Experience world-class freshwater fishing across Germany's lakes, rivers, and canals. We handle the complex permit system so you can focus on fishing — tourist license, local permits, and expert guide included.
Germany offers exceptional pike and zander fishing in thousands of lakes and rivers, with well-managed fish populations across all 16 states.
The German permit system can be complex — different states have different rules. Our service handles everything: tourist license, local permits, and regulations explained clearly.
Excellent infrastructure: well-maintained fishing spots, boat rentals, tackle shops, and accommodation near all major fishing waters.
Trophy pike over 110 cm, zander over 90 cm, and giant eel are regularly caught. Germany's waters are nutrient-rich and produce impressive fish.
German fishing regulations vary by state (Bundesland). These are general guidelines — specific rules depend on the water body and state. Our permit package includes a detailed regulations summary for your destination.
| Species | Min. Size | Closed Season | Daily Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pike | 45 cm (varies by state) | Feb 1 – Apr 30 (spawning protection) | 2 per day |
| Zander | 45 cm (varies by state) | Mar 1 – May 31 (spawning protection) | 2 per day |
| Perch | No minimum (some states: 15 cm) | No closed season | No limit (varies by permit) |
| Eel | 50 cm | No closed season (catch & release during migration) | 2 per day |
| Carp | 35 cm (varies by state) | No closed season | 2 per day |
Fishing in Germany requires both a fishing license (Fischereischein) and a local water permit (Angelkarte/Gewässerkarte). Several states offer a tourist fishing license (Touristenfischereischein) valid for 28 days. Our package handles the entire process — we obtain the correct permits for your destination and deliver everything with clear instructions.
The lake district paradise — over 2,000 lakes including the Müritz (Germany's largest lake). Tourist fishing license available. Outstanding pike, zander, and eel fishing in pristine waters.
Surrounds Berlin with hundreds of lakes and the Spree/Havel river system. Tourist fishing license available. Excellent zander fishing, especially in the Havel lakes.
Between the Baltic and North Sea. Tourist fishing license available. Famous for sea trout on the coast and pike/zander in the Holstein lake district.
Alpine lakes with crystal-clear water. Stunning scenery with trout, char, and whitefish. Lake Chiemsee and Lake Starnberg offer excellent fishing. Full fishing exam required.
Rich in fishing waters with numerous reservoirs and rivers. Good pike and carp fishing. Tourist fishing license available for visitors.
Germany is in the heart of Europe — easy to reach from anywhere.
Major airports: Berlin (BER), Munich (MUC), Frankfurt (FRA), Hamburg (HAM). Budget airlines connect all major European cities. Domestic flights to regional airports.
Excellent autobahn network with no general speed limit. Easy access from all neighboring countries. Free parking at most fishing spots.
Deutsche Bahn connects all major cities. ICE high-speed trains, regional trains to smaller towns. Deutschland-Ticket (49€/month) covers all regional transport.
Rent a car for lake regions. Cities have excellent public transport. Boat rentals available at most lakes. Bike rentals popular in Mecklenburg lake district.
Pike (Hecht)
Avg. 50–90 cm, trophy 110+ cm
Zander (Zander)
Avg. 40–65 cm, trophy 90+ cm
Perch (Barsch)
Avg. 20–30 cm, trophy 45+ cm
Eel (Aal)
Avg. 50–70 cm, trophy 90+ cm
Carp (Karpfen)
Avg. 40–60 cm, trophy 90+ cm
Trout (Forelle)
Avg. 30–50 cm, trophy 70+ cm
After closed seasons end — pike and zander are hungry after spawning. Carp become active as water warms above 12°C. Perch move to shallows.
Peak season. Early morning and late evening fishing is best. Night fishing for eel is excellent. Zander active at dusk. Carp feeding heavily.
Best season for trophy pike and zander — they feed aggressively before winter. Eel migration season. Spectacular colors on lake shores. Fewer anglers.
Pike fishing remains good in deeper water. Zander move to deep holes. Ice fishing possible in cold winters (Mecklenburg, Brandenburg). Carp dormant.
Medium-heavy spinning rod (2.4–2.7m) with 20–80g casting weight for pike and zander. Braided line 0.15–0.20mm. Key lures: shads, jerkbaits, spinnerbaits, rubber fish.
Heavy feeder or carp rod (3.6–3.9m) for eel and carp. Monofilament 0.30–0.35mm. Use worms for eel, boilies or corn for carp. Rod pod recommended.
Light float rod (3.6–4.5m) for perch and general fishing. Versatile setup for canals, rivers, and lake shores. Great for beginners.
Landing net (min. 80cm), unhooking mat (required for carp in many waters), wire leaders for pike, polarized sunglasses. Head torch for night eel fishing.
“The permit process seemed overwhelming until I found PermitFish. Everything was sorted in 24 hours — license, local permit, and a guide with exact GPS spots. Caught a 98 cm pike on the Müritz!”
Thomas R.
Austria
“We wanted to fish near Berlin but didn't know where to start with permits. PermitFish handled everything. The Havel lakes guide was excellent — big zander on our first evening.”
Jan V.
Czech Republic
“The night eel fishing guide for Mecklenburg was fantastic. Found great spots and the permit was ready when we arrived. Three big eels on the first night!”
Henrik L.
Denmark
45 EUR
Complete permit service for fishing in Germany. We handle the bureaucracy so you can focus on fishing.
We're happy to help you navigate the German permit system and plan your fishing trip.
filipowski.tom@gmail.com