The Blackwater is almost entirely privately owned and is fortunate to be able to offer some of the best beats on the river, spread over a 40kilometre stretch from Killavullen and Ballyhooly down to Ballyduff.
The fishery have four beats available at all times, and can also arrange other beats as required, so that it can offer a wide variety of spring, summer and early autumn fishing. Some beats are restricted to fly and spinning only. While some pools can be fished from the bank, as a general rule wading (depending on water conditions) is necessary, and chest waders are required. Maps of the various beats can be provided.
The Salmon Season on the Blackwater:
FEBRUARY / MARCH
Early spring run, with fish averaging 7-10lb. As water conditions are generally high and the water is cold, spinning is more likely to be successful, usingspoons, large devons, or Flying Cs,with a rod 10-12'. Fly fishing ispossible with a 14-15' rod, sinkingline, and fairly large flies, includingt ubes and waddingtons up to 3". Use of worms or natural baits in an effort to preserve stocks is not allowed.
APRIL / MAY
Spring run, with fish averaging 7-12lb.Depending on water conditions, flyfishing comes into its own, with 14-15' rods and sink-tip or intermediate lines, and flies from size 10 to 3" depending on conditions. Spinning is with 10-12' rods, and devons or flying Cs.
JUNE / JULY / EARLY AUGUST
Grilse run, with fish averaging 2-5lb,and some larger summer salmon. For fly fishing, rods 12-14' are used, with floating or sink-tip lines, and flies from size 8 to 14 depending on water conditions. Spinning with lighter rods and lures.
LATE AUGUST / SEPTEMBER
Late summer salmon and grilse, and early autumn salmon, with fish from 3to 20lb. Tackle is dependent on water conditions. In low water, fly fishing with 12-14' rods and floating or sink-tip lines with flies from size 10-14, in higher water 14-15' rods and sink-tip or intermediate lines with flies size 6-10.
Spinning in low water with light rods Flying Cs and devons, and in high water with heavier rods and larger lures and spoons.
OCTOBER
As per September. The river Blackwater season has been extended from 01 to12 October on a catch and release basis using artifical fly only.
