Burkes History

John P. Burke

Our boats are built by long established boatbuilders J. Burke & Sons. From sons to grandsons, all have contrinuted to making the Burke Boats for over 130 years. Pat Burke started designing and building boats at his island home on Inishdurra, Lough Mask in 1879. As a fisherman, he wanted a boat that would withstand all weather conditions expected in the large Irish lakes.

Since "Anglers Fancy" G.R.P. first came to the market over 30 years ago, it has been tried and tested by the angler and leisure user, in all weather conditions. The simulated clinker construction boat, based on the original Burke "Anglers Fancy" wooden boats used on the great western lakes, is built by modern day craftsmen who have pride in their work, as did their forefathers.

Karl Burke

A long tradition handed down
Karl Burke, 5th generation Burke, in charge in his office taking an order.

John Paddy Burke, Master craftsman and boat builder for over 50 years has a skilled knowledge passed down from 3 generations. He is a qualified boat building instructor and worked for two years for the VEC. John is also deeply involved in angling organistaions and is currently holding the position of P.R.O. of the Trout Anglers Federation of Ireland. He is well known for the active roll he takes in highlighting pollution problems and all other concerns facing anglers nationally. Over the years he has been very successful in negotiating with Government and Government departments on behalf of the angling fraternity.


	Anglers Fancy 19 ft Classic 19 ft Comfort 19 ft Supreme 17 ft Classic 10 ft Dingy
	What the Experts Say: "After having fished in World Championships in a number of countries using various boats, I have no doubt in my mind that the best boats were 19ft Burke 'Anglers Fancy' boats we used in the World Championships in Ireland in '95. Malcolm Cross - Fly Fishing Australia Inc. More...