Perhaps only the lazy did not hear about the prospects of winter fishing on the Sura. This river is rich in freshwater inhabitants and picturesque places that attract tourists from all over Russia. However, in order to return home with a big catch, it will be necessary to take into account not only fishing methods, but also the features of the reservoir. Just about all the smallest details of fishing on the Sura River, we will tell later in the article.
Features of the reservoir
The total length of the Sura River is about 841 kilometers. This feature allows residents of six constituent entities of the Russian Federation to consider the reservoir "their own":
- Chuvash Republic;
- Mari El Republic;
- Nizhny Novgorod Region;
- Ulyanovsk region;
- Penza region;
- Mordovia.
In 1979, the Sura reservoir acquired a regulated flow, so the reservoir begins to freeze back in November, and only breaks open from ice by mid-April.
Freshwater inhabitants
Decided to go to the Sur coast? Judging by the reviews, fishing on the banks of the Sura is a very interesting and fascinating activity that will suit both an amateur and a professional. Here is just a basic list of fish species that make up the catch of an ordinary fisherman:
- crucian carp;
- perch;
- pike;
- carp;
- som.
Of course, rarer representatives can also be raised in various pond farms: grass carp, carp, ide, but fishing in such places can be quite expensive, so we will dwell on the prospects of an exotic occupation in the following sections.
Catfish fishing in the Ulyanovsk region
It is best to start getting acquainted with the features of fishing on the Sura River from the Ulyanovsk Region, since it is there where you can catch the most catfish. Particularly popular with local residents are sections of reservoirs along the banks of which there is a forest, most of which is the territory of the Volga Forest-Steppe Nature Reserve. The passage is closed with a barrier, but you do not need to pay money for a pass. The obstacle was established only to prevent the export of especially valuable fish listed in the Red Book from the territory of the reserve.
If you decide to go for amateur fishing, then it is best to start your route from the village of Kotyakovo. The course of the Sura in this place is quite calm, so even an inexperienced angler will be able to catch several catfishes without special difficulties. As for the bottom topography, it is characterized by rather sharp changes in sandbanks and deep holes. Most of the captured fish lives at maximum depth, so it is recommended to take an echo sounder with you to find the optimal site for outdoor activities.
Fishing on the Nizhny Novgorod and Mordovian Sura
The reservoir in these areas is characterized by a rather complex bottom relief, the depth of which is from 3 to 4 meters. The current is quite fast, accelerates as the depth decreases. As for fishing spots, there are several win-win options that are most suitable for professional fishermen than amateurs:
- The confluence of the Sura and the Median. On the territory of the Nizhny Novgorod region, not far from the village of Bakshandino (Pilninsky district), two rivers merge. In this place you can catch quite large catfish or even burbot. As gear it is best to use spinning with a sinker up to 150 grams. From the bait, chicken offal, small bleak and frogs are suitable.
- The confluence of Drunk and Sura. Near the village of Shakhovo there is also a place where two rivers merge. Here you can engage in fishing almost all year round. Most professional fishermen recommend using a twister or vibrotail as a bait, since there are a lot of pikes here.
- The border of Chuvashia and Nizhny Novgorod region. One of the most promising places in this region is the village of Krasnoye in the Pilninsky district. In the local water area, burbot, ide, bream and pike prefer to settle. The river winds quite a lot, so almost any tackle is suitable for fishing. Well, the bait depends on the variety of the desired fish.
Most of all, local residents liked fishing in the Surah in winter, when the river is completely covered with ice. If you are interested in fishing of this kind, then stock up on bottom rods and boldly go to the pond. Fish at this time of year is quite hungry, so catching it will not be difficult, especially if the fisherman has some ice fishing skills.
Where to catch a lot of bream?
One of the most picturesque places in the Penza region is the confluence of the rivers Sura and Uza, which is also called the Sur reservoir. For fishermen, this reservoir is most interesting for the abundance of bream, especially when it comes to places near the dam. Therefore, if you decide to go for this particular kind of fish, it is best to throw gear near the village of Maryevka or the village of Alferyevka. Catching here in one morning about 50 kilograms of fish is easy.
Most of the freshwater inhabitants feed at a depth of two to four meters. If you have a high-quality echo sounder at your disposal, then it is best to look for pits with a muddy bottom using the device. Donkeys are usually used as bait, however, regular float tackle may well be used. If you want to lure more fish, you can pre-cook a special porridge from barley and millet groats. Well, as a bait, an ordinary dung worm is an ideal option.
Fishing in Chuvashia. Where to catch a chub?
Fishing on the Sura River in Chuvashia is a special excitement, because here you can catch one of the rarest species of fish in our country - the chub. In addition, you can try your luck here by hunting for sterlet, however, this species of fish is listed in the Red Book, so you will have to release the captured trophy to freedom.
As for sturgeon hunting, it is best to go fishing in the vicinity of the village of Stemasy. It is best to fish along the forest shore using an ordinary float fishing rod as gear. It is very good if you have a small rubber boat at your disposal, as large fish prefer to settle at great depths.
Fishing bases on the Sura
If you are interested in paid fishing, then specially for this you can find a large number of fishing bases on the Sura, the rest of which is distinguished by all possible amenities and excellent nibble.
- Yadrinsky Fort is a fishing and hunting base that has proved itself to tourists only on the best side. Here you can not only rent all the necessary equipment for outdoor activities, but also hire an individual instructor who will teach you all the tricks of fishing.
- Fishing base "Surskie Zori" is an ideal place for recreation, located on the right bank of the Sura. The depth of the reservoir in these places reaches 14 meters, so the chub, pike perch and catfish are well caught here. In addition, the base offers cooking services for freshly caught fish.
- "Forest Keys" - one of the best fishing bases in the Penza region, which is located on the banks of the Sur reservoir. This place is interesting because here you can find a large number of houses on the water, which can be rented for a small fee.
Of course, for an active vacation with all the amenities you will have to pay a rather large amount, but such a service allows you to come fishing with the whole family or have a good time with friends.
Rest on the river Sura
As you can see, fishing on the Sura River is a wonderful opportunity not only to relax your body and soul, but also to have a great time in company with dear people, while returning home with a good catch. Well, so that you have a desire to go to this wonderful place, we recommend watching a short video in which professional fishermen not only talk, but also clearly show how to properly catch carp on the Sura. Be sure, after what you see, you will probably want to visit this magnificent pond.
Conclusion
Sura is a river with a rather fast flow and sharp turns, so fishing here is distinguished by a special drive. However, if you thought that beginner fishermen would not be able to catch anything worthwhile, then you are deeply mistaken. On the pond you can find many interesting places that are great for amateur fishing. Here you can also find a large number of fishing bases, allowing for a modest amount to enjoy outdoor recreation with all amenities. Well, the variety of freshwater inhabitants will not leave indifferent even the most fastidious fisherman.