Češnjevek Ponds

On the edge of the village of Češnjevek, not far from Strmol Castle, the Češnjevek Ponds, also known as the Virje Ponds, lie among woodland and greenery. They formed on the site of former clay pits, where clay was once dug for brick-making; over time the abandoned pits filled with water. Today the ponds and their surroundings are an interesting habitat for many plant and animal species. The area is part of the European Natura 2000 ecological network, and a special feature is the golden-ringed dragonfly, the largest dragonfly in Europe, which lives along a woodland stream by the ponds. A path leads around the larger pond, so the ponds are also a pleasant spot for a walk, relaxing by the water and watching nature. You can also walk here from Strmol Castle; the easy woodland path to the ponds takes about 20 minutes.

Fishing

The two ponds are managed by the Bistrica Domžale fishing club. They are home to various fish species, including carp, grass carp, tench, catfish, zander, pike, silver carp, rudd and roach. Summer catfish fishing is particularly popular.

On Češnjevek Pond 1, depending on the type of permit, coarse fishing, bottom fishing and spinning are allowed, and both day and night fishing are available. Rules, permitted species, fishing methods and permitted catch depend on the permit chosen, so it is advisable to check them before your visit.

Fishing permits can be bought through the Ribiške karte online portal, which also lists current prices, available dates and detailed fishing rules.

Access

From Cerklje, drive towards Velesovo / Preddvor. In Češnjevek, turn right after the bus stop and after about a kilometre you reach the ponds. You can also walk to the ponds from Strmol Castle along an easy woodland path.

Information

Ribiška družina Bistrica Domžale (fishing club)

Krakovska cesta 18A, 1230 Domžale

T: 070 797 676 E: rd.bistricadomzale@gmail.com Pond keeper: Miha Rajgelj T: 041 884 352 Online purchase of fishing permits: Ribiške karte