By Michelle Crean

It was a "reely" good day out for students who got to grips with baiting worms and practicing casting as part of their first fishing trip of the year.

The Killarney Community College Fishing Club went to Lough Barfinnihy, Molls Gap which is restocked with 500 trout monthly, and it gave students a huge opportunity to make their first catch.

The weather was on their side as they arrived at the lake on Wednesday afternoon with 16 students and several teachers, including the very experienced angler and teacher Mr Gallagher.

A total of eight rainbow trout were caught on the day. Spirits were kept high thanks to Mrs Crowley and Anne Marie Murphy who cooked Hotdogs on the lake shore for the hungry group. For many of the students, the trip proved to be their first experience on the lake and of catching a fish of any sort which was a very memorable and satisfying school outing for all.

"We are a unique club, as far as I know we are only one of two school fishing clubs in Ireland," experienced fisherman, Ciaran Gallagher, said.

"Our members range from experienced anglers to beginners. We are blessed to have so many amazing places we can fish on our doorstep. The idea of the club is to generate a love of fishing and provide a healthy appreciation of the outdoors. They are also learning a new skill for life that they can pass down to others. It really was an amazing day."