Pike and Perch on Lake Gruyère: A Fly Fisher’s Playground

Man, if you’re after pike and perch with a fly rod, Lac de la Gruyère—or just "Lake Gruyère" to us locals—is one of those spots that’ll keep you grinning. Funny thing is, most folks think Switzerland’s all about trout, but this reservoir? It’s a hidden gem for toothy predators. Back in ’48, they dammed up the Sarine River near Rossens, and boom—you got this 13.5-kilometer stretch of fishy paradise. (Though trust me, it feels way longer when you’re fighting a pike in a headwind!)

Now, let’s talk species. Pike here? Absolute freight trains. Hit like they’ve got a personal vendetta against your streamer. And perch—oh man, those stripey devils hunt in wolf packs. Hook one, and suddenly three more are eyeballing your fly like it’s lunch. Once, I had a perch so feisty it nearly yanked my 8-weight into the drink. Little buggers fight dirtier than a bar brawl!

Brown trout do lurk around, but good luck finding ’em. Rumor has it they’re holed up deep, probably laughing at us flailing on the surface. Roach and burbot show up too, but let’s be real—you’re here for the predators.

Technique? Keep it simple:

Scout for structure—fallen trees, drop-offs, anything that breaks the monotony. Pike love ambush spots like a kid loves candy.

If perch start mugging your pike fly, downsize your gear. A 6-weight with a clouser? Pure chaos when the pack moves in.

And depth changes? Gold. Fish ’em like you’re reading a treasure map.

Oh, and don’t forget your license. Swiss regs don’t mess around, and the tackle shop near the dam (ask for Jean—guy talks more than a parrot) will set you straight.

Anyway, tight lines out there. And if you hook a pike that bends your rod into a pretzel? Send pics—I’ll owe you a beer.