+1 561 855 1409 Salmon Fishing in Germany: Tips and Techniques
Catching salmon in Germany has become an exciting dream for many anglers. Although Germany is not the first country people think of when imagining wild Atlantic salmon, the return of salmon in Germany over the past decades has opened new possibilities for sport fishing. Thanks to renaturation projects, restocking programs, and cleaner rivers, salmon fishing in Germany is slowly developing into a unique niche for both local and visiting anglers.
In this guide, you’ll learn where and how to catch salmon in German waters, what seasons to target, which techniques work best, and what rules to follow.
The Comeback of Salmon Germany
Historically, rivers like the Elbe, Rhine, and Sieg hosted abundant salmon populations. By the mid-20th century, pollution and industrialization almost wiped out salmon in Germany. Today, thanks to restoration efforts, sightings of wild salmon are increasing again. While populations are still small compared to Scandinavia, the steady progress means motivated anglers can experience authentic fishing adventures.
The most active reintroduction programs are found in:
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North Rhine–Westphalia (River Sieg, Agger, Wupper)
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Lower Saxony (Elbe tributaries)
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Schleswig-Holstein (Stör, Treene)
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Baltic Sea regions (trolling for Baltic salmon)
Is Salmon Fishing in Germany Allowed?
Recreational salmon fishing is tightly regulated. In most inland waters, salmon are still protected and strictly catch-and-release or fully off-limits. However, it is legally permitted in certain marine areas, especially in the Baltic Sea, where strong populations of Atlantic salmon migrate during winter and spring.
If you want to catch salmon legally and reliably, the Baltic Sea offers the best opportunity.
Where to Catch Salmon in Germany
1. Baltic Sea Coast – Germany’s Salmon Hotspot
The most successful method to catch salmon in Germany today is trolling on the Baltic Sea. Anglers launch from ports like:
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Rügen (Sassnitz, Glowe, Seedorf)
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Fehmarn
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Rostock–Warnemünde
This is the area where professional guiding tours—similar to those described in example articles — target large wild salmon in open water. The fish here often exceed one meter in length.
2. River Sieg and Rhine Tributaries
These rivers host naturalized salmon fish in Germany, but angling here is mostly conservation-oriented. Salmon may be observed during spawning runs, and catch-and-release is mandatory when permitted.
3. Stör, Treene & Northern Streams
These rivers in Schleswig-Holstein occasionally allow limited, regulated salmon or sea trout fishing. Always check current local regulations before planning a trip.
Best Season for Salmon Fishing in Germany
Baltic Sea (Boat & Trolling)
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Peak: December – April
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Salmon feed aggressively in cold water, making these months the most productive.
Rivers
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Spawning runs: September – December
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Usually closed to fishing during this period to protect migrating wild salmon.
Techniques to Catch a Salmon in Germany
1. Trolling (Most Successful Method)
Gear Tips:
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Downriggers to reach deeper water layers
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Flasher rigs or spoons
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Salmon plugs (often 20–30 cm)
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Lines: 0.30–0.40 mm monofilament or braided alternatives
How it works: You drag lures at controlled depths and speeds (2–3 knots). Salmon strike powerfully, and the fight can be intense — especially with Baltic giants weighing 10–20 kg.
2. Spinning from Boat
Some anglers prefer large spoons or wobblers cast from a drifting boat. This provides a more active style but requires knowing where salmon are holding.
3. Fly Fishing
Fly fishing for salmon in Germany is mostly limited to rivers with restocked fish. Heavy two-hand rods, Skagit lines, and tube flies imitate natural prey. This is an advanced but extremely rewarding method when conditions allow.
Recommended Equipment
To succeed in salmon fishing, consider taking with you:
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Rod: 2.4–3.0 m trolling rod (20–30 lbs)
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Reel: High-capacity multiplier reel
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Line counter to track depth
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Downrigger weights (4–6 kg)
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Salmon-specific lures: trolling spoons, flashers, baitfish imitations
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Warm waterproof clothing for winter fishing on the Baltic Sea
Regulations for Salmon Fishing in Germany
Before targeting salmon, you must:
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Have a valid German fishing license (Fischereischein).
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Obtain a local or regional permit for the area you intend to fish.
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Check species protection laws, since many river systems prohibit salmon retention.
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Observe bag limits, size limits, and closed seasons where applicable.
Failure to follow regulations can result in heavy fines, so always confirm the latest rules with local fishing authorities or guide services.
Why Book a Guide for Salmon Fishing in Germany?
Book a guide if you want the best chance to catch a salmon. Professional skippers:
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Provide specialized trolling equipment
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Know current salmon migration patterns
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Monitor sea and weather conditions
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Increase catch rates dramatically
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Ensure you fish legally and safely
Guided salmon trips on Rügen or Fehmarn are the most efficient way to experience real salmon fishing.
Final Thoughts
Although German salmon populations are still rebuilding, anglers now have more opportunities than ever to experience authentic salmon fishing . Whether trolling for Baltic giants or observing the return of wild salmon in restored rivers, the country offers a unique blend of conservation and adventure.
With the right gear, timing, and respect for regulations, you can successfully catch salmon and enjoy one of the most exciting fishing experiences the country has to offer.
