The Lot River (Aveyron, France)
A breathtaking waterway weaving through dramatic landscapes
Aveyron: A Fly Fisher’s Paradise
Tucked within the rugged beauty of the Massif Central, Aveyron stands as one of France’s most expansive departments. Its soul is etched by sweeping vistas—from the windswept Aubrac plateau to the serpentine gorges carved by the Truyère, Lot, Aveyron, and Tarn rivers.
Fly Fishing on the Lot
The Lot River offers fly anglers an unforgettable challenge. Northern stretches, tinted by volcanic basalt and granite, yield acidic waters, while southern currents—clear and limestone-fed—demand stealth and precision.
Target Species
While diverse fish inhabit these waters, the spotlight here falls on:
- Chub
- Brown Trout
- Grayling
Nestled in the breathtaking Finkenberg region of Austria, the Zemmbach River winds through 18 kilometers of pristine alpine scenery, with elevations ranging from 800 to 1800 meters. Originating from mountain springs, this crystal-clear waterway culminates at the stunning Schlegeisspeicher reservoir.
Anglers will find diverse fishing experiences along its course—from tranquil dry-fly sections teeming with trout in small pools to exhilarating rapids perfect for Czech nymphing techniques. Adventurous fishermen can navigate rocky stretches, while the reservoir offers bellyboat fishing (with optional motorized floats available for rent at Zum Schneider—advance booking recommended).
Fishing permits cost €25 per day, with an additional one-time €15 fee for the Tirolerfischerei license, valid for two weeks across Tyrol. For optimal experience, hiring a local guide is advised, especially for multi-day fishing trips.
Primary fish species include:
- Brook Trout
- Brown Trout
- Rainbow Trout
(Note: Additional species may inhabit these waters beyond those currently listed.)
Fly Fishing Paradise: Oklahoma’s Lower Illinois River
Nestled in the United States, the Lower Illinois River is a premier year-round fly fishing destination, teeming with diverse species like striper, rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, buffalo, and catfish. Its pristine, natural setting caters to both casual anglers and dedicated enthusiasts, offering an unparalleled fishing experience.
Record-Breaking Catches
This river has witnessed remarkable fishing achievements, including a massive 47.8 lb striped bass, alongside trophy-sized rainbow trout and redhorse.
Year-Round Trout Stocking
Unlike seasonal fisheries, the Lower Illinois River maintains a continuous trout stocking program, ensuring abundant opportunities for anglers.
Prime Trout Fishing Zone
A dedicated 7.75-mile trout stretch runs from the Tenkiller Ferry Dam to the U.S. 64 bridge near Gore, Sequoyah County, providing ample space for fly fishing.
Access & Amenities
- Simp and Helen Watts Management Unit: Features nearly a mile of trout stream and 320 acres of hunting land, accessible via State Highway 100 (4 miles north of Gore). Parking and walk-in access are available.
- Additional Access Points: Four public spots along the river, including a productive pool below the dam and the River Road Public Access Area (6 miles downstream), which offers camping and boat launches.
Regulations at a Glance
- Brown Trout: 1 daily, min. 20 inches.
- Rainbow Trout: 6 daily, no size limit (except in the USGS gauge-to-Gravel Pit section: 1 daily, min. 20 inches).
- Simp and Helen Watts Unit: Artificial flies/lures only, barbless hooks mandatory for trout. Natural bait allowed for non-trout species with specific hook rules.
Target Species Spotlight
While the river hosts a variety of fish, key catches include:
- Brown Trout
- Largemouth Bass
- Rainbow Trout
- Striped Bass
Whether chasing trophies or enjoying serene waters, the Lower Illinois River delivers an unforgettable angling adventure.
Lac de la Gruyère (Lake Gruyère)
Switzerland 🏞️🎣
Fly Fishing for Pike and Perch in Lac de la Gruyère
Created by the construction of the Rossens Dam in 1948, Lac de la Gruyère has become a premier destination for fly anglers in Switzerland. Spanning 13.5 km, this reservoir boasts diverse underwater structures and thriving fish populations, making it an exciting spot for those chasing pike and perch.
Target Species & Fishing Insights
While pike and perch dominate the fly fishing scene here, the lake also holds roach, burbot, and the elusive brown trout—though the latter rarely takes flies due to their deep-water habits.
Pro Tips for Success
- Structure Matters: Focus on submerged features and depth changes where predatory fish ambush prey.
- Gear Adjustments: If perch start hitting your pike streamer, downsize your tackle—they often school, so one strike may signal more nearby.
- Thrill Factor: Expect explosive strikes from both species, guaranteeing an adrenaline-packed day.
Regulations
As public waters, Lac de la Gruyère requires compliance with Swiss fishing laws. Always secure the proper permits before casting your line.
Note: While other species inhabit these waters, this guide highlights the prime fly-fishing targets—perch and pike.
Hunters of the Dutch Wetlands
The Netherlands 馃ゥ馃ヅ
Apex predators thriving in the iconic polder ecosystem
The Dutch polders offer diverse fishing opportunities, but pursuing their dominant predator species delivers truly unforgettable moments.
Exploring these centuries-old engineered landscapes is rewarding enough, but the adrenaline surge of landing a massive pike on fly gear elevates the experience to another level.
Target Species
While other fish inhabit these waters, these formidable predators dominate the ecosystem:
- European perch (Perca fluviatilis)
- Northern pike (Esox lucius)
- Zander (Sander lucioperca)
The polder’s unique hydrology creates ideal hunting grounds for these aquatic ambush predators.