Yvon Zill
Professional Fishing Guide
Based in the heart of the Basque Country, in Arnéguy, I have been a professional fishing guide for many years. My passion for fishing has led me to explore every corner of the Basque Nives and the Rio Irati in Navarre.
It was in 2011 that I discovered Tenkara, this ancestral Japanese fishing technique using a rod without a reel. It was a revelation. Since then, I have become one of the few Tenkara USA certified guides in France, and I am also a Tenkara Pyrénées instructor.
My philosophy is simple: offer intimate outings, limited to two people maximum, to guarantee personalized guidance and total immersion in Basque nature.
My Philosophy
For me, fishing is more than just a sport. It's a deep connection with nature, a moment of meditation by the water, a quest for that perfect moment when the fish accepts your fly.
I am committed to teaching you not only the techniques but also this respectful approach to the environment. Catch and release is a practice I strongly encourage: admire your catch, photograph it, then release it so it can bring the same joy to other fishermen.
- Respect for the environment and ecosystems
- Catch and release practice encouraged
- Learning adapted to your level
- Discovering the secrets of Basque rivers
My Experience
For over 10 years, I have been guiding fishermen of all levels on the rivers of the Basque Country. From curious beginners discovering fly fishing to enthusiasts looking to perfect their Tenkara technique, each outing is a new adventure.
My in-depth knowledge of the 400 km of riverbanks of the Nives allows me to guide you to the best spots, depending on the season, water level, and your skill level.
I also have the privilege of introducing you to the Rio Irati in Navarre, the legendary river where Ernest Hemingway used to fish for trout. A unique experience, only available in May and June.
What I Offer
Each outing is designed to give you a memorable experience, whether you're alone or with a companion.
- Complete initiation for beginners: equipment, casting, reading the water, choosing flies
- Improvement for experienced anglers: advanced techniques, secret spots
- Tenkara discovery: the ancestral Japanese technique
- Equipment provided if needed: rods, flies, waders
- Outings in French, English, or Spanish
I am covered by professional liability insurance (MMA n° 148.570.016) for your peace of mind.
