Introduction

The river Lidder is also an angler’s paradise and offers trout fishing – which is considered by many as the best sport fish in the world. Interestingly, trout is not native of these perennial snow-fed waters. Trout were first introduced to Kashmir and to India by an Englishman, Frank Mitchell. In 1899, he reared trout in the premises of his private carpet factory at Bagh-e-Dilawar Khan, located in Shahr-e-Khas. He established the first trout hatchery at Harwan in 1901. It was a chance flood that destroyed the temporary rearing ponds at Pazgam and the fingerlings escaped into the Aru stream. That chance happening also opened the gates to an entire industry and sport. The fingerlings took remarkably well to the fresh waters and icy temperatures of the streams and their population grew rapidly. The size was also substantial and in 1906, Viceroy of India, Lord Minto was presented with one that weighed twelve and a half pounds.

The two major varieties of trout found in Kashmir’s waters are the Brown trout (salmo trutta) and its cousin, the Rainbow trout (salmo gairdneri gairdneri / oncorhynchus mykiss). At Pahalgam, the brown trout predominate – though the size of the fish is not very large. The normal fishing season is from mid-April to mid-September. Only artificial fly-fishing is allowed. A fishing permit has to be obtained from the Department of Fisheries and is valid for a single day. A catch of up to six fish is permitted and an angler is allowed the use of only one rod. Some good beats in the Pahalgam area are Nafran, Aru, Sheshnag, Fryslan and Langanbal. The services of a ‘gillie’ , local fishing expert can also be hired. A fine table fish, trout can be easily pan cooked in its own fat or in a little butter or oil. Very little or no flavoring is necessary.

Special Attributes

Good area for trout fishing

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Comfortable but conservative.

Connectivity

Walking, taxis or on horseback

Enjoyed by

Nature and sport lovers, and general interest

Exposure

Yes

Avoidable Season

December, January, February and March

Facilities

Basic, plan accordingly

Things Not Allowed

None as such

Tip

Take the services of a 'gillie'

Type of site

River bank