Overview
The Clodiagh River (Irish: An Chlódaigh), also known as the River Clodagh, is a modest but picturesque watercourse in north County Waterford. It rises in Lough Coumduala on the granite‑capped slopes of the Comeragh Mountains and runs about 28 km (≈15 miles) through the villages of Rathgormack, Clonea‑Power and Portlaw before joining the River Suir just outside Portlaw at Coolfin. Its catch‑area is fed by tributaries such as Hunts Stream and Aughtnawilliam Stream, giving the river a lively flow in wetter periods.
History & Background
In the 19th century the Clodiagh powered a small mill at Shanakill and later supplied water to the large Portlaw tannery, once one of the biggest industrial sites in the area. The tannery’s concrete‑walled weir, still visible today, regulated water flow for the processing vats. Today the rusted vats, broken machinery and concrete foundations line the riverbank, offering a striking industrial contrast to the surrounding pastoral landscape.
A tragic accident occurred in April 2010 when two canoeists were caught in the weir’s current and drowned. A safety notice now marks the weir as an impassable hazard for paddlers.
Activities
Kayaking & Canoeing
The river’s 28 km stretch provides grade 1‑3 white‑water, suitable for families, beginners and confident paddlers alike. The lower reaches near Portlaw feature a series of low stone and concrete bridges that add visual interest but can become hazardous at high water. The concrete‑walled weir downstream of the old tannery is a fixed hazard and must be portaged.
Seasonal tip: Spring rains raise water levels, creating more exciting rapids, while summer low flows are ideal for leisurely paddling.
Fishing
The Clodiagh supports healthy stocks of brown trout, Atlantic salmon and eels. Angling is regulated by the Thurles Holycross Ballycamus Angling Association; a permit from the association is required. On the lower reaches only fly‑only methods are permitted. Current limits are:
| Species | Season | Method | Size Limit | Bag Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brown Trout | 1 Mar – 30 Sep | Fly / Spin | 250 mm | 6 per angler |
| Atlantic Salmon | 1 Mar – 30 Sep | Fly / Spin | 250 mm | 6 per angler |
| Eel | 1 Mar – 30 Sep | Fly / Spin | – | – |
Fishing runs from 1 March to 30 September. A day‑ticket can be bought at the Portlaw Angling Club office.
Walking, Wildlife & Photography
Low‑level bridges provide easy crossing points and popular photo spots. The stone bridge at Rathgormack and the concrete bridge at Clonea are especially scenic when the river is in spate. The river corridor is a haven for wildlife: kingfishers, grey herons, otters and occasional salmon runs can be observed from the banks.
The walk from the source at Lough Coumduala to Portlaw follows quiet country lanes and well‑marked river paths. Dogs are welcome on the trails, provided they are kept under control.
Heritage Exploration
Visitors can trace the old mill site at Shanakill, view the stepping‑stone ruins, and follow the river through the former estate of Lord Waterford. The historic stone bridges and the tannery’s concrete structures give a tangible sense of the area’s industrial past.
Nearby Walks & Connections
The source of the Clodiagh lies within the popular Coumduala Loop, a 7 km circular walk that showcases the glacial corrie lake, waterfalls and panoramic mountain views. Combining the loop with a downstream walk along the Clodiagh makes for a varied day‑trip.
The river also links naturally with the Comeragh Mountains for hill‑walking and the Colligan River for further water‑based recreation.
Seasonal Tips
- Spring (March‑May): Higher water levels create more lively rapids – ideal for experienced kayakers; salmon are beginning their upstream run.
- Summer (June‑August): Lower flows are perfect for gentle paddling and family walks; trout fishing is at its peak.
- Autumn (September‑October): Colours change along the riverbanks, and the salmon run reaches its climax.
- Winter: The river can be fast‑flowing after heavy rain; access may be limited by flooding, especially at low‑lying bridges.
Practical Information
- Access: Free, with no admission charge.
- Parking: Informal lay‑bys along the R677 Carrick‑on‑Suir road, notably near the Clonea‑Power turn‑off and at the Portlaw river bridge.
- Public transport: The nearest bus stop is in Portlaw (Bus Éireann route 370), providing connections to Waterford city and Dungarvan.
- River‑level gauges: Installed at the Portlaw bridge and at the Clonea bridge; useful for paddlers and anglers.
- Fishing permits: Required from the Thurles Holycross Ballycamus Angling Association.
- Safety: The concrete‑walled weir is impassable; low bridges can be hazardous in high water. Always check the gauge before paddling.
- Dog‑friendly: Trails are open to dogs on a leash.
- Facilities: No dedicated facilities along the river; the nearest amenities are in Portlaw (café, public toilets).
Heritage Exploration
Visitors can trace the old mill site at Shanakill, view the stepping‑stone ruins, and follow the river through the former estate of Lord Waterford, where occasional glimpses of the private lands can be seen from the public road.