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Nestled in Ulster, the Cleggan River offers a compact 7.7 km stretch where coarse anglers will find solid populations of pike, perch, roach, bream, and rudd throughout the system. While game fish are off-limits after dark, coarse fishers typically enjoy night-fishing opportunities—though it's worth checking with the local club beforehand to confirm current permissions. This modest river rewards patient anglers with consistent action, particularly for those targeting pike and perch in its quieter pools.
The Cleggan River is best known as a coarse and predator river, with pike reaching specimen proportions in the deeper pools. Lure fishing with plugs and soft plastics works well close to overhanging banks and reedbeds.
A DAERA rod licence is required for game fishing on Cleggan River. Coarse anglers do not need a licence on most Northern Ireland waters but should confirm local club access before fishing.
The Cleggan River holds pike, perch, roach, bream, rudd. Pike are widespread and provide excellent sport on lures and deadbaits.
A DAERA rod licence is required for game fishing.
These methods are most effective for the species present on this stretch of river:
River pike are often leaner and more aggressive than their lough counterparts. Lure fishing with medium-sized plugs (8–12cm), spinnerbaits and rubber shads works well, particularly when worked close to overhanging banks and reedbeds. Upstream deadbaiting in slower pools accounts for the larger fish in autumn and winter. Use a 15kg wire trace at all times.
River coarse fishing in Ireland is often best with a waggler or stick float allowed to drift naturally through productive glides and pools. Loose-feed with maggots or casters little and often to build a swim. Feeder fishing with groundbait is effective in deeper, slower stretches for bream. Trotting a float downstream with the current is a highly enjoyable way to cover water and locate feeding fish.
River fishing in Ireland varies significantly by season — here is a guide to what to expect throughout the year:
River coarse fish begin moving as water temperatures rise. Pike are still feeding well in the cooler water. A good time to locate holding pools.
River levels typically drop and clarity increases — fish become visible and more wary. Evening dry fly fishing for trout can be exceptional. Coarse fish congregate in deeper, cooler pools and eddies during the heat of the day.
The best time for specimen coarse fish as fish feed heavily. Pike reach peak condition and feed aggressively on baitfish shoals.
River levels are typically higher and more coloured. Pike fishing is at its best in slow, deep pools. Grayling (where present) thrive in cold, clear water. Exercise caution around swollen rivers and always fish with a companion where possible.
Ireland has some of the most accessible fishing from the UK, with multiple ferry routes running year-round. The most popular crossings for anglers with heavy kit are the Fishguard–Rosslare and Holyhead–Dublin routes. Northern Ireland venues are best accessed via the Cairnryan–Belfast crossing.
Ireland's game and coarse fisheries are managed by Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI). Coarse fishing (carp, bream, roach, pike) is largely free on most public waters — no licence required. Game fishing (trout, salmon, sea trout) requires an annual licence and often a beat permit. Always check IFI guidance at fishinginireland.info before your trip.
A DAERA rod licence is required for game fishing on the Cleggan River. Coarse fishing is generally free. Always confirm access with DAERA or the local angling club before visiting.
Located in Antrim, the Cleggan River is a classic Irish river with pike, perch, roach, bream and rudd fishing. Always respect riparian landowners and check local rules before fishing.