Rafting and fly fishing on the Ubaye River – a complete alpine river immersion
The Ubaye Valley in the French Alps is well known for its rafting descents.
But the river is not only experienced from the raft — it can also be discovered from the banks, by observing currents, seams, insect life… and by practising fly fishing.
This is the idea behind this experience: combining rafting with guided fly fishing to discover the river in a more complete and immersive way.
Two complementary ways to read the river
Rafting allows you to feel the power of the water and its movement.
Fly fishing, on the other hand, invites you to slow down and understand the details: depth, currents, insect activity and quiet holding areas.
By combining both, you gain a much broader understanding of the river.
You are no longer just descending it — you are discovering a living environment.
Guided by a professional of both rafting and fly fishing
This experience is based on a key element:
it is led by Guillaume Mary, a certified whitewater guide and professional fly fishing guide.
This dual expertise makes it possible to:
- adapt the navigation to interesting river sections
- choose the right moments to stop and fish
- help anglers read the water more effectively
- and create a coherent experience from start to finish
This is not simply two activities combined, but a different way to approach the valley.
Who is this experience for?
These outings are mainly designed for:
- fly anglers wishing to discover the Ubaye in a new way
- river and nature enthusiasts
- visitors looking for a more immersive and personalised day
- or small groups wanting to combine rafting with an introduction to fly fishing
Depending on conditions, the day may alternate between rafting sections, fishing stops and time spent observing the river environment.
Discover the river differently
Si l’Ubaye est souvent citée parmi les grandes rivières de rafting en France, ce n’est pas un hasard.
ElleThis approach remains true to the spirit of the valley:
taking time, adapting to conditions and focusing on an authentic river experience.
👉 If you would like to learn more about these rafting and fly fishing outings, you can explore my fly fishing guiding trips or visit my dedicated fly fishing website Esprit Rivières, focused on mountain river fly fishing in the Alps.