The Tidal River

Below Bordeaux, the Garonne becomes tidal, creating unique phenomena. The mascaret—a tidal bore that surges upstream—has fascinated observers for centuries. Surfers now ride these waves, turning natural phenomenon into sport. The tidal Garonne creates distinctive ecosystems where freshwater and saltwater species mingle.

Fishing communities along the tidal Garonne maintain traditions adapted to these unique conditions. Shad, lamprey, and glass eels have sustained communities for generations. Today's fishermen include not just old French families but also Portuguese communities who brought Atlantic fishing expertise, and more recently, Southeast Asian families applying Mekong Delta knowledge to Gironde conditions.

"Fish follow water, not borders," explains Nguyen Van Duc, who transitioned from the Mekong to the Garonne. "Tidal rivers are tidal rivers. The species change, but the rhythms are similar. My Vietnamese neighbors understand this river in ways that surprise old-timers. Knowledge flows like water."