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Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a curious beginner, Düsseldorf offers some hidden spots along the Rhine, charming park lakes, and supportive local angling communities ready to welcome you. There’s a lot to Düsseldorfs’ nature that you might not know! 😉

But before you grab your rod and bait, there are a few important steps to take. Germany takes its fishing laws seriously, and getting started can feel a bit overwhelming—especially for newcomers. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to legally and confidently get fishing in Düsseldorf, whether you’re a German national or an expat.

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Can I Fish in Düsseldorf Without a License?

In short, no, not legally. Germany requires both a fishing rod license (Fischereischein) and a fishing permit for most waters. These are two separate things, and both are usually mandatory.

Let’s break that down 👇

Step 1: The Fishing Rod License (Fischereischein)

🎣 For German Nationals

If you’re a German national or permanent resident, you’ll need to pass the Sportfischerprüfung (a fishing exam) to apply for your official Fischereischein.

How to get started:

Join a local angling club that offers the mandatory preparation course (or find an online one like FishingKing)
Complete the course and pass the exam.
Receive a Prüfungsbescheinigung (exam certificate) – this is valid for life.
Take this certificate to your local Bezirksamt (town hall) to apply for your official fishing rod license.

🔁 In Düsseldorf, as part of North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW), the Fischereischein (fishing license) is available with two validity options:

One-Year License: Valid for one calendar year.
Five-Year License: Valid for five consecutive calendar years.

Unlike some other federal states, NRW does not offer a lifetime fishing license. After the validity period, you can renew your license without needing to retake the fishing exam.

👧 What About Children?

Children can fish without a license, but only if supervised by a licensed adult.

Children under 10 years old: They are permitted to fish without a license if they are accompanied by an adult who holds a valid fishing license.
Youth aged 10 to 15 years: You can apply for a Youth Fishing License at the local municipality. This license is valid for one calendar year and can be renewed annually. With a Youth Fishing License, the holder is allowed to fish only when accompanied by an adult who has a valid fishing license. Additionally, a fishing permit (Erlaubnisschein) for the specific water body the young angler wishes to fish in must be obtained. For example, a permit for the Rhine is available as a yearly or 3-day pass at various fishing and pet stores. For more details, it’s best to contact the local fishing authority.
Individuals aged 16 and above: They are required to pass the official fishing examination (Sportfischerprüfung) to obtain a full fishing license. This license is mandatory for independent fishing activities.

🌍 For Foreigners and Expats

Good news! If you’re a non-German national, many regions in Germany—including NRW—allow you to apply for a special fishing license without taking the exam (an Ausländerfischereischein).

You’ll still need to go to the local Bezirksamt with identification and any required forms and then purchase the license. However, this license is typically limited and often time-restricted.

Step 2: The Fishing Permit

A fishing rod license alone doesn’t allow you to fish just anywhere.

You also need a fishing permit (Erlaubnisschein) for the specific body of water you plan to fish in.

Why? Because fishing rights in Germany are owned by either:

The State
A private person
An angling club

Permits are usually available from:

Local tackle shops
The fishery owner
Fishing clubs

❗️Never fish without a permit. Doing so could result in:

Fines up to 25,000 EUR
Criminal charges (e.g., poaching or cruelty to animals)
Up to 2 years imprisonment

Always carry your documents with you while fishing.

Don’t Forget Local Fishing Rules 📝

Once you’ve got your license and your permit, there’s still more to know:

Size limits for each species
Closed seasons (when fishing certain species is not allowed)
Daily catch limits

These rules vary by region and fishery, so it’s important to do your research before heading out.

✅ Check out portal-fischerei.de/nordrhein-westfalen for NRW regulations.

Or pop into a local fishing shop—they’re often the best source of up-to-date info and friendly advice.

Best Places to Go Fishing in Düsseldorf

There are some beautiful places to fish in and around Düsseldorf. Just be sure to check the rules and get the proper permits for each location:

Rhein (Düsseldorf)
Düsseldorfer Haupthafen
Kaiserteich / Schwanenspiegel
Spee`scher Graben
Schlosspark Benrath
Löricker Yachthafen
Löricker Strandbad
Volksgartenweiher
Buga See
Heiderloch
Bärenloch

Important Reminder: Always ensure you have the necessary permits and are aware of local fishing regulations before fishing in any location. Regulations can vary by area and are strictly enforced.

Local Angling Clubs in Düsseldorf

Joining a club is one of the easiest ways to get started. They can help with:

Exam preparation
Finding good fishing spots
Staying up-to-date on regulations
Building a community

🎣 Recommended clubs:

Final Tips Before You Go

✅ Double-check all local laws and permit requirements
✅ Don’t fish without the proper documents
✅ Respect catch limits, closed seasons, and protected species
✅ When in doubt, visit a local tackle shop or angling club—they’re incredibly helpful!