León is currently hosting the best of continental fishing, with International Trout Week and the Destino Pesca fair as a backdrop. In this setting, expert voices analyze the present and future of fishing in León, combining tradition, technical knowledge and a clear commitment to conservation.
In addition to the exhibition and sports activities, debates and technical sessions combining field practice and academic rigor are gaining importance. The shared objective is to sustainable management and rural opportunities that strengthen the local economy without putting the health of the rivers at risk.
A round table to discuss the present and the future
The Diocesan and Holy Week Museum of León hosts this Friday, starting at 13:30 p.m., a Roundtable focusing on how fishing is done today and the direction this hobby is taking in the province. The session, which can be followed live via diariodeleon.es, is moderated by José Manuel Jiménez Blázquez and presented by Joaquín S. Torné.
The panel brings together four highly recognized profiles: Pablo Castro Pinos (four-time world champion)Manuel Caneda Montiel (fisherman, fly tyer, and educator), Raúl Gutiérrez Leralta (fisherman and REDER manager), and Yasmany Picorel Nieves (fisherman and Wild Trout guide). Their distinct but complementary backgrounds provide a practical and strategic perspective.
Among the points on which they agreed was the preference for the catch and release, with respect for those who choose other methods. They also pointed out pressures that require response, such as the incidence of cormorants and, with particular concern, poaching, which erodes conservation efforts.
On the table, in addition, the option arose of extend the season around a month or a month and a half, a measure that, if properly calibrated, could attract more fishermen from other areas and boost the tourism industry with responsible criteria.
Environmental challenges and scientific management of rivers
In parallel, the following have been inaugurated: II Conference on Continental Fisheries Management, promoted by the Regional Government of Castile and León as part of International Trout Week. The opening ceremony, led by Eduardo Diego and Ignacio de la Fuente, emphasized that the event goes beyond competition: it incorporates reflection, research, and environmental education.
The program foregrounds challenges such as climate change and exotic species, and proposes cooperation between administrations, scientists, associations, and fishermen to implement evidence-based solutions and ensure the health of river ecosystems.
The sessions continue with panels and presentations on river management, climate and conservation of native species, with a clear objective: to consolidate León as the capital of sustainable fishing and a national reference in knowledge applied to rivers and brown trout.
Rural engine, figures and leadership of León
River fishing is also an economic opportunity if it is promoted seasonally adjusted fishing tourism, with up-to-date accommodations and qualified guides, capable of generating employment year-round without degrading the resource.
In terms of habitat, the province adds 3.377,86 km of water bodies, of which 3.009,74 km (almost 89%) are trout farms. This natural capital explains León's appeal to national and international enthusiasts.
The network of scenarios is wide and varied: 321 fishing grounds, 32 reserves, 29 AREC, 2 ARE and 7 EDSIn open-access waters, around 85,97% of catches are not permitted for trout (although other cyprinid species are permitted), reinforcing population recovery.
The best-known rivers support this diversity: Órbigo, Esla and Porma, next to Luna, Bernesga, Torío, Duerna, Tuerto, Cabrera, Burbia, Selmo, Omaña, Sil, Valcarce, Cúa, Cea... Mountain sections regulated by reservoirs that offer alternatives for all styles.
In licenses, the pulse is notable: the province registers 30.450 licenses in the province (207 foreigners), the second highest figure after Burgos. This figure accounts for around 15,8% of the regional total, with a constant flow of fishermen from other provinces and regions.
Castilla y León is at the forefront in Spain, with about 75% of the country's licenses (192.101 of 255.784), which reflects the centrality of the resource and its driving potential for rural areas.
Added to this are championships and a season of more than seven months, which act as a showcase for the rivers of León and as a lever for the hospitality industry, specialty shops, and guide services.
With sector leaders, institutional support and a very active fishing community, León is outlining a path where science-based management, respect for wild trout and commitment to the people come together to sustain the present and future in León of an activity that is culture, leisure and economy.
