Do you want to start fishing but don't know where to begin? Don't worry. In this guide, you will discover step by step what you need, what to watch out for, and how to quickly catch your first fish. Ideal for beginners in Belgium and the Netherlands.
Starting with fishing: the checklist
As a beginner angler, you don't need much to get started. With this basics, you are already well on your way:
-
Fishing permit (fishing license or VISpas)
-
Rod (fixed rod or casting rod)
-
Bait (maggots, worms or corn)
Tip: start simple and expand later. You don't need to buy expensive equipment to be successful.
Step 1: get a fishing permit
Fishing license in Belgium
In Belgium, you need a fishing license to fish in public waters. You can easily apply online via the Natuur en Bos website.
-
Cost: approximately €48
-
Valid in Flanders (separate permit needed for Wallonia)
VISpas in the Netherlands
Are you going fishing in the Netherlands? Then you need a VISpas .
-
Cost: on average €35
-
Order online via vispas.nl
Fishing without a permit can lead to fines, so always arrange this in advance.
Step 2: purchase basic fishing equipment
For beginners, a simple set is more than enough. This is what you need:
Essential equipment
-
Fixed rod (recommended for beginners) or spinning rod
-
Monofilament Fishing Line (16/100 – 22/100 mm)
-
Bobber
-
Sinkers (split shot)
-
Hooks
-
Bait (maggots, worms, corn)
Handy extras
-
Landing net
-
Hook remover
-
Bucket or fish box
With a budget of €20 to €50, you can already make a good start.
Step 3: choose the right fishing spot
A good location makes the difference between catching or not catching fish.
Best spots for beginners
-
Ponds and small lakes
-
Slow flowing water
-
Piers, bridges and reed beds
Fish are often found:
-
Near aquatic plants
-
In the shade
-
Near structures (wood, stones)
Tip: go fishing early in the morning or towards the evening for the best chance.
Step 4: know the fishing rules and legislation
Responsible fishing is essential.
Important rules:
-
Adhere to minimum and maximum sizes
-
Only take fish that you will eat
-
Do not leave any waste behind
-
Respect other anglers and nature
Catch & release is often the norm in sport fishing.
Step 5: learn the basic skills
To fish successfully, you need to master a few techniques.
Important skills
-
Casting: learn controlled casting
-
Tying knots: such as the hook knot
-
Setting the hook: reacting to a bite
-
Unhooking: safe for the fish
Practice is key. The more often you go, the better you become.
Which fish species to choose as a beginner?
Start with easy fish species such as:
-
Roach
-
Bream
-
Perch
Later you can switch to:
-
Pike
-
Carp
-
Trout
Start with coarse fishing: it is cheap, simple and ideal to learn the basics.
Common mistakes made by beginner anglers
Avoid these beginner mistakes:
-
Buying overly complicated equipment
-
Being restless at the waterside
-
Using the wrong bait
-
Being impatient
Fishing requires calm and patience, that is precisely the charm of the hobby.
Why fishing is such a fun hobby
Fishing is more than just catching fish. It is:
-
Relaxation in nature
-
A break from screens and crowds
-
A hobby you can do alone or together
And the more often you go, the more fun it becomes.
Conclusion: start fishing today
Starting with fishing doesn't have to be difficult or expensive. Get a fishing permit, buy a simple rod and find a quiet fishing spot nearby.
The most important tip? Just start.