Daniel O'Neill

Daniel O’Neill is an Irish writer and professional angler, renowned for his extensive and diverse fishing portfolio.

His fishing adventures have taken him around the globe, from catching pufferfish in the Canary Islands to landing diamond sturgeon in Poland. One of his proudest accomplishments includes catching a shore-caught tope, often regarded as one of the UK’s toughest fishing feats. In addition to his personal achievements, Daniel has been an active participant in shark tagging programs, contributing to the conservation of shark species and advancing Irish marine conservation efforts.

Daniel’s expertise in predator species is vast—he has battled colossal Mekong catfish and arapaima in Thailand, as well as successfully landing giant trevally on the float. Specializing in sea bass, pike, and salmon on the fly, he is known for his dedication to challenging fish species. Yet, his all-time favorite remains the elusive mullet, considered the UK’s hardest-fighting fish pound for pound.

Articles written by Daniel O’Neill

Bowfishing Setup: Everything You Need to Know

Bowfishing in the Adirondack Region Bowfishing combines the precision of archery hunting with the thrill of fishing, offering an exciting way to hone your archery skills during the off-season. This dynamic sport provides an action-packed experience, especially when targeting carp, a species often regarded as a nuisance in many waters. With a high rate of […]

Great Sacandaga Lake: History, Opportunities & Tips

History and Native American Influence The area now covered by Great Sacandaga Lake was once a thriving valley, nurtured by the Sacandaga River and its tributaries. This fertile environment provided an abundance of game and fish, making it a vital resource for the indigenous Native Americans who inhabited the region. They recognized this land as […]

Camp Santanoni Historic Area: A Special Place

For many adventurers exploring the Adirondacks, a visit to Camp Santanoni in Newcomb is a must. As the only Adirondack Great Camp fully owned by the public, it welcomes visitors of all ages and abilities, including the young, elderly, physically fit, and those with disabilities. Its diverse accessibility makes it a truly inclusive destination. Nestled […]

Let’s Take a Paddle to Seventh Lake for Adirondack Photography

Enjoy a morning paddle on the serene Seventh Lake, where you can explore interesting bays, catch the sunrise, and experience calm waters. The forecast promises no wind and no rain, making it an ideal day for kayaking. Your journey begins at the public boat launch on Seventh Lake, located on Route 28 east of Inlet, […]

How to Catch Bass in the Summer: Tips & Techniques

The Abundance of Bass in Adirondack Waters While the Adirondacks have long been celebrated for their exceptional trout and salmon fisheries, the region’s rich bass populations remain largely untapped. Adirondack waters are home to a significant number of bass, many of which grow to impressive sizes, making them a thrilling target for anglers. With a […]

Loons in the Adirondacks: Anglers Help Needed!

Studying Common Loons in the Adirondack Park Since 1998, I have had the rare privilege of studying Common Loons in the Adirondack Park as part of the Biodiversity Research Institute’s Adirondack Center for Loon Conservation. Our research assesses the impact of environmental mercury pollution on loon populations, serving as an indicator of how mercury affects […]

Trout Fishing Warren County NY: A Paradise for Anglers

Trout Fishing Warren County NY is an experience that promises both adventure and serenity. As a lifelong fly fisherman, the Adirondacks always have a place in my heart. The six-million-plus acre park offers seemingly limitless trout fishing possibilities, so many that it is hard to decide where to go. With the exception of the West […]

Amazing Adirondack Canoeing for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Adirondack Canoeing in History Let’s talk about canoeing in the Adirondacks. For centuries, the region’s lakes, ponds, and rivers have served as vital highways for travel, with the canoe being the primary mode of transportation. From Native Americans to early explorers and fur trappers, and later guides and sportsmen, canoes have played an essential role […]

Kayak Fishing in the Adirondacks: Enjoy Life and Nature

Kayak Fishing the Adirondacks For years, my adventures on the waterways of the Adirondacks were constrained by the need for a companion. Kayaking alone seemed daunting at first—hauling a canoe onto my vehicle was a physical challenge, and the thought of paddling long distances by myself often left me feeling exhausted before I even began. […]

Bullhead Fishing: Techniques and Tips

Bullhead fishing offers a rewarding challenge for anglers seeking an accessible yet reliable catch throughout much of the fishing season. While not as revered as trophy fish, bullhead are a cornerstone of freshwater fishing in many regions, providing steady action and a strong fight. Their preference for shallow, bottom-feeding areas in lakes, ponds, and rivers […]

Yellow Perch Fishing: Simple Techniques and Tips

How to Catch Yellow Perch: Simple Techniques and Tips Yellow perch are common across Adirondack waters and are especially active in spring, when rising water temperatures trigger spawning. During this time, they move into shallow bays and tributaries, making them easier to locate and catch. Their abundance and excellent taste make them a top target […]

Brook Trout – Identification, Habitat, Tips, Techniques

Brook trout thrive in New York State’s clear streams and lakes. Explore top fishing spots, seasonal insights, and proven techniques to catch this iconic fish.

Fly Fishing for Lake Trout: Techniques and Other Considerations

As a lifelong fly angler, I’ve always been on the lookout for new challenges, and fly fishing for lake trout became an exciting prospect. A few years ago, when I changed jobs, some of my new colleagues spoke enthusiastically about their annual spring fishing trip. They mentioned that the smelt would run up the tributaries […]

Nantucket Fishing: the Great Point Lighthouse

Fishing In Nantucket Nantucket, with its Native American name meaning “Faraway Land,” lives up to its reputation as an idyllic escape. Just 30 miles off the coast of Massachusetts, the island offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Its cobblestone streets, charming seaside cottages, and largely untouched landscapes create an […]

Bucktail Fly for Spring Adirondack Brook Trout Fishing

Bucktail Fly, Modern Tactics on Iconic Trout Streams When you visit a famous trout stream like the Ausable River in New York’s Adirondack Park, you’ll notice many anglers using “thingamabobber” strike indicators, especially during early spring when major hatches haven’t started yet. I often join them, fishing with heavy nymph rigs when my goal is […]

South Inlet Raquette Lake NY is a Great Paddling Destination

A paddler enjoys the scenery on the South Inlet to Raquette Lake. A Typical Spring Morning A typical morning at the South Inlet to Raquette Lake, NY, in late spring or summer is a picturesque scene that epitomizes tranquility. The sun’s early rays shimmer on the wide, peaceful waters, illuminating clusters of lily pads that […]

Drop Shot Rigs for Bass

Several years ago, when I first heard about the fishing technique called “drop shot rigs for bass,” I couldn’t help but laugh. It reminded me of my first fishing trip to Lake George with my uncle when I was just ten years old. We fished the rocky ledges around Tongue Mountain using center-hooked night crawlers […]

Trolling for Trout: Tips for Success

Trolling for trout is a simple and effective way to cover water and find fish, especially on quiet mountain ponds and lakes. Early in the morning, when the water is calm and the shoreline is still, it’s a great time to get started. A fisherman paddling a canoe or kayak can slowly work along the […]