River Lesse in Lesse

Fly Fishing on the Lesse River in Belgium’s Ardennes

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of the Belgian Ardennes, the Lesse River offers a magnificent fly fishing experience. Its clear waters, surrounded by dense forests and steep cliffs, create a serene backdrop for anglers. The river is home to brown trout and chub, making it an ideal destination for light fly fishing.

Fishing Conditions & Techniques

The Lesse is highly wadeable, with stretches suitable for both beginners and experienced anglers. Effective fly patterns include:

• Dry flies
• Nymphs
• Streamers (even small trout may strike large Wooly Buggers!)

Seasonal variations in water levels, influenced by rainfall, can affect wading difficulty.

Access Points & Wading Tips

The best starting point is the village of Lesse, where you can park near a BBQ area and prepare your gear. From there:

• Upstream (left): Easier wading, with consistent depth.
• Downstream (right): More challenging—deeper sections and secluded riffles. Be cautious to avoid spooking fish.

Note: Google Maps incorrectly labels the river as "Lomme" near Lesse—it is, in fact, the Lesse.

Fishing Licenses

To fish the designated stretch (see map), you need:

1. A Wallonia regional fishing license (required for all fishing in Wallonia).
2. A local license from Amicale Des Pecheurs de Redu (€5/day or €25/year).
   • Obtain it by contacting Manuel via email (details here).
   • The website is in French, but Google Translate works well for communication.

Exploring Other Stretches & Rivers

For other parts of the Lesse and nearby rivers:

• Some small sections only require the Wallonia license, but these are often crowded picnic areas.
• Private stretches may require contacting local associations (e.g., FHPSBL or Maison de la Pêche).
• Language tip: Most information is in French—use Google Translate for emails and websites.

Target Species

While other fish may inhabit the area, this stretch is best known for:

• Brown trout
• Chub

Final Tips

• Wading caution: The riverbed is rocky—watch your step.
• Timing: Early mornings or evenings are ideal, especially in summer when crowds thin and insect activity peaks.

With its stunning scenery and accessible fishing, the Lesse River is a hidden gem in the Belgian Ardennes. Tight lines!