Thymallus, or Grayling, as it’s more commonly known, is a genus of freshwater fish in the salmon family. They’re distinguished from other species in the family by their larger scales, small mouths and most striking of all, their showy, sail-like dorsal fin. They’re widespread throughout much of Europe and the Arctic and Pacific drainages in Canada, Alaska, and Siberia. They’re one of the most beautiful and respected freshwater fishes in the northern hemisphere.
Inhabiting cool, well-oxygenated water, preferably with a swift current, they are found in large, sandy- or gravel-bottomed rivers and lakes. There generally omnivorous and feed primarily on crustaceans, insects, and zooplankton. They have a life expectancy of up to 18 years.
Grayling tend to shoal, so although they’re not always easy to locate, once you’ve found one, you’ve likely found several, at least for a while.
Even though they don’t grow huge, a fish of 3lb would be classed as a specimen; they are still a popular fish amongst the fly fishing community.
The tendency to ‘corkscrew’ when hooked and fight seemingly forever make them a truly attractive freshwater fly fishing species. Grayling often glide up from considerable depths to intercept food, so a floating fly presented neatly on the surface of the water is one of the most exciting and rewarding ways to catch them.
Below are the top destinations in the world for Grayling Fishing.
This exclusive Sportquest-hosted trip ventures into the Alaskan wilderness, to the famous Goodnews River Lodge. This exciting freshwater fly fishing adventure offers travelling rods the opportunity to target and catch all five Pacific Salmon species, as well as Rainbow Trout, Arctic Char and even Dolly Varden.
Alaska Trophy Adventures Lodge is the perfect wilderness fishing retreat. Boasting a world-famous run of all five species of Pacific Salmon, plus a host of resident fish, such as Leopard Rainbow Trout, Arctic Char and Grayling. No set itineraries fish with your guides each day for the species of your choice.
Located on the Kanektok River, only 5.5 miles from its mouth is by all standards a remarkably diverse fishery. Perfectly suited to both single-hand and spey anglers, offering one of Alaska’s best opportunities to catch Salmon where high catch-rates and easy wading is the norm.
If you are looking for a Fishing Lodge that puts you and the fishing first, then look no further. Goodnews River Lodge is the ONLY full-service lodge on the entire river system. Experience the solitude and peaceful beauty of Alaska; it’s just you and the fish. No crowds, no flying to the “best” river. It’s all here on the Goodnews River.
Rapids Camp sits right on the bank of the famous Naknek River and offers everyone their own private room. This is the most diverse and flexible lodge in Alaska, where you the customer, decide what to fish for in your itinerary each day. All five species of Salmon plus huge Rainbows make this lodge very popular.
Bristol Bay Lodge is a fishing paradise for Salmon fishing, each year 40-50 million Sockeye Salmon enter the waters. If you want to experience this spectacular sport, we have the perfect location for you. Bristol Bay Lodge is a fly-out lodge giving you access to many remote unreachable rivers and unbelievable fishing.
No-See-Um Lodge is ranked among the finest Alaskan fly-out fly-fishing operations for over 30 years. The Holman family has a well-earned reputation for pampering its guests. John and his team have many years of experience in fishing and guiding in Alaska. They know the best fishing spots and how to get you there safely.
At Mission Lodge, you are never fixed to a set itinerary. Each night the head guide will sit down with you to discuss what you wish to fish for and how they will then explain all the different options. With over 40 boats stashed within fly distance from the lodge, one thing for certain is you will not be short of places to fish.
Average Customer Satisfaction Score 84%
