Epic Belgium Fishing Spots: Local Secrets Revealed – 1

Some Interesting Fishing Locations in Belgium (Europe)

Belgium Fishing Spots – For all you sportfishing enthusiasts who feel like fishing somewhere in Belgium, here are a few locations.

Albert Canal (Belgium Fishing Spots)

The Albert Canal: A Belgian Waterway

The Albert Canal, located in northeastern Belgium, is a significant waterway named after King Albert I of Belgium. This canal connects Antwerp with Liège, effectively linking the Meuse River to the Scheldt River. Furthermore, it intersects with the Dessel–Turnhout–Schoten Canal, extending its reach and contributing to its total length of 129.5 kilometers (80.5 miles).

Dimensions and Geography

The Albert Canal boasts a standard depth of 3.4 meters (11 feet) and an overhead clearance of 6.7 meters (22 feet). To accommodate four-stacked container traffic, bridges spanning the canal are currently undergoing modifications to increase their clearance to 9.1 meters (30 feet).

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Between Antwerp and Liège, the canal traverses a significant elevation difference of 56 meters (184 feet). To overcome this challenge, six sets of canal locks were strategically placed along the route. Five of these locks, situated in Genk, Diepenbeek, Hasselt, Kwaadmechelen, and Olen, Belgium, each lift vessels by 10 meters (33 feet). The sixth lock, located at Wijnegem, possesses a smaller lift of 5.45 meters (17.9 feet).

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Prior to the canal’s completion, a waterborne journey between Antwerp and Liège could take as long as seven days. However, in the 21st century, this same distance can be covered in approximately 18 hours, reflecting the significant impact of the Albert Canal on transportation efficiency.

A History of Construction and Conflict (Belgium Fishing Spots)

The Albert Canal’s construction spanned from 1930 to 1939. While the German construction company Hochtief AG was responsible for the initial stages of the project between 1930 and 1934, Belgian companies ultimately completed the canal. The Albert Canal saw its first use in 1940, but due to the outbreak of World War II and the German occupation, its full potential was not realized until 1946.

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During the conflict, the Albert Canal served as a defensive line for Belgium. The crossing of the canal by German forces, accompanied by the destruction of Fort Eben-Emael on May 11, 1940, marked a significant turning point in the German invasion of Belgium.

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The liberation of Belgium in September 1944 saw the Second Canadian Division become the first Allied unit to cross the Albert Canal. The British Army also crossed the canal on their journey north through Belgium into the Netherlands, while the U.S. Army entered Belgium further east, aiming to liberate the remaining Belgian territory, Luxembourg, and eventually, Nazi Germany. Consequently, the liberation of Belgium was achieved by three distinct armies, two of which had to traverse the Albert Canal.

Amblève River (Belgium Fishing Spots)

The Amblève River: A Belgian Waterway

The Amblève River, also known as the Amel, is a 93-kilometer (58-mile) long river situated in the eastern region of Belgium, specifically within the province of Liège. This river serves as a right tributary to the Ourthe River. The Amblève originates near Büllingen, a town located in the High Fens, also known as the Hoge Venen, Hohes Venn, or Hautes Fagnes, close to the German border.

The Amblève’s Course and Tributaries

The Amblève receives water from several tributaries, including the Chefna, Ninglinspo, Warche, Eau Rouge, Salm, and Lienne rivers. The river flows through a series of towns, including Amel, Stavelot, Trois-Ponts, Remouchamps, and Aywaille. Finally, the Amblève joins the Ourthe River in Comblain-au-Pont, marking the end of its course.

A Waterfall and Hydroelectric Power (Belgium Fishing Spots)

Near the village of Coo, close to Trois-Ponts, lies the Coo Waterfall. While not the highest waterfall in Belgium, at 15 meters (49 feet) tall, it remains a well-known attraction. The waterfall was created artificially in the 18th century when local monks made a cut through a bend in the river to power a nearby watermill. The dried-up riverbed now serves as the lower storage basin for the Coo-Trois-Ponts Hydroelectric Power Station.

An Unusual Dam and a Prehistoric Site

Lorcé, a village located near the Amblève, features a uniquely designed dam situated at a place called “Fang-Naze” or “Fagne-Naze.” Constructed between 1928 and 1932, the dam captures approximately 50,000 cubic meters (41 acre-feet) of water, which is then channeled through a 3,460-meter (11,350-foot) long tunnel carved into the hillside. The water then drops 40 meters (130 feet) into the turbines of the “Heid Ile” power plant located at Nonceveux, a part of Aywaille.

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Along the Amblève’s right bank near Sprimont lies the Belle Roche cave, an area with significant historical significance. This cave represents the oldest known location of human habitation in the Benelux region, dating back approximately 500,000 years.

A Site of Heritage Significance

The “Fond de Quareux” stretch of the Amblève, situated near Nonceveux, is recognized as one of Wallonia’s Major Heritage sites. This designation underscores the river’s importance in the region’s history and cultural landscape.

Boudewijn Canal (Belgium Fishing Spots)

The Boudewijn Canal: A Haven for Anglers

The Boudewijn Canal, constructed between 1896 and 1905, runs through the entire port area of Bruges-Zeebrugge, connecting the Zeebrugge outer harbor to the inner harbor of Bruges. The canal also provides Zeebrugge with an inland waterway connection via the Bruges ring canal and the Ghent-Bruges canal.

A Unique Canal with Seawater Influence

The canal connects the port of Zeebrugge to the port of Bruges and contains between 60 and 90 percent seawater. Including the docks, the canal covers an area of 330 hectares.

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The Boudewijn Canal boasts impressive dimensions: It is 16 kilometers long, with a width ranging from 65 to 115 meters. Its depth reaches up to 8 meters. The banks are primarily composed of artificial concrete or stone-filled walls. The canal occasionally experiences a moderate current. The water clarity is characterized as murky to slightly cloudy, with no visible plant growth. The bottom is predominantly composed of silt, stones, and sand.

Fishing Opportunities on the Boudewijn Canal (Belgium Fishing Spots)

Fishing is permitted from the connecting sluice/Boudewijn sluice in Bruges to the sea locks in Zeebrugge. The canal’s banks are primarily composed of concrete retaining walls, although some sections are reinforced with stone revetments or multi-layered stone rows. Some banks are strengthened with small stones secured by asphalt mastic, making it challenging for vegetation to grow. The eastern bank, extending from the Port of Zeebrugge to Lissewege, consists of steep, eroded shoreline sections. A tripod to support your fishing rods is advantageous since there are few natural supports for them.

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The Boudewijn Canal offers exciting angling opportunities. With a light spinning rod, you can catch a good number of sea bass. Occasionally, a large specimen might be hooked. Remember to respect the minimum size of 36 centimeters and return smaller sea bass. During the summer months, anglers can sometimes land impressive tongues.

Fish Species and Abundance

The Boudewijn Canal’s fish population comprises about 12 species, including perch, eel, flatfish, thinlip mullet, grey mullet, herring, whiting, stone flounder, tongue, whiting, sea bass, and goby. Sea bass and eel dominate in both weight and numbers. The prevalence of saltwater fish is evident in the canal’s ecosystem.

Accessibility and Regulations (Belgium Fishing Spots)

The areas where fishing is permitted with an additional permit are the western bank of the Boudewijn Canal between the Herdersbrug and Zwankendamme and in the Connecting Dock along the Kiwiweg.

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Fishing requires a fishing license issued by the Flemish region. These licenses are available at any post office.

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While fishing is permitted during spawning season and at night, it requires a special fishing permit. It is mandatory to immediately release any caught fish, and the use of a landing net is prohibited.

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To fish in the Boudewijn Canal, you need a Flemish fishing license in addition to a supplemental permit. You can obtain this permit from:

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Maatschappij van de Brugse Zeevaartinrichtingen NV
P. Vandammehuis
Isabellalaan 1
8380 Zeebrugge
Tel: 050 54 32 11

Demer River (Belgium Fishing Spots)

The Demer River: A Haven for Anglers in Belgium

The Demer River flows through the provinces of Limburg and Flemish Brabant, forming part of the Scheldt River basin. Classified as a rain-fed river, its flow fluctuates significantly, experiencing high discharge during periods of heavy rainfall and low discharge during dry spells. The river’s name, Demer, is believed to originate from the Celtic “tam” (dark) and “ara” (water), suggesting the meaning “dark river.”

The Demer’s Source, Course, and Water Quality

The Demer River originates in Ketsingen, a residential center in Berg, a municipality located east of Tongeren in the Vochtig Haspengouw region. It flows through a diverse landscape before emptying into the Dijle River near Werchter.

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The water quality of the Demer basin has steadily improved in recent years, although significant challenges remain. Several factors contribute to the Demer’s water quality. Erosion on the Haspengouw plateau and the hilly Hageland region influences the level of suspended solids in the river. Furthermore, the use of pesticides in intensive fruit cultivation across large areas of South Limburg and East Brabant also impacts the water quality.

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Despite the ongoing efforts to improve water quality, the Demer River presents an attractive fishing destination.

The Demer’s Dimensions and Features (Belgium Fishing Spots)

The Demer River is 85 kilometers long with a width varying from 16 to 40 meters. Its depth ranges from 1.5 to 3 meters, depending on the water flow. A majority of its banks are artificially reinforced. The river usually exhibits a gentle current, but during periods of rainfall, the Demer’s flow can become exceptionally strong. The water color is typically brown, with a high concentration of suspended particles. Plant growth is minimal. The riverbed consists primarily of sand and silt.

Popular Fishing Spots and Targeted Species

The Soldiers’ Bridge in Rotselaar, near the Diest lock, and the mill in Testel are popular destinations for whitefish anglers. These areas are home to a sizable population of carp, with individuals ranging in size from 6 to 8 kilograms.

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While pike and pikeperch are present, anglers mainly target perch. Other predatory fish that inhabit the Demer include zander, pike, asp, and catfish. Local anglers claim to have caught a catfish measuring 1.12 meters.

Fish Species Diversity (Belgium Fishing Spots)

The Demer River supports a diverse fish population, including 22 species: eel, bream, roach, ide, gudgeon, carp, river goby, gudgeon, minnow, chub, tench, bitterling, bleak, roach, crucian carp, gudgeon, brown American bullhead, pike, three-spined stickleback, sunfish, perch, brown trout, asp, and catfish. The most common species is the bleak, followed by perch and gudgeon.

Accessibility and Regulations

Fishing regulations for the Demer River adhere to the guidelines set forth by the Flemish region. A fishing license is required and can be obtained at any post office.

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Fishing for pike and pikeperch is prohibited from March 1st to May 31st. Using live bait or parts thereof, as well as artificial lures larger than 2 centimeters, is prohibited during this same period.

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A closed season for all fish species extends from April 16th to May 31st. Night fishing is strictly prohibited at all times.

Dender River (Belgium Fishing Spots)

The Dender River: A Thriving Fishery in Flanders

The Dender River, flowing through the provinces of Hainaut, East Flanders, and Flemish Brabant, stretches for 65 kilometers. It originates in Ath, where the Eastern Dender and the Western or Little Dender converge. The Dender flows into the Scheldt River on the right bank in Dendermonde. This river is characteristically a rainfall-fed river, transforming into the fastest-flowing river in Flanders during periods of heavy precipitation. To facilitate navigation, 14 locks have been constructed along its course.

The Dender’s Water Quality and Features

The biological water quality of the Dender River varies in Flanders, ranging from acceptable to good. The upstream section of the river, specifically upstream of Denderleeuw, generally exhibits good water quality. The downstream section from Denderleeuw to the mouth at Dendermonde is primarily of moderate quality.

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The Dender River boasts a width ranging from 15 to 50 meters and a depth reaching 4.5 meters. Its banks are mainly natural, with some reinforced sections. The river is prone to significant currents, particularly after rainfall. Water clarity is generally characterized as murky to slightly murky, with a brownish tinge. The riverbed is primarily composed of sand.

A Paradise for Anglers (Belgium Fishing Spots)

Fishing is permitted along the Dender River, from the provincial boundary between Hainaut and East Flanders to the mouth in the Scheldt River, downstream of the tide lock in Dendermonde. This includes the Oude Dender or Traverse in Dendermonde.

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Once considered an open sewer, the Dender has undergone significant water quality improvements over the past decade. This transformation has led to the Dender becoming one of the most fish-rich rivers in Flanders. The Dender is a haven for carp, with individuals often reaching weights of 5 to 10 kilograms, and larger specimens also inhabit the river.

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Other whitefish and pike also thrive in these waters, with some pike exceeding 1 meter in length. Downstream of Aalst, near the Saint-Anna Bridge, anglers can find excellent fishing spots for carp, with fish weighing 5 to 8 kilograms regularly caught in the area. Additional prime spots for whitefish and carp anglers can be found near the Fabelta factory in Ninove and near the statue in Pamel.

Diverse Fish Species and Abundance

The Dender River harbors 19 fish species, including eel, bream, ide, gudgeon, carp, river goby, gudgeon, minnow, tench, bitterling, bleak, roach, crucian carp, pike, three-spined stickleback, ten-spined stickleback, perch, zander, and flatfish. Bleak and perch are the most prevalent species. In the past, the Dender was known as a “bleak water” river. However, in recent years, bream have become increasingly abundant, making bream fishing increasingly significant during competitions.

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The Dender also offers good fishing opportunities during the winter months, although specific knowledge of the “best spots” is essential. One such spot is located in the center of Aalst.

Regulations and Accessibility (Belgium Fishing Spots)

Fishing on the Dender River requires a fishing license issued by the Flemish region, available at any post office.

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Fishing is permitted during spawning season and at night, but a special fishing permit is required. All caught fish must be immediately released, and the use of a landing net is prohibited.

Navigation Speed Limits

The speed limit for ascending vessels on the Dender River is 6 kilometers per hour. The speed limit for descending vessels is 7 kilometers per hour.

Dikkebus Lake (Belgium Fishing Spots)

The Dikkebusvijver: A Haven for Anglers in Flanders

The Dikkebusvijver, a picturesque lake near the village of Dikkebus, south of the city of Ypres, boasts a rich history. Historical records indicate its existence dating back to before 1320. The lake originated in the 14th century when the valley of the Kemmelbeek was dammed. This 36-hectare lake played a strategic role in providing water for Ypres. Today, water supply remains a significant function of the lake.

A Haven for Recreation and Fishing

The Dikkebusvijver also serves as a recreational area, offering opportunities for walking, cycling, kayaking, sailing, windsurfing, and fishing. In the 1980s, chalets were built to accommodate local sports clubs. The lake house on the embankment, owned by the city of Ypres, houses hospitality activities.

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Since January 1, 2012, the Flemish Angling Association (V.V.H.V.) has held the angling rights to this beautiful lake. The Dikkebusvijver is ideal for all angling disciplines, from carp to predatory fish, fly fishing, fixed rod fishing, and feeder fishing.

The Lake’s Dimensions and Features (Belgium Fishing Spots)

The lake measures 129.5 kilometers in length, with a width ranging from 30 to 90 meters. Its depth gradually increases, reaching a maximum depth of 3 meters. The lake features natural banks. There is no current. The water is typically murky, with minimal plant growth. The lakebed consists of mud and hard concrete sections.

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The Dikkebusvijver is particularly well-known among carp anglers for its impressive carp population.

Diverse Fish Species and Abundance

The lake boasts a diverse fish population, including several remarkable specimens. The most common species are bleak, bream, and carp. Other species present include tench, perch, pikeperch, pike, and eel. Carp fishing is particularly popular on this lake.

Accessibility and Regulations

The Dikkebusvijver offers ample parking and easy access to the banks and water.

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A day fishing permit can be obtained at the ticket machine on site.

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Annual permits for 2013 are available from the V.V.H.V. secretariat, priced at 150 euros, 100 euros, 50 euros, and 25 euros, respectively. To obtain an annual permit, contact the secretariat at 050/41 40 77 or email info@vvhv.be. Alternatively, you can deposit the payment into the following account: IBAN BE11 7755 3767 3748 / BIC GKCC BE BB, addressed to V.V.H.V – Astridlaan 30 – 8370 Blankenberge, clearly specifying your name, address, and date of birth as a reference.

Durme River (Belgium Fishing Spots)

The Durme: A Fisherman’s Paradise

The Durme is a Belgian tributary of the Schelde River. Today, it is widely considered a confluence of the Zuidlede and Moervaart waterways. The extended channel connects to the Schelde near Hamme and Tielrode. The combined length of the Moervaart and Durme is 45 kilometers.

A Fishing Hotspot

Located at Durmelaan 9160 Lokeren, the Durme has become a popular destination for avid anglers in recent years. The river’s proximity to high-rise buildings and its concrete banks offer fish shelter from the cold. This, in turn, has made it a popular spot for fishing, especially during the weekends, attracting a considerable number of anglers. The river’s depth ranges between two and two and a half meters, resulting in a steady stream of anglers, occasionally causing some disturbance to nearby residents.

Fishing Delights (Belgium Fishing Spots)

During the colder months, the Durme teems with a variety of fish species, including bream, roach, and rudd. Smaller bream and a few perch can also be found near the piers. Anglers can expect substantial catches, with weights exceeding 10 kilograms being common during competitions. These large schools of fish also attract predatory species, making the Durme a diverse and exciting fishing ground.

Accessing the Fishing Spot

Parking is available near the fishing spot, but it requires a parking ticket. Alternatively, a free parking lot is located at the train station. However, reaching the water’s edge from the station involves a walk through a park.

Effective Fishing Techniques

Casting beyond 10 meters is generally unnecessary, with a second fishing spot at five meters often proving successful. Checking the depths near the piers can reveal schools of perch. Short fishing

Gaver Lake (Belgium Fishing Spots)

A Man-Made Oasis

De Gavers is a provincial domain featuring a large, artificial lake. The Gavermeer, as it is called, covers 53 hectares and was created in the late 1960s by sand extraction. The lake is managed as a nature reserve in several areas, while other portions are dedicated to recreational activities. These activities include fishing, sailing, and surfing, all enjoyed against a backdrop of natural, unspoiled shorelines. Certain sections of the lake are off-limits to anglers, extending to depths of 10 meters.

A Diverse Fish Population

De Gavers offers a variety of fish species for anglers to pursue, including perch, carp, roach, bream, pike perch, and pike. The lake is known for its abundance of large, impressive specimens.

Fishing Regulations (Belgium Fishing Spots)

A fishing permit issued by the Flemish Community is required to fish at De Gavers. Additional regulations specific to the domain must also be observed.

A Playground for All

De Gavers offers a wide array of recreational amenities for visitors of all ages. Three parking lots are available for vehicle parking. Four designated walking trails wind through the domain, alongside a jogging loop, a playground, a children’s play area, and a cafe. Swimming is permitted in a designated zone during the summer months.

Genval Lake (Belgium Fishing Spots)

Genval Lake: A Breathtaking Oasis Near Brussels

Nestled just 20 kilometers south of Brussels, Genval Lake offers a picturesque retreat surrounded by lush greenery. The lake provides a serene escape from city life, inviting visitors to enjoy tranquil walks along its shores and partake in various water activities. Anglers can cast their lines, while sailing enthusiasts can navigate the waters with their boats. Canoeing is another popular option, allowing visitors to explore the lake at a leisurely pace.

A Culinary and Historical Delight

Several restaurants dot the lakeside, offering delightful dining experiences with breathtaking views. These establishments cater to the tastes of both locals and tourists, providing an opportunity to savor delicious cuisine while soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. For a deeper dive into the lake’s history and lore, a guided tour is offered once a month. Led by a bilingual guide, this tour covers a distance of 10.5 kilometers, unveiling fascinating stories and anecdotes of the lake’s past.

Ghent-Terneuzen Canal (Belgium Fishing Spots)

A Strategic Waterway

The Ghent-Terneuzen Canal is a renowned waterway in Belgium, connecting the city of Ghent to the Western Scheldt via the Terneuzen Lock complex. This connection provides Ghent with direct access to the North Sea. The canal extends into Terneuzen, passing through three municipalities: Ghent and Zelzate in Belgium and the Dutch municipality of Terneuzen. It plays a crucial role in the Ghent economy, linking the Port of Ghent, Belgium’s third largest port (after Antwerp and Bruges-Zeebrugge), to the sea.

A Navigable Channel

The Ghent-Terneuzen Canal spans approximately 32 kilometers in length, with a depth of 13.5 meters and a width of 60 meters. The canal widens to approximately 7 meters in certain areas, particularly near Sluiskil and Sas van Gent, where it forms bends.

Carp Fishing on the Ghent-Terneuzen Canal (Belgium Fishing Spots)

Carp fishing on the Ghent-Terneuzen Canal can be challenging due to the influx of brackish water. However, successful carp catches have been reported. To increase your chances of success, use large boilies and/or tiger nuts as bait, feeding the area for one or two days prior to fishing.

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Focus your efforts on areas near the main channel, such as inlets or small harbors, particularly those with mussel beds. Carp are accustomed to large, hard bait, so avoid using subtle offerings. If you manage to catch one, remain in the area as there is a high chance of another bite, both during the day and night.

Whitefish Fishing on the Ghent-Terneuzen Canal

When targeting whitefish on the Ghent-Terneuzen Canal, you have the opportunity to catch a substantial number of roach and rudd. Employ a feeder on a fixed rod for a day filled with action. The canal’s banks are relatively deep, so ensure your gear is sufficiently long when using a fixed rod. The average depth reaches 6-7 meters.

Pike Fishing on the Ghent-Terneuzen Canal (Belgium Fishing Spots )

Pike fishing on the Ghent-Terneuzen Canal can be very rewarding, though not necessarily easy. During the summer and autumn, pike often concentrate around the edges of the main channel and near obstacles. Utilize deep-running artificial lures or dead bait to entice these large pike.

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Depending on the day, they may be lurking at the bottom of the slope or at the top, waiting for whitefish to pass by. Trolling with a fireball in the main channel can also be highly effective. Don’t forget to cast towards the edges along the quay walls, as these areas often hold favorable depths and can be productive fishing spots. Navigating the depth presents a challenge when targeting pike in the Ghent-Terneuzen Canal.