Nagara River

Gifu, Japan · Freshwater · Advanced

One of Japan's last three clear-water rivers, famous for ayu sweetfish and the thousand-year-old tradition of cormorant fishing. Ayu are taken with the unique tomozuri live-decoy method.

Getting there & access

Gifu Prefecture explains that fishing on the Nagara River is governed by fishing rights held by several local fishing cooperatives, each covering a section of the river (for example the Nagara River Central, Gujo, Tsubo River and Itatori Upper River cooperatives, and the Kiso-Nagara Lower River cooperative downstream). Anglers need the permission of the cooperative for the stretch they fish and must follow that cooperative's own recreational fishing rules. Find out which cooperative covers your stretch, and read its current rules, seasons and permit requirements, before you fish.

Access information source

Species

  • ayu
  • Japanese dace
  • masu salmon

Best times to fish

  • Ayu season (Jun-Oct)
  • Warm summer days
  • Clear low water

Recommended gear

Essential

  • Long tomozuri ayu rod (9-10m)
  • Live decoy ayu and tackle
  • Wading tights and shoes
  • Wading staff

Optional

  • Cooperative day permit
  • Live bait bucket
  • Sun protection

Regulations and requirements

  • A yugyoken from the Nagara River fishing cooperative is required
  • Ayu season dates are set annually by the cooperative and strictly enforced
  • Some methods are restricted to protect stocks — check with the cooperative

Rules change regularly — always confirm with the relevant fisheries authority before you fish.

Nearby fishing spots

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