Perchzilla: kayak fishing for big perch in northern Spain

In northern Spain, near Bilbao, lies Perchzilla, one of Europe's most exciting perch waters. The water is known for its high average weights and for producing perch over three kilos every season. The lake is rich in nutrients, and with plenty of baitfish and crayfish, the perch grow strong and muscular.

The species

Perch are the main attraction, often weighing over two kilos, with a chance of fish over three. The lake also holds pike and zander for those who want to broaden their fishing.

The season

You can fish year-round, but September to March is best:

• Autumn offers active fishing with plenty of bites. The perch often hunt high in the water, and there is a good chance of fish around 2–2.5 kilos.
• As the water cools, the perch move deeper and the fishing becomes more technical, with slower presentations.
• Winter and early spring are the time for the really big fish. There may be longer gaps between bites, but this is when fish over three kilos are caught.

The climate is influenced by the Atlantic. In autumn, temperatures are often between 15 and 25 degrees, and in winter between 8 and 15. The weather can change quickly, so pack for sun, wind and light rain.

Kayak and fish finder

You fish from Native kayaks equipped with Lowrance Hook Reveal or Garmin Striker fish finders. You can upgrade to Garmin Livescope. From a kayak, you can move quietly across the lake and fish exactly where the fish finder shows fish.

Accommodation and food

You stay in modern apartments close to the water. Breakfast, lunch and dinner with a Mediterranean theme are included, and lunch is delivered directly to the lake so you do not have to interrupt your fishing. There is Wi-Fi, but the focus is on fishing.

The trip

You fly to Bilbao, where you are picked up at the airport and driven to the accommodation. Transfers between the accommodation and the lake are included. If you are travelling as a larger group, it is possible to rent a house, and the trip can be tailored with additional fishing days, a guide or rental equipment.

We also run a hosted trip to Perchzilla together with Borrebutiken, including a preparation day at the shop in Trollhättan before departure.

Lures and rigs have their own guide to Perchzilla.

Interested in Perchzilla?

Get in touch and we will help you with arrangements and dates. Oskar at Outside Travels has been there himself and will be happy to answer your questions.

See the fishing trip to Perchzilla

The trip with Borrebutiken

Frequently asked questions about Perchzilla