The Lady of the Stream

Grayling are undoubtably one of the most beautiful species of freshwater fish in the world. Also known as Thymallus thymallus (which translates to 'Thyme smell'), grayling are part of the salmon family Salmonidae and are native in many rivers across Europe. They usually grow between 30 - 50 centimeters, however can get up to 65 centimeters long. Their spawning season typically runs from January through April in southern Germany. Among anglers, they are probably most known for their beautiful, majestic dorsal fin.

Although grayling can often be found in the same habitat as trout, they differ in many ways. Grayling prefer cold, clear, fast running waters and have a tendency to reside closer to the bottom of the water, feeding off nymphs and shrimp, rather than surfacing for flies. For many centuries, their populations have declined due to pollution and the building of dams and other structures that prohibit their passage. For this reason, many fishing clubs and river owners have decided to protect grayling by restricting their removal all year round.

For a fly fisherman, grayling are one of the most respected species to fish for. Not only are they hard to spot, but often even harder to catch. Once you've managed to hook one, they put up one heck of a fight. In some rivers grayling can be sight fished, however be prepared that the fish have seen or heard you long before you spot them. There are basic rules which we follow when we fish on waters that inhabit grayling: 1) Avoid wading when possible, especially during spawning season. 2) Always fish barbless! No further explanation needed. 3) Keep 'em wet. If possible, keep the grayling in the water at all times, or remove from the water for no more than a few seconds.

Depending on the size of the river you are fishing on, we typically recommend to fish between a 3 and 5 weight rod, ranging from 7 to 9 feet length. As most grayling are spooky, it is important to fish with a long, fine leader and tippet around 12 feet long not going below 5x. We recommend using fluorocarbon for both nymphing, and dry fly fishing. Fly patterns depend on the time of year, but a general rule is that grayling like smaller flies. We typically fish 16 and 18 size flies, although we have also had days on which we have caught on a size 12 caddis pattern.

By respecting conservation measures, the population of grayling in our rivers is increasing steadily. Grayling grow very slow, meaning conservation takes time. If you want to learn more about this amazing fish, also known as The Lady of the Stream, please reach out to us!