From “THE BRIDGE”,
Community Journal Killaloe and Ballina
By Missy Knowles
A HAPPY MAN
Herman is a happy man.
Happy because he loves what
he does…
Herman Molenaar is one of the
rare people in this world who turned their passion for fun into a successful business.
Herman spends his days taking visitors and locals fishing. People in the Lough Derg will tell you that Herman is probably the most experienced fishing guide in County Clare and perhaps one of the best in Ireland.
But Herman wasn’t always happy. He says “I worked for a boss for two years that was enough.”
Then he laughs a deep laugh that can only come from a man who is 6 foot 6 and in perfect physical health. “Now” he says, “I do what I want! Fish, fish, fish!”
Herman’s enthusiasm for Lough Derg is contagious.
An experienced angler, he knows the lake so well that locals and visitors from all over the world come back to Killaloe year after year to avail of his knowledge and expertise as a fishing guide. When Herman says he offers “complete fishing packages”. He means it. FisHerman as he calls himself has it all. When you stay at his B & B, he provides you with everything. Free transport from Shannon Airport, your breakfast, a picnic lunch, a nice dinner in a local restaurant, a fishing boat and all the poles and equipment you will need.
But the real reason anglers come back season after season is for Herman’s service as an expert fishing guide.The warm hospitality at his immaculate, well appointed B & B located in the centre of the historic village of Killaloe is an unbeatable bargain.
If you are really “in” to angling you can find every conceivable type of fishing gadget is his Lures & Tackle Shop. He has it all from fishing boats, to Bellyboats. A belly boat is the crazy contraption he’s sitting in grinning from ear to ear holding “a big old pike!” (Photo right) Although his Dutch accent offers a clue that he is actually from Holland fisHerman exudes a charm and warmth that is uniquely Irish. In addition, he knows all the best fishing spots on the lake!
Also read my own comment on the right![]()








