Rotterdam is one of the most versatile cities in the Netherlands for fishing. Thanks to the many rivers, canals, harbors, and lakes, there are many different fishing opportunities.
Whether you want to streetfish for predatory fish, catch carp in urban waters, or catch sea fish in the Europoort, Rotterdam has something to offer every angler.
In this guide, you will discover where you can fish in Rotterdam, which fish species you can expect, and which permits you need.
Popular fishing locations in Rotterdam
Rotterdam canals and harbors
The canals and smaller harbors in Rotterdam are perfect spots for streetfishing.
Fish species often caught here:
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zander
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perch
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pike
Due to the many bridges, quays, and structures, predatory fish have many hiding places here.
Streetfishing with shads, spinners, and small plugs often works very well here.
The Nieuwe Maas
The Nieuwe Maas runs through Rotterdam and is a challenging fishing water.
Here you can fish for:
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zander
-
asp
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perch
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catfish
Due to the strong current and shipping traffic, fishing here can be more difficult, but the water is known for large predatory fish.
Kralingse Plas
The Kralingse Plas is one of the best-known fishing spots in Rotterdam.
Here you can fish for:
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carp
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pike
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perch
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bream
The large water surface offers many different fishing spots, both from the shore and on piers.
Europoort and Maasvlakte
For anglers who like to catch sea fish, the Europoort and Maasvlakte are excellent locations.
Many caught fish species are:
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sea bass
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whiting (cod)
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whiting
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sole
You can often fish here from the shore at various spots along the harbor.
Fishing in the Rotte
The Rotte and the Rottemeren lie just outside Rotterdam and are popular fishing waters.
Here you can fish for, among others:
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carp
-
pike
-
bream
-
perch
For this water, you often need a special permit or day license.
You can obtain this permit through Angling Association Groot Rotterdam.
Fishing permit Rotterdam
To fish in Rotterdam, you usually need a VISpas from Sportvisserij Nederland.
In addition, you may need an extra permit, such as:
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Rotterdam Fishing Permit
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Day Permit De Rotte
These permits are available through HSV Groot Rotterdam or at fishing tackle shops.
Also use the VISplanner app to check where you are allowed to fish.
Which fish species are in Rotterdam?
The waters in Rotterdam contain many different fish species.
Common species are:
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zander
-
perch
-
pike
-
carp
-
bream
-
asp
-
catfish
-
sea bass
Due to the combination of freshwater and sea harbors, the fish variety here is very diverse.
Tips for fishing in Rotterdam
Want to fish successfully in Rotterdam? These tips can help:
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fish near bridges, quay walls, and mooring places
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use heavier gear in the Nieuwe Maas
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streetfishing works well in urban waters
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always check the local fishing rules
Summary
Rotterdam is a great city for sport anglers. Thanks to the combination of rivers, canals, lakes, and sea harbors, you can fish for many different fish species here.
Whether you choose streetfishing in the city, carp fishing at the Kralingse Plas, or catching sea fish in the Europoort, Rotterdam offers plenty of fishing opportunities.