Nestled along the stunning Iberian Peninsula, Spain is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts with its diverse aquatic landscapes and rich marine biodiversity. The culture of fishing is deeply woven into its history. From the rugged Atlantic coastline to the azure Mediterranean waters, Spain offers a ver diverse fishing experience that caters to all anglers.
Spain boasts over 4,900 kilometers of coastline that vary dramatically in character. Along the northern Atlantic shores, the Bay of Biscay churns with powerful currents, attracting anglers who seek the thrill of battling formidable species like cod, tuna, and hake. The intricate estuaries and sheltered coves provide a haven for fly fishing aficionados chasing after trout and salmon. The Cantabrian Sea’s teeming waters offer a variety of experiences, from beach casting to deep-sea trolling.
Heading south to the Mediterranean, Spain’s Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca, and Costa Brava are paradise for those who yearn for sun-soaked fishing expeditions. The warm waters teem with a kaleidoscope of species, including sea bass, snapper, bream, and bluefin tuna. Chartering a boat for bottom fishing or trolling presents opportunities to connect with the Mediterranean’s vibrant marine life while relishing the picturesque coastal landscapes.
Spain’s allure isn’t confined to its coastlines; its interior is equally enticing for freshwater fishing enthusiasts. Numerous lakes, rivers, and reservoirs crisscross the country, offering angling experiences amid stunning landscapes. The Ebro River, renowned for its catfish and carp, meanders through the heart of the country, while the Pyrenean lakes caters to the trout and pike enthusiasts. Spain’s diverse freshwater ecosystem is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.
Best fishing spots in Spain
Ebro River: The Ebro River in northeastern Spain is famous for its catfish (Wels catfish), which can grow to enormous sizes. Carp and zander are also common catches here.
Pyrenees Mountains: The Pyrenees offer numerous pristine rivers and lakes, perfect for fly fishing. You can find trout, salmon, and grayling in these cold, clear waters.
Asturias and Cantabria: These regions in northern Spain offer excellent fishing opportunities in their rivers for salmon, trout, and sea trout. The Cares River, in particular, is renowned for salmon and trout.
Catalonia: The region has a diverse range of fishing options, from fishing in the Ebro Delta for sea bass, mullet, and eels to fly fishing in the Pyrenean streams.
AndalucÃa: In southern Spain, you can find great saltwater fishing along the Costa del Sol and the Costa de la Luz. Species like sea bass, sea bream, and amberjack are common targets.
Canary Islands: These islands in the Atlantic Ocean provide opportunities for big game fishing. You can catch species like marlin, tuna, and dorado off the coasts of Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Lanzarote.
Balearic Islands: Majorca and Ibiza, in particular, offer some fantastic deep-sea fishing. You can find bluefin tuna, dorado, and swordfish in the waters around these islands.
Albufera de Valencia: This large lagoon in eastern Spain is known for its diverse fish species, including carp, catfish, and black bass.
Sierra Nevada: The mountainous region in southern Spain offers some high-altitude lakes and streams where you can find trout and other coldwater species.
Costa Brava: This northeastern coast of Spain is great for coastal and boat fishing, with opportunities to catch a variety of species like sea bass, mackerel, and squid.
Local permits, rules and regulations
In Spain, you typically need a fishing license to fish in inland waters (rivers, lakes, reservoirs) and saltwater areas. The specific license requirements and fees can vary by region, so it’s essential to check with the relevant regional authorities for details on how to obtain a fishing license. Different species of fish have specific fishing seasons, and there may be closed seasons to protect spawning populations. These seasons can vary by region, so it’s important to know when you can legally fish for specific species. There are often catch limits for various fish species. Exceeding these limits can result in fines or penalties. Minimum size limits are often in place to protect juvenile fish. You are generally not allowed to keep fish that do not meet the minimum size requirements.
The type of fishing gear and methods allowed can vary. Some areas may have restrictions on certain types of fishing gear, such as nets or traps, to protect the environment and fish populations. Certain species of fish and other aquatic organisms may be protected, and it’s illegal to catch or disturb them. You should be aware of these protected species and take care not to harm them. In some areas, catch and release policies may be encouraged or even required for certain species, especially those facing conservation concerns.
Spain is divided into autonomous regions, and most of the regions have their own rules when it comes to fishing. They also offer their own permits. So before heading to Spain, find out in what region you will stay and apply for a fishing permit for that specific region. Some regions offer inter-autonomous fishing permits, that is, with the same fishing license you can go fishing in several regions.
Find more info here.