Fishermen's Festival at Lake Faak (AT)

Karli Gailer, the dedicated chairman of the FV Forelle am Faaker See (Fishing Club for Trout at Lake Faak) for the past 45 years, took the initiative this year to organize a fishing festival for the first time, together with his club members and affiliated clubs. The goal was to gain initial experience in order to tackle a significantly larger event next year. Numerous visitors attended and enjoyed the glorious weather and the activities on offer. Fly rods were enthusiastically swung, flies were tied, and exhibitors presented and sold their products. Lectures rounded out the event program. Some of the casting demonstrations took place directly on the lake. The location at the event center in Drobollach, in close proximity to the lido, proved to be ideal.

The European Fly Fishing Association (EFFA) was represented by three Master Fly Casting Instructors: Sepp Fuchs, Markus Kaaser, and myself.  Sepp Fuchs, a Dutch exile and native of the Gail Valley, Carinthia's most famous fly-fishing export, enjoyed the atmosphere in his former homeland and the Austrian beer. The culinary delights were not neglected. Grilled fish on a stick, smoked char, and pan-fried trout fillets quickly found their takers.

Fishing was permitted on the lake. Day licenses can be obtained upon request. The lake's size, shallow shoreline, and drop-offs into deeper water make it ideal for fly fishing. The clean and exceptionally clear water is an added attraction. Fly fishing is the only permitted activity until June 1st. The lake is renowned for its excellent fishing for beautiful lake trout and large char. Rainbow trout and whitefish also inhabit the lake, as well as the occasional brown trout. In spring, if conditions are right, lake trout can even be caught using dry flies. However, small streamers and nymphs are usually the most successful. In addition to the aforementioned salmonid species, numerous other fish species populate this fantastic body of water, including large carp and impressive pike. Only boats with electric motors are allowed on the lake, which contributes to the wonderful tranquility of the water.

The fishing festival at Lake Faak has great potential for the future. The location was absolutely perfect.  Everyone agreed on that, and with such a great team on site, a lot can be achieved. Sepp, Markus, and I had a lot of fun and will gladly be there again next year to represent EFFA.