Some Interesting Fishing Locations in Bulgaria (Europe)
Bulgaria Fishing Spots – Looking to cast a line in the beautiful region/district of Bulgaria? Crystal-clear mountain streams and serene lakes offer many excellent fishing spots. Here are a few great sportfishing spots in Bulgaria.
Varbitsa River (Bulgaria Fishing Spots)
A Temperamental Waterway
The Varbitsa River flows through the eastern Rhodope Mountains in southern Bulgaria. It’s the Arda River’s largest tributary. The Arda, in turn, is a tributary of the Maritsa River. The Varbitsa is known for its highly variable water flow.
Source and Upper Course
The Varbitsa River’s main stem is the Erma River. It originates in the western Rhodopes near the Bulgaria-Greece border. The source is at 1,284 meters altitude near Marzyan village. Initially, it flows eastward. Then, it turns southeast, flowing through a deep, forested valley.
Middle Course and Valley (Bulgaria Fishing Spots)
The Varbitsa River passes through Zlatograd. Near Zlatograd, the Malka River joins the Varbitsa. The valley widens downstream of Zlatograd. The river meanders through less forested areas. Near Fotinovo, the Varbitsa turns north.
Lower Course and Confluence
The Varbitsa River continues northward to its mouth. The valley widens significantly in this lower section. Finally, it flows into the Studen Kladenets Reservoir. This reservoir lies on the Arda River near Sokolsko village. The river significantly contributes to the Arda River’s flow.
Drainage Basin and Discharge
The Varbitsa River’s drainage basin is extensive. It covers 1,203 square kilometers. This is a substantial portion of the Arda’s total drainage area. The average slope is steep. The river’s water flow varies dramatically throughout the year. The Varbitsa’s discharge can fluctuate immensely.
Discharge Fluctuation and Flooding (Bulgaria Fishing Spots)
The Varbitsa River experiences significant discharge fluctuations. Rainfall and snowmelt heavily influence its flow. Autumn rains often cause severe flooding. The difference between high and low flows can be 5,000 times. Consequently, the river’s course is susceptible to erosion. The Varbitsa is known for its dramatic and unpredictable flow.
Veselina River (Bulgaria Fishing Spots)
Origin and Upper Course
The Veselina River, a 70-kilometer-long waterway, flows through northern Bulgaria. It’s a left tributary of the Stara Reka River. Moreover, the Stara Reka joins the Yantra River, part of the Danube basin. The Veselina is the second-largest tributary of the Stara Reka, after the Golyama Reka. This river is a significant part of the region’s hydrology.
Journey Through Forested Valleys
The Veselina River starts at 784 meters above sea level. Its source lies southwest of Drenta village in the Balkan Mountains. Initially, it flows northeastward to Dobrevtsi village. Then, it flows north through a deep, forested valley. Finally, it reaches the Yovkovtsi Reservoir. The journey shows significant changes in elevation and landscape.
Gorge and the Kapinovo Monastery (Bulgaria Fishing Spots)
After leaving the Yovkovtsi Reservoir, the Veselina River continues its course. The river passes near the Kapinovo Monastery. Consequently, it cuts through the Elena Heights in a picturesque four-kilometer gorge. This scenic gorge is a significant landmark. The river then flows further downstream.
Lower Course and Tributaries
Downstream from the monastery, the Veselina River turns northeast. Here, the valley widens, supporting fertile farmlands. After the Bebrovska Reka joins it, the Veselina turns north again. Finally, it flows into the Stara Reka River. This confluence is located about 2.2 kilometers north of Dzhulyunitsa village, near the I-4 road. The river plays an important role in the region’s agriculture.
Drainage Basin and Hydrological Characteristics
The Veselina River’s drainage basin covers 882 square kilometers. This basin accounts for 35.9% of the Stara Reka’s total drainage area. The Zlatarishka Reka, a 56.5-kilometer-long river, is its largest tributary. The Veselina shows a distinct seasonal flow pattern. High water levels typically occur from March to June. Conversely, low water levels characterize July through October. The average annual discharge at the Yovkovtsi Reservoir is 2.3 cubic meters per second. The flow rate varies across the year.
Veleka River (Bulgaria Fishing Spots)
A Biodiversity Hotspot in Southern Bulgaria
The Veleka River and its tributaries support diverse fish life. Sixteen fish species call this area home. The Mladezhka and Aydere rivers are also part of this ecosystem. The area is a rich biodiversity spot. This river basin is an important ecosystem.
Endangered Species: Protecting Bulgaria’s Aquatic Heritage
Three of these species are endangered. Anguilla anguilla, Chalcalburnus chalcoides, and Rutilus frisii are protected. They are listed in the Red Data Book of Bulgaria. Conservation efforts are crucial. These endangered species need protection.
Fish Abundance and Biomass: A Comparative Analysis (Bulgaria Fishing Spots)
Researchers have studied fish populations. The Veleka River shows 3093 individuals per hectare. Biomass is 68.19 kg per hectare. The Mladezhka and Aydere rivers have lower figures. These figures are below the average for other Bulgarian rivers.
Threats to the Ecosystem: Human Impact on Fish Populations
Intensive tourism development impacts the ecosystem. Uncontrolled fishing and poaching exacerbate problems. These activities harm fish populations. Sustainable practices are urgently needed. Human activity poses a serious threat.
Conservation Efforts: Protecting the Veleka River’s Future
Conservation measures are necessary. Sustainable tourism practices are essential. Regulating fishing and combating poaching are vital. Protecting this ecosystem is important. The future of this biodiversity depends on our efforts.
Vidbol River (Bulgaria Fishing Spots)
Source and Upper Course
The Vidbol River flows through northwestern Bulgaria. This 62-kilometer-long river is a right tributary of the Danube River. Its journey begins high in the Balkan Mountains. The Vidbol River is a relatively small river, but it’s still an important part of the region’s ecosystem. Its water supports local irrigation.
Origin and Initial Flow
The Vidbol River’s source is called Dzhonovets. It starts at approximately 1,000 meters above sea level. The source is located about 300 meters northeast of Babin Nos Peak (1,103 meters). Babin Nos Peak is in the northwestern Balkan Mountains. The river initially flows through a forested valley in the western Danubian Plain.
Course Through Rakovitsa and Gara Makres (Bulgaria Fishing Spots)
The Vidbol River flows northeastward. This northward flow continues until reaching Rakovitsa village. Then, the river continues eastward toward Gara Makresh. Several significant tributaries join the Vidbol in this section. The river’s path is determined by the terrain. The river’s flow is affected by these tributaries.
Canyon-Like Section and Change in Direction
From Gara Makresh, the Vidbol River changes direction. The river bends northward and flows through a deep, canyon-like valley. Near Sinagovtsi village, it changes direction again. Specifically, the river turns eastward. Then it enters the Vidin Plain. The river’s path is dramatically affected by the terrain.
Lower Course and Confluence with the Danube (Bulgaria Fishing Spots)
The Vidbol River continues its eastward flow. It enters the Vidin Plain. Finally, the Vidbol flows into the Danube River. This confluence occurs about two kilometers east of Dunavtsi town. The elevation at the confluence is 29 meters. The river’s final destination is the Danube River. The river’s journey ends here.
Drainage Basin and Hydrological Characteristics
The Vidbol River’s drainage basin covers 330 square kilometers. This relatively small basin is located between several other larger river basins. These include the Voynishka Reka to the north, the Archar to the south and southeast, and the Timok along the Babin Nos ridge to the west. The river is primarily rain-fed. High water levels typically occur from April to June. Lower water levels are prevalent from August to October. The river often partially dries up during the summer.
Settlements and Infrastructure Along the Vidbol
The Vidbol River flows entirely within Vidin Province. Seven settlements are situated along its course. These include Rakovitsa, Tsar Shishmanovo, Makresh, Valchek, Sratsimirovo, and Sinagovtsi villages, and Dunavtsi town. Two main roads run along its middle and lower valley. A 14-kilometer stretch of the III-1403 road connects Tsar Shishmanovo and Gara Makresh. A 6.1-kilometer section of the III-1413 road connects Dunavitsa and the Bozhuritsa refuge. The Vidbol River’s water is utilized for irrigation in the area.
Vidima River (Bulgaria Fishing Spots)
Source and Upper Course
The Vidima River flows through northern Bulgaria. This 68-kilometer-long river is a left tributary of the Rositsa River. The Rositsa River, in turn, flows into the Yantra River, part of the Danube basin. The Vidima is the largest tributary of the Rositsa River. Its journey begins high in the Balkan Mountains.
Origin and Initial Flow
The Vidima River begins as the Vasilkovitsa River. Its source is at 2,040 meters above sea level. This source is located on the northwestern foothills of Botev Peak (2,376 meters). Botev Peak is the highest summit in the Balkan Mountains. The river’s source is within a protected area.
Flow Through the Severen Dzhendem Reserve (Bulgaria Fishing Spots)
The Vidima River’s upper course lies within the Severen Dzhendem Reserve. This reserve is part of the Central Balkan National Park. The river flows northward through a deep, forested valley. It continues this northward flow until reaching the outskirts of Apriltsi town. The river’s early course is marked by pristine natural beauty.
Confluence with the Dyasna Vidima and Apriltsi
Upon reaching Apriltsi, the Vidima River receives a significant addition to its flow. This addition is the Dyasna (Right) Vidima. The confluence with the Dyasna Vidima is often considered the true starting point of the Vidima River. The river’s volume increases substantially at this point. The combined flow continues downstream.
Middle Course and Valley Characteristics (Bulgaria Fishing Spots)
Downstream from Apriltsi, the Vidima River turns northwest. Then it flows through the Novoseltsi Valley. Afterward, it flows north again between Velchevo and Debnevo villages. This section forms a picturesque canyon-like valley. Eventually, the river changes direction again. The river’s path is dictated by the surrounding terrain.
Lower Course and Confluence with the Rositsa
The Vidima River turns eastward. Its valley subsequently widens significantly. The river finally flows into the Rositsa River. This confluence occurs about three kilometers south of Sevlievo town, at an altitude of 206 meters. The river’s journey ends here. The Vidima significantly contributes to the Rositsa River’s water volume.
Drainage Basin and Hydrological Characteristics
The Vidima River’s drainage basin covers 554 square kilometers. This area is 24.2% of the Rositsa River’s total drainage basin. The Vidima River is fed by both rain and snow. High water levels are observed from April to June. Conversely, low water levels are typical from August to October. The average annual discharge at its mouth is a relatively high 5.6 cubic meters per second. The river’s flow shows predictable seasonal variations.
Visočica River (Bulgaria Fishing Spots)
A Transboundary Waterway
The Visočica River, also known as Visochitsa in Bulgarian, flows through eastern Serbia and western Bulgaria. This river is a right tributary of the Temštica River. Furthermore, it’s part of the Black Sea drainage basin. The name originates from the Visok mountain in Serbia, reflecting its high-altitude origins.
Source and Bulgarian Course
The Visočica River begins at an elevation of 1640 meters. This source is located in the Berovo mountain range, part of the Balkan Mountains. The source is immediately east of the Serbia-Bulgaria border. The river’s initial kilometers are characterized by deep river canyons. In its 16.7-kilometer Bulgarian section, several streams join the Visočica.
Tributaries and the River’s Turn Westward (Bulgaria Fishing Spots)
These tributaries include the Kuratska, Krivi Potok, Gubeshka, and Renovshtitsa streams. Near Komshtitsa village, the river makes a sharp turn westward. Then, it flows into the Visok Valley. After a few kilometers, the river enters Serbia. The change in direction marks a transition in the landscape.
The Visočica’s Serbian Course and Major Tributaries
The Visočica River enters Serbia near Donji Krivodol village. The Serbian portion of the river stretches approximately 54 kilometers. Several streams and streamlets join the river here. Among these, the Rosomačka and Dojkinačka streams are most notable, each about 40 kilometers long. The river then flows through a large basin.
Settlements and Confluence with the Temštica River (Bulgaria Fishing Spots)
The Visočica flows near several villages in Serbia. These villages include Rsovci, Pakleštica, Velika Lukanja, and Zavoj. Below Zavoj, at a location called Mrtvi Most (“Dead Bridge”), the Visočica flows into the Temštica River. In Serbia, the river forms the center of the Visok region. The Visočica plays a significant role in the region’s geography.
The Zavoj Lake: A Result of a Natural Disaster
A major landslide in 1963 dramatically altered the landscape. Specifically, this event created the Zavoj Lake. The lake significantly changed the character of the Visočica’s lower course. This demonstrates the power of natural forces to shape the environment. The Zavoj Lake remains a lasting impact of this geological event.
Vit River (Bulgaria Fishing Spots)
A Bulgarian Waterway
The Vit River flows through northern Bulgaria. It’s a significant right tributary of the Danube River. Its total length is 189 kilometers, including its main branch. The Vit River also lends its name to a feature in Antarctica.
Sources and Upper Course
Two main branches create the Vit River. First, the Beli Vit originates in the Balkan Mountains near Yumruka summit. Secondly, the Cherni Vit also starts high in the Balkan Mountains. Both upper sections lie within the Central Balkan National Park. Then, these two branches merge to form the Vit River.
Middle Course and Tributaries (Bulgaria Fishing Spots)
The Beli and Cherni Vit meet near Teteven. Subsequently, the Vit flows north through a forested valley. Parts of the river’s water infiltrate karst formations. This water then feeds the Glava Panega spring, a source for the Zlatna Panega River. This demonstrates the interconnectedness of the region’s waterways.
Lower Course and Valley
The Vit River changes direction to northeast. Between Toros and Dermantsi, the valley widens. After Sadovets, the Vit enters the Danubian Plain. Its valley becomes wide and asymmetrical with steeper slopes on one side. Finally, it flows into the Danube near Dolni Vit.
Mouth and Human Impact
The Vit River enters the Danube near Dolni Vit. From Gradina to its mouth, water protection dikes have been built. These manage the river’s flow. The Vit River plays a significant role in Bulgaria’s landscape and ecology. Its unique features include the Vit sculpin, an endemic fish species.
Voynishka reka (Bulgaria Fishing Spots)
A Bulgarian River
The Voynishka Reka, a river in northwestern Bulgaria, flows into the Danube River. It’s a right tributary, meaning it joins the Danube from the right bank. Its total length measures 55 kilometers. This relatively short river plays a significant role in the region.
Source and Upper Course
The Voynishka Reka begins its journey under a different name. Initially known as the Chichilka Reka, it originates at 664 meters above sea level. This is near Chernoglav peak, a mountain in the Balkan range. Subsequently, the river flows northeastward through various landscapes. The river passes through several key locations in its upper course.
Mid-Course and Tributaries (Bulgaria Fishing Spots)
Furthermore, the Voynishka Reka’s path takes it through reservoirs. These include the Kravarski Dol and Poletkovtsi reservoirs. Moreover, it passes through villages like Staropatitsa and Chichil. Then, the river shifts its course eastward. Finally, the Koromanitsa River joins it, becoming a significant tributary.
Lower Course and Discharge
The river continues its flow. It passes through Bukovets and Tarlyane before reaching its destination. The Voynishka Reka empties into the Danube at an altitude of just 32 meters. Consequently, the river experiences seasonal variations in water flow. The average annual discharge is measured at Tarlyane.
Drainage Basin and Water Characteristics (Bulgaria Fishing Spots)
Meanwhile, the Voynishka Reka’s drainage basin encompasses a substantial area. It covers 276 square kilometers. Specifically, this basin lies between the Topolovets, Vidbol, and Timok river basins. In addition, the river’s water supply primarily comes from rain and snow. Therefore, water levels peak in spring and decline in late summer and autumn.
Settlements and Uses
In conclusion, the Voynishka Reka flows entirely within Vidin Province. Six settlements are located along its banks. These include the villages of Staropatitsa, Poletkovtsi, Chichil, Bukovets, and Tarlyane, along with the town of Dunavtsi. Importantly, the river’s waters serve a practical purpose. Local communities use its water for irrigation.
Vrana River (Bulgaria Fishing Spots)
Source and Upper Course
The Vrana River, a 68-kilometer-long river, flows through eastern Bulgaria. It’s a left tributary of the Golyama Kamchiya River. The Golyama Kamchiya is the main stem of the Kamchiya River system. This system ultimately drains into the Black Sea. The Vrana plays a significant role in the region’s hydrology.
Initial Flow and Valley Characteristics
The Vrana River originates at an elevation of 567 meters. Its source lies about one kilometer south of Tapchileshtovo village. Initially, it flows through a wide valley. This wide valley continues until the river reaches Prolaz village. Then, it enters a narrower gorge.
Gorge and Change in Course (Bulgaria Fishing Spots)
The Vrana River flows northeast through a deep gorge. This gorge cuts through the Preslav Mountain range of the Balkan Mountains. After emerging from the gorge, the valley widens. The river forms a large convex arc to the north. Then it gradually shifts to a southeasterly flow. The river’s course is significantly affected by the terrain.
Lower Course and Confluence
In its lower course, the Vrana River flows along the southern foothills of the Shumen Plateau. It continues its southeasterly path. Eventually, the Vrana joins the Golyama Kamchiya River. This confluence is near Han Krum village, at an altitude of 86 meters. The river completes its journey here. The river’s final destination is the Black Sea.
Drainage Basin and Neighboring River Systems (Bulgaria Fishing Spots)
The Vrana River’s drainage basin covers 938 square kilometers. This area represents 17.5% of the Kamchiya River’s total drainage area. Neighboring river basins include the Yantra, Rusenski Lom, and Provadiya rivers. The Vrana’s basin is bordered by other major river systems. The area’s drainage pattern is complex.
Hydrological Characteristics and Seasonal Flow
The Vrana River is fed by both rain and snow. High water levels are typically observed in March. Conversely, September and October see low water levels. The average annual flow, measured near Kochovo village, is 2.74 cubic meters per second. The river’s flow varies seasonally. This seasonal variation is typical for rivers in this region. The flow rate is strongly influenced by rainfall and snowmelt.
Yantra (Bulgaria Fishing Spots)
A Bulgarian Jewel
The Yantra River flows through northern Bulgaria. It’s a significant tributary of the Danube River. At 285 kilometers, it ranks seventh longest in Bulgaria. It’s also the third longest tributary of the Danube.
A Meandering Course: Gorges and Picturesque Landscapes
The Yantra’s middle and lower course is notable. It meanders through numerous gorges. The river’s sinuosity index is high at 3.1. This is typical of meandering rivers. The landscape is quite picturesque.
Historical Significance: Veliko Tarnovo and Gabrovo (Bulgaria Fishing Spots)
Veliko Tarnovo sits on hills overlooking the Yantra. This city served as the capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire. It remains a significant cultural and tourist center. Gabrovo, another major city, was an early industrial and educational hub.
Geographic Features: Source, Course, and Tributaries
The Yantra originates at 1,220 meters. Its source is near Buzludzha Peak in the Balkan Mountains. It initially flows northwest through a forested valley. The river then turns eastward, forming the Strazha Gorge.
Lower Course: Meanders and the Danube
In its lower course, the Yantra meanders significantly. The sinuosity index remains exceptionally high. This is especially true near Dolna Oryahovitsa, Varbitsa, and Draganovo. The Rositsa River is its largest tributary. The Yantra ultimately flows into the Danube.
Zhrebchevo Dam (Bulgaria Fishing Spots)
Bulgaria’s Fourth Largest Dam
Zhrebchevo Dam holds a significant place in Bulgaria. It ranks as the fourth largest dam in the country. The dam resides in southeastern Bulgaria. It offers a vast expanse of water. This creates a significant reservoir.
Size and Scope of Zhrebchevo
The dam covers a considerable area. Its surface area spans approximately 29 square kilometers. This vast expanse supports diverse aquatic life. Therefore, the dam provides ample fishing opportunities. Many diverse fish species thrive here.
Diverse Fish Populations: A Fisherman’s Paradise (Bulgaria Fishing Spots)
Zhrebchevo Dam provides a variety of fish. Carp, catfish, and bream populate its waters. Anglers find abundant fishing here. This abundance draws many enthusiasts. The reservoir is a true angler’s paradise.
Historical Significance and Scenic Beauty: Beyond Fishing
The surrounding area holds historical importance. The region offers rich history and heritage. Beautiful mountain views surround the dam. Consequently, visitors can enjoy sightseeing. Tourism complements fishing as an attraction.
A Blend of Nature and History: Exploring Zhrebchevo
Zhrebchevo Dam offers a memorable experience. It combines outdoor recreation with historical exploration. The dam itself is a marvel of engineering. Overall, the region offers diverse attractions. Visitors should plan a visit.
Zlatarishka reka (Bulgaria Fishing Spots)
Origin and Upper Course
The Zlatarishka Reka River flows through northern Bulgaria. This 56.5-kilometer-long river is a right tributary of the Veselina River. The Veselina River, in turn, flows into the Stara Reka River. The Stara Reka is part of the Yantra River system. The Zlatarishka Reka is the largest tributary of the Veselina River. The river starts high in the Balkan Mountains.
Source and Initial Flow
The Zlatarishka Reka begins as the Zelenishka Reka. Its source is at 1,315 meters above sea level. The source is located about 300 meters north of the Chumerna refuge. The refuge is in the Elena-Tvarditsa division of the Balkan Mountains. The river flows generally northward throughout its course. The river’s path is defined by the mountain terrain.
Journey Through the Elena Valley (Bulgaria Fishing Spots)
The Zlatarishka Reka continues its northward flow. Initially, the river flows through a deep, forested valley. This valley eventually widens as the river passes through the eastern parts of the Elena Valley. The river then enters a dramatic gorge. The river flows through a significant change in the landscape.
Gorge and Lower Course
The Zlatarishka Reka bisects the Elena Heights. This section forms a 10-kilometer-long gorge known as the Boaza Gorge. After emerging from the Boaza Gorge, the valley widens again. The river flows through Zlataritsa town. Finally, it flows into the Veselina River, approximately 1.6 kilometers north of Zlataritsa. The river’s flow rate changes as the valley changes.
Drainage Basin and Hydrological Characteristics (Bulgaria Fishing Spots)
The Zlatarishka Reka’s drainage basin covers 187 square kilometers. This area represents 21.2% of the Veselina River’s total drainage basin. The river exhibits a distinct seasonal flow pattern. High water levels occur from March to June. Conversely, July through October typically experience low water levels. The river’s flow is influenced by the amount of rain and snow.
Settlements and Infrastructure Along the River
The Zlatarishka Reka flows entirely within Veliko Tarnovo Province. Two towns and five villages are situated along its course. Miykovtsi, Hanevtsi, Ruhovtsi, Karandili, Maryan, and Dolni Maryan are in Elena Municipality. Elena and Zlataritsa are towns in their respective municipalities. A 10.5-kilometer section of the II-53 road (Polikraishte–Sliven–Yambol–Sredets) follows the river’s gorge through the Elena Heights. The road provides access to the region. The river is an important part of the local infrastructure.
Zlatna Panega (Bulgaria Fishing Spots)
Origin and Name
The Zlatna Panega River flows through central-northern Bulgaria. This river originates from a karst spring. The spring is located near the village of Zlatna Panega. The river’s name translates to “Golden Panega.” During Ottoman rule, it was known as “Altǎn Paneg.”
The Source and Water Temperature
Specifically, the Zlatna Panega’s source is significant. This karst spring is the largest in Bulgaria. The water temperature remains relatively constant throughout the year. This consistency is due to its karst origin. The constant temperature makes it ideal for certain species of fish.
Course and Settlements (Bulgaria Fishing Spots)
Next, the river flows through several communities. It passes through Zlatna Panega, Rumyantsevo, and Petrevene. The river eventually reaches the town of Lukovit. Finally, the river empties into the Iskar River. This point marks the end of its course.
Fishing and Biodiversity
Moreover, the Zlatna Panega is a popular fishing spot. Brown trout, rainbow trout, chub, and barbel thrive in its waters. One can even find ide and perch. Larger specimens of trout are common. The river supports a thriving fish population.
Antarctic Connection: Panega Glacier
In addition, the river has an unexpected connection to Antarctica. The Panega Glacier on Livingston Island is named after this river. This naming recognizes the river’s significance. This shows how place names travel across the globe. The naming creates an interesting parallel between the Bulgarian river and the Antarctic glacier.
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