Predators in the Polders

Location

La Saâne

Dawn patrol

La Saâne, France 🇫🇷: Serenity and Wild Trout Between the Cows

The Saâne is a hidden gem for fly fishing enthusiasts. Tucked away in the French countryside, this beautiful river offers a serene escape with its wild trout population—primarily brown trout, though lucky anglers might encounter sea trout or even salmon, as the river flows into the sea at Quiberville, allowing fish to migrate.

Fishing Beats

We focus on two excellent stretches:

  1. South of Longueil (just north of Camping de la Vallée)
  2. Saâne-Saint-Just (further downstream)

Both are fly fishing only and strictly catch-and-release, ensuring sustainable fishing practices.

License Requirements

Obtaining a fishing license in France has become simpler for tourists. You can purchase a holiday license (valid for one week) online at cartedepeche.fr for around €34 (2023). When selecting your license, choose Dieppe (76200) as the department. While this license covers most waters, always verify local regulations.

Bank Fishing & Wading

Most fishing can be done from the bank, but wading is permitted when water levels are low. However, the trout here are wild and easily spooked—move slowly and observe carefully.

Both beats are set in meadows grazed by cows. While the cattle are generally docile (Pascal, a local angler, has fished here for years without issue), always be respectful and cautious around them.

Wild Trout & Tactics

The Saâne’s trout are highly sensitive, so stealth is key. Before casting:

  • Observe for rising fish.
  • Approach carefully from a distance.
  • If no fish are surfacing, try nymphing with patterns like a Hare’s Ear or Pheasant Tail.

Recommended Flies

  • Mayflies (best in May/June)
  • Sedges & Caddis imitations (when fish are rising but no mayflies are present)
  • Pascal’s secret weapon: A Red Tag

Fish Species

While other species may inhabit the area, the Saâne is primarily known for:

  • Brown Trout
  • Sea Trout (rare but possible)

Final Tip

A special thanks to Pascal, a local expert, for sharing his knowledge. With patience and the right approach, the Saâne offers a rewarding fly fishing experience—quiet, unspoiled, and full of surprises.

La Saâne

(Map locations for the beats are available on this page.)

This version improves flow, eliminates redundancy, and organizes information for clarity while keeping the original charm. Let me know if you’d like any further refinements!

Location

River Lesse in Lesse

Dawn patrol

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.

River Lesse in Lesse

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!

Location

River Ribnik

Dawn patrol

Fly Fishing Paradise: The Ribnik River, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Nestled in the heart of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Ribnik River is a fly fisher’s dream—a sanctuary of crystal-clear waters, tranquil surroundings, and abundant fish populations. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a nature enthusiast, Ribnik offers an unforgettable experience where pristine beauty meets world-class fishing.

River Ribnik

A Haven for Grayling and Trout

The river is renowned for its thriving populations of brown trout and grayling, with the latter often exceeding an impressive 50 cm in length. The clear, structured waters, rich in underwater vegetation, support a vibrant ecosystem of insect life, making it easier for anglers to "read" the river and select the right flies.

Uncrowded & Well-Managed Waters

What sets Ribnik apart is its strict management of fishing pressure. A limited number of daily licenses ensures an uncrowded environment, allowing anglers to enjoy solitude and serenity. The river flows gently through the village of Ribnik, offering easy wading and breathtaking scenery along its banks.

Fishing Techniques & Seasonal Opportunities

  • Dry fly fishing is the preferred method, though nymphing (with flies sized 18 to 24) is also highly effective.
  • The challenge of landing large brown trout or grayling—especially with the smaller flies required in most seasons—adds to the river’s allure.
  • While fishing is possible year-round, the official season runs from the first Saturday in April to the end of September, thanks to the river’s consistent flow.

Target Species

  • Brown Trout
  • Grayling
  • Rainbow Trout

For those seeking a blend of adventure, skill, and natural beauty, the Ribnik River stands as one of Europe’s finest fly fishing destinations. Whether you’re casting for trophy grayling or simply soaking in the peaceful surroundings, Ribnik promises an experience unlike any other.

Location

Le Lot (Aveyron region)

Dawn patrol

Fly Fishing Paradise: The Majestic Le Lot River in Aveyron, France

Aveyron: A Natural Gem in the Heart of France

Nestled in the Massif Central, Aveyron is one of France’s largest and most picturesque departments. Its landscapes are defined by the rugged Aubrac plateau and deep valleys carved by rivers such as the Truyère, Lot, Aveyron, and Tarn. Among these, the Le Lot River stands out as a fly fishing paradise, offering diverse waters set against a breathtaking backdrop.

Fly Fishing in the Le Lot River

The Le Lot River provides an exceptional fly fishing experience, with its waters varying dramatically along its course:

  • Northern Sections: Acidic waters, influenced by the region’s basaltic and granitic geology, create a unique habitat.
  • Southern Sections: Translucent, calcareous waters demand refined techniques and a stealthy approach.

Target Species

Le Lot (Aveyron region)

Anglers can expect to encounter a variety of prized fish species, including:

  • Brown Trout
  • Grayling
  • Chub

Whether you’re drawn by the challenge of its diverse conditions or the beauty of its surroundings, the Le Lot River in Aveyron is a must-visit destination for fly fishing enthusiasts.

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Location

Hofsá River Salmon Fishing

Dawn patrol

Revised Structure: Hofsá River Salmon Fishing, Iceland 🇮🇸

Introduction

The Hofsá River in Northeast Iceland offers fly fishers a unique and intimate salmon fishing experience. Unlike other European fisheries, anglers here use lighter tackle, floating lines, and smaller flies to target trophy Atlantic salmon amidst breathtaking scenery. The river’s pristine waters, combined with strong, migratory salmon, make it a dream destination for passionate anglers.

The Hofsá River Experience

The 53-mile-long Hofsá River is renowned for its productive salmon fishery, as well as opportunities to catch Arctic Char and Sea Trout. Privately managed with a conservation-focused approach, access is carefully regulated to preserve the ecosystem. Anglers can obtain licenses, hire guides, and stay in nearby accommodations while adhering to strict fishing rules. The season runs from June 24th to September 22nd, with an average catch exceeding 1,000 salmon per season.

What sets the Hofsá apart is the close-quarters fishing style. Instead of heavy two-handed rods, anglers use lighter single-handed rods (7- or 8-weight, 9–10 ft) and floating lines to present traditional swing flies. The salmon—strong, sea-fed, and aggressive—readily attack well-placed offerings as they migrate upstream.

Flies & Techniques

The river’s gravel-bed pools provide ideal resting spots for migrating salmon. Key fly patterns include:

  • Small flies (size 18–10): Autumn Hooker, Erna, Haugur, Colburn Special, Sunray Shadow tubes.
  • Specialized techniques: The Riffling Hitch (skimming flies on the surface) requires skill but is highly effective. For deeper pools, large streamer patterns (often tube flies) work best.

Early summer is particularly rewarding, as healthy Atlantic salmon surge upstream in large numbers. Prime pools replenish quickly—when one fish is caught, another often takes its place within an hour.

Hofsá River Salmon Fishing

Target Species

While the Hofsá is famed for its Atlantic Salmon, anglers may also encounter:

  • Arctic Char
  • Sea Trout

Conclusion

With its stunning landscapes, expertly managed waters, and thrilling fishing opportunities, the Hofsá River delivers an unforgettable experience for fly fishers. Whether you’re after a trophy salmon or the thrill of a surface strike, this Icelandic gem is a must-visit destination.

(Note: Removed redundant sections and tightened phrasing for clarity and impact.)

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