Our Work > Waterways & Stewardship > Fishing & Rivers
Shared rivers. Time in nature. Responsible access.
Our rivers are shared spaces. They are places where people spend time outdoors, connect with nature and experience the changing landscapes of the North West and North Coast — from wider, slower rivers to smaller local stretches shaped by the communities around them.
Angling plays an important role in how people experience and care for these places. It supports wellbeing, strengthens community connection and contributes to long-term stewardship when approached responsibly.
We work with local partners and angling clubs to support access to fishing across the region, helping ensure that rivers remain valued, respected and sustained for future generations.
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The Society's role
We are custodians of fishing rights across parts of Northern Ireland and manage access in ways that support long-term stewardship. In practice, this means we enable responsible angling by working with local angling clubs and community organisations who oversee day-to-day activity on the ground, alongside fisheries managed directly by the Society. This partnership model helps connect participation with care for rivers and fish populations, and supports shared responsibility for these assets over time.
Why this matters
Rivers and waterways are part of the wider life of communities across the region. They support biodiversity, recreation and local identity, and they are places where people come together.
For many, time spent by rivers — whether fishing, walking or simply being present — is part of how people connect with place and with each other.
Because rivers are shared environments, responsible use matters. Supporting good practice and local stewardship helps protect habitats and sustain fishing opportunities for future generations.
The role of angling
Angling plays an important role in how rivers are experienced, valued and cared for across the region.
As an individual activity, it provides time outdoors, supports wellbeing and offers a way to connect with the natural environment through patience, observation and skill.
As a shared activity, angling brings people together — whether through informal participation, organised groups or structured programmes. It creates opportunities for people to learn from one another, build relationships and take part in shared experiences in and around rivers.
At a community level, angling contributes to the life of places. Local angling clubs help maintain access, support participation and care for river environments. Through their work, they sustain the practical conditions that allow rivers to be used responsibly.
This also supports intergenerational connection. Skills, knowledge and traditions are often passed on over time — helping connect people not only to rivers, but to each other and to place.
Together, these activities contribute to stewardship. By supporting responsible use and active participation, angling helps ensure that rivers remain valued as shared assets — supporting both community life and environmental care over the long term.
Access and participation
Access to fishing is provided through a single booking route, with day-to-day management typically overseen by local angling clubs and partners.
This approach helps ensure fishing is managed responsibly and in line with local conditions. It also supports a model where participation, care for the environment and local knowledge are closely connected.
If you are new to fishing, or looking for information about access, the booking system and local rules provide the most up-to-date guidance for each location.