Hello Families!
The Spain Pyrenees Expedition continues to roll along, and it is hard to believe how much we have packed into the last few days. Since our last update, we've fished alpine lakes, meadow streams, and mountain rivers, completed the first phase of our conservation project, explored new towns, and continued making our way west through the Pyrenees. The group is doing a fantastic job, and we're excited for several more big days ahead.
One of the highlights of the week was taking 4x4 vehicles high into Alt Pirineu Natural Park. From there, we hiked through patches of snow to reach remote alpine lakes tucked into the mountains. The effort was well worth it, as the boys were rewarded with some beautiful and hungry sunset-colored brook trout. The group also spent time fishing small meadow streams winding through the valleys below. It was one of those days that felt straight out of a fly fishing magazine. After fishing, we headed back for warm showers, comfortable beds, and a great dinner of local cuisine. The boys had the chance to try local dishes including rabbit, quail, and chicken. We have some adventurous eaters on this trip! It also goes without saying that I don't think food will ever be a point of concern considering that we are in one of the culinary capitals of the world.
The following day, the fishing groups switched locations so everyone could experience the different waters. Afterwards, we loaded up and made the three-hour drive to our next home base in Northern Catalonia. The drive took us through several mountain villages and ski towns tucked into the Pyrenees, some only a few miles from the French border. Before dinner, we stopped at a local fly shop to stock up on hand-tied flies designed specifically for the rivers we are fishing. That evening, we joined locals at a watch party to see Spain play Cape Verde, which was a pretty epic cultural experience for the boys. With clear skies and cool temperatures, the stars have been incredible at night.
Fishing has continued to be outstanding. The boys spent a day targeting the region's famous zebra trout and everyone found more than enough success. High group morale and cohesivity has definitely been the theme of this trip so far. After fishing, the group headed to the local soccer field for a full-field sunset soccer game surrounded by mountains. It has been fun watching friendships continue to form between students from different states and backgrounds. Whether we're on the river, sharing meals, or playing soccer, the group continues to grow closer every day.
Yesterday, we completed the first day of our conservation project by helping stock local rivers with healthy brown trout. The boys learned about the importance of fisheries management and what it takes to maintain healthy fish populations. Following a traditional European breakfast, we spent the morning practicing different fly fishing techniques on a nearby river. With four guides working with the group—myself and our three local guides—we're able to keep a great guide-to-student ratio and provide lots of one-on-one instruction. After lunch, the group enjoyed some free time at a local lake. Some swam, some fished, some played frisbee, but everyone enjoyed a sunny afternoon in the mountains. We finished the day with some excellent dry-fly fishing and landed well over 100 fish as a group. This is a very fishy group, and their enthusiasm keeps all of us guides excited every day.
Over the next few days, we'll visit a local hatchery to learn from fisheries scientists, complete the second phase of our conservation project, and chase several new species including barbel and European perch on the fly. We'll also spend time exploring historic mountain villages with cobblestone streets that have changed very little over the centuries. The boys continue to impress us with how willing they are to practice Spanish and interact with local people. It's been enriching watching them embrace a new culture while continuing to grow as anglers, teammates, and young men.
Needless to say, the trip has been a dream so far. The boys are fishing hard, supporting one another, and making the most of every opportunity. We couldn't be more proud of this group and are excited for the adventures that still lie ahead.
Thanks for sending such a great group of young anglers to Spain—we're having a blast.
Until next time - tight lines and good times.
Jack, Miguel, Adrian, Miquel, and the boys
