River Idrijca

Description

The crystal-clear waters of the Idrijca River, with its numerous tributaries, offer an ideal habitat for fish, which is why the Idrija and Tolmin region boasts a long and rich fishing tradition. The first fishing rules in these regions were established as early as 1580. The river has a greenish tint due to algae that grows on the riverbed. Idrijca starts its journey near the village of Vojsko. Almost a dozen smaller streams join its waters in the first few kilometres, and the river quickly gains volume. As a mountain river, the water level is very weather-dependent and is influenced by the summer rains and snow melting in the spring. The upper course consists of shallow runs, rapids and deep pools between them. Further downstream, the river slows down its current. Here the riverbed consists mainly of gravel deposits, rapids become more gentle, deeper parts are predominant and are again followed by shallow runs.   

Fish Species

Although Idrijca is a tributary of Soča river, here the marble trout (Salmo marmoratus) has its own pigmentation pattern, unique for this river. This is one of the reasons why fly fishermen who visit Slovenia often set their eyes on trying to catch both subspecies. Idrijca is known to produce larger marble trout compared to Soča. Grayling (thymallus thymallus) , Rainbow trout (oncorhynchus mykiss) , Brown trout (Salmo trutta) and brown/marble hybrids also inhabit Idrijca`s waters. 

Type of fishing & equipment

Rods and Lines

The Marble trout is the biggest representative of the trout family, so we have to be prepared with strong and reliable tackle to have our chances to land a dream fish. 5 and 6 wt rods from 9 to 10 ft are recommended for dry fly and nymph fishing. When we want to chase marbles with a streamer, then a higher AFTMA from 8 to 10 is recommended for single-handed rods. 6 to 8 wt trout spey can also do an excellent job and help you keep your distance from those spooky fish. Floating lines are essential for the dry fly and nymph fishing. We often use sink tip lines and triple-density sinking shooting heads regarding streamers.

Flies
In most situations, the good old pheasant tail nymph works excellently with copper or silver beads from 3 to 4 mm. The marbles really prefer the nymphs’ natural colours, mostly imitating the nymphs of the Blue-winged Olives hatching at the beginning of the season.

Many good dry flies tied as mergers of the BWO or parachute style are always a good choice for the rising marbles. The famous Branko Killer pattern is a must-have, and you will have the unique opportunity to buy it from its creator and hear his story.

Sculpin imitations are always a good choice as they are a big marble favourite food choice. Other bigger streamers in olive, white and grey colours up to 16cm in length can be successfully used.

Tactic and Strategy
Long leaders up to 18 ft are essential when dry fly fishing. Different nymph fishing strategies can be used.  Some European-style techniques can also be extremely effective for marble trout and also be used for heavier jig streamers.

Regarding streamers, perhaps the short shooting heads used with a trout spey rod with different sinking rates can work excellently.

Season and regulations

Fishing season starts on the 1st of April and ends on the 31st of October. Fly fishing is the only allowed method. 

The river is divided and managed by two fishing clubs. From its source to the bridge in Stopnik the area is managed by the local fishing club called Idrija Fishing Association. This river stretch is divided into three sections (A, B and Trophy). The other area has a length of 16.2 kilometers and is managed by the Fishing Club of Tolmin.  It starts at the bridge in Stopnik and goes down to the bridge in Idrija pri Baci. 

The trophy zone of Idrija Fishing Association is only allowed if practicing Catch & Release.

Since this year certain part of the Trophy area is dry fly only.

Parts of district A and B are allowed for Catch & Harvest depending on the fishing license. 

Allowed methods – only one fly tied. All types of artificial flies (dry, wet, nymphs, streamers). All types of fly lines, leaders, and tippets (sinking, floating). Flies tied on a single hook with no barb. Fishing is allowed from official sunrise to sunset (data from Environmental Agency of Slovenia). 

Mandatory gear – Fishing permission and pencil, Forceps/Clamps and knotless landing net. 

Not allowed – Extra weight of fly line, leader, tippet or flies. Indicators of any type. Fishing from bridges, roads, dams, or similar structures. Moving between districts (depending on the permission type)  

  Season    Top Season

Please do not hesitate to contact us for tailor-made trip planning and rates, as well as other information required.

Fly Fishing Destination in Slovenia