Alright, let me tell you about these two lunatics—Seb and Gaëtan. Been fishing together since they were knee-high to a grasshopper (that’d be, what, 38 years now? Math was never my strong suit). You ever meet someone who can spot a mayfly hatch from 50 yards while nursing a hangover? That’s these guys. They’ve forgotten more about Belgian rivers than most of us will ever know—though Gaëtan still insists on using that cursed green lure from ’99. (Don’t ask. It’s a whole thing.)

Now, the rivers—oh, the rivers. The Lesse and Lomme are their playgrounds, fished ‘em so long the trout probably recognize their waders. Grayling? Check. Trout? Obviously. But the real stars are those barrel-chested barbel—we call ‘em “river pigs” here for good reason. They’ll drag your line through every root and rock like they’ve got a personal vendetta. Update: Asp numbers dipped this year—stick to trout.

Speaking of roots, the Lomme’s bend near Marteau after a summer rain? Pure magic. Just watch your step—last July, Gaëtan took a header on those slick rocks and came up clutching a perch in one hand, his dignity in the other. (We still toast to that moment.)
Here’s the thing though: these boys fish clean. Barbless hooks only—seriously, I’ve seen Seb turn purple arguing with some tourist about it. “Fish returned, fish regained” isn’t just a slogan; it’s religion. And yeah, I get it, that 20-inch trout would look great mounted… but trust me, watching it dart back into the current? That’s the real trophy. Pro tip: Keep forceps in your left pocket. And a spare sock. The Lesse’s banks have a PhD in soggy surprises.

Need a place to crash? They’ve got a cottage near Dinant with a fireplace that’s seen more fish tales than a taxidermy shop. Or if you’re fancy, there’s a hotel in Rochefort where the bartender ties flies behind the counter. (Ask for Jean—he’ll slip you his secret CDC pattern if you buy the bourbon.)

Final thought: If you’re after pike, go in May when the water’s still frisky. Tench? Try the back eddies near Houyet—but personally, I think they fight like wet laundry. Don’t @ me.
Sidebar: That list of species they guide for? Throw it out. These maniacs will chase anything with gills. Saw Gaëtan spend three hours last autumn wrestling a carp on 4-weight line. Madness. Beautiful madness.