Introduction
With its clear mountain streams, wild rivers, and tranquil lakes, Switzerland is a true paradise for fly fishers. Whether in the Engadine, Valais, or Central Switzerland, the country offers a unique variety of fishing grounds and fish species for beginners and professionals alike. In this comprehensive guide, we'll show you when, where, and how to enjoy a successful fly fishing trip in Switzerland.
1. Why fly fishing in Switzerland?
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Crystal clear water : Ideal for sight fishing for trout, grayling & char.
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Mountain scenery : Fishing with a view of the Alps is unique.
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Regulation & Protection : Good water management guarantees sustainable fish stocks.
2nd season and closed seasons (2025)
The fly fishing season varies depending on the canton and type of water:
| Canton | Season start | End of season | Special features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graubünden | May 1st | September 30th | Special regulations apply to wild rivers |
| Bern | March 16 | October 15 | Many mountain streams are accessible |
| Valais | March 15 | October 15 | Upper Valais lakes from June |
Tip : Always check the current regulations of the respective canton before fishing!
3. The best areas for fly fishing
a) Inn near Zernez (Graubünden)
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Wild river with grayling, brown trout & char
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Best months: May to July
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Difficulty: Medium to challenging
b) Hasliaare near Meiringen (BE)
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Powerful stream with good vegetation
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Can be combined with a day hike
c) Rhone near Gletsch (VS)
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Cold, fast-flowing water
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Suitable for experienced fly fishermen
4. Equipment: What you really need
Basic Setup
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Rod : 9'10 ft, Class 4-6
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Reel : Large arbor reel with a good braking system
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Line : Floating line, WF profile
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Leader & Tippet : Fluorocarbon 9'12 ft, 4X to 6X
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Patterns : Elk Hair Caddis, Nymph (Goldhead), CDC Emerger
clothing
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Waders (e.g. Vision ATOM or KOSKI)
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Wading jacket with pockets & D-ring
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Non-slip wading boots (felt or Vibram)
5. Approval and Etiquette
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Day or annual pass available from the canton or online platform (e.g. Hejfish)
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Catch and release is common, but not mandatory everywhere.
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Respect nature and landowners, avoid noise and litter.
6 tips for the perfect fishing day
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Get up early : Dawn is biting time.
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Sneaking instead of stomping : Sight fishing requires quiet movement.
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Change fly : If there is no contact, change after 20–30 minutes.
7. Local Shops & Courses
Bob's Flies (Graubünden) offers:
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Quality equipment for fly fishing (rods, waders, accessories)
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Online shop with fast delivery to Switzerland
Conclusion
Fly fishing in Switzerland is more than a hobby – it's a true nature experience. With the right equipment, local knowledge, and respect for the environment, you can spend unforgettable days on the water. Whether you're fishing alone or with a guide, now is the perfect time to explore Swiss waters.
Tight lines!
Tips
- Do you want to learn all this in practice? Then check out our courses & guided tours !
- Or perhaps you'd prefer to fish independently with the right fly patterns? Here are your top 10 recommendations for Swiss waters.