These were formed when the site ceased working as a limestone quarry some 15 years ago. As a result the water quality is superb, with crystal clear visibility making the location particularly suitable for scuba dive training. As the lakes are fed only by natural springs through limestone rock, they have been successfully developed as a Rainbow Trout fishing centre. The lakes were stocked some years ago and have successfully retained and nurtured the fish. The stocking programme at the lakes will continue.
Anglers can fish either from the bank or by boat.
Rod licences are not required and fly rods, spinning rods and tackle can be hired at the site. The lakes are ideal for canoeing, rock climbing, abseiling and other forms of outdoor pursuits since the lakes provide stable sheltered waters all year round. In particular, dive training in Ireland is beset by the weather in that many of the coastal locations can be subject adverse weather conditions with poor visibility and rough seas often disrupt training schedules. One of the main attractions of Ballyhass is the dependability of the diving conditions. The lakes are managed Davy Donovan from Shanballymore who is a well-known Trout fisherman.