Water Profile
- Water type: Clear mountain stream, approx. 9 km stretch
- Characteristics: Pools, riffles, eddies, vegetated banks
- Special feature:Fly only, pinch barbs
- Service: Day pass, area briefing, and fishing courses directly on site
- Plan B: Nearby stillwaters (e.g., Putterersee) in case of high water
Fish Species
Brown Trout, Brook Trout, Rainbow Trout.
Always check current closed seasons & minimum sizes with the day pass. Subject to change.
Season & Best Times
- Ideal start: from early June (after snowmelt)
- Summer: crystal clear – wade quietly, fine 5X-6X tips, small patterns
- Bite window:Morning & Afternoon; after rain, the stream usually clears quickly
Effective Methods
- Fly fishing (Dry, Nymph, occasional Streamer)
- Focus on precise presentation and quiet wading
- Fish barbless, release fish gently
Fishing Permits & Rules
- Day passes: available directly in Donnersbachwald
- Permit required: Without an annual license, you need the official guest card/Styrian state fishing license
- Rules (excerpt):barbless, keep a catch log, park only in designated areas
- Briefing: Fishing zones, access points, daily local information
Courses & Area Briefing (Recommendation)
- Individual fishing courses (mostly private lessons): 2×4 hours – theory, casting at the house pond, practice in the calm backwater area
- Course + Stay: Fish for free for the rest of the week (pass included)
- Personal area briefing: Spots, paths, parking
(Internal Link: Interview “Gasthof Zur Gams”)
Ennstal Fishing Voucher – Three Areas, One Booking
With the Ennstal Fishing Voucher, as a guest of one of the three partner establishments, you can fish at no extra cost additionally in the waters of the other two:
- Putterersee (Hotel Puttererseehof)
- Untertalbach / Riesachsee (Gasthof Tetter)
- Donnersbach & Enns sections (Zur Gams)
Valid according to local fishing regulations; Styrian state guest card may be required.
ADVENTURE FISHING WATERS Hosts at Donnersbach
Gasthof Pension Appartements ZUR GAMS – perfect base camp for anglers & family.
Important: For fishing in Styria, an official fishing license is also required. Roland Rüscher, owner of Gasthof Zur Gams, will tell you what you need for it and how to get it easily (information & procedure upon check-in or on request).
FAQ
Do I need a guest card?
Yes, if you don’t have an annual license: official guest card/Styrian state fishing license.
Are there courses for beginners?
Yes. Introduction via pond & calm stream sections, individual guidance.
When is the best time?
From early June; in summer, best in the mornings and afternoons
Is the Ennstal Fishing Voucher also valid for the Donnersbach?
Yes, as a guest at Zur Gams, Tetter, or Puttererseehof, you can fish at no extra cost with the Ennstal Fishing Voucher in their partner waters (Enns sections, Donnersbach, Untertalbach, Putterersee) according to the respective fishing regulations.