particular blends for both river and Stillwater.

I’m looking forward to a great show, it’s a great opportunity to share both my tying and fishing experience, especially with young anglers and tyers.

Email: d573paul@btinternet.com