Fishing in the Pyrenees: all our advice

Fishing courses 

The Gavarnie Valleys are also full of preserved natural areas, ideal for roaming over several days and immersing yourself in the most beautiful corners of our valleys, fishing rod in hand. And for less mountainous fishermen, the Gave between Pierrefitte-Nestalas and Lourdes is worth the detour with Trout Leisure, No-kill or adapted for children under 12. 

Meeting with our fishing guides 

In the valleys, two fishing guides, Pierre-Adrien & Clement, accompany you to discover fishing in the lakes and rivers of the Hautes-Pyrénées. Both offer half-day, full-day or multi-day outings, individually or in groups, and adapt to all the techniques, desires and abilities of the participants. They also offer tailor-made stays, whether for groups or for courses with friends.  
Beyond a passion... 

Fishing, practical questions 

Here is some information not to miss before prepare your fishing trip or your holidays in the Pyrenees !   

What fish can we catch? 

In the mountain streams and the lakes of the valleys, there are several varieties of fish including the famous “Gave panther".  
"This is the little name given to wild brown trout, because here the king fish is this one, the brown trout. Note that other species are introduced to certain sectors and mountain lakes, such as rainbow trout, brook trout, Arctic char and others to the delight of anglers. We can also quote minnow, lamprey and other small fish. Note the presence in the downstream sector (from Lourdes to Argelès-Gazost), of the emblematic atlantic salmon which comes to occur at the exact place of his birth. This fish is the subject of a rescue and reintroduction plan, it is therefore protected and must be systematically returned to the water. » 

Where to fish: fishing routes & mountain lakes 

With a variety of sectors, you are sure to find the watercourse adapted to your level. In the mountain sectors or in the gorges of the valleys, the thematic routes, most of the routes are marked and easily accessible. Using the interactive map of the Hautes-Pyrénées Fishing Federation, select the course that best suits your desires. Beware, however, of water released from hydroelectric power stations, water levels can rise quickly, vigilance is required. As for the must-see fishing spots in mountain lakes, Pierre-Adrien recommends “the sectors of the plateau of Marcadau, Fruitière or Glère which offer beautiful loops. Otherwise, the lakes of Isaby, Gloriettes and Espécieres (No-kill Mouche) are a good compromise with little walking. As to in the little secret corners… we will have to spend the day together. » 

Discover the map of fishing routes

Practice No-kill, a more sustainable fishing method 

One of the practices that our fishing guides particularly like is the No-kill. This mode of fishing which is intended more respectful and sustainable consists of systematically releasing the holds. Well practiced, it is a way to enjoy the joys of fishing without altering the life of the animal. A outing with our fishing guides, it's also that: learning the right things to increase the chances of survival of the fish after releasing them. Thus, you will have all the pleasure of catching beautiful catches then, once returned to the water in good conditions, they will be able to continue their journey. And who knows, maybe one day you'll have the chance to cross paths with them again? That's the fun of practice!  

Fishing and PRM accessibility 

Fishing is above all a accessible leisure to all, which brings together people from different backgrounds and profiles around a common passion. THE Estaing, Tech and Arcizans-Avant lakes offer some access for people with reduced mobility and Pierre-Adrien also collaborates with associations that manage and supervise people with disabilities to adapt his outings.  

Fishing courses 

To share a moment of conviviality with friends or family with our guides, the bivouac is the right compromise: fishing advice, sharing, nights in a tent, in a refuge or under the stars in a pretty setting, healing but above all the feeling of being cut off from everything and taking a break from everyday life. 

Fishing technical information 

• Know the whole reglementation fishing in the 65: opening periods, fishing times, regulatory sizes, etc.
• “No-kill” course: Find here the interactive map of all No-kill salmonid routes. 
• Reserves / regulated areas: Find here the interactive map of fishing reserves as well as specific regulations (general and specific regulations, regulations for mountain lakes, etc.). 
• Fishing licenses: Different fishing licenses exist depending on the desired duration, the profile of the applicant or the desired fishing area. To know the whole offer and prices, click here. 
• Where to buy them? In all the Tourist Information Points of the Gavarnie Valleys and on peche65.fr. 
• Fishing equipment: find here all the stores where you can equip yourself for your outings.