La Saâne
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:
- South of Longueil (just north of Camping de la Vallée)
- 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.
(Map locations for the beats are available on this page.)
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