The River Blackwater is approximately 160km long and is excellent for salmon fishing, however many of the best parts of the river are privately controlled. Some of the well-known areas include the Careysville Fishery, and the Dempster Fisheries. The Blackwater Lodge Hotel near Ballyduff at the eastern end of the river also has access to some excellent water but this is outside of the County Cork part of the River Blackwater. Ballyvolane House near Castlelyons also has access to some good salmon angling. Some privately owned salmon fishing is also available in the Mallow area. Some local trout angling clubs have access to trout angling on the Blackwater and local enquiries will provide up to date details.
The River Blackwater in the Fermoy area provides good coarse angling primarily for Roach and Dace. The main water above the town is the Barnane Walk, and the waters upstream of the walk. This is an amenity walk that starts at the town bridge in Fermoy, and runs west, upstream on the southern bank of the river. Access to the Barnane walk is excellent, and the access is also suitable for disabled anglers. Access here is good.