Antrim & District Angling Association manages the Six Mile Water river system fishery, from Doagh Bridge near Ballyclare to where the river spills into Lough Neagh in Antrim town. With more than 20 miles of river, there are always plenty of new stretches to explore, even for long-time members and repeat visitors. Day permits are only available through our website here.
Lower Town Stretch (Antrim)
The Six Mile Water turns through the heart of the town before passing through the picturesque gardens of Clotworthy House, part of the historic Antrim Castle estate. It then flows beneath Deer Park Bridge and follows the scenic public footpath towards the Lough Shore. Just 200 metres before reaching Lough Neagh, it is joined by Plaskett’s Burn—formed by the merging of the Steeple Burn, Holywell Burn, and the Dunsilly Burn which enters and leaves Potterswall Dam.
This stretch of the river offers ample parking and easy access, making it a popular spot for anglers. With its wider and deeper sections, it often holds a good stock of fish. The A&DAA Course Fishery extends from Deerpark Bridge downstream to Lough Neagh, providing excellent fishing opportunities in a tranquil setting.
Upper Town Stretch (Antrim)
The Upper Town Stretch of the river offers both a rich fishing experience and a glimpse into Ulster’s industrial past. Flowing into town past Graingers Mill, the river splits around a diamond-shaped island before passing beneath Muckamore Bridge, an area historically known as the Arches. It then curves around Thorer’s Stretch, once home to a bustling flax mill and later fur mill, before meandering through the Moylinny Banks and the Mill Race Trail, where the ruins of two more mills still stand as silent reminders of the region’s heritage. The river deepens and slows through the Long Hole, a favoured spot for lure anglers, before cascading over Barbour’s Weir and its salmon boxes. Beyond this, it continues through agricultural fields before reaching the town centre.
This stretch can offer excellent fishing, although with much of it alongside a public footpath the fly angler especially must be careful of back casts. Regardless, with its mix of deep pools, steady flows, and historic charm it offers a variety of opportunities and challenges.
Summerhill to Dunadry
The Summerhill to Dunadry stretch of the river offers a balance of wild beauty and accessibility, making it a favorite among anglers seeking a more secluded fishing experience. Flowing through the historic townland of Dunadry—its name tied to the waterways—this section of the river is steeped in heritage. First recorded in 1251 as Dunedergel, the name is thought to derive from Dún Eadarghabhal, meaning "fort between forks," referring to an ancient fort at the confluence of the Six Mile Water and Rathmore Burn. As the river runs past the Dunadry Hotel, a former linen mill that still retains much of its original character, it enters a slow-moving section known as the BMC. From there, it snakes down to the School Pool before continuing through rolling farmland towards Summerhill.
With a mix of deep pools and faster shallow flows, not to mention a peaceful rural backdrop, this stretch provides excellent opportunities for fishing by a variety of methods.
Templepatrick Stretch
The Templepatrick stretch of the river offers a countryside fishing experience for anglers, but with access points limited, more walking is needed. Parking is available at Paradise Walk, and the club maintains stiles for several miles in both directions. Downstream, the Six Mile Water flows along the back of Templepatrick Golf Club, while upstream it twists through agricultural fields towards the village of Doagh. This stretch is ideal for those who enjoy exploring, with the river winding discreetly through the County Antrim countryside.