The River Ebro offers some of Europe’s most exciting freshwater fishing, with monster catfish, hard-fighting carp, and pristine Spanish countryside. This comprehensive guide covers everything from tackle requirements to local regulations—honest, practical advice for planning your Ebro fishing adventure.
Why Fish the Ebro at Benifallet?
The River Ebro at Benifallet isn’t about luxury fishing lodges or guaranteed trophy catches. What sets this stretch apart is genuine solitude: 300 metres of private river frontage with a dedicated 15-metre fishing swim that belongs to you alone. No crowds, no competition, no neighbouring anglers—just productive water where catfish and carp thrive in the calmer currents.
This particular stretch sits in a slack water area with minimal current—perfect for presenting baits correctly and mooring a small boat if needed. The swim accommodates 3-4 anglers, though it works best with two or three who know how to share the space without tangling lines.
However, there’s a critical caveat: the river is subject to dramatic seasonal flooding that can make fishing extremely challenging or impossible for extended periods.
Critical Water Level Information—Plan Your Visit Carefully
Spring Flood Risk (March–April)
The River Ebro at Benifallet can rise by up to 4 metres during early spring due to snowmelt from the Pyrenees mountains and heavy rainfall in northern Spain. This dramatic rise fundamentally changes the fishing experience and poses significant challenges.
When the river is high:
- The lower fishing bank becomes completely submerged
- Stone steps down to the water are half-covered, limiting access
- Fishing is only possible from land level, giving just 4 metres of usable bank space
- Landing large fish becomes extremely difficult from this elevated position
- Fast-flowing water carries debris including tree branches, logs, and even whole trees
- Strong currents and floating obstacles make the river effectively unfishable
These flood conditions typically persist from March through mid to late April, depending on weather patterns in the Pyrenees. Some years see the river remain unfishable well into May.
Dam Releases from Flix Reservoir
The situation is complicated further by the Flix dam system upstream. The Flix reservoir is part of the Mequinenza-Ribarroja-Flix dam system on the lower River Ebro, and water releases from these dams can dramatically affect river levels throughout the day, even during otherwise stable periods.
When reservoir levels become too high, operators release water to prevent flooding of the dam infrastructure. These releases can cause:
- Rapid water level changes with little warning
- Temporary flooding of the lower fishing swim
- Dangerous conditions for anglers positioned near the water
- Unpredictable fishing conditions as water levels fluctuate
Safety Warning: Never ignore rising water levels. If you notice the water beginning to rise while fishing, move immediately to higher ground. River levels can change faster than you might expect.
The Fish You’re After (and the Legal Reality)
Wels Catfish (Silurus glanis)—The Controversial Giants
The Wels catfish story in the Ebro begins in 1974, when German angler Roland Lorkowski introduced 32 specimens to the Mequinenza Reservoir. From these modest beginnings, the species has colonised the entire Ebro system, growing to extraordinary sizes—specimens exceeding 2.5 metres are regularly reported, with the Spanish record standing at 111kg.
Here’s what every angler needs to know: The Wels catfish is officially classified as an invasive species in Catalonia. According to Spanish law (Real Decreto 630/2013) and Catalan regulations (Resolution ARP/259/2025), all invasive species—including Wels catfish—must be killed immediately upon capture. They cannot be returned to the water alive, held in retention sacks, or transported live.
The reality? Most anglers practice catch and release despite the law, and enforcement on private stretches remains minimal. However, you should understand the legal position: returning a catfish to the water technically violates Spanish environmental law. The regulation exists to prevent further spread of this apex predator, which has significantly impacted native fish populations.
Peak Season: April-May and September-October (when water levels permit)
Best Times: Dawn, dusk, and throughout the night
Legal Status: Invasive species—must be killed upon capture
Carp (Cyprinus carpio)—Also Invasive, Also Released
Perhaps surprisingly, common and mirror carp are also classified as invasive species in the Ebro. The same legal requirements apply: immediate dispatch upon capture, no live retention, no release. Yet carp fishing remains hugely popular, with fish regularly topping 30kg in this stretch.
River carp fight differently from their lake cousins, using the current to their advantage. They’ve adapted to the Ebro’s rhythms over decades, becoming warier and stronger than stillwater specimens.
Peak Season: May through September
Best Times: Early morning and late evening
Legal Status: Invasive species—must be killed upon capture
Other Species You Might Encounter
Zander (Sander lucioperca): Another invasive species, providing excellent sport on lighter tackle. Must be killed if caught.
Black Bass (Micropterus salmoides): Invasive species, occasionally caught. Must be killed upon capture.
European Eel (Anguilla anguilla): Protected species. Recreational fishing prohibited—return immediately if caught accidentally.
Barbel (Barbus species): Native species. Catch and release permitted with barbless hooks.
The complete list of invasive species that must be killed upon capture includes: Wels catfish, carp, rainbow trout, black bass, zander, pike, perch, brook trout, channel catfish, pumpkinseed sunfish, and several others.
Current Fishing Regulations for 2025
Permitted Fishing Times
According to Resolution ARP/259/2025, fishing in the Ebro at Benifallet (classified as cyprinid waters) is permitted:
- Season: Year-round for cyprinid waters
- Daily Hours: From one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset
- Night Fishing: Only permitted in the Riba-roja and Flix reservoir zone (EB-01) or during authorised competitions
Critical Bait Restrictions
The 2025 regulations have significantly tightened bait rules. It is now illegal to use:
- Any live or dead fish as bait (including small fish caught locally)
- Crustaceans or molluscs
- Insects not native to local fauna
- Fresh meat or chicken
- Fish remains or derivatives
Permitted baits include:
- Artificial lures and baits
- Boilies and pellets
- Processed baits (tinned fish from shops—not fresh)
- Sweetcorn and vegetables
- Locally-sourced worms
- Bread and paste baits
This means the traditional practice of using fresh fish baits for catfish is now prohibited. Most successful catfish anglers have switched to large halibut pellets (20-30mm) or squid from supermarkets.
Hook Regulations
For catch and release in cyprinid waters:
- Single hooks without barbs or with completely flattened barbs for natural baits
- Single or treble hooks without barbs for artificial baits
- Maximum two hooks on the same line when using natural baits
Essential Tackle—What Actually Works
For Catfish
Rods: 2.75-3m rated for 100-300g casting weight. River fishing demands solid gear—these fish use the current expertly. Always bring a spare rod.
Reels: Quality is crucial. You need smooth, reliable drag systems and at least 300m capacity of 0.35mm mono or equivalent braid. When a two-metre catfish heads downstream, cheap tackle becomes expensive.
Terminal Tackle: Strong circle hooks work great. Leads from 80-150g depending on current. Keep rigs simple—the river bottom claims enough tackle without adding complexity.
For Carp
Rods: 3.6m carp rods with 2.5-3lb test curve handle most situations. River carp fight harder than lake fish—don’t underestimate them.
Line: Similar capacity to catfish gear with ultra-smooth drag. Lost fish haunt anglers for years.
For Zander
Rods: 2.4-2.7m medium spinning rod (10-40g casting weight)
Tackle: Wire traces essential—zander have sharp teeth and share water with catfish
Where to Source Legal Baits
Halibut Pellets (Catfish Essential)
Since fresh fish baits are prohibited, large halibut pellets have become the standard catfish bait:
Specialist Suppliers:
- ABSOLUT BAITS FISHING SHOP, Caspe (Avenida Maella, 46)—bulk sacks at competitive prices
- Caspe Fishing Shop—another reliable source for bulk pellets
- Decathlon Tortosa—15km from Benifallet, convenient but pricier
Effective Alternatives: Squid from supermarkets (legally processed), large boilies, fish-oil soaked pellets
For Carp
Bulk Maize: Agricultural cooperatives around Tortosa sell 25kg sacks. Soak for 24-48 hours before use, adding sugar or molasses for attraction.
Local Sources:
- Benifallet village shop: Basic tins of sweetcorn, bread
- Tortosa supermarkets: Frozen squid, tinned fish, bulk sweetcorn
- Decathlon: Full range of boilies and prepared particles
Fishing Licences—Don’t Risk the Fines
Who Needs a Licence?
Everyone aged 14 and over requires a valid Catalonian fishing licence. No exceptions, and yes, they do check—fines start at €200.
How to Obtain Your Licence
For Riverside Finca guests: We can arrange your fishing licence for you—simply provide your passport details when booking. We charge a small service fee (typically €3-4 per licence) on top of the official cost, which works out about the same as visiting the licensing office in Tortosa but saves you the hassle of queuing and paperwork.
Self-service option: Online at gencat.cat. Several licence types are available:
- R5: Tourist licence for 1 day
- R6: Tourist licence for 2 days
- R0: Tourist licence for 15 days
- R1: Annual recreational licence
- R2: Two-year recreational licence
- R3: Three-year recreational licence
Costs (approximate):
- 15-day tourist licence: €15
- Annual licence: €25
You’ll need your passport or EU ID card. The licence covers both freshwater and sea fishing from shore or boat.
Seasonal Patterns and River Conditions
Spring (March-May)
High Risk Period for Flooding. The river awakens but remains highly unpredictable. Snowmelt from the Pyrenees can turn the water chocolate-coloured overnight and raise levels by several metres. Floating debris makes fishing dangerous or impossible. Contact your hosts before travelling to check current conditions.
By late April or early May, conditions usually stabilise, but this varies dramatically year to year. When fishable, fish are hungry after winter—excellent fishing when conditions align.
Summer (June-August)
Most Reliable Period. Scorching hot by day. Fish early morning (from 5am) or late evening unless you enjoy melting. Night fishing for catfish can be magical—if you can obtain special night fishing permission for competitions or specific zones.
River levels typically stable, though dam releases can still cause daily fluctuations.
Autumn (September-November)
Prime time when conditions allow. Fish feed aggressively before winter, weather’s comfortable, and river conditions are typically perfect. Book early—every experienced Ebro angler knows autumn is special.
Watch for potential flooding from early autumn storms.
Winter (December-February)
Catfish virtually dormant. Zander more active. Peaceful, often surprisingly productive for those who persist. Layer up—riverside winters bite harder than expected.
Generally the most stable water levels of the year.
The Invasive Species Dilemma—Your Choices
The law is clear: all invasive species must be killed. The practice is different: most anglers release fish, especially specimen-sized catfish and carp. This creates an ethical and legal dilemma every angler must resolve personally.
If you choose to follow the law: Killed fish must be removed from the environment. Options include:
- Personal consumption (many locals eat carp and small catfish)
- Composting on private land
- Disposal in appropriate waste containers
- Licensed waste disposal for larger specimens
The reality: On private fishing waters with limited public access, enforcement is minimal. However, you fish at your own legal risk if choosing to release invasive species.
Safety Considerations—No Joke
The fishing swim access involves uneven stone steps with a 6-metre drop to the water. There are no safety rails. One wrong step could end very badly. Add rapidly changing water levels and floating debris during flood periods, and the risks multiply significantly.
Essential safety rules:
- Never fish alone—seriously, especially during unstable water conditions
- Always check water levels before descending to the swim
- If water levels are rising, abandon fishing immediately
- Wear decent footwear with grip
- Check weather forecasts—river levels can rise rapidly
- Keep phones charged
- Use head torches at night, not phone lights
- Someone should always know where you’re fishing
- During high water periods, only fish from the upper bank level
High Water Safety Protocol:
- If limited to the 4-metre upper bank, use shorter rods for better control
- Bring a large landing net with extension handle
- Consider using lighter tackle to reduce fish fighting time
- Have an exit strategy if conditions worsen
Environmental Considerations and Ethics
Respecting Protected Species
If you accidentally hook an eel, handle with extreme care and return immediately. The European eel is protected under current legislation and must not be targeted or retained.
Disease Prevention
The spread of invasive species isn’t just about fish. Microscopic threats like zebra mussel larvae and fish pathogens travel on wet gear. Mandatory biosecurity measures include:
- Thoroughly cleaning and drying all equipment between waters
- Disinfecting nets, mats, and slings
- Never transferring water between locations
Lead Ban
All lead weights are banned in Catalonian freshwaters. Use steel, tungsten, or stone alternatives. This isn’t optional—it’s law.
Practical Logistics at the Riverside Finca
What’s Included:
- Private 15-metre fishing swim (when water levels permit normal access)
- Basic but comfortable cottage accommodation
- All bedding, towels, cookware
- Welcome pack with essentials
- Summer: splash pool and barbecue facilities
- 3-bar mobile signal (enough for weather updates)
What’s Not:
- WiFi (digital detox included free)
- Mains electricity (generator system works fine)
- Drinking tap water (bottled water provided)
- Luxury amenities
- Guaranteed fishable conditions during flood periods
Honest Pricing:
- €75 per night (up to 3 people)
- €80 per night (4-5 people)
- Minimum stay: 3 nights
- Deposit: 25% non-refundable via PayPal or bank transfer
- Balance: Cash on arrival (this is rural Spain)
Booking Advice: Always enquire about current and forecast water conditions before finalising travel plans, especially for spring bookings.
Local Knowledge—Beyond the Fishing
When the fish aren’t cooperating (and they will have their moments), or when high water makes fishing impossible, Benifallet offers authentic Spanish life:
- Village bars: Real Spanish establishments where locals actually drink. Try Pepos for traditional Catalan cuisine.
- Coves Meravelles: Stunning limestone caves 10 minutes away
- Fontcalda thermal springs: Perfect for aching casting arms
- GR-99 trail: Passes right by the finca for clearing your head
- Via Verde cycling: Flat, scenic routes through olive groves
These alternatives become particularly valuable during periods when river conditions prevent fishing.
Equipment Checklist for Success
Essential:
- Valid fishing licence
- Landing net (mandatory for catch and release, and crucial for high-water fishing)
- Unhooking mat
- Head torch with spare batteries
- First aid kit
- Sun protection (factor 50 minimum in summer)
Highly Recommended:
- Spare rod and reel
- Rod pod for night fishing
- Weighing sling and scales
- Polarised sunglasses
- Insect repellent (mosquitoes love fishermen)
- Extended landing net handle for high-water conditions
- Shorter rods (2.4m) for fishing from elevated positions
Making Your Booking
The finca operates simply: email enquiry, availability check, deposit payment, arrival. No complex booking systems or hidden fees.
Contact: Book through ebroholidays.com
What to ask:
- Current river conditions and water levels
- Recent weather patterns and flood risk
- Recent catches (though past performance doesn’t guarantee future results)
- Local tackle shop opening hours
- Whether night fishing permissions are available
- Fishing licence requirements (we can arrange these for you)
- Alternative activities if river becomes unfishable
Final Thoughts—Managing Expectations
The River Ebro at Benifallet offers genuine fishing adventure, not manufactured experiences. Some visitors land multiple specimen fish, others blank completely. Some arrive to find the river in perfect condition, others face challenging flood waters that limit or prevent fishing entirely. The river doesn’t care about your holiday schedule or how far you’ve travelled.
The spring flood risk is real and should factor into your planning. If you’re booking for March through early May, have backup plans and consider travel insurance. The dramatic seasonal changes are part of the river’s natural rhythm, but they can significantly impact your fishing experience.
What’s guaranteed: complete privacy when conditions allow—with the nearest neighbours over 700 metres away—authentic Spanish countryside, and the chance—just the chance—of connecting with something truly massive. Whether you’re targeting controversial giants despite the law, or focusing on smaller species within regulations, you’ll find real fishing in a spectacular setting when the river cooperates.
The ethical questions around invasive species won’t resolve themselves. The regulations are clear, enforcement is minimal, and personal choices remain exactly that—personal. What matters is that you understand the situation fully before making your decision.
The river’s waiting. The fish might be too. But sometimes, the river reminds you who’s really in charge.
For current regulations and licence applications, visit gencat.cat. For bookings and local information: ebroholidays.com
Disclaimer: This guide provides information about current fishing regulations as of 2025. Anglers are responsible for checking current laws and making their own decisions regarding compliance with invasive species regulations. Water levels and conditions can change rapidly—always check current conditions before travelling and never fish alone during unstable water periods.
