Serbia is a landlocked country, but it makes up for that with a rich network of rivers, lakes, streams, canals, and ponds. These waters make it a top spot for relaxing days by the shore or fun fishing getaways. You’ll find various fish species, steady currents, and easy access points for beginners and experienced anglers. Our blog will guide you through the best fishing road trips in Serbia, especially if you’re renting a car to reach those peaceful destinations.
Before starting your fishing road trips in Serbia, it's best to rent a car in advance, especially during summer or holidays. You can book online through major rental platforms or local companies. This gives you better prices, more vehicle options, and a smooth pickup when you land. You can pick up your car in Belgrade, where the airport and city branches have the largest selection.
To rent a car, you’ll need a valid driver’s license, a passport, and a credit card. Some companies require an International Driving Permit (IDP), especially if your license is not in Latin script. You must be at least 21 years old.
Choose your car based on the areas you’ll visit. A compact or sedan is fine for city spots and big rivers like the Danube. But for mountain lakes or rural fishing zones like Jastrebac or Manastirska Rampa, go with a mid-size SUV or 4x4. These cars give better clearance and space for fishing gear. With the right vehicle, you’ll be free to explore the best fishing spots in Serbia at your own pace, without relying on public transport.
The Danube flows over 580 kilometers through Serbia, offering wide banks, deep waters, and peaceful views. This river passes through historic towns, nature reserves, and local villages, making it one of the best fishing road trips in Serbia. Whether casting a line near Belgrade or traveling east toward Đerdap National Park, the Danube gives you plenty of space and species to work with. You’ll find carp, catfish, pike, zander, and perch in these waters, along with strong currents and calm coves that suit all fishing stles.
Fishing in the Danube region is a part of local life. Bring your gear and spend the day fishing from the shore, boat, or nearby piers, depending on the season and location. Some towns even offer guided boat tours. You’ll pass scenic riverbanks, historic monasteries, and quaint villages where locals still fish the old way. Whether you’re experienced or just learning how to fish, this trip is perfect. Either way, you’ll leave with unforgettable views, new skills, and hopefully a good catch.
Before fishing here, you’ll need to follow local fishing laws. In Serbia, you must carry a valid fishing license. Local fishing associations issue these and are usually available as daily, weekly, or yearly permits. You can also apply for a guest fishing permit, which is valid for three weeks. You must be 12 years or older and show a photo ID to get one. You’re allowed a maximum of two guest permits per year. Get your permit online before your trip, so you can head straight to the river.
Manastirska Rampa is a small village 9 kilometers from Kovin, where the Great Morava meets the Danube. It is just 60 kilometers from Belgrade. Fishing here is popular for zander, catfish, carp, pike, and perch. Depending on the weather and season, you can fish from the shore or join a boat tour. A one-day guided fishing trip in this area usually costs around 125 euros per person.
Stari Slankamen is a quiet village where the Danube meets the Tisa River, one of the richest fish areas along this stretch. The area offers historic scenery, mineral springs, deep waters, beaches, and a fishing culture. Target fish include pike, perch, carp, catfish, and other white fish. Fishing is good all year, but best from summer through early winter.
This fishing zone stretches from Đerdap National Park to the Timok River, including parts of Kladovo, Negotin, and Bor. It covers natural rivers and artificial lakes, like Bor Lake and Zlotska River. The fish here include native species. Srbijašume manages the area through the Timočke šume estate to ensure the fish stock remains healthy.
The Drina River is one of the clearest and most powerful rivers in the country, making it perfect for fishing trips in Serbia. Here are some of spots where you can catch big fish and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Lake Perućac is an artificial lake made after building a hydroelectric dam in Bajina Bašta. It is 54 kilometers long and can reach depths of up to 60 meters. It is known for the annual huchen competition, deep water, large fish population, natural beauty, and easy permits. The huchen, or “Queen of Drina,” is a strong predator. Besides huchen, expect to catch chub, catfish, and carp.
The part of the Drina between the Perućac and Zvornik hydro plants is famous for fly fishing. It offers cool, clear water and a wide range of grayling, brown trout, huchen, deep pools, and fast currents. It is ideal for beginners and experts, with daily guided trips costing around 180 euros per person.
Catching huchen requires some strategy. Use a long rod, around 3 meters, and adjust your lure weight depending on the season. In summer, try light tackle with surface wobblers. During colder months, switch to heavier setups and fish deeper using jigs. The key to success is having the right gear and plenty of patience. Learning these techniques can help you land one of the river’s most prized fish.
The Gradac River near Valjevo is a salmonid river known for its clean water, wild trout, grayling, natural beauty, and technical fishing. The canyon is 11 kilometers long and ranges from 5 to 20 meters wide.
Start your fishing trip at Crna Vrela and go downstream to Ploče. Some sections allow only artificial lures or flies, while others are for fly fishing only. From April 15 to September 30, this river becomes a top fly fishing destination. Lodge Tetrebovac is located near the river and offers accommodation, local meals, transport by jeep, fly fishing gear, and local guides.
In spring, flies like hare’s ear, prince nymph, and woolly bugger work well. In summer, switch to stonefly nymphs and elk caddis. Insects hatch all year long, with major swarms from May to August. Look for Ephemera Danica, stoneflies, and caddis. Land insects like ants and grasshoppers are also good choices in late summer.
The river has many species, including trout up to 70 cm, grayling up to 40 cm, crayfish, chub, and bullhead. It stays around 13°C, with deep pools and rapid zones. The cliffs surrounding the canyon rise to 300 meters, offering a dramatic view as you fish.
Still looking for where to fish in Serbia? Besides Gradac and Drina, Serbia has other rivers worth visiting if you enjoy technical fly fishing. Each river is different and offers unique settings, fish species, techniques, water types, and seasons.
Central Serbia has many fishing spots where tourists can relax, try new stles, and learn about the region's fish. You don’t need to be an expert to enjoy these places.
Fishing in Serbia depends on seasons, weather, permits, location, and fish type. Understanding the best time of day and local rules helps you get the most out of your experience.
Fishing in Serbia is about slowing down, seeing new places, and feeling close to nature. You can cast your line along the Danube, explore the clear waters of the Drina, or relax by peaceful lakes like Bovan and Ćelije. Even if you’re not a pro, you’ll enjoy the experience and maybe even land a big one.
Final Rentals is a trusted and reliable car rental service in Serbia. You can book online, choose from a range of vehicles, and pick up your car in Belgrade. It’s the most convenient way to reach fishing areas and spend more time on the river.
