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The Trout also Rises
Fly fishermen love secrets—secret flies, secret tactics and especially secret spots or destinations. So, when folks learn that I’ve been traveling as a fly-fishing writer since the mid-’90s, one of the first questions they usually ask is, “What’s a great place you’ve been that most people don’t know about?” My answer is always the same, and it’s one that never fails to elicit both surprise and skepticism.
“Really?” they’ll say. “I’ve never evenheard of people fly fishing there.” “Exactly.”
ULTIMATE PYRENEES
The spectacularly beautiful and rugged Pyrenees Range forms the natural border between northeastern Spain and France. Branching out of the 270-mile mountain range, into the seldom-traveled hill country of Spain, are 14 major river valleys with 60 remarkable wild trout rivers. Scattered throughout this sparsely populated region are quaint, picture-perfect villages, wineries, castles, and cultural sites dating back thousands ofyears. This is the home of Salvelinus, a sophisticated fly fishing outfitter with two lodges, an incredible fishing program, and a polished staff of tour guides for travel companions who want to experience all that this appealing region has to offer.
Salivating Salvelinus
Let us get the monkey out of the room now. Salvelinus (named after a genus of Salmonidae distinguished chiefly by their small scales. These include the brook trout, lake trout, Dolly Varden, bull trout, and Arctic char) are the more expensive fishing operation in Pyrenees. But let’s look at the details.
Who else pays its guides all expenses to go and scout and learn waters. That includes the supply of the car, fuel and accommodation and licences. In short, they are incentivised to go and learn and get to know their waters which is why they have loyal, long-term guides.
The Trip, Day 96: The Spanish Pyrenees
By the time we arrived in Spain, we were exhausted by the 30-hour trip from Japan. It took us a few days of recovering in Barcelona before we returned to a regular sleep pattern and got back in condition to spend long days fishing in the Pyrenees. During this time, Barcelona was quickly becoming one of my favorite cities in the world. There was something comforting and exciting about the Moorish-inspired buildings, Gaudi’s architectural masterpieces, the slow pace of living, the affinity for social gatherings, and the flavorful cuisine. These might also have been some of the reasons why the city had attracted artists and writers for centuries. I also began to consider the possibility of living here in the future. Janeil preferred Florence.
The Secret Stash
I have never killed a man for stealing my secret fishing spot, but I know a guy who might have.
We’ve all been subjected to the absurd question, “So, where’d you catch all those fish?” This should always be met with an equally ridiculous and sarcastic answer, such as “In the water,” “From my boat,” or “It’s none of your darn business.” We protect what we love.