Grayling, often referred to affectionately as the lady of the stream due to their long dorsal fin that often dances in the current, has had a mixed past between being adored and also persecuted. In recent times, it has gained a following as a prized fish to target in the northern hemisphere.
These majestic fish thrive in fast flowing and cool waters, often surrounded by rolling hills and mountains. These waters typically run crystal-clear, making it possible to sight-fish to the grayling on many occasions. Despite some grayling species having down-turned mouths, they are prolific surface eaters providing ample opportunity to target them with delicate dry flies. The bigger grayling can sometimes be reluctant to rise and prefer to be targeted with nymphs.
As well as being avid insect eaters, some species of grayling have developed into more ferocious predators. These will often attack small baitfish, large insects and even struggling rodents.
Despite the Arctic grayling being the most widespread of the 14 species of grayling (some argue there are more), it is perhaps the European grayling (Thymallus thymallus) that is the most commonly targeted. Spread throughout Europe, there are wonderful rivers and streams to target grayling with some notable location to target big grayling. Some suited to anglers wanting to fish light rods, tiny dry flies and technical tippets and other locations where anglers can perfect the art of modern nymphing styles.
Arctic grayling along with many of the east Asian grayling species have evolved with forward facing mouths making them far more accustomed to aggressive feeding. Like their European cousins, they loved to feed on or the near the surface and can provide wonderful action when fishing big surface flies such as mice and floating fish patterns.
Whether you are looking for technical dry fly fishing, to sharpen your nymphing techniques or love the thrill of fish smashing surface flies, then there is surely a grayling location for you.
Grayling are found in the pristine, cool waters of some of the most beautiful destinations on earth, including:
Italy, Austria, Bosnia, Slovenia, Croatia, UK, Finland, Sweden, Norway, Alaska, Russia, and Mongolia.
To discuss grayling fishing ideas, please contact Alex Jardine or Alistair Routledge or call the office on +44 1980 847389.
About the author: Alex Jardine