Question 1

What are the "Zebra" trout?

Accepted Answer

The Saine's wild brown trout have distinct, dark vertical stripes (zebra dress) to camouflage against the limestone pebbles. They are famously wary - extreme stealth is required due to the "vodka-clear" water.

Question 2

Are chest waders allowed on the Saine?

Accepted Answer

No. Chest waders are strictly forbidden on many Jura river stretches to prevent disease spread and protect banks. Hip boots or thigh waders are mandatory.

Question 3

What leader and tippet should I use?

Accepted Answer

Use long, delicate leaders (up to 5-6 meters) and light tippets (0.10mm to 0.12mm) to achieve a drag-free drift in the crystal-clear water.

Question 4

When is the best time to fish the Saine?

Accepted Answer

May and June are the gold-standard months for dry fly fishing during the Mayfly hatches. September offers a resurgence of activity as temperatures cool before the season ends.

Question 5

Which AAPPMA manages the Saine?

Accepted Answer

AAPPMA de Foncine-le-Bas - La Sainette manages the river from Les Planches-en-Montagne to Foncine-le-Haut, including tributaries like the Sainette and Galaveau. They offer reciprocity with neighboring associations.

Question 6

Why are CDC flies so important here?

Accepted Answer

The Jura is the birthplace of CDC (Cul de Canard) flies. Local patterns like those by Aimé Devaux (A-4, A-11) were designed specifically for these clear, fast limestone streams.

Question 7

Where are the main access points for the Saine?

Accepted Answer

Champagnole is the primary hub for accessing the mid-reaches. The densest concentration of access points is around Chaux-des-Crotenay, southeast of Champagnole. Use the peche-jura.com interactive map—blue pins indicate first-category public waters, red pins mark specific parking and access points. Poligny is further from the main beats and requires a 30-minute drive south.

Question 8

What makes the Saine Valley ecologically special?

Accepted Answer

The Saine is part of the Regional Natural Park of Haut-Jura, a strictly protected sanctuary. The valley contains over 950 flowering plant species including rare Alpine flora like Edelweiss, Hellebore, and Monk's-hood. The cold, fast-moving limestone water creates a unique "moist" microclimate supporting distinct riparian vegetation from alluvial alder forests to mountain pines.

Question 9

How do I read the peche-jura.com fishing map?

Accepted Answer

Blue markers indicate first-category public waters (general license applies, often including no-kill sections). Red markers signify access points, car parks, or private sections requiring daily permits. Yellow/purple markers indicate accommodation, tackle shops, or other recreational facilities. Click individual pins on the interactive map for specific rules and parking information.

Saine – Fly Fishing