The Danube River basin of Slovenia.

Rivers and streams.

The Slovenian part of the Danube River Basin covers the country’s eastern and central regions, draining toward the Sava and Drava rivers, two of the Danube’s most important tributaries. This area offers a wide variety of fishable rivers and streams, from alpine headwaters in the north to meandering lowland rivers in the south and east. The waters are generally well-managed, with good access and healthy salmonid and cyprinid populations.

Major Rivers:

Sava River
The Sava is Slovenia’s longest river, flowing from the Julian Alps to Croatia. Its upper reaches are fast, clear, and cold—ideal for salmonids such as brown trout, grayling, rainbow trout, and the occasional huchen (Hucho hucho). The grayling populations here belong to the Western Balkan lineage, typical for the upper Sava system.

Sava Bohinjka
Emerging from Lake Bohinj in Triglav National Park, the Sava Bohinjka is a pristine alpine river known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning surroundings. It provides excellent conditions for brown trout, grayling, and rainbow trout, making it one of Slovenia’s best fly-fishing destinations.

Savinja River
Rising in the Logar Valley beneath the Kamnik–Savinja Alps, the Savinja flows through a picturesque alpine landscape before joining the Sava. The upper river holds strong populations of brown trout, grayling, and rainbow trout, while the middle stretches are among the country’s most scenic fly-fishing waters.

Krka River
The Krka is a karst river in southeastern Slovenia, famous for its turquoise water and steady flow. Its upper course supports brown trout, grayling, and rainbow trout, while the lower parts gradually transition into warmer, mixed fish communities. Its clear water and consistent levels make it a reliable year-round fishery.

Drava River
Flowing along Slovenia’s northern border, the Drava drains from alpine sources in Austria and passes through a chain of reservoirs. Its tributaries, such as the Meža and Mislinja, host brown trout, rainbow trout, and grayling belonging to the Southern Alps lineage. In the main channel, salmonids are replaced by cyprinid species downstream.

Mura River
The Mura originates in Austria and meanders through northeastern Slovenia before joining the Drava. It marks the transition from alpine to lowland habitats. Its colder tributaries still support brown trout, rainbow trout, and grayling of the Southern Alps lineage, while the main river holds warm-water fish communities.

Kolpa River
Forming much of the border between Slovenia and Croatia, the Kolpa flows through a mix of karst and forested terrain. The upper river is cool and clear, inhabited by brown trout, grayling, and rainbow trout, while downstream sections become warmer and slower. The river’s diverse character and pristine surroundings make it a popular yet peaceful fishing destination.

Fishing Families.

As in other parts of the country, rivers in the Slovenian Danube Basin are managed by local Fishing Families (Ribiška družina). These organizations are responsible for restocking, conservation, and enforcement of fishing rules. The fishing families in this region are:

Regulations.

Fishing rules in Slovenia vary by managing organization. Before fishing, you must check the specific regulations and purchase a daily or seasonal permit for that stretch of water. Regulations typically define:

• Allowed species
  
• Fishing methods
  
• Bag limits
  
• Catch-and-release zones

Fishing seasons typically run from April to October, though some sections may have different seasonal restrictions. Always consult the official website of the managing RD or ZZRS before planning your trip.

Guides.