As a passionate angler, fishing is more than just a hobby for me—it’s an essential part of my travels. No matter where I go, I always try to explore the local fishing scene, experiencing new techniques, species, and environments. However, one of the biggest challenges I faced while traveling was bringing my fishing gear along. The size restrictions, extra baggage fees, and airline limitations made it a hassle.
After years of trial and error, I found the perfect solution that allows me to travel light while still using top-quality fishing gear. Thanks to this, my fishing adventures across Europe have been smooth, exciting, and hassle-free. In this article, I’ll share my experiences fishing in Europe, the challenges I faced, and how I managed to make my travels both convenient and luxurious with the ideal business class to europe while sticking to a budget.
Fishing in Europe: A Diverse Playground for Anglers
Before my European fishing adventures, I had mainly fished in the U.S., where freshwater lakes and rivers were my comfort zone. However, Europe introduced me to an incredible variety of fishing styles, from river fly fishing in Scotland to deep-sea fishing in Norway.
Spain: The Land of Monster Catfish
One of my first stops in Europe was Spain, specifically the Ebro River, which is famous for its giant Wels catfish. These beasts can grow over 200 lbs, and catching one is an absolute adrenaline rush.
I booked a guided fishing tour, which provided everything I needed—rods, reels, and bait. The moment I hooked my first catfish, I realized I was in for the fight of my life. The power of these fish is unlike anything I had ever experienced before. After a 30-minute battle, I landed a 70 kg (154 lbs) monster.
Fishing in Spain was an eye-opener, as it showed me how warm-weather European destinations can offer just as much excitement as the cold, deep waters of the North.
Norway: The Ultimate Deep-Sea Fishing Destination
From warm Spain, I headed to the icy waters of Norway, known for its spectacular deep-sea fishing. The Lofoten Islands are a dream destination for anglers, offering cod, halibut, and even massive coalfish.
Deep-sea fishing in Norway was an entirely new experience for me. The cold, crisp air and breathtaking fjords made it feel like something out of a movie. I went on a chartered fishing trip where we used large jigging lures to catch halibut. Reeling in a 40 kg (88 lbs) halibut from deep water was exhausting, but the thrill was unforgettable.
Norway taught me that fishing isn’t just about catching big fish—it’s about embracing the environment. The untouched natural beauty of the fjords made this one of my most memorable trips.
Scotland: The Home of Fly Fishing
No fishing trip to Europe would be complete without experiencing Scotland’s legendary fly fishing. The rivers of the Scottish Highlands are home to some of the best trout and salmon fishing in the world.
Fly fishing here is an art. Unlike my usual bass and catfish fishing, fly fishing required a new level of finesse and precision. The guides I met in Scotland were incredibly skilled, and they taught me techniques that transformed my approach to fishing.
The peaceful surroundings of the Highlands, combined with the challenge of landing a wild Scottish salmon, made this trip truly unique. It was a reminder that fishing isn’t just about power—it’s about skill and patience.
The Ultimate Travel Hack for Anglers
If you’re passionate about fishing and traveling, you’ve likely faced the same issue I did—how to bring your gear without the hassle of extra baggage on business class flights. Here’s the solution I found:
- Invest in a High-Quality Telescopic Rod
At first, I was skeptical about collapsible rods, assuming they lacked durability. But after testing a few premium models, I found some that were just as reliable as my traditional rods. These rods collapse small enough to fit in my carry-on, eliminating extra baggage fees.
- Rent Local Gear When Possible
Many European fishing destinations, especially those offering guided trips, provide top-quality rods and reels for rent. This has allowed me to travel lighter without sacrificing fishing performance.
- Book Business Class on a Budget
Since I love luxury but prefer to be frugal in non-fishing-related expenses, I always find ways to fly business class without paying full price. Using airline miles, off-season deals, and error fares, I’ve managed to upgrade my travel experience while keeping my budget in check.
- Use a Compact Tackle Box
Instead of carrying my full range of lures and tackle, I bring a small, carefully selected kit. A few versatile lures—soft plastics, crankbaits, and basic hooks—cover most fishing situations.
Conclusion
Fishing across Europe has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. From battling monster catfish in Spain to deep-sea fishing in Norway and refining my fly-fishing skills in Scotland, every destination has offered something unique.
For fellow anglers who love to travel, the key is to travel smart, pack efficiently, and embrace local opportunities. With the right strategy, you can explore some of the world’s best fishing spots without the stress of hauling heavy gear. And with a little effort, you can even travel in luxury without the premium price tag.
