Carafin Lodge

Nestled in the rolling countryside of Cavan, situated on a hilltop amongst the maze of rivers and lakes that make up the Lough Oughter and ultimately the Erne system, lies an ambitious and very promising new activity and fishing destination – Carafin Lodge. The project is the brainchild of local farmer and keen pike angler Pauric McGearty who, since returning from a ten-year stay in Australia, has decided to take advantage of the natural resources literally on his doorstep and develop Carafin Lodge, the aim being to establish a leading angling and recreational amenity in County Cavan.

Pauric and his wife Clare are your hosts when you visit Carafin Lodge. They have constructed this purpose-built facility on the shores of Carafin Lake. Pauric and Clare are small beef and poultry farmers with two young boys. With Pauric’s interest in all things fishing and outdoors and Clare’s experienced background in the hospitality sector — Carafin Lodge was born.

Carafin Lodge is a perfect destination for a break away in Cavan. From the serious pike/course angler to someone out for a day’s fun with the water bikes, or paddle boats. If it’s their first time wetting a line, on a boat with a picnic basket, or a romantic day trip out on the river, there is something for everyone at Carafin Lodge’s natural scenic location.

Facilities: 3-bed house that sleeps 5, a 2-bed house that sleeps 4 and 1-bed apartment that sleeps 3. Between the three properties are a drying room and storage house with fridge/freezer and sink.

On the water’s edge is a storage container for fishing gear and water sports equipment, we also have a changing room, toilet, and kitchenette on the lake shore, with a large floating jetty also.

How did the Business Sustainability Training Programme benefit you and your business?
Greatly, as I have gradually implemented the learned business sustainable measures, which I have learned at any stage or area where I see fit. For example, I have installed a 6kw PV Solar panel and a Rainwater Harvesting system too. More to follow in the coming months.

What is the main sustainability focus of your business?
We provide recreational and sustainable fishing with maximum appreciation for the environment. We want people to make the most of their time in Cavan, enjoying what the scenery has to offer, but with a strong conscience for treating the local environment with awe and respect. We believe that Cavan is a hidden-gem and located off the beaten track, so it is these types of people that we want to attract. Our overall mission is to combine fishing with a leave no trace policy.