Although we’ve only just tipped into winter, it’s not too early to be thinking about spring and summer fishing in sunnier climes. To that end, Europe has some stunning fishing spots, is easily accessible and with plenty for non-fishers, is a ‘win-win’ as quick getaway for an angling fix along with some R&R and a spot of culture. Here are our top picks for European holidays with some fishing to enjoy:
SLOVENIA – a hidden gem bursting with natural beauty and wonderful architecture
Just a two hour flight and you can be nestled in the Julian Alps, a landscape more akin to New Zealand but not so far away. Crystal clear glacial streams tumble down mountainsides opening up into beautiful, prolific trout and grayling rivers.
Like Iceland, Slovenia offers the option for the shorter fishing trip, but it also offers a more diverse range of species. The most commonly encountered are rainbow trout and grayling but you will also see brown trout, brook trout and even marble trout.
It’s a great destination for combination trips with plenty of outdoor activities on offer along with a rich history, vibrant towns and villages, and a buzzing culinary scene.
We work with various hotels in Slovenia to provide you exactly what you are looking for.
ITALY – charming cities and fabulous food
Our Italian fly fishing portfolio centres on the northern regions of Trentino in the Dolomites and Val di Mastalone in the Piedmont region. Both fascinating trout fishing locations, the latter offers a paradise of small crystalline rivers and is known as the birthplace of Italian fishing, while Trentino offers wonderfully varied settings, from alpine lakes and mountain streams to the great lakes.
Trentino is rich in history, with its castles, museums and traditions, and close to Verona and Venice. Piedmont is famous for wine, quaint villages and lovely Lake Maggiore. Both are superb spots to combine fishing, art, local culture, walking and glorious local cuisine
Our packages to the region are completely flexible to suit each individual group, whether a team of avid anglers or those looking to plan a fishing and non-fishing holiday combination.
SPAIN – tranquillity personified
When Ernest Hemingway visited Spain in 1920, he found himself fascinated by the rivers, mountains and the warmth of the local people, claiming that fly fishing in the Spanish Pyrenees was, “the closest thing to heaven”. This little known fly fishing destination, sitting on the sunny side of the Pyrenees, is a magical spot where visiting anglers can indulge their passion amid an environment of warm sunshine, exotic culture, delicious food and gorgeous scenery.
The varied landscapes present several different options for fly fishing, from high mountain lakes with spectacular views, hidden gorges teeming with zebra trout and brown trout, to stunning mid-size mountain streams where you will find the biggest trout and the Iberian barbel.
With a range of accommodation options and a plethora of non-fishing activities this is the perfect sunny getaway for a combination holiday.
MADIERA / PORTUGAL – great natural and cultural wealth
With its lush vegetation, terracotta-tiled towns and stunning black-sand beaches the Portuguese island of Madeira is the perfect spot for a few sun drenched days. It’s also one of the world’s most popular destinations for big game fishing with the summer months bringing with them Atlantic blue marlin and a variety of other billfish.
Away from fishing, it’s a glorious spot to laze in the shallows, explore streets of Funchal, the quirky capital, sample fine wines and walk in the imposing volcanic landscape.
If these European holiday ideas with some fishing have inspired you and you would like further information, please contact Alex Jardine or Peter McLeod or call the office on +44(0)1980 847389. We look forward to chatting to you.