Grayling is a special fish in our rivers. Before taking the plunge, let's try to learn a little more about this speciesèceâeuros¦ and the different fishing techniques that can be effective.
The common grayling, a fish to discover
Thymallus thymallus (The grayling belongs to the salmonid family, although it differs in many ways from the brown trout for example. The grayling is easily recognizable by its rather gray coat (sometimes turning to blue-gray / gray-green), but especially by its prominent dorsal fin: a real flag, splendid, mixing red and brown spots.
Its mouth is rather small, pointed, its body elongated and its tail forked. Most of the grayling caught on our rivers measure between 30 and 40 centimeters. However, the most imposing subjects can exceed one kilo and 50 centimeters.
Its reproduction period generally extends from March to May, which explains why fishing for this fish does not open until May on most rivers. Grayling fishing can also be practiced after the closing of trout on second category waters. This makes it possible to extend the season somewhat for salmonid enthusiasts, while enjoying the very special autumn atmosphere at the water's edge.
How to fish for grayling
The grayling has been introduced in many French rivers. Today, it can be fished in different rivers where it is well established: the Dordogne, the Ain, the Aude haut RhÃ'ne, Haute Loire, Allierâeuros¦
The grayling does not generally stay on the same places as the trout. It is a fish that also likes running, well-oxygenated water, but it is often found on the ends of the first category and the beginnings of the second. Grayling may tend to be found in schools of the same age class.
The common grayling can be fished with natural baits, sometimes with lures, but it is mainly with the fly that most enthusiasts try to meet it.
It is a fish that can be very active on the surface at times, which partly explains why fly fishermen enjoy trying to lure it. Among the most presented models, the small duck asses are the reference. But sometimes it is not necessary to hesitate to take out big sedges or beautiful deer hair fliesâeuros¦ Because it is the charm of these whimsical fish: on certain sessions where the graylings seem to be taken of frenzy and gratify us with numerous gobblings, it can be extremely difficult to find THE fly which is going to make them decide
The nymph fishing is also very practised to look for the shadow. Whether it's nymphing with a line or sight nymphing in clear water. The fishing in drowned can also give excellent results, by allowing to prospect different layers of water
Whatever the technique used, you must always take care of your drifts and leaders. Thymallus is a wary fish that punishes most dredges with a refusal. And the long leaders in 10 centimeters often make the differenceâeuros¦
