The River System
With a catchment area of 250 square miles and with its main tributary being of limestone nature, the excellent water quality provides the perfect habitat for salmon to thrive and survive.
The Ballisodare River is the name given to the two and a half miles of river formed by the meeting of two fairly large rivers, the Owenmore and Arrow or Unshin River, about half a mile below the town of Collooney. The river empties out into the estuary of Ballisodare Bay at the Falls in Ballisodare.
The river has something for every serious salmon angler, from the quieter upper reaches with wide pools and tree lined banks to the series of ledges and mini falls in Ballisodare Town.
Each section presents different tests of the angler’s ability, but all provide great sport for the novice and experienced angler alike. With a five-year average catch of over 1000 salmon, it is easy to see why Ballisodare is such a coveted location for the salmon angler.
A later opening date for the season and catch and release fishing has been introduced to help conserve the early spring salmon numbers.
