Sea Fishing in the Shannon Estuary - Limerick City to Loop Head. From Limerick City the River Shannon gradually widens on the final 80km (50 miles) of its journey to the sea, forming a major estuary. The estuary meets the Atlantic at the extremity of Loop Head peninsula on the Clare coast where a solitary lighthouse, perched 269 feet above sea level, continues to beam out its warning to shipping. Both shorelines offer easy access and very good sea fishing from a line across the river from Kildysert to Foynes, downriver to the mouth of the estuary. Many of the best shore angling access points are signposted along the tidal stretch. A plentiful supply of bait such as lugworm, crab, mussels and sand eel can be found in sheltered shores, mud flats, beaches, rock pools and on rocky shorelines. The estuary has become more popularly known for its great inshore sea angling. A scientific survey in recent times showed that there were great shoals of sea fish in it throughout the year. Over 30 species were identified. Its many sheltered bays are proving an attractive alternative for deep-sea charter boats when bad weather prohibits going out to sea. The estuary is especially good for tope fishing either from a boat or from the shore. Charter boats that fish the estuary operate from Kilrush Marina and Carrigaholt, on the Clare side, and Glin on the Limerick. There are many slipways along the shores for easy access for small boats. A resident school of about 70 bottlenose dolphins has become a big attraction in the mouth of the estuary, and they are always glad to welcome anglers to their rich feeding grounds. A visit to Scattery Island, on the outer part of the estuary, with its 6th century ecclesiastical settlement can be an interesting diversion.