River Erriff

Overview

The River Erriff (Irish: An tOirthir) is a short, energetic river that cuts a 16‑kilometre glacial valley in the west of Ireland before spilling over the spectacular Aasleagh Falls and emptying into Killary Harbour – Ireland’s only fjord. The river is fed by the confluence of the Owenree and Owenmore streams at Glennacally and runs west‑south‑west parallel to the N59, passing under the historic Aasleagh Bridge. Its reputation as a “spate river” means the water can rise quickly after rain, creating lively riffles, deep fish‑holding pools and, at high flow, a thundering cascade at the falls.

History & Background

The Erriff Valley stretches from the historic village of Aughagower in the east, across the last narrow segment of County Mayo, to the Connemara mountains and finally Killary Harbour near Leenane. The valley’s dramatic backdrop includes the imposing “Devil’s Mother” peak, a distinctive silhouette that dominates the southern horizon. Historically the Erriff has been a prized salmon and sea‑trout fishery. In the early 1990s the river suffered from the impact of nearby salmon farms, but a concerted recovery effort has seen salmon runs rebound, with 200‑300 salmon typically returning each year. The river’s fishing heritage is managed by the Erriff Fishery, based at Aasleagh Lodge, a Victorian country house that was once owned by the Marquis of Sligo before passing to state control and later private management. The lodge, now wheelchair‑accessible, retains the character of a classic Irish fishing house while offering modern comforts.

Film & Culture

Aasleagh Falls gained a touch of cinematic fame when it featured in Jim Sheridan’s 1990 film The Field. The memorable fight scene was shot at the falls, adding a dramatic backdrop to the movie’s climax. Fans of Irish cinema often visit the site to recognise the location and enjoy the same wild scenery that framed the film.

What to See & Do

Aasleagh Falls

Just a kilometre north of the Galway‑Mayo border, Aasleagh Falls drops dramatically over a series of cascades into a rocky pool. The falls are a favourite spot for photographers, picnickers and anglers hoping to witness salmon leaping upstream. The waterfall is most impressive during a high‑water run, when the river’s volume turns the cascades into a roaring curtain.

Fishing

The Erriff is divided into nine “beats” – short stretches of river that are allocated to anglers on a rotating daily basis. Most beats allow two rods, with a maximum of three on a few. Fly‑fishing is the norm, though spinning, worm and prawn may be permitted by the fishery manager in special circumstances. The season runs from 1 April to 30 September for salmon, 1 June to 30 September for sea trout, and 15 February to 30 September for brown trout. Permit prices vary by date and beat; the most popular Beat 9 (the Falls Pool) carries a slightly higher rate.

Anglers can also fish the two adjoining loughs – Tawnyard (250 acres) and Derrintin – both of which support salmon, sea trout and brown trout. Only fly‑fishing and dapping are permitted on the loughs, and boats with outboard motors are available.

Walking the Western Way

The Western Way long‑distance trail begins at Aasleagh and follows the Erriff valley for five kilometres. Hikers enjoy views of Killary Fjord, the towering Ben Gorm, and the ominous “Devil’s Mother” peak. The route passes Houston Bridge, then enters the Coillte‑managed Tawnyard Forestry, where lodgepole pine dominates the landscape. A short detour brings walkers to the shoreline of Tawnyard Lough, home to a historic crannog island that dates back over 5,000 years. Continuing onward, the trail climbs the Sheeffry Pass, offering sweeping vistas of Saint Dabeoc’s Heath – which bursts into colour from May to October – and, on a clear day, the distant silhouette of Croagh Patrick. The walk finishes back at the river’s edge, where the roar of Aasleagh Falls provides a dramatic backdrop.

Wildlife

The Erriff valley supports a variety of wildlife. The river itself is home to Atlantic salmon, sea trout and brown trout, while the surrounding woodlands shelter red‑crowned cranes, peregrine falcons and otters. Deer and hares are common in the moorland, and the pools at the base of the falls often attract kingfishers and dippers.

Scenic Drives

The road from Westport to Leenane (N59) runs alongside the river for much of its length, providing countless pull‑outs for photo‑ops of the glacial valley, salmon streams and the occasional waterfall. The drive is frequently described as “fairytale‑like” because the river’s meanders are framed by rolling hills and ancient woodlands.

Practical Information

Access & Parking

Aasleagh Falls is reached via a short detour north of Leenane on the R335. Two small car parks sit on either side of the road near a sharp bend; they are free but require careful manoeuvring as walkers often share the space. There is no formal footpath to the falls, so visitors should expect a short stretch of uneven, possibly muddy terrain, especially after rain.

Getting there & public transport

The nearest town is Leenane, about 5 km east of the falls, where visitors can find cafés, a post office and accommodation. Bus Éireann route 450 runs between Westport and Leenane; the stop at Leenane is a short taxi or shuttle ride from the river valley. The nearest rail station is Westport, offering connections to Dublin and other major towns. From Westport, visitors can catch the 450 bus or hire a car to reach the Erriff area.

Fishing Permits

Permits are issued by the Fishery Manager at Aasleagh Lodge (telephone: 095 42382). Anglers may arrange a permit in advance or on the day, though peak summer weeks can fill quickly. A gillie can be hired for an additional charge.

Kayaking & Whitewater

The lower kilometre of the river, culminating in the 12‑foot drop at Aasleagh Falls, is graded 2‑4 and attracts experienced kayakers during high water. Access is generally allowed outside the official fishing season (October‑March). The river’s left‑hand channel is preferred for most runs; the right channel becomes viable only in flood conditions. Paddlers should be aware of a small cauldron with a strong tow‑back near the falls and a concrete bridge that can pose a head‑impact hazard.

Coordinates

• Approximate centre of the river: 53.63446, ‑9.60617
• Put‑in (near Aasleagh Bridge): 53.63446, ‑9.60617
• Take‑out (just downstream of the falls): 53.61795, ‑9.67108

Contact & Services

• Aasleagh Lodge (Fishery office) – 095 42382 – email protected via contact form on the lodge website.
• Accommodation – Aasleagh Lodge offers nine bedrooms (eight en‑suite) with wheelchair access, peat fire, and views over Killary Fjord. Self‑catering cottages are also available on the estate.

Accessibility

While the lodge itself is fully wheelchair‑accessible, the natural terrain around the falls and the walking trail is uneven and may be challenging for mobility‑impaired visitors. The car parks are level, but the path to the waterfall is unpaved.

Fees & Entry

There is no admission charge to view Aasleagh Falls or to walk the Western Way section. Fishing incurs the permit fees listed above; all other activities are free.

Nearby Attractions

• Ballina – Known as the “Salmon Capital of Ireland”, a short drive north offers additional fishing opportunities and the River Moy.
• Ballycroy National Park – Wild Nephin landscape with extensive walking routes, just 30 km west of the Erriff.
• Aasleagh Falls – The dramatic cascade featured above, with a short interpretive trail.
• Ben Gorm – The mountain that dominates the western skyline, popular with hikers.
• Killary Harbour – Ireland’s only fjord, ideal for boat trips and sea‑kayaking.

Why River Erriff?

River Erriff offers a rare combination of dramatic waterfall scenery, world‑class salmon fishing, and a slice of the iconic Connemara landscape. Whether you are casting a line, paddling a kayak, or simply soaking in the roar of Aasleagh Falls, the river delivers an authentic western Irish experience that is both rugged and welcoming.