Flyfishing in Austria: A Journey Through Alpine Waters and Rich Heritage

Austria—no, not Australia, with its kangaroos—is a small yet enchanting country in the heart of Europe. Renowned for its stunning landscapes, diverse geography, and rich cultural heritage, Austria boasts some of the most picturesque and challenging fishing waters in the world. Fly fishing here isn’t just a sport; it’s a way to immerse oneself in a unique blend of natural beauty, historical charm, and tranquil solitude. Here’s a guide to the best flyfishing spots Austria has to offer, along with some insight into the country’s deep connection with its rivers and lakes.

BY.HIGHFLYERS

Austria is a land steeped in history, culture, and a deep connection to its natural landscapes. Nestled in the heart of Europe, Austria may be a relatively small country, but it boasts an immense variety of terrain— from snow-capped peaks to rolling foothills, lush valleys, and winding rivers. For centuries, Austria’s rivers, lakes, and alpine creeks have served as both lifelines and sources of inspiration. Austrians have developed a profound respect for the land and water, a reverence that’s woven into the fabric of daily life and reflected in the nation’s commitment to preserving its wild spaces.

Fishing has long been a tradition here, not only as a means of sustenance but also as a cherished pastime. Many towns and villages are clustered along rivers and lakes that have supported livelihoods, nurtured communities, and inspired artists, from poets to painters.

Fly fishing in Austria offers the unique chance to experience this legacy firsthand, allowing anglers to step into landscapes that seem to be lifted from a storybook. With the majestic Alps as a backdrop, these pristine waters provide a serene setting where one can escape the rush of modern life, reconnect with nature, and test their skills against some of Europe’s most elusive trout.

As you journey through Austria, you’ll notice the diversity of its waters.

From the glacial lakes perched high in the Alps to the winding rivers that flow through the lowland valleys, each fishing spot has its own distinct character and challenges. Fly fishers are especially drawn to Austria’s mountain lakes and creeks, where the landscape is rugged and the fish are wily. In these high-altitude settings, nature dictates the rhythm: snowmelt swells the streams, while the short alpine summers provide a narrow window for both fish and fishermen to thrive.

In Austria, environmental stewardship is a way of life. Fishing practices here emphasize sustainability, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy these same pristine waters.

Strict regulations govern fishing permits, catch limits, and conservation efforts, and many rivers and lakes are overseen by managers who prioritize natural habitats over commercial stocking. Anglers are encouraged to catch and release, particularly for non-native species, helping to maintain the delicate balance of Austria’s ecosystems. For visitors, this approach allows for a truly authentic experience, with wild trout populations that have adapted to the unique demands of their environments over countless generations.

Fishing in Austria is also an opportunity to explore the nation’s rich cultural heritage. Alpine villages offer charming inns where guests are welcomed with traditional hospitality and classic Austrian dishes like schnitzel, goulash, and kaiserschmarrn—a delicious shredded pancake often made with wild berries gathered from the surrounding hills. Locals take pride in their fishing culture, with many stories, customs, and even festivals that celebrate the natural bounty of Austria’s waters.

“You’ll encounter alpine creeks, crystal-clear enough to fill your water bottles directly”

This guide takes you through some of Austria’s finest fishing spots, each with its own set of challenges and rewards. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a newcomer to the sport, Austria’s mountain lakes, rivers, and creeks offer an experience unlike any other.

So pack your rods, bring your patience, and prepare to immerse yourself in the peaceful rhythm of Austria’s wild waters. Let’s begin our journey with the first stop: the serene yet challenging mountain lakes of the Austrian Alps.

Mountain Lakes

The Austrian Alps define much of Austria’s geography and are home to hundreds of glacially-fed lakes. With their high altitudes—often over 2000 meters—these mountain lakes experience long winters and brief, lush summers. This short feeding season makes the trout here opportunistic, as they must make the most of every available meal to thrive. But don’t be mistaken; the alpine trout are elusive and require both patience and skill to catch.

One of our favorite destinations is in Tyrol, where our friend, Martin Schoissengeier, manages four mountain lakes nestled in the Kitzbühel Alps.

The journey itself is a memorable adventure, as you must hike from the valley floor at 1000 meters up to a secluded cottage perched at 1800 meters above sea level. Along the way, you’ll encounter alpine creeks, crystal-clear enough to fill your water bottles directly, and may even meet the friendly, grazing cows along the trail. The hike takes around an hour and forty minutes, and while it’s challenging, the reward is well worth it.

The rustic mountain cottage sits amidst some of Austria’s most stunning scenery.

There’s no Wi-Fi, no roads, and no modern distractions—just pure wilderness. The cottage is powered by solar panels, and while it’s basic, it’s well-equipped with a kitchen and even a shower. After a quick rest, the adventure truly begins as we continue our hike up to the first lake, located at over 2000 meters. This lake holds brown trout and a few brook trout that have adapted to the chilly waters.

Since the lake contains minnows, these trout are not only insect feeders but also active hunters, allowing for some excellent streamer fishing. On a good day, you might even catch one on a dry fly, but it’s often best to stick to minnow patterns to maximize your chances. After fishing, we trek up to a second lake with breathtaking panoramic views of the first. The scenery here is awe-inspiring; if you’re lucky, you might catch sight of an eagle or even a chamois darting along the rugged terrain. This setting allows you to disconnect from everyday stresses and reconnect with nature. During summer, wild blueberries grow abundantly around the lakes, perfect for picking and adding to a traditional “kaiserschmarrn” back at the cottage. For those interested in experiencing these lakes firsthand, the hut is available for bookings via www.Rosswildalm.at

In 2022, we filmed scenes for our documentary The Flyfishing Cult in this pristine setting. The film, which premiered at the Rise Flyfishing Film Festival, captures the essence of Austrian fly fishing and is now available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Y0yymA-NwOI

The Rivers

Austria’s rivers are not only vital ecosystems but also a key part of the nation’s history and identity. Historically, these rivers played essential roles in transportation, agriculture, and industry. Today, many of them face challenges due to modern infrastructure, but a growing movement for sustainable management has helped preserve the beauty and biodiversity of several rivers.

Our favorite rivers to fish are midsized, where we typically target brown trout and grayling.

Austria’s rivers also host a diversity of other species, including rainbow trout, brook trout, chub, and barbel. While many rivers are managed for hydroelectric power—a significant source of Austria’s energy—this often results in dams and disrupted fish habitats. Thankfully, there are conservation-minded individuals who ensure sustainable practices are followed, helping to preserve natural river flow and maintain healthy fish populations.

When fishing these rivers, we often use nymph patterns, particularly stoneflies and pheasant tails. When the fish begin to rise, switching to dry flies such as ants, deer hair sedges, and larger stoneflies proves successful. However, fishing here isn’t always straightforward. The river beds are often much lower than the surrounding areas, and crossing can be tricky, especially when the water level rises.

At times, you might find yourself scrambling up steep banks or navigating dense woods to reach the ideal spot. But the rewards are well worth it, especially when you spot a big trout rising in a calm pool. Multi-day trips are our preference when fishing rivers, as they allow us to fully immerse ourselves in the experience. Austria’s varied climates mean that summer days by the river can be warm and inviting, perfect for setting up a tent by the water. Evenings are spent around a bonfire, grilling, sharing stories, and enjoying a few beers. It’s moments like these that capture the unique spirit of Austrian river fishing—a blend of skill, camaraderie, and an appreciation for nature’s beauty.

Mountain Creeks

In addition to lakes and rivers, Austria has countless mountain creeks— hidden gems that offer some of the best dry fly fishing. These creeks are typically only accessible from May or June until September, as snowmelt and heavy spring rains create high waters. Once summer arrives, these creeks settle into gentle flows, providing the perfect habitat for brown trout. The beauty of fishing in these mountain creeks is that it’s almost exclusively dry fly fishing, which requires a stealthy approach.

“At times, you might find yourself scrambling up steep banks or navigating dense woods to reach the ideal spot”

The fish here are notoriously wary, and the creeks’ narrow banks and overgrown vegetation demand precise casting. We often use bow-andarrow casts to navigate the tight spaces. Flies like ants and the Goddard Caddis are highly effective, though in these waters, presentation is everything. The trout are quick to spook, so you must place your fly in just the right pocket to have a chance at landing one.

The solitude of these creeks is unmatched, with the only sounds being the gentle flow of water, the occasional cow bell, and perhaps a distant chamois call. Our favorite creeks are once again in Tyrol, where Martin Schoissengeier also manages several streams with a commitment to sustainability. No stocked fish are added to these waters; instead, the ecosystem is carefully managed to support wild brown trout, which have adapted to survive high waters and harsh winters. These native trout often display vibrant, unique colorations that set them apart from their hatchery counterparts. Martin enforces catch-and-release practices for larger fish to ensure a healthy breeding population, preserving the creek’s natural balance. You can find more information on fishing in these mountain creeks at www.FFMH.at

Austria’s Connection to Fishing: A Legacy of Heritage and Stewardship

Austria’s fishing heritage goes back centuries, as fishing was a crucial source of food and trade in historical Austria. From the alpine lakes to the meandering rivers of the valleys, the people of

Austria have always held a deep respect for their waters. Fishing here has evolved into more than just a pastime; it’s a cultural tradition and a reminder of the country’s commitment to preserving its natural landscapes.

The Austrian government has established strict conservation regulations to ensure that these waters remain pristine. Fishing permits are carefully managed, with many areas enforcing strict catch limits or catch-and-release policies, especially for non-native species. This allows wild fish populations to thrive and maintains a balanced ecosystem. For example, some alpine lakes only allow anglers to keep a limited number of fish within specific size ranges to protect larger, breeding-age trout. While Austria’s landscapes offer breathtaking beauty, they are also home to some unique wildlife, including eagles, marmots, and the elusive chamois, which add to the experience. In alpine villages, fishing lodges and inns offer traditional Austrian hospitality, with hearty dishes like schnitzel, käsespätzle (cheesy noodles), and, of course, locally brewed beers.

Many of these inns have been family-run for generations, creating a welcoming atmosphere for anglers from around the world.

Austria offers some of the world’s finest fly fishing in landscapes that feel untouched by time. Whether you’re casting your line in an alpine lake, exploring midsized rivers, or sneaking up on trout in mountain creeks, fishing in Austria is an experience that goes beyond the sport itself. It’s a journey into a world of natural beauty, tradition, and respect for the waters that have sustained this land for centuries.

About Highflyers

We’re Fabian and Florian, two passionate flyfishing enthusiasts from Austria with a love for photography, filmmaking, and adventure. Our goal is to capture the beauty of fishing in Austria, while promoting sustainability and conservation. Whether it’s a secluded lake, a roaring river, or a quiet creek, we’re always on the lookout for the next great fishing spot.

Website: www.byhighflyers.com

Pure Films: purefilms.co

Instagram: @by.highflyers