Fly fishing in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) offers a unique and rewarding experience, thanks to its pristine rivers, diverse fish species, and stunning natural landscapes. The country is home to both trout-rich mountain streams and larger rivers teeming with grayling, huchen (Danube salmon), and other species. Here’s what you need to know:

Best Fly Fishing Destinations in BiH

Una River (Bihać, Martin Brod)

Famous for its crystal-clear waters, waterfalls, and abundant brown trout and grayling.
The Una National Park offers breathtaking scenery.

Pliva River (Jajce)

Known for its large grayling and brown trout.
Features a unique ladder-like waterfall (Pliva Waterfall).

Neretva River (Konjic, Jablanica)

One of the best wild trout rivers in the Balkans, with marbled trout (endangered but present).
The upper sections near Glavatičevo are ideal for dry fly fishing.

Vrbas River (Banja Luka, Čelinac)

Great for brown trout and huchen (in lower sections).
The canyon near Banja Luka offers stunning fishing spots.

Drina River (Foča, Višegrad)

Known for huchen (Danube salmon), one of the most challenging freshwater fish to catch.
Requires heavy gear and streamers.

Bliha & Ribnik Rivers (Near Mrkonjić Grad)

Ribnik is one of Europe’s best grayling fisheries, with fish up to 50 cm.
Bliha is a smaller, intimate stream with wild brown trout.

Fish Species in BiH

Brown Trout (Salmo trutta) – Most common.
Grayling (Thymallus thymallus) – Especially in Pliva and Ribnik.
Huchen (Danube Salmon) (Hucho hucho) – A prized trophy fish in the Drina and Vrbas.
Marbled Trout (Salmo marmoratus) – Rare, found in the Neretva.
Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) – Mostly in stocked waters.

Best Time to Fish

Spring (April–June) – Ideal for dry flies (hatches of mayflies, caddis).
Autumn (September–November) – Great for nymphing and streamer fishing, especially for huchen.
Winter – Possible, but colder and less active fish.

Fishing Regulations & Licenses

Licenses are required and vary by river/region (Federation of BiH vs. Republika Srpska).
Catch-and-release is encouraged, especially for huchen and marbled trout.
Some rivers have seasonal restrictions (e.g., huchen fishing is often closed in spring).
Check with local fly shops or "Ribički savez" (Fishing Associations) for permits.

Recommended Fly Patterns

Dry Flies: Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, Klinkhämmer.
Nymphs: Pheasant Tail, Hare’s Ear, Stonefly patterns.
Streamers (for huchen): Big articulated flies, Sculpins.

Guides & Fly Shops

Fly Fishing Bosnia (Sarajevo-based guides)
Una River Fly Fishing (Bihać area)
Pliva Fly Fishing (Jajce)

Tips for Fly Fishing in BiH
✔ Use light to medium gear (3-6 wt for trout, 8-10 wt for huchen).
✔ Respect private land—some areas require permission.
✔ Bring waders—many rivers are cold and fast-flowing.

Why Fly Fish in Bosnia?

Unspoiled nature, fewer crowds than Western Europe.
Affordable compared to other European destinations.
Cultural richness—combine fishing with visits to historic towns like Mostar, Sarajevo, and Jajce.

If you're looking for a wild, adventurous fly fishing experience, Bosnia and Herzegovina is a hidden gem worth exploring! 🎣
Would you like recommendations for specific seasons or rivers?