We opened the 2025 season on the Gradac River, one of Serbia’s finest fly-fishing destinations. On the first weekend of March, Aleksandar Černyš, Nikita and I headed to the river to see how the local trout had survived the winter.
We stayed at the Degurić apartments, a cosy place close to the riding club. Our fishing expedition began beneath the steady sound of horses and the river at night.
Early in the morning, while mist still lay over the water, we stepped into the river. The water was cold but clear and the fish were cautious. We used nymphs and dry flies, the classic approach in these conditions. The trout took reluctantly and every bite had to be earned. Aleksandar immediately found his rhythm, landing 17 trout on the first day — clearly the best result among us. Nikita and I were happy with more modest but still rewarding catches.
Around midday we met Andrej from Novi Sad. Inspired by the forecasts and fishing reports, he had hurried to the Gradac but forgotten to buy a licence. While he sorted it out, we shared our first impressions and discussed tactics.
After fishing we went to the familiar restaurant Skok po Skok, where we met Serbian friends who share our passion for fly fishing. We talked about tackle, tactics, the best flies and, of course, the Gradac. The evening ended with warm conversation and new plans for the season.
The season opener did not produce record fish, but it had plenty of character. Aleksandar led the numbers, yet the real reward was not a statistic: it was the sound of the water, the first spring takes and the company that brings you back to the river.
The Gradac has opened its doors again, and the 2025 season is underway! 🚀🎣
See prices for our all-inclusive fishing trip on the Gradac River https://fly-fishing.rs/