Why UK Anglers Are Choosing Spain Over the UK
The numbers tell the story. More UK anglers are booking catfishing in Spain every year — and once you understand what's on offer, it's not hard to see why.
The River Ebro offers Wels catfish to over 200lb, carp to 50lb+, warm weather, expert guides, and riverside accommodation — all at a price point that's competitive with a week on a UK syndicate water. The fishing is simply in a different league.
This guide covers everything a UK angler needs to know to plan and book a River Ebro fishing holiday, from booking flights to packing your holdall.
Getting There from the UK
Flights: The nearest airport to Caspe is Zaragoza (ZAZ), approximately 45 minutes by car. Direct flights from the UK are operated by Ryanair from London Stansted, and connections are available from most major UK airports via Madrid or Barcelona. Flight time is 2–2.5 hours direct, or 3–4 hours with a connection. Prices vary — booking 6–8 weeks ahead typically gets the best fares.
Car hire: We strongly recommend hiring a car at Zaragoza airport. Caspe is a straightforward motorway drive with no complications, and having a car gives you flexibility for evenings and days off the water. All major hire companies operate at Zaragoza airport.
Driving from the UK: Some anglers choose to drive — the journey from the Channel ports to Caspe is approximately 12–14 hours. If you're bringing your own tackle or prefer the flexibility, it's a viable option. Spain drives on the right.
Fishing Licences for UK Anglers
A fishing licence is mandatory for all anglers on the River Ebro. This is a regional licence issued by the Aragón government.
The good news: we handle all of this for you. When you book with Caspe Fishing, just let us know you need licences and we'll arrange them. You pay on arrival — cost is typically €15–25 per angler depending on duration.
You do not need to apply in advance or navigate Spanish bureaucracy. We sort it.
Health and Travel Insurance
Since Brexit, UK citizens no longer have automatic healthcare coverage in Spain under a European Health Insurance Card. You should:
- Apply for a UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) — free to apply, covers emergency medical treatment in Spain
- Take out travel insurance that includes medical cover and trip cancellation
The GHIC is not a substitute for travel insurance — get both.
What Species Will I Catch?
The River Ebro around Caspe holds:
Wels catfish — the main event. Fish over 100lb are common on guided trips. See our Wels catfishing guide for a complete breakdown of the species, tactics, and what to expect.
Common carp — running 30–50lb on the Ebro. Pre-spawn spring fish and post-summer autumn fish are at their best.
Zander — prime season is autumn and winter. The Ebro's zander run considerably larger than most UK waters.
Black bass, perch, chub — present throughout the system and good sport on light lure gear during downtime between catfish sessions.
When to Go
For most UK anglers on their first trip, April, May, September, or October offer the best combination of catch rates and comfortable conditions. For a full month-by-month breakdown, read our best time to fish the River Ebro guide.
The short version: we fish all year and there's no truly bad time — just different experiences at different times of year.
What Does It Cost?
Total costs for a River Ebro fishing holiday from the UK typically break down as:
- Flights: £60–£200 return per person depending on timing and airport
- Package: from €325pp (3 nights, group of 6) to €825pp (7 nights, couple, full board)
- Fishing licence: €15–25 per person
- Bait: €50–100 per week depending on usage
- Car hire: €150–300 per week split between the group
For a detailed honest breakdown of all costs, read our River Ebro fishing prices 2026 guide.
Booking with Caspe Fishing
We've made booking as straightforward as possible. View our full packages and pricing, pick your dates, and get in touch. We'll confirm availability, answer any questions, and hold your dates while you sort flights.
Most groups book 4–8 weeks ahead for peak season (April/May and September/October). Winter and summer availability is usually available with shorter notice.
Packages from €325pp. Open all year.
Book your River Ebro fishing holiday →
WhatsApp / Phone: +44 7802 283085 Email: caspecatfishingchaos@gmail.com