We have just received this lovely report from a client recently returned from fly fishing in the Spanish Pyrenees.
A total of 178 fish! An average of 29 fish per day and a personal best wild brownie certainly exceeded expectations. I maybe hooked and lost another 20-25 in fast mountain stream currents or around rocks. Friday and Monday were brown trout, the other days were zebra. The zebras were not big but a lot of fun on a dry fly. I got about 140 on dries…all on my guide’s own cdc mayfly. I’ve brought a few home with me to try on UK trout.
As I mentioned when we spoke on Monday, on a return trip I might have a extra day or two on ‘big trout’ water, but I loved fishing for zebras in the interesting pockets water of incredibly beautiful high mountain rivers. Also, I didn’t fish at the best time of year for big trout. I understand that’s normally Sept-Oct. And they’re caught on droppers not dries, and I prefer the latter.
The rivers, stunning scenery and amount of water available also exceeded expectations: truly wild trout in wild places. Other than on Monday, I didn’t see another fisherman.
Adrián was a superb guide with a deep knowledge of the local rivers. His ability to spot fish was almost superhuman. Water levels are clearly key to fishing in mountain rivers and he was constantly observing, commenting and changing plans as necessary to get me on the right rivers and the right time. He is also very personable and someone with whom I will stay in touch.
The hotels were excellent. Lunches were excellent too, although three-course lunches and a bottle of wine meant my fishing tended to drop-off a little in the afternoon!
Perhaps Iceland next…but a return to Spain (with Adrián as guide) is very tempting!
The southern slopes of the Pyrenees are home to 17 rivers, 118 tributaries and around 2,500 lakes ensuring a diverse range of scenarios fishing for brown trout, the occasional rainbow, brook trout and European barbel. The fishing season runs from March through to November and anglers and their travel companions will enjoy the unspoiled nature while getting immersed in Spain’s culture, gastronomic richness, and old-world hospitality. On this trip, Peter was based in both Graus and Biesacas.
For more information about fly fishing in the Spanish Pyrenees please contact Peter McLeod or Alex Jardine, alternatively or call our office on +44(0)1980 847389.