Conjure up an image of Spain in your head. It probably involves plenty of sangria, tapas, and even some local-style dance moves, right? We’ve got something else you can add to the list – first-class angling action! Yep, fishing in Spain is the perfect way to experience a whole new side of this incredible country.
Spain may be well-known for its sun-drenched cities and laid-back vibes – there’s a reason why siestas have become a long-standing tradition here, after all. One thing you shouldn’t sleep on, however, is the fantastic variety of waterways this country holds.
From the mighty Ebro River to the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea, there’s plenty of hotspots to discover. Afterwards, you can top it all off with a well-deserved siesta of your own.
Part of the magic of casting a line in Spain is that you have so many options to choose from. No matter where you go, you’ll be greeted with that famous Mediterranean hospitality, too. Head to the coast, and you’ll come across old-school fishing villages that are more like historical relics. They really haven’t changed over the years!
If you’re a deep sea fishing enthusiast, this country boasts archipelagos surrounded by some of the most fish-filled waters around. Then there’s the plethora of inland freshwater fishing grounds to discover, as well as islands surrounded by reefs. We really weren’t kidding when we said you’d be spoilt for choice here. Read on to find out where you can cast a line and what you can catch…
A Slice of Tranquility: Fishing the Ebro River
We’re going to start off big – and we mean really big! Measuring a whopping 578 miles, the Ebro River is the second-longest river in the entire Iberian Peninsula. No wonder it has a reputation for being one of Spain’s finest angling destinations.
Beginning near Santander in Northern Spain, it winds its way through La Rioja and Zaragoza before emptying out into a huge delta perfectly positioned between Valencia and Barcelona.
So yes, the sheer length of this river is impressive enough all on its own. “But,” we hear you ask, “what’s the fishing like?” Well, let’s just put it this way. It only makes sense that a waterway of this size is home to some pretty gigantic fish!
Catfish, Carp, and More!
We’re going to stick with the theme and start off with the species that grows the biggest – the Catfish. In the upper river, species regularly weigh in at 200 pounds. This fish is slightly smaller in the lower sections of the river, but “small” is pretty relative. We’re still talking 100 lb monsters!
The Catfish isn’t the only freshwater favorite you’ll find here, though. There’s Zander, which regularly weighs over 17 pounds, Black Bass, Pike, and even a small population of Trout and Salmon. Then there’s the mighty Carp, a European freshwater staple.
If you have the chance to talk about Ebro River fishing with local angling enthusiasts, you’ll probably hear stories about the legendary Carp catches in this area. There are tales of Spanish fishermen reeling in Carp above 20 pounds, and even up to 35 pounds. The unofficial Spanish Carp record was even hooked in these waters, tipping the scales at over 75 pounds!
One River, Many Angling Options
Want to explore Spain’s beautiful (and oft-underrated) river scenery with nothing between you and the water? Head to shore-fishing-friendly locations along the Ebro such as Matarraña and Mequinenza. These towns are located near the swampier sections of the river, which means plenty of access from the banks.
If you want the chance to battle huge Catfish from a boat, the lower river near L’ampolla is calling your name. It’s a lot less busy than other stretches of the river, and you’ll be able to navigate your way to some seriously serene spots.
As the river can be unpredictable, the best way to explore it is by casting off alongside a local captain. They have the expertise to make sure you’re dropping lines where the fish are biting. They’ll also lend a hand if you find a particularly large Cat at the end of your line!
When it comes to the type of gear you’ll need, there’s one resounding response from local anglers: make sure it’s strong. Whether you’re battling Carp or Catfish, strong gear ensures that you’ll be able to reel in even the most feisty of fish.
The tactics you can use to hook your catch vary, but good ol’ spinning with lures or bait is common. Halibut pellets are especially popular with anglers looking to tempt huge Catfish into biting.
Thanks to Spain’s mild weather, fishing the Ebro River is good all year-round. Visit during winter, when species flee Northern Europe for these sunnier climes, and you can get your hands on plenty of Carp. Catfish fishing picks up in late spring, but the real monsters arrive in summer. Zander can be hooked all through the year, and hit their stride in autumn.
World-Famous Fish and Plenty of History: Spain’s Fishing Villages
The famous saying may be, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.” Why not stretch that to cover Spain, too? If you like your angling adventures packed with plenty of local tradition, nothing quite beats casting a line in one of this country’s traditional fishing villages. Even better, there’s plenty of them to choose from!
Spain is known for being laid-back, and the fishing villages take this reputation to a whole new level. What could be better than escaping the hustle and bustle of daily life, taking things slow, and casting your line for some fine fish species?
Although what you can catch depends on the location of your chosen fishing village, the majority of these destinations provide access to both salt and freshwaters. Seafood such as Shellfish, Octopus, and Eel are a common local staple, too.
The Basque Coast: A Salmon and Saltwater Fishing Haven
Although you’ll find fishing villages dotted all over, the northern part of this country is especially famous for them. Northwest Spain, where the Basque Coast lies, is known locally as paraíso natural (natural paradise). Where better to begin your relaxing angling vacation?
Not only will you be greeted by stunning mountainscapes, forests, coastal scenery, and plenty of flora and fauna, but there are world-famous fish lurking beneath the waters of the Atlantic, too.
If it’s Trout or Salmon you’re after, the principality of Asturias is basically made up of a whole host of tiny fishing villages that target these species. In fact, Atlantic Salmon are more commonly caught here than anywhere else in the Iberian Peninsula.
You’ll be able to explore rivers such as the Eo, Porcía, Navia, Narcea, Nalón, Sella, Cares, Deva, and the Esva for your catch. One thing’s for sure – you won’t be short on fisheries!
There’s a wealth of places to choose from in this region, but we have to give special mention to Lastres. It provides access to a variety of Salmon-filled rivers and is located right along the shorelines of the Bay of Biscay.
This means that you’ll also be able to cast a line for some saltwater species. Target Bluefin Tuna if you hop on a charter, and Shellfish, Octopus, Bream, and Mackerel species if you set up your gear along the shore with the locals.
Planning to spend your vacation further east along the Basque Coast? You won’t have to make the long journey to Asturias. Head to Getaria or Zarautz, located in the province of Gipuzkoa. You’ll be greeted with equally stunning scenery and excellent angling opportunities, with Anchovy fishing being a unique tradition in this area.
Basically, no matter where you go along the Basque Coast, chances are you’ll stumble across a fishing village that’s small in size, but packed with plenty of charm and fishing action.
…And There’s Northeastern Spain, too!
Yep, head to the other side of this country, and you’ll stumble across plenty more fishing villages. Rather than the Atlantic, these quaint towns provide access to the Balearic Sea and, beyond this, the magnificent Mediterranean.
Northern Costa Brava is home to charming places such as Calella de Palafrugell, located in the province of Girona. Here, you’ll be able to wander down narrow streets and explore ancient coves.
Then there’s the angling. If you’re looking for a deep sea adventure, you’ll find charters departing from the many ports dotted along the coastline. Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, and Bluefin Tuna can all be found in these waters.
Fishing alongside a local charter captain? It’s common for them to invite you to enjoy your catch together after the trip – and chances are you’ll hear some pretty wild fishing tales, too.
Freshwater fishing is more your thing? That’s plenty of opportunity for it in Northeastern Spain. The River Ter spans this region, and it’s brimming with Rainbow Trout and Brown Trout, as well as Carp.
La Cellera de Ter is a popular departure point for exploring this river. If you want to really experience some true Ter-style fishing, try casting a line on the fly. It’s how the locals do it!
Reefs and Deep Sea Beasts: Fishing the Canary and Balearic Islands
It’s often said that good things come in threes. We’ve covered the Ebro River’s fantastic angling opportunities. We’ve introduced you to a variety of historic fishing villages. What’s left? Well, we don’t think a guide to fishing in Spain would be complete without mentioning its islands. Surrounded by deep waters and reefs, there’s plenty of exciting fish to be found.
Although the Canary Islands have made a real name for themselves as a top vacation hotspot, that’s not all they have to offer. This archipelago provides direct access to the fish-filled waters of the Atlantic. You can explore shallow bays, reefs, or offshore fishing grounds for some world-famous species.
Similarly, the Balearic Islands (Islas Baleares) might be most well-known for extravagant nightlife. But did you know that the real party happens underneath these waters? It’s a Bluefin Tuna hotspot, and you’ll find pelagics such as Mahi Mahi and Marlin waiting to bite, too.
Without further ado, let’s dive in and discover more. Speaking of diving, these islands are perfect for snorkeling, too!
Cast a Line in the Canaries
Although the Canary Islands are technically Spanish territory, they’re actually located closer to the coast of Africa. With locations such as Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura on offer, we heartily recommend visiting this slice of Spain!
Thanks to this area’s near-tropical climate, you’ll be able to find something biting year-round. Even better, the waters around these islands drop to depths of over 1,000 meters very close to shore. Combine this with the wealth of charter vessels on offer, and you have all the ingredients for a successful day on the water.
If you’re vacationing near Tenerife, you’ll have the archipelago’s largest number of charter vessels at your disposal. The majority of fishing trips here are focused on deep sea fishing. With deep waters so close to shore, we can’t blame them!
Depending on when you visit, you’ll be able to target a variety of hard fighters. From May to June, you can target White Marlin and Mahi Mahi. If Tuna is your thing, April to September is the time to visit. You’ll mostly be trolling for Bluefin, Bigeye, and Yellowfin.
It’s not just about Tenerife, though. Gran Canaria, La Gomera, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura also offer up some excellent deep sea fishing action, with plenty of charters. You’ll also be able to bottom fish the shallows and reefs for Snapper and Grouper, as well as tasty Bream, Dentex, and Pandora.
A Bluefin Bonanza in the Balearics
Home to the much-loved party spots of Mallorca and Ibiza, the Balearic Islands also offer up some world-class fishing. Located just off the east coast of the Spanish mainland, they’re much closer to home than the Canaries, so you can depart from either Spain itself or the islands. Rather than casting a line in the Atlantic, you’ll be fishing the Balearic and Mediterranean Seas.
If you want to catch your fill of Bluefin Tuna, there’s no better place to begin your adventure. Similarly to the Canaries, the best way to get your fish on here is by taking advantage of the many charter vessels available.
Tourism makes up a huge part of the Balearics economy, so you won’t be hard-pressed to find a charter that perfectly suits your skill levels and needs. You’ll be provided with top-quality fishing gear, as well as your captain’s local know-how. It’s a win-win (and possibly Bluefin!) situation.
The best time to visit for a Bluefin Tuna bonanza is during August and September. The waters between Mallorca and Ibiza are especially fish-filled, so depart from one of these locations for your best bet at catching a trophy-sized monster.
The Balearics are also well-known for Billfish action, with Swordfish being especially plentiful. Looking for tasty table fare rather than big game? You can troll (or “curricar” in Spanish) waters closer to shore for Grouper, Seabass, Dentex, Conger Eel, and Moray.
Spain Fishing Regulations
If you choose to fish from a charter vessel in Spain, your fishing license will be covered for you. If you’re fishing alone, or want to fish inland, you’ll need to purchase an individual fishing license.
You’ll also need to make sure what category your chosen body of water falls under, as you may need to obtain an additional license to fish it. Spain has three types: libros (free), costos (restricted), and intensivos (fishery). You can find out more information about licenses and legalities on the Spanish Fishing and Casting Association (in Spanish), or here in English.
Although it’s possible to keep certain species in Spain (mainly table fare such as Grouper and Snapper), catch and release is heavily practiced. We’d strongly recommend releasing the fish you catch, especially when it comes to big game fish and freshwater species. Help preserve Spain’s incredible fisheries for generations to come!
Fishing in Spain: Discover a Whole New World
By now, we hope we’ve painted a slightly different picture of Spain for you. Yes, it’s home to some incredible cityscapes, nightlife, food, and drinks, but it’s also an incredible fishing hotspot in its own right. No matter whether you’re a freshwater fanatic or a deep sea enthusiast, there really is something for every type of angler here.
Grab your rods and reels and get ready to go from tapas to Tuna, flamencos to freshwaters, and paella to ports as you discover a whole new side of this country!
Have you ever been fishing in Spain? What did your adventure look like? Let us know in the comments below. We can’t wait to hear from you!
