Fly Fishing Leon, Spain

Cistierna, a small mountain town in northern Spain’s León region, is home to clear rivers, wild brown trout, and centuries of fly fishing tradition. Nestled between the Cantabrian Mountains and the Riaño and Mampodre National Park, this area is the cradle of Spanish fly fishing, a destination where every cast connects you to both nature and history. 

Dazzling ARRAY of waters Available 

From Cistierna, anglers have access to over 2,000 miles of prime trout waters, including some of northern Spain’s most celebrated rivers: the Esla, broad and powerful, home to large wild trout and ideal for a mix of dry fly and nymphing techniques; the Porma, a crystal-clear and technical river that rewards finesse and precision; and the Carrión, wilder and more remote, its upper reaches coursing through untouched mountain valleys. Beyond these major rivers lie the intimate headwaters of the Cantabrian streams, where high-altitude trout eagerly rise to small dry flies in the pristine air of spring and early summer. As well as the rivers, anglers have access to many reservoirs, and high-altitude alpine lakes beckon the more adventurous. In addition, powerful Iberian barbel also inhabit these waters and are worthy adversaries on the fly.

Fishing in León is a journey through the seasons. Spring brings the first great hatches of mayflies and caddis. Summer stretches long and bright, with spectacular evening hatches and opportunities to combine delicate dry fly fishing with deeper nymphing. By autumn, the rivers run low and clear, the landscape turns golden, and each trout demands the utmost skill and subtlety, offering a quiet, reflective end to the season.

superb Accommodation, hospitality and cuisine 

Anglers are based at the charming Hotel Puerta Vadinia in Cistierna, boasting 25 comfortable rooms available in both single or shared configurations, bar and restaurant, spa, gym facilities, fly tying area and a small tackle shop. 

When the day’s fishing is done, the surrounding region offers a wealth of experiences that make León much more than a fishing trip. The region is world famous for Coq de León, coveted by fly tyers the world over for its unique properties. The nearby Riaño and Mampodre National Park is a haven for hikers and nature lovers, with dramatic limestone peaks, alpine meadows, and wildlife such as wolf, bear, bison, chamois and golden eagles. The turquoise Riaño reservoir invites kayaking and photography, while the villages around Cistierna offer authentic Leonese hospitality, local wines, and hearty mountain cuisine.