Foreword

Over the years, I, like many other anglers, have spent many holidays in southern Spain without considering the angling potential of this beautiful country. When thinking about fishing abroad, I inevitably thought of massive carp in France, legendary sturgeon in Canada, fresh run salmon in Scandinavia or big bags of bream and pike in Ireland. Throughout this time I was blissfully unaware of the hard fighting bass, monster barbel and pot bellied carp of Andalucia – more to my regret! To me, angling in Spain started and ended with the giant catfish of the mighty river Ebro in the North of the country.

A chance day trip to a reservoir near Ronda in the province of Cadiz a few years ago changed all that. Whilst enjoying a very nice day out by the water, I noticed a local fisherman fishing a hand line from a high wall above the water. He was struggling with what I assumed was a … actually, to be honest I had no idea what it was! To my amazement he eventually dragged a carp of at least 5 kilos (11lbs) onto the bank!

 Immediately my view of this blistering hot region changed! After returning home, and lots of research later, it became apparent that the fishing potential of the area was totally untapped and waiting to be discovered. Since then I have discovered the joys of carp, bass and barbel fishing in Andalucia. Not only are the reservoirs and lakes stuffed full with huge carp and bass, but 13.5 kilo (30lb) plus barbel swim in the rivers! Throw in a nice sprinkling of other familiar species such as tench and  eels, plus the added novelty of catching Iberian nase, pumpkinseed, cacho and shad, not to forget some fabulous game fishing for wild brown and rainbow trout, and the angler becomes very quickly spoilt for choice.

While discovering all of this sport for myself, both first hand and from lots of research, it became quite apparent to me why I neglected the potential of Andalucia for so long - lack of information! I have really struggled to get good information regarding waters, species, baits, methods etc in order to maximise my time in Andalucia. Lets face it, most of us have very limited time each year to indulge our fishing abroad. We do not have the time to explore and learn how to fish a new area from scratch. Most of us would like some good pointers to help get us on the fish as quickly as possible, with as little fuss as possible.

That is why I wrote this guide. It is aimed at anglers just like myself. The guide identifies a selection of good fishing waters by area, to suit both coarse and game anglers alike. Directions and local fishing information is provided on a water by water basis. General tactics and species are discussed in-depth. Along with licensing information, bait and tackle supplies, travel tips and a useful glossary, the guide provides both the visiting angler or one who spends longer periods in Spain, with all he or she needs to know to maximise their fishing time in Andalucia.

líneas apretadas y buena pesca!