Thinking that you can't practise water sports in the Community of Madrid means you've never heard of the El Vellón reservoir. Renamed as the Pedrezuela reservoir and completed in 1967, it's located in the Sierra de Guadarrama, making it a perfect location for all those keen Madrilenian anglers who never miss a day's fishing, as it's easily accessible from Guadalix de la Sierra.
With an average annual flow of 67 hm³, imagining catching the best specimens in its waters is pure fantasy. In fact, this reservoir attracts a large number of enthusiasts who share a passion for sport fishing. If you're one of them, don't think twice and join in for a peaceful day out – but first, find out about the requirements and recommendations for accessing this fishing reserve.
1. Where do you get a permit to access the fishing reserve?
2. How do you access the carp fishing area in El Vellón?
3. Where is the pike fishing area in El Vellón?
4. Is El Vellón a catch-and-release fishing reserve?
5. What's the best bait for fishing in El Vellón?
6. Is fishing easy in El Vellón?
7. Is El Vellón a good reservoir for fishing?
1. The permit to access the El Vellón fishing reserve can be easily obtained at the El Sol bar-hostel, located in the Egido square in Guadalix de la Sierra. The cost is around €7, and since it opens early every day, you can grab breakfast before putting your fishing rod to good use.
2. The carp fishing area is accessed via a path opposite the petrol station.
3. The pike fishing area is accessed via the exit road from Guadalix towards the A-1, which runs alongside the reservoir, where you'll find several fishing spots.
4. Indeed, the El Vellón / Pedrezuela reservoir is a catch-and-release fishing reserve, except for pike over 40 cm, which don't have to be returned to the water – but... would you really risk letting another angler catch that spectacular specimen?
For everything else, it's strictly catch-and-release, so taking your catch home is completely prohibited and punishable. In fact, any member can report violations to the authorities, so it's not worth the risk.
5. As always, it depends on what you're trying to catch. For carp, pellets and boilies work very well, especially for larger specimens of around 5-11 kg. Cooked potatoes also work but tend to attract smaller catches.
Sweetcorn or even strawberry-flavoured corn kernels are also effective for this species.
6. As with most fishing, the season plays a big role. If the water level is high and the best spots are taken, you'll find it very difficult to land a catch.
If you're after pike, April-May is usually a tougher time for them.
7. The Pedrezuela reservoir is a great place to scratch your fishing itch if you don't want to travel too far from Madrid. Fish activity depends heavily on the season, water levels, and the fishing area you choose, so it's best to arrive early to secure a good spot.
In terms of safety, although the reservoir is patrolled by forest rangers, some areas – particularly the car parks – are somewhat neglected.
Access could be improved, as if you're not in a 4x4, the puddles and bumps make the drive to the hermitage quite challenging.
Our advice is clear: this activity should always be regulated, as irresponsible fishing can have serious environmental consequences. So if you're heading out to fish in Madrid, always do so responsibly. In fact, here you can find all the best fishing options across the Madrid region.
