Lower Lough Erne is the northern section of the two-lake Erne system in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland, connected to Upper Lough Erne via the River Erne through Enniskillen. Known locally as the "broad lough," it is a vast, open expanse of water with a rugged shoreline, and it forms part of the 42-mile Lough Erne Canoe Trail — one of the most popular canoe trails in Northern Ireland. Access to the water is free and no licence is required for paddling.

The defining characteristic of Lower Lough Erne for paddlers is its exposure. Unlike the sheltered Upper Lough with its maze of islands and narrow channels, the Lower Lough is wide and open, capable of generating large waves during windy conditions. This makes it suitable for experienced paddlers only, particularly north of the Rossigh Access Point. Wind direction is a far more significant factor than water flow when planning a route, and paddlers should select their course according to prevailing conditions. The Erne system flows south to north — from Upper to Lower Lough — but the current on the lough sections is negligible.

The trail's numbered access points run from Muckross on the Lower Lough to Crom Estate on the Upper Lough, and the trail can be paddled in either direction. Because many routes allow paddlers to start and finish at the same location, shuttles are generally not required, though local hire providers can assist with logistics. Canoe, kayak, and other watercraft hire is available through operators such as Castle Archdale Boat Hire & Watersports.

Notable landmarks on and around Lower Lough Erne include Devenish Island, home to an 81-foot 12th-century round tower that serves as a visible navigation aid from the water. The island was founded as a monastic settlement by Saint Molaise in the 6th century and was historically a centre of cultural and spiritual life in Fermanagh. Boa Island and White Island feature enigmatic Celtic stone carvings, and the area around Belleek and Castle Caldwell offers additional historical interest. A wild campsite is available at Trory, near Devenish Island.

The broader Erne system connects southward to the Shannon–Erne Waterway, making it possible to extend a paddle trip as far as Limerick for those undertaking longer expeditions.