DUBLIN FISHING FIELD GUIDE
Full-Day Fishing off Howth: Seven Hours Aboard Double or Quits or Aquatay
A private, 7‑hour fishing trip from Howth targeting mackerel, smooth hounds, rays, tope and more — this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
Full-Day Fishing off Howth: Seven Hours Aboard Double or Quits or Aquatay.
Adventure brief
Full-Day Fishing off Howth: Seven Hours Aboard Double or Quits or Aquatay
Embark on a full‑day, seven‑hour fishing excursion along Howth’s stunning coastline with Howth Boats. Anglers cast for mackerel, smooth hounds, rays, tope and a variety of other species from the spacious 33ft 'Double or Quits' or the powerful 38ft 'Aquatay'. Rods and bait are provided and each vessel carries full safety gear and an onboard toilet.
Situated on Ireland's rugged east coast, Howth is a bustling fishing village that offers a genuine slice of maritime heritage right outside Dublin. Renowned for its piers, seafood markets, and dramatic cliffs, Howth’s coastline is a hotspot for anglers seeking an authentic fishing challenge amid scenic surrounds. Howth Boats delivers a full-day, seven-hour fishing experience aboard either the sizeable "Double or Quits," a 33-foot twin-engine vessel, or the powerful 38-foot 500HP "Aquatay." Each boat is fully licensed by the Irish Department of Marine and comes equipped with modern safety gear and onboard toilets, ensuring comfort through a long day at sea.
The trip focuses on fishing native species such as mackerel, smooth hounds (a type of shark), rays, and tope. With all rods and bait provided, the excursion welcomes anglers aged seven and older, supporting a family-friendly environment perfect for both novice and experienced fishers. Setting out from the Howth marina, passengers navigate the open waters where granite rock formations frame the coastline, and seabirds like gannets and cormorants routinely dive nearby.
This immersive day on the water not only promises the thrill of the catch but also offers an insightful glimpse into local culture, where fishing remains a keystone of community life. Howth Boats stands out as a dedicated outfitter bringing the Atlantic’s bounty to visitors while maintaining respect for sustainable fishing practices and coastal preservation.
Beyond the fishing lines, visitors can appreciate nearby geological highlights such as the Offaly Cliffs and Ireland’s East Coast's rich marine biodiversity. This combination of hands-on angling, cultural connection, and rugged coastal beauty makes Howth Boats an essential destination for anyone looking to engage deeply with Ireland’s maritime outdoors.
Route Schematic
Itinerary Snapshot
A typical day follows a straightforward arc: depart from Howth, fish along the coastline for multiple species, then return to port.
Depart from Howth
Start the seven‑hour private trip from Howth and board either 'Double or Quits' or 'Aquatay'.
Fishing the coastline
Spend the bulk of the day fishing for mackerel, smooth hounds, rays, tope and other species along Howth’s coastline; rods and bait are provided.
Return to port
Conclude the seven‑hour outing and return to Howth with the day’s catch; toilet facilities are available on board.
Participants should note the operator sets the route and may adjust plans for safety or sea conditions; children must be supervised and the trip is recommended for ages 7 and up.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Two fully licensed, well‑equipped boats
'Double or Quits' is a 33ft twin‑engine boat and 'Aquatay' is a 38ft, 500HP vessel; both are fully licensed by the Irish Department of Marine and carry full safety gear and a toilet on board.
A day of varied catches
The route focuses on fishing for mackerel, smooth hounds, rays and tope, with other species possible throughout the day.
Ready‑to‑fish experience
All rods and bait are included; the trip includes onboard toilet facilities but excludes food and drink, so plan provisions accordingly.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
This private, seven‑hour outing takes you out along the coastline of Howth for a sustained day of sea angling aboard a spacious, fully equipped vessel. Crews supply rods and bait, and the focus is on sustained fishing for a range of species while the boats’ safety equipment and onboard toilet make for a practical full‑day trip.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits—and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The outing is a full‑day, seven‑hour private trip.
Rods and bait are included; food and drink are excluded, so bring snacks and water for the day.
Both boats are equipped with full safety gear and an onboard toilet.
This is a private tour that accepts up to 10 people; contact the operator if you need schedule flexibility.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip?
The trip duration is seven hours.
What is the minimum age to join?
Children age 7 and older may join; all children must be supervised by an accompanying adult.
Are rods and bait provided?
Yes — rods and bait are included.
Is food or drink provided on board?
No — food and drink are excluded; bring your own provisions.
How many people can join the private tour?
The private tour accommodates up to 10 people.
Which boats are used for the trip?
Trips run aboard either the 33ft 'Double or Quits' or the 38ft, 500HP 'Aquatay', both fully licensed and equipped with safety gear and a toilet.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-25T01:33:45.987Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.