Fishing in Lower Austria

Lower Austria, or Niederösterreich, is the largest state in Austria, wrapping around Vienna and stretching from the Czech border in the north to the Eastern Alps in the south. It got its name from the fact that it lies downstream, that is, low as the river flows, of the River Emms. And while it’s not entirely lowland, with the Limestone Alps dominating its southwest, most of Lower Austria is indeed relatively flat and low-lying. Lower Austria is rich in rivers, lakes, vineyards and forested valleys, offering peaceful surroundings and diverse freshwater species. The climate is continental, with warm summers and cold winters. Although it’s the most populous and industrialized part of Austria, European environmental laws ensure clean waters. Together with traditional angling culture and excellent accessibility - most of the area is within a couple of hour’s drive from Vienna - Lower Austria’s natural beauty, combined with its well-managed fisheries and organized licensing system, makes it an excellent destination for both local and visiting anglers looking for relaxation and sport in equal measure.

Fishing in Lower Austria is exclusively freshwater, with a strong focus on river, stream, and lake fishing. The Danube River flows through the region and provides wide, deep waters full of fish, particularly near Tulln and Krems. Its tributaries, like the Ybbs, Pielach, and Traisen rivers, offer excellent fly fishing and light spinning in clear, fast-moving waters. Numerous lakes and ponds, both natural and man-made, are scattered throughout the region, including Lunz am See, Ottenstein Reservoir, and several gravel pit lakes around the Marchfeld area. These lakes support populations of carp, pike, perch, zander, and tench. Many are privately managed but accessible through fishing clubs or daily permits. The diversity of fishing types—from drifting flies in alpine streams to stillwater ledgering for carp—means there’s something for every angler.

Lower Austria’s rivers and streams are famous for their brown trout, grayling, and char, especially in cooler, fast-flowing alpine-fed systems. Rainbow trout are stocked in some waters, providing reliable sport in highland streams and pay-to-fish ponds. Danube and lowland rivers hold larger species like pike, zander (pike-perch), catfish, and carp, alongside perch, bream, barbel, and chub. In lakes and reservoirs, anglers target common and mirror carp, tench, and crucian carp for relaxed, often multi-day sessions. Predatory species like northern pike, perch, and zander are common and respond well to spinning and lure techniques. The variety of environments and species allows anglers to tailor their outings to specific goals, whether it’s sight-fishing for trout or waiting out a big carp under the stars.

Fly fishing is a celebrated tradition in the alpine and pre-alpine rivers of Lower Austria. Dry flies, nymphs, and streamers are all used, with many rivers supporting wild fish in well-maintained fisheries. Catch-and-release is common in fly zones, and anglers are encouraged to use barbless hooks and environmentally conscious practices. Spinning is popular on the larger rivers and in lakes, especially when targeting pike, perch, and zander. Soft plastics, crankbaits, and spoons are effective depending on the season and water clarity. In stillwaters, carp fishing with boilies, method feeders, and traditional bait rigs is widespread, with anglers often fishing overnight using bivvies and alarms. Float fishing with worms, corn, or dough is also common for mixed species.