Best Waters: Top Fishing Spots in the Netherlands

Table of contents:

River IJssel Hollands Diep Eiland van Maurik

18 July 2024

By David van Maanen (@icperch), Expert Angler

Exploring the Netherlands offers a treasure trove of fishing experiences, with some of the best waters teeming with a variety of predatory fish. Many European anglers travel to the Netherlands to have a perfect fishing vacation. Whether you're an experienced angler or a novice, these Dutch waters promise thrilling and rewarding catches. Our expert angler, David van Maanen (@icperch), delves into three prime locations where you can find the most impressive specimens.

River IJssel

The River IJssel is a constantly flowing and challenging river to explore due to its fluctuating water levels. Fishing here often involves targeting areas around the cribs – stone piers or groynes designed to maintain current velocity and depth, ensuring vessels can navigate even at low water levels. For maximum comfort during your fishing trips, consider using our Aquamaster waders, paired with the Mudway jacket and Speedmaster boots.

"Zander loves these spots and hides just outside the current or around the structure – ready to ambush the baitfish. I caught a monster Zander that only a few anglers will see or catch in a lifetime – 103 cm!"

Hollands Diep

Hollands Diep, one of the Netherlands' largest bodies of water, receives inflows from most of the country's rivers, making it a prime location for fishing. This waterway is teeming with large predatory fish, including 12 cm pike, 100 cm zander, and 50 cm perch, which is why it hosts some of the biggest EU fishing competitions.

Despite the high angling pressure, catching fish here is relatively easy, thanks to the abundance of fish and diverse underwater structures that add excitement to your fishing experience. For optimal waterproofing during extended fishing sessions, the Aquamaster-Z waders paired with our Sportsman boots are highly recommended.

"Every time you discover a new hump, stone edge or plant field – you will find the most beautiful fish. That’s why I think this is beautiful water."

Eiland van Maurik

Eiland van Maurik is a typical Dutch river lake, and you'll find many like it throughout the Netherlands. These clay and gravel dredgings are very deep, making fishing possible only along the edges. This crystal-clear lake is home to large perch, zander, pike, and asp. In autumn and winter, perch and zander are easily found along the slopes. If you plan to visit during the colder months, we highly recommend using our All Season thermal wear to stay warm during prolonged fishing sessions.

"You can catch the most beautiful specimens here on a good day with different techniques. Anglers from Europe come to Eiland van Maurik in winter for their PB perch, specimens over 3 kilos."

The current Dutch record stands at 56.5 cm, but rumors suggest that larger fish swim in Maurik. Just for the chance of catching that one fish of a lifetime, wouldn't you stand here casting all day?

Whether you seek the thrill of battling a massive zander or the satisfaction of reeling in a record-breaking perch, the waters of the Netherlands offer unparalleled opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. With its diverse and abundant fishing spots, the Netherlands stands out as a premier destination for those passionate about the sport. So pack your gear, plan your trip, and experience the rich fishing heritage of these Dutch waters for yourself. Each cast holds the promise of a new adventure, and who knows—you might just land the catch of a lifetime.