Ian, Fly Casting in Austria

The OEFG is one of the world’s oldest fly fishing clubs in the world, so, having taken part in this event for Hardy over the past couple of years, I was delighted to be personally asked to take part in the annual event which consists of a really nice and well attended fly fishing show, followed by three days of casting tuition.
The club has some of the most talented and knowledgeable fly casters and fishers and a real pleasure to be in their company to learn about the wonderful and varied fly fishing options in Austria.
I particularly like the fact that, both here and in Germany, anyone wishing to fish, or acquire a fishing licence must first pass a national test, thus ensuring their rivers do not become filled with clowns with no idea about etiquette, fish, and nature in general. My feeling is, we could learn from this in the UK.
A relation of the Taimen, the Huchen [Danube Salmon], although less in number than before, never the less are present in some tributaries of the Danube and are much sought after by the hard core element of anglers who brave the winter months to fish for them. This is a species I will write much more about in the future as the passion I feel from anglers is much the same as those chasing large Atlantic salmon or Tarpon. Yes, the Huchen are indeed a real sporty fish, but as with those species mentioned above, and other things in life, the main fun seems to be found in the chase!
The Austrians, and particularly the members of the OEFG take their sport really seriously, and for those who enjoy trout fishing and happen to be visiting, I would suggest you bring your rod.
Now it’s back to the Salmon in Scotland before moving on to Norway on the 15th June to try and catch an elusive Norwegian Salmon. Watch this space!