GRADIŠKA RETURNS TO THE SAVA: NEW FISHERMEN’S HOUSE AND STRONGER NAUTICAL TOURISM COMING SOON

The banks of the Sava River — the greatest natural and tourism potential of Gradiška — are set to receive a major transformation following a meeting between representatives of the Sports Fishing Association Amur, the Nautical Club Gradiška, and the city administration.

PHOTO: Glas Srpske

During the meeting, strategic directions for developing life on the river were defined, including modern infrastructure projects, shoreline cleanup, and the creation of unique cultural and tourism events.

City Manager Bojan Vujinović emphasized that cooperation with local associations, which gather more than 500 active members, is essential for transforming the riverfront.

The River as the City’s Mirror

“Our goal is clear — the Sava must become the mirror of Gradiška,” Vujinović said.

According to him, plans include renovating the lower riverside promenade, installing lighting on platforms along the river, and building a modern marina that will enable the further development of nautical tourism.

He added that, with support from Vode Srpske, intensive cleaning of the riverbank will begin soon. This year’s tourism offer will again feature the popular “Sava Fishermen’s Nights,” a regatta, as well as expanded programs including boat races and attractive performances with jet skis and water skis.

“We want the Sava to be more than just a fishing spot. It should become a central gathering place for our citizens, members of the diaspora, and tourists. Through the joint efforts of the city administration and local associations, we are reviving the spirit of Gradiška as a city on the river that offers a modern, vibrant and well-organized environment for all generations,” Vujinović said.

Major Plans for Sport Fishing

For sport fishermen, this year is expected to resolve several long-standing challenges while opening the door to ambitious projects.

Strahinja Jurišić, president of the assembly of the Sports Fishing Association “Amur,” announced more than 15 regional and international competitions scheduled for this year.

“We are especially pleased with the promise that the process of demining the riverbank will be completed this year, which is crucial for the safety of our members and visitors,” Jurišić said.

He highlighted the construction of a Fishermen’s House as the most important long-term project. The facility will serve as a sports center and a museum dedicated to the history of fishing and the Sava River.

“Our visionary project is the construction of a sports home — a fishermen’s house. It will not only be the headquarters of the association, but also an exhibition and museum space dedicated to the Sava River and the rich history of Gradiška, so that we can preserve our tradition for future generations,” Jurišić added.

Nautical Tourism on the Rise

Record results in nautical tourism were confirmed by Aleksandar Ivaštanin, president of the Nautical Club “Gradiška.”

Recalling the success of last year’s regatta, which gathered 48 vessels, Ivaštanin announced a new cultural concept that could attract attention across the region.

“In cooperation with the City Theatre, we are planning to stage a play directly on the river. Boat owners and citizens will be able to watch the performance from the water itself, which will be a completely new experience for our city,” he said.

The goal, he added, is clear — to position Gradiška as one of the leading nautical tourism centers in the region.