The Braid River drains the western side of the Antrim Plateau, it flows approximately 10 miles through the village of Broughshane and Ballymena town before joining the river Maine at Galgorm.  The Maine flows into Lough Neagh and on to the sea via the Lower River Bann.

The Braid is a very fast flowing streamy river, especially above Broughshane and runs through a very picturesque  area of mostly pasture farmland.  The river would be approximately 10 metres wide in this area.  It is quite heavily wooded on both sides but he best fishing areas have good access.

the river holds a very large stock of small wild Brown Trout, averaging 8-9 inches in length, with occasional large trout of over 12 inches.  It also enjoys an Autumn run of Salmon and Dollaghan (large Lough Neagh Trout) given suitable water conditions.

The Braid Angling Club was formed in 1950's, and currently has a membership of 250.  We are involved in a major re-stocking programme of Salmon and Dollaghan and in conjunction with other clubs on the Maine system have recently opened our own Hatchery.  We seek to promote good sportsmanship and best Angling practices together with other improvements to the river itself where possible.  The Club are members of the Ulster Angling Federation, The Anglers Conservation Association and the Maine Enhancement Partnership.

Day tickets are available for visiting anglers from McNeill's Hardware Shop, Main Street, Broughshane, and Mid Antrim Tackle, William Street, Ballymena.  Any queries about the fishing itself or club membership should be referred to the Club Secretary (TekL  02825861616).