Fishing in the Semois
The Semois is one of Belgium’s most beautiful trout rivers — a shallow, fast-flowing Ardennes river with clear rapids, deep pools beneath the slate rocks and a rich insect life. Anyone wishing to go fishing during their holiday in Bohan will find access to one of Wallonia’s finest fishing spots just a five-minute walk from the holiday home.
Tip: kayaking on the Semois is also an option.
Fishing in the Semois — what can you expect?
In this region, the Semois is a typical mountainous trout river: oxygen-rich, cool even in summer, and with a varied riverbed of pebbles, slate and sandbanks. As well as the native brown trout, you’ll regularly encounter rainbow trout, plus perch, bream, whitefish and — in the deeper sections — pike. The banks alternate between open (meadows) and wooded areas, making both casting and fly fishing interesting.
Discover other wildlife in the Semois Valley.
Trout fishing and fly fishing on the Semois
For fly fishing enthusiasts, the Semois is a dream river. The insect hatches (sedge, mayflies, stoneflies) are abundant, and the combination of rapids and calm pools offers opportunities for every casting style. The best months are May and June (spring hatches) and September (autumn hatches). For those using a spinning rod, small spinners, wobblers and nymph-like lures are sure-fire successes for trout. Early morning and late evening are usually the most productive times.
Fishing waters around Bohan
The stretch of the Semois between Bohan and Membre is particularly suitable: relatively easy to access via footpaths along the bank, with varied flow rates, and featuring some classic viewing pools under bridges and in bends. Further downstream towards the French border, the river becomes wilder and quieter — fewer people, a better chance of catching larger fish. For those who prefer to sit in a fishable spot next to a terrace: the stretch near Vresse-sur-Semois is just as good for fishing and offers more facilities.
Fishing licences in Wallonia — practical information
Fishing in the Semois requires a valid Walloon fishing licence (permis de pêche). There are two main types: the ‘petit permis’ (basic fishing, from the bank) and the ‘grand permis’ (extended, including from a boat). Both can be ordered online via the Service Public de Wallonie and the price is reasonable compared to other European countries. The licence is valid throughout the Walloon Region, including the tributaries. Please note the official fishing seasons — for trout, this is generally from the third Saturday in March to the last Sunday in September. Local tackle shops in the area usually stock the latest bait and can provide information on current water levels.
Combining fishing with your holiday
Fishing on the Semois combines perfectly with a peaceful holiday by the river. Travellers with dogs have a safe haven in our enclosed garden: your dog can roam freely whilst you relax after a morning’s fishing. For those looking for a change of pace: an active weekend in the Ardennes combines fishing with walking and kayaking on the same river.