The River Blackwater, the longest river in the Cork Kerry Region rises about 6 km from Ballydesmond on the slopes of Knockanefune mountain. This river is approximately 160 Km long. It is a most important game and coarse angling river, and it enters the sea at Youghal in east Cork. Some of the tributaries that feed this river provide good fishing for Brown Trout.
Game Angling Areas: The River Blackwater is an excellent Salmon water with an international reputation for good fishing given suitable angling conditions. 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. The River Funshion rises in North Cork near the county boundary and flows from a north-westerly to join the River Blackwater near Fermoy. This river holds good stocks of Brown Trout. There are a number of angling Clubs involved in the fishing here, and local enquiries should be made in Fermoy in regard to the availability of day permits. Some local Trout angling clubs have access to trout angling on the Blackwater and local enquiries will provide up to date details. The River Bride joins the River Blackwater south of Cappoquin and holds stocks of Sea Trout in its lower reaches. The Ballymaquirke Fishery in the Banteer area controls some good Salmon beats on the Upper Blackwater. Some local Trout angling clubs have access to trout angling on the Blackwater and local enquiries will provide up to date details.
Coarse Angling Areas: 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.