Journey
To get to the Isar in Lenggries, it took us just under an hour by car. Before our departure, however, we had to find a place to stay in the district of Lenggries. We found this online without any further problems and we ended up in an apartment on an idyllic estate. In order to be allowed to practice fishing on the Upper Isar, an accommodation proof is needed. On the way to the upper Isar we crossed several bridges. The view of the turquoise water made our fly fishing hearts beat faster.
Waters - Key data
The upper Isar is an alpine river which originates in Austria, meanders through beautiful valleys and finally flows into the Danube. The Lenggries section, which is relatively close to the Isar-origin, captivates with clear water, gravelly substrate and a high abundance of salmonids. The Lenggries fishing club manages a 13 kilometer long section which is characterized by many varied segments. In order to fish, you need a valid day pass which can be obtained by showing your proof of accommodation at the tourist information office in Lenggries. A day ticket costs around 35 euros.
Fish abundance
Grayling, brown trout, rainbow trout. Various species of salmonids can be caught on the upper Isar. The fishing association is trying to reintroduce the grayling in high numbers and has thus issued a ban on harvesting grayling. These measures have already had an effect on their numbers and during our visit we were able to hook into some really nice grayling. But not only the grayling is found in large quantities, but also the brown trout. Furthermore, very large rainbow trout can also be caught. The biggest one we caught measured 72 centimeters.
Hospitality
As described above, you need an accommodation certificate if you want to fish in Lenggries. If you do not have the big purse, you can also stay here very well for about 20 – 25 € per night. Most of the accommodations are located very close to the water and you drive about five minutes to the spots. Here is the link to the Air BnB in Lenggries: Air BnB Lenggries
Methods to success
To achieve fishing success on the Isar River, it is important to use the right flies at the right time of year. In the summer months, a stonefly imitation proved to be the catchiest bait. The salmonids could hardly resist this tasty fly with a large profile. Especially for grayling we use small parachute flies in darker shades. The Isar is waiting with big insect hatches. We also witnessed this spectacle and were able to land 30+ fish. An unforgettable moment. To go after the big rainbow trout we recommend the streamer. We used streamers in natural colors which proved to be the best, the size of the streamer was not so decisive, the guidance of the streamer was all the more important. Our tip: Use flies in natural colors first, according to our experience, they work better than the stimulus flies. Unless you want to catch a grayling, then try a pink nymph or a very fancy dry fly.
Conclusion: All in all, the Isar is a rather underestimated body of water, which in our opinion is always worth a trip. Especially in May and in the summer months, this body of water shows its best side. Our hosts also impressed us with their rural friendliness and Bavarian hospitality. Tight Lines – Your Flyfishing Crew Bavaria.
