The Volga Delta is located in the Astrakhan region, approximately 46 kilometers north of Astrakhan itself. It is the largest river lowland in Europe and covers an area of about 12,000 square kilometers.
The climate in the Volga delta is sharply continental. However, it softens a little due to the proximity of the Caspian Sea. The temperature in summer can reach +40, and in winter it can drop to almost -14 degrees. The Volga Delta (photo below) rarely freezes very much, and there is practically no snow in winter.
These places are characterized by a special variety of wildlife. Here you can find pelicans and even flamingos. Sturgeons are found in the water. Unfortunately, the lowering of the water level in the Caspian Sea is reflected in the river delta. It dries up, and in winter it began to freeze. Thus, the delta no longer has such significance for bird nesting. Although it still retains its role during seasonal migrations.
Fauna and flora
The Volga Delta is the lucky owner of one of the rarest plants - the lotus. No one can still say exactly where he came from. This area is considered the northernmost habitat.
Fish diversity is affected by the increase in commercial fishing in the delta. Because of it, the number of many species, such as sturgeon, herring, roach, is reduced.
The Volga Delta, or rather its water, is actively used for irrigation, during the construction of power plants. In this regard, to restore the population, fish species that have never been in these parts are launched into it. We can say that the ecosystem of the delta is becoming almost artificial.
Nature reserves
The situation is saved by the Astrakhan reserve located in the delta . It was opened in 1919 and was one of the first in Russia. The preserve aims to preserve the diversity of the animal and plant world. Due to this, the Volga delta and the territory of the protected area is inhabited by more than 280 species of birds and about 60 species of fish.
To visit the surroundings, you must first leave a request on the website or call the office of the Astrakhan Reserve by phone. You will need to indicate the length of stay, number of people, the presence or absence of transport for delivery. Also, after the dates of the visit have been approved, it is necessary to come to the office, which is located in Astrakhan, and receive special documents that give the right to be in a specially protected natural area.
Rules in the reserve
The reserve in the Volga delta has strict rules, the implementation of which is necessary to preserve nature in its original form. For example, it is forbidden to catch or pick up young animals that may meet along the way. You should not break bushes or tree branches, even if it seems that they are already dried. It is necessary to observe silence so as not to disturb the peace of the world. Of course, it is forbidden to make bonfires and leave behind any garbage.
Short list of rules:
1. Do not go off the trail.
2. Do not make bonfires.
3. Do not break trees, shrubs, do not pick flowers.
4. Take all the trash off the trail with you.
Such rules will help not only to show people the natural beauty, but also to preserve it in its original form.
The Astrakhan reserve is not the only one in those parts. The area of the Volga delta is quite large. The closest neighbor of the first was the recently opened Bogdinsko-Baskunchaksky nature reserve. Established in 1997. It includes Mount Bogdo, Lake Baskunchak and the Green Garden. The reserve was created to protect and preserve in its original form the unique salt lake Baskunchak and the mountain Big Bogdo, the highest point of the Caspian lowland. On its territory there are many species of unique rare birds listed in the Red Book. For example, the steppe eagle, burial eagle and curly pelican. There are 22 species of such birds in the reserve. 47 species of animals and a large number of plants are also protected.
Fishing
Fishing in the Volga River Delta is allowed only within special bases. It is worth noting that there are a great many of them. Representatives of some meet the guest back in Astrakhan, at the airport or at the station, and from there they are taking him to the territory. After the tour is delivered back to the city. The personal catch of each guest is invited to be smoked and provided to him as a treat. Such services are provided, in particular, by the Delta-Volga fishing and hunting base. There are about fifty such places. Most of them are in the Kamyzyak district.
Base for anglers
Experienced fishing enthusiasts prefer to be located precisely at fishing complexes. As a rule, the local base becomes the main choice. The Volga Delta is located very close to it. The explanation for this is basically two things. First, the water lowland is part of a nature reserve. Secondly, a special permit is required to stay there. A similar document is automatically issued to all visitors to the fishing base. While the "savages" its receipt is given with great difficulty. Also, when choosing a fishing base, it can be said that there are well-trained huntsmen who know the area well. They will help you choose the best place so that visitors get maximum pleasure from spending time with a fishing rod in their hands.
When is the best time to fish?
Fishing in the Volga delta is most successful in the lower reaches of the reservoir, mainly in spring or autumn. At this time, the most suitable weather for long and comfortable fishing. And the months that are better to choose for a trip are March-April or September-October. Why exactly these dates? They were chosen due to the fact that at the end of April the water is already beginning to become cloudy, which negatively affects the bite. Spawning also begins, during which huge schools of fish pass along the delta. And predators are not up to the lures. And in May, fishermen will begin to pester a myriad of midges, which can make any stay in nature almost unbearable.
Thus, in order to have a good time, it is better to reserve the base you like in March or September in advance and enjoy the beautiful views and excellent catch in the Volga River Delta.