Location
Northwestern region of Slovenia; 2 hours ahead of GMT.
Spring
Lake fed river, Lake Bohinj. Altitude: 526 m. above sea level
Characteristics
Lake fed river, 30-150 m wide, depth varies from 0.5 to 15 m. Leight: 944 kilometers. Sava is a tributary of the Danube river.
Description
The Sava River is formed from the Sava Dolinka and the Sava Bohinjka headwaters in northwest Slovenia. It is the longest river on the Balkans, the main tributary of the Danube river and forms the northwestern border of Balkan peninsula with Europe’s mainland. Two thirds of the river’s lower course is navigable for larger vessels, which makes it an important transport link. In its upper course the river is a valued spot among fly fishermen around the world. The riverbed consists of gravel beds, deep pools and narrow rocky passages. Water levels correspond directly to the lake Bohinj level. Sava`s waters usually remain crystal clear unless they are disturbed by heavy rain in the area.
Fish Species
More than 30 fish species represent aquatic life, but we are more interested in the ones that inhabit the river’s upper course. Sava offers one of the best fishing conditions for salmonids in Slovenia. Species like Huchen (Hucho hucho), Brown trout (Salmo trutta), Rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and European Grayling (Thymallus thymallus) hold abundant populations in these waters. The rivers in the Sava basin are considered the last home of the Huchen. This is one of the reasons why this species is so valued here. But, Huchen are not that easy to catch. Because of the clear water and the heavy fishing pressure, most visitors rely on guides who have mastered the fishing of this notorious predator. Yet a lot of patience is required to catch one. Trout and Grayling of huge sizes are often caught in these waters and are well worth the trip.
Type of fishing & equipment
Awaiting update
Season and regulations
Fishing season for trout starts on the 1st of April and ends on the 31st of October. Huchen is only allowed for fishing in winter months, the season opens on 1st of December till 15th of February. Grayling on the other hand can be caught from 1st of April till November 30th.
The river is divided by zones, each managed by a local fishing organization. Allowed fishing methods are fly and spin fishing with artificial fly or lure. Only one rod is allowed and having a landing net is requred.
Fish January February March April May June July August September October November December
Trout
Grayling
Huchen
Season Top Season
Capacity
Maximum 6 persons per trip.
Safety
More about our safety ranking system, you can read here.
Sunglasses, hats, sun lotion, mosquito repellent, waterproof clothes and wading staff are recommended. We always provide them, but you might prefer to take your own.
Nearest airports
Ljubljana Airport in Slovenia (25 minutes drive to Radovljica). Zagreb Airport Franjo Tuđman in Croatia (2 hours drive to Radovljica)
Lodge
Awaiting update
What Else
Lake Bled is Slovenia’s most popular tourist attraction and although it’s getting more and more famous, it’s still relatively unknown compared to other European landmarks. It is also the only place that has an island with a church in the middle of it! Without a doubt Bled is one of the most picturesque locations in Slovenia and a great open water location.A popular thing to do here is to do walks around Lake Bled. The total distance is 6 km and it takes roughly an hour and a half, longer if you stop frequently. The views are gorgeous and along the way you may come across some very pretty swimming spots. Although it is an alpine lake, Bled is fed by springs at the lake`s bottom which are relatively warm.
Gallery
Fly Fishing Destination in Slovenia
