Fishing in Spain: Best Locations, Licences and Travel
Fishing in Spain covers a lot more ground than most anglers expect. One day you could be watching a catfish roll on the Ebro, the next you’re casting into Mediterranean surf or fishing a quiet reservoir at sunset.
It’s not one style of fishing. It’s several, spread across a country that gives you options.
If you’re heading out specifically to fish, planning ahead matters. If you’re slipping a travel fishing rod into the suitcase during a family holiday, it still matters. Licences, regions and local rules are not something you want to guess at.
Fishing Licences Spain – What You Need to Know
Yes, you need a fishing licence in Spain.
That applies to freshwater.
It applies to sea fishing.
It applies to shore fishing.
There isn’t a general tourist exemption.
Licences are handled regionally. Freshwater licences are only valid in the region that issues them. Sea fishing licences are usually accepted nationwide once granted by a regional authority.
The system isn’t complicated — but it is different depending on where you’re fishing.
Sea Fishing Permit Spain – Official Regional Links
If you're planning on sea fishing in Spain: beaches, rocks, harbour walls or boats, you’ll need a recreational sea fishing permit.
Here are the official regional starting points:
Andalusia
https://www.juntadeandalucia.es
Catalonia
https://web.gencat.cat
Valencia Region
https://www.gva.es
Balearic Islands
https://www.caib.es
Canary Islands
https://www.gobiernodecanarias.org
Search each site for “licencia pesca marítima recreativa”.
Always check current guidance before travelling.
Best Freshwater Fishing in Spain – Locations and Licence Requirements
Freshwater fishing in Spain requires a regional inland fishing licence (licencia de pesca continental).
Ebro River Fishing Licence – Aragón and Catalonia
The River Ebro is Spain’s most famous freshwater destination and one of Europe’s top locations for giant catfish fishing and specimen carp.
Aragón (Upper and Middle Ebro)
https://www.aragon.es
Catalonia (Lower Ebro freshwater zones)
https://agricultura.gencat.cat
Controlled stretches may require additional daily permits.
Extremadura Reservoir Fishing Licence
Extremadura offers large reservoirs ideal for carp and predator fishing.
Search: licencia de pesca Extremadura
Castilla y León Freshwater Fishing Licence
https://www.tramitacastillayleon.jcyl.es
Search: licencia de pesca Castilla y León
Northern Spain Trout Fishing Licence – Asturias and Cantabria
Asturias
https://www.asturias.es
Cantabria
https://www.cantabria.es
Sea Fishing in Spain – Mediterranean and Atlantic Hotspots
Spain’s coastline stretches across both the Mediterranean and Atlantic.
Popular regions include:
- Costa Brava
- Costa Blanca
- Costa del Sol
- Bay of Biscay
- Costa de la Luz
- Balearic Islands
- Canary Islands
Sea fishing often involves beach casting, harbour fishing or boat fishing for pelagic species.
Best Fishing Rod for Spain – Matching the Setup to the Destination
Choosing the best fishing rod for Spain depends on your target species. A travel fishing rod for Spain must balance portability and strength.
The S-Max
If your Spain trip centres around Ebro catfish fishing or heavier coastal casting, the Rigged & Ready S-Max fits.
It provides:
- Heavy freshwater backbone
- Strength for larger rigs
- Compact travel format
- Capability for tougher shore conditions
https://riggedandready.net/products/s-max-travel-rod
Carp and Reservoir Fishing – S-MID
For carp fishing in Spain’s reservoirs, the Rigged & Ready S-MID suits bait and feeder work while remaining airline-friendly.
https://riggedandready.net/products/s-mid-combo
Flexible Holiday Fishing – World Traveller
For mixed sessions during a family holiday, the Rigged & Ready World Traveller provides flexibility across light freshwater and coastal environments.
https://riggedandready.net/products/world-traveller-travel-fishing-rod
Travel Fishing Rod for Spain – Comparison
| Fishing Type | Recommended Rod | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Giant Catfish (Ebro) | S-Max | Heavy freshwater power |
| Distance Shore Sea Fishing | S-Max | Handles stronger surf setups |
| Carp & Reservoir Fishing | S-MID | Ideal for bait and feeder work |
| Family Holiday / Mixed Fishing | World Traveller | Flexible multi-method rod |
Guided Fishing in Spain
Guides are common for:
- Ebro catfish
- Reservoir boat access
- Offshore sea fishing
Examples:
FAQ – Fishing Licence Spain
Do you need a fishing licence in Spain?
Yes. A fishing licence is required for freshwater and sea fishing. Tourists are not exempt.
Is a Spanish fishing licence valid nationwide?
Freshwater licences are regional. Sea licences are generally valid nationwide.
Do you need a permit for Ebro catfish fishing?
Yes. A regional freshwater licence is required, and some controlled stretches may require additional permits.
Do you need a licence for sea fishing in Spain?
Yes. A recreational sea fishing permit is required.
Author
Martin Grove is the founder of Vildmark and an outdoor writer specialising in travel fishing adventures across the UK and Europe.
