Woodford Fly Fishery

The lake sits quiet on the outskirts of Larne, water so still in the early morning you can practically see straight to the bottom. Woodford Fly Fishery is exactly what it sounds - a proper working fishery where you cast for trout and pike, not a theme park with a fishing simulator. Bring a rod or rent one, wade in chest-deep, and settle in for the day. It's the sort of place that demands patience and rewards silence.

This is genuinely for anglers, not casual tourists looking for a photo opportunity. If you've never fly fished before, the staff are patient with beginners, but they won't be entertaining you if you're just killing an afternoon. Children can come along if they're interested in actual fishing rather than splashing about - boredom sets in fast otherwise.

You'll want to check opening times and whether you need a permit before driving out from Larne - the fishery isn't particularly marked. Expect to spend at least four hours here to make it worthwhile. Spring through autumn is peak season, though winter pike fishing attracts serious enthusiasts.

If you're camping at Down to Earth Wild Camping nearby, this makes a solid half-day activity, assuming the weather holds and the fish are biting. It won't work as a backup plan if the weather turns foul, and it's definitely not the place to drag along anyone who isn't interested in fishing.