The Ultimate Fishing Guide to Orellana, Spain: a Paradise for Pike, Black Bass, and Carp

In the heart of Extremadura, Spain, lies a vast expanse of water that defies the landscape: the Orellana Reservoir. It’s not just a swamp; it’s a freshwater ocean, an inland sea flanked by the Sierra de Pela and the Sierra del Castillo. It is, as those who know it say, “a landscape to be read very slowly,” a place where, at sunset, “the water converses with you” under an “infinite cartography of stars.”

Its prestige transcends borders. Orellana is an internationally renowned setting for sport fishing, a coveted destination for harboring some of the best populations of pike, black bass, and carp in all of Europe. Its uniqueness lies in a fascinating duality: it offers a wild nature experience, recognized as a Wetland of International Importance (RAMSAR) and a Special Protection Area for Birds (ZEPA), while boasting the first Blue Flag awarded to a freshwater beach in Europe, certifying the exceptional quality of its waters.

This is the ultimate guide for the discerning angler seeking a world-class challenge. Here you will find the promise of trophy specimens and the tactical knowledge to conquer one of the last great unspoiled places in Spain.

Part 1: Fishing in Orellana: the Key Species (Pike, Black Bass, and Carp)

Pike Fishing in Orellana: Stalking the King of the Reservoir (Pike Fishing)

The pike (Esox lucius) is the undisputed monarch of these waters. Its legend is so deeply rooted that the reservoir is known in fishing circles as the “homeland of pike” in Spain. The fame is not only due to the quantity, but to the extraordinary size they reach.

Behavior and Best Seasons

Although spring and autumn are considered optimal, Orellana pike can be caught throughout the year if strategies are adapted. Cloudy days with a light wind that ripples the surface are usually especially productive. During the winter, pike become more accessible from the shore as they approach shallow waters to hunt crabs.

Locating the Giants

To find the largest specimens, you must focus on specific structures:

• Rocky escarpments with bottoms between two and ten meters.
• Stone points that jut into the large bends.
• The outline of the islands.
• Hot spots such as the area near the dam and the emblematic Cogolludo bridge.

Recommendations for the Angler: Techniques and Lures

The spinning method is the most effective. The selection of lures is critical:

• Hard Lures: Large crankbaits (larger than 12 cm), lipless lures to reach depth quickly, and longbill minnows to explore the rocky bottoms are essential.
• Soft Lures: Large pikie-type soft plastics are extremely effective, especially in colder times.
• Other Lures: Large wavy spoons and spinnerbaits are still valid options. Models like the Magic Swimmer from Sebile have proven to be particularly effective.

Pro Tip on Equipment: Rods between 2.40 and 2.80 meters with a powerful action (casting 30-100 grams) and robust reels are recommended. The use of a steel or high-pound fluorocarbon leader is absolutely mandatory to prevent the pike’s sharp teeth from cutting the line.

The Black Bass Challenge: Power and Subtlety

The Orellana black bass (Micropterus salmoides) represents a different challenge. It is not about fishing in quantity, but about looking for a trophy of exceptional size and cunning. This reservoir has earned a reputation as a place to break personal records, with specimens frequently exceeding 3 kilograms.

Perspectives from a Master: Bastien Nicolay

To understand the Orellana bass, we listen to the experts. Bastien Nicolay, a renowned local fishing guide and champion of the Soner Euro Cup 2023, offers a clear vision:

“You have to be very patient. The big bass in this reservoir don’t give up easily. My strategy is based on two technical pillars: a large soft swimbait (6-7 inches) mounted on a light jig head and, my safe bet, a chatterbait, with which I captured the 3.070 kg giant of the tournament.”

The Best Season for Bass Fishing

• Spring: During the pre-spawn and spawn, the fish are in shallow waters. It is the ideal time for precision fishing with jigs, Texas rigs and exciting sight fishing (bed fishing).
• Summer: With the heat, the largest specimens take refuge in the depths. Look for them in submerged structures and rocky points with the help of the fish finder, using techniques such as deep cranking or vertical fishing.
• Autumn: The bass feed aggressively. It is a golden time for reaction lures such as spinnerbaits, crankbaits and surface walkers.
• Winter: Fishing becomes very technical. Finesse techniques with small lures and slow presentations make the difference.

Carpfishing in Orellana: get the Biggest Catches in Europe

For fans of carpfishing, Orellana is not just a destination; it is a place of pilgrimage. Considered by many to be “the mecca” of wild carp fishing, its reputation is legendary. The potential is amazing, with catches over 20 kg considered common and records that have exceeded the 30 kg barrier, including a Spanish record of 33.5 kg.

Its international stature will be cemented in 2026, when its waters host the Final of the World Carp Classic, the most prestigious carpfishing event in the world.

Strategy for a Vast and Difficult Water

Fishing for carp here is a major challenge that requires strategy:

• Groundbaiting: In such an immense body of water, for a weekend session, it is recommended to start with a copious groundbaiting that combines particles (corn, hemp, wheat) and crushed boilies. After each catch, it is crucial to re-bait with half a kilo or a kilo of whole boilies.
• Baits: Although fishmeal boilies (krill, crab) can select larger specimens, boilies with sweet and fruity flavors (mulberry, pineapple, scopex) are usually more effective for getting more bites. Tigernuts are a classic bait that never fails.
• Rigs: The quintessential rig is the hair rig. Given the frequent presence of algae, floating rigs (pop-ups) or the use of PVA meshes and foams are essential to ensure a clean presentation.

Part 2: Plan your Fishing Expedition to Spain

A successful expedition to Orellana begins with solid logistical planning, especially for international anglers.

Access, Fishing Areas and Navigation

• Access from Shore: The main base towns are Orellana la Vieja, Navalvillar de Pela and Casas de Don Pedro. There are numerous fishing areas accessible on foot, such as Maiserrana, Las Minas, El Coto and Los Castrejones.
• Ramps and Navigation: For anglers with boats, the main access is the public concrete ramp next to the famous “Orellana Beach”. The Guadiana Yacht Club also offers services. Important: motor navigation is prohibited upstream from the Cogolludo bridge.

Hiring a Fishing Guide: a Strategic Investment

In a reservoir of this magnitude, hiring a local guide is not a luxury, but a way to maximize time and chances of success.

Licenses and Regulations for 2025

Fishing in Orellana requires strict compliance with regulations.

• Obtaining the License: The fastest and most recommended way is through the ARADO online platform of the Junta de Extremadura, which allows you to obtain the license instantly.
• Excellent News! For the year 2025, the Extremadura fishing license is free for the first year. For those who fish in several autonomous communities, there is the Interautonomous license (€25).
• Catch & Release Regulations: Pike, black bass and carp are considered Invasive Alien Species (IAS). HOWEVER, due to the importance of fishing tourism, there are special regimes that allow catch and release fishing. It is the angler’s responsibility to consult the most recent resolution on the official portal pescayrios.juntaextremadura.es before each day.

Your Accommodation for Fishing in Orellana: the Perfect Base Camp

An adventure of this magnitude demands accommodation to match. A place of comfort, sophistication and tranquility from which to plan each day and celebrate each victory.

Our rural house is the ideal accommodation for fishermen in Orellana:

• Direct and Private Access to the Reservoir: Forget about long transfers. From our house, you have direct access to the water to start fishing whenever you want.
• Capacity for Groups: With 6 spacious rooms with private bathrooms and capacity for 12 people, it is the perfect place for a fishing trip with friends.
• Luxury Comfort: After a long day on the water, relax on our porch with views, take a dip in the pool or prepare a great dinner in our fully equipped kitchen.
• Premium Location: You will be staying on the shores of one of the most beautiful and productive places in the reservoir.

Live an unforgettable fishing experience from the best possible base camp. Your legend in Orellana begins here.

Part 3: beyond Fishing – Nature and Gastronomy

A Landscape that Captures: the Wild Heart of Extremadura

The Orellana experience is a total immersion in nature. It is a paradise for naturalists and bird watchers, where it is possible to see cranes, cormorants, herons and even the elusive black stork. With patience, it is not uncommon to spot otters fishing on the banks.

The Taste of the Conquest: Local Gastronomy

A day of adventures deserves a culinary reward. The gastronomy of the area is rich and forceful. Don’t miss dishes such as pepper and tomato soups, embizcochados eggs and, very appropriately, marinated carp, a local specialty. In Orellana la Vieja, restaurants such as Costa Dulce or La Viruta offer an excellent sample of the cuisine of the land.

Part 4: Sustainable Fishing – Conservation and Future

Fishing in Orellana carries the responsibility to respect it.

• The Fisherman as Custodian: The sport fisherman has a fundamental role as guardian of the environment. Follow the regulations, do not leave garbage and practice careful handling of all catches.
• Threat of the Zebra Mussel: The most serious threat is this invasive mollusk. If you bring your own boat, it is your crucial responsibility to follow the CLEAN, DRAIN and DRY protocol to protect this paradise.
• Climate Change: In the long term, rising temperatures will affect the ecosystem. Protecting it today is guaranteeing the fishing of tomorrow.

Conclusion: your Biggest Catch Awaits You in Orellana

Orellana is much more than a fishing destination; it is a promise. It is the promise of battling with a huge pike, of feeling the tension of the line before a majestic black bass and of connecting with the strength of a wild carp. It is an immersion in a landscape that overwhelms and an opportunity to find peace and adventure in the same place.

Your expedition to one of the best fishing destinations in Europe deserves exceptional accommodation. Are you ready?