Fishing guide to the Mequinenza reservoir for recreational and amateur anglers

Fishing is much more than just a hobby, it's an activity that connects people with nature, encourages patience and offers moments of escape from the daily grind. All these characteristics have made it one of the most popular hobbies in the world. One of the most remarkable places in Spain for enthusiasts of this sport is the Mequinenza reservoir in the province of Zaragoza.

The Mequinenza reservoir is a unique natural setting, bordered by mountains and peaceful landscapes where the waters of the Ebro, Segre and Cinca rivers converge. Among the attractions that make it a particularly attractive destination for amateur anglers are its wealth of fish and the possibility of catching large fish, guaranteeing an exciting experience.

Why the Mequinenza reservoir is a fishing paradise in Europe

The Mequinenza reservoir stands out for the diversity and size of the fish that live there, which is why it has earned a reputation as a fishing paradise in Spain and Europe.

The convergence of the three rivers provides a large quantity of water and nutrients, making it an ideal habitat for the development of various species of fish. What's more, with over 100 km of navigable water, the reservoir provides an optimal environment for a wide range of species. The reservoir is also home to a high level of biodiversity (small fish, crustaceans and invertebrates), providing food for large predators. It is this abundance of prey that allows certain species to grow and reach spectacular sizes. Not to mention that the region's climate, with mild winters and warm summers, ensures ideal water temperatures for much of the year.

Many of the species found in the Mequinenza reservoir, which attract anglers from all over Europe and the world, are not native to the area. However, they have adapted to the ecosystem and, thanks to the conditions in the reservoir, have thrived and reached much larger sizes than in their original habitat.

Here are some of the species you can fish in the Mequinenza reservoir:

Pike perch

The zander is an introduced species that has adapted well to the reservoir. It has an elongated body and spiny dorsal fins, which are well suited to hunting in the reservoir's deep, rocky waters. It has a long fishing season, extending almost all year round, with peak activity in autumn. This fish is characterised by its behaviour as a nocturnal predator that travels in medium-sized groups to feed.

Catfish

The catfish is one of the largest fish in the Mequinenza reservoir. Native to Central Europe, it can grow to over two metres in length, and acts as a nocturnal hunter, using live bait or artificial lures. Catfish fishing in the reservoir is attractive throughout most of the season, taking advantage of its great resistance and adaptability to the reservoir environment.

Black Bass

This species, which is common in the Mequinenza reservoir, is highly prized for sport fishing due to its size and the strength it offers when fighting. Black bass prefer vegetated areas and submerged obstacles for hiding and hunting. Its best fishing season is in spring and summer, when it is most active in the reservoir. Fishing is mainly done with soft and hard lures.

Carpe

The carp, one of the most common species in the Mequinenza reservoir, is a popular sport fish. They live in warm, vegetated waters, where they gather to feed and protect themselves. It reproduces from spring to early summer, making it a particularly active species during this period.

Boga (freshwater bogue)

The bogues, also present in the reservoir, prefer clear, well-oxygenated water. They reproduce between May and June and prefer vegetated areas and rocky bottoms to lay their eggs. Adult specimens adopt a more solitary and territorial behaviour, requiring specific fishing techniques in the Mequinenza reservoir.

Techniques and equipment for successful fishing in the Mequinenza reservoir

For anglers visiting the Mequinenza reservoir for the first time, it is essential to bring or hire equipment suited to the species that live there, as many of them reach impressive sizes. It is also important to use appropriate fishing techniques to catch the different species.

Essential basic equipment includes :

Cannes :

• Medium-action rods between 2 and 2.40 m for light fishing (carp, barbel, black bass).
• Spinning or casting rods, 2.10-2.70 m, fast action, for medium predators such as pike-perch.
• Robust rods of 3 m or more, with enough power to handle fish weighing over 50 kg, such as catfish.

Reels :

• Medium-sized spinning reels (3000-5000) for predators.
• High-capacity reels with powerful brakes for catfish.

Lures and baits :

• Pike-perch and black bass: crankbaits, vinyls and jigs.
• Carp: boilies, maize and pellets.
• Catfish: live bait (where regulations permit), large pellets or large lures.

The recommended fishing techniques in the Mequinenza reservoir are 

• Spinning

Ideal for predators such as zander and black bass. It allows you to move around different areas of the reservoir and try out different types of lure.

• Bottom fishing

The most common method for catfish and carp. This involves leaving the bait on the bottom in deep, calm areas. This method often catches large fish.

• Carpfishing

Very popular with European anglers looking for big carp. Boilies, hair rigs and rod holders are used, combined with electronic alarms to detect bites.

• Trolling in freshwater

From a boat, you drag lures to different depths to tempt large predators. Very effective for pike-perch and sometimes for catfish.

Fishing from the shore or from a boat

You can fish from the shore or from a boat in the Mequinenza reservoir, each offering a different experience. The choice depends on the type of fish you want to catch, your level of experience and the equipment available.

Shore fishing is more accessible and ideal for beginners. This technique allows you to catch species such as carp, barbel and, at certain times of the year, pike-perch as they approach the shore at sunrise or sunset. However, access to certain parts of the reservoir is limited, and there may be a concentration of anglers on the same bank. In addition, this technique does not allow access to deeper areas, where larger fish are often found.

Fishing from a boat allows you to cover the entire reservoir and reach the deep, calm areas where the largest specimens reside. However, it does require a bit more preparation, as you need to have a basic knowledge of navigation.

Full experience at Taiga - Lac Caspe

To get the most out of fishing in this reservoir, the best place to stay is Taiga Lake Caspea complex designed specifically for anglers and their companions, offering a complete service.

As well as accommodation, to maximise the fishing experience it offers additional services such as fishing boats, a marina with direct access, a fish washing area and the management of fishing cards, which are compulsory to practice the activity in Aragon. This simplifies the whole process and offers a unique fishing experience.

Camping, accommodation and services

The campsite is located in an exclusive and privileged spot on the edge of the reservoir, giving anglers direct access to the Mequinenza reservoir.

The Taiga campsite combines proximity to nature with services tailored to anglers. It offers fully equipped bungalows, mobile homes and camping areas, as well as a restaurant, swimming pool and relaxation areas.

Complementary activities and tourism in the reservoir

Although fishing is the main activity, the Mequinenza reservoir also offers other options for those looking for a more varied programme. These include water sports, kayaking, hiking around the reservoir, cycling tours or simply enjoying the reservoir's inland beaches. The region also offers cultural and gastronomic attractions in nearby villages, making this a complete getaway experience.