Epic Belgium Fishing Spots: Local Secrets Revealed – 2

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.

Grevelingenmeer (Belgium Fishing Spots)

A Transformation from Estuary to Lake

The Grevelingenmeer, a saltwater lake, was formed in 1971 as a result of the Delta Works project. This ambitious endeavor involved closing off the estuary, a natural confluence of saltwater and freshwater, from both rivers and the North Sea. The resulting lake, with its stagnant water, experienced a significant shift in water quality, fish populations, and the overall health of its flora and fauna.

A Flourishing Ecosystem

In the years following its creation, the Grevelingenmeer has undergone a remarkable ecological recovery. A thriving ecosystem has emerged, teeming with diverse life. Above the water’s surface, a multitude of birds and plants thrive, while beneath the surface, fish and marine mammals flourish. The lake is home to a diverse array of creatures, including tunicates, starfish, sea grapes, bristle worms, and shellfish, some of which are rare and fascinating. While the Grevelingenmeer has made significant progress, there is still room for improvement in its ecological richness.

Preserving and Expanding Habitats (Belgium Fishing Spots)

The well-being of fish populations in the Grevelingenmeer hinges on the availability and accessibility of a range of habitats. To foster a rich and diverse fish community, it is imperative to protect, restore, and most importantly, expand these vital habitats.

Sandy Bottoms

Sandy bottoms are crucial for bottom-dwelling fish, such as flatfish (sole, flounder) and gobies, providing a rich source of food. Unfortunately, these fish experience periodic mortality during the summer months due to low oxygen levels in the lower regions of the lake. The lack of water circulation caused by the damming of the rivers and sea exacerbates this problem. Increased water flow would effectively address this issue.

Shore Edges (Belgium Fishing Spots)

Shore edges serve as exceptional nursery grounds for young fish, including sea bass and juvenile flatfish. These shallow areas warm quickly, providing a sheltered environment with ample food sources and structural diversity for protection. Expanding the limited existing shore edges would significantly enhance this crucial habitat.

Shellfish Beds

Shellfish beds offer a hard structure with numerous hiding places, attracting a wide array of fish species, including the sand goby, black goby, horned blenny, and sea scorpion. These fish utilize these beds for shelter, foraging, and spawning. Shellfish beds support a high diversity of fish and other marine life, making them critical for the health of the ecosystem. Preserving existing beds and encouraging the development of new ones is of paramount importance.

Seagrass Meadows

Seagrass meadows provide structure and protection for young fish and offer a rich source of food. Species such as the seahorse and the spiny seahorse rely heavily on these habitats. Seagrass meadows were once prevalent throughout the Grevelingenmeer but have since disappeared. Restoring these vital habitats is crucial for enhancing the fish population, especially for seahorses.

Ieperlee River (Belgium Fishing Spots)

A Historic Waterway

The Ieperleekanaal, also known as the Ieper-IJzer Canal, is a canal located in the province of West Flanders, Belgium. It extends from the city of Ieper to the IJzer River, ending at the Knokkebrug bridge on the border between Diksmuide, Houthulst, and Lo-Reninge.

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The canal’s origins date back to 1251, when it was dug between the village of Knocke, situated along the IJzer River, and the village of Boezinge, to enhance shipping between Ieperlee and the IJzer River. Numerous modifications and improvements have been made to the canal since its inception.

A Haven for Recreation

Today, the Ieperleekanaal primarily serves recreational purposes. Several streams flow into the canal, each equipped with a small sluice for regulating water levels. These sluices are known as “schuiven,” characterized by their retractable sliding gates.

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The canal’s natural banks make it a haven for anglers, while its towpath serves as a popular route for cyclists, including the “Flanders Cycle Route” and the “Peace Route.” Walkers can also enjoy the tranquility and the abundant flora and fauna along the canal.

Exploring the Canal’s Three Sections (Belgium Fishing Spots)

The 15-kilometer canal is divided into three sections by two locks located along its course. These sections are referred to as De Lage Vaart (Lower Canal), De Midden Vaart (Middle Canal), and De Hoge Vaart (Upper Canal). Each section possesses distinct characteristics.

The Lower Canal (De Lage Vaart)

The Lower Canal, spanning approximately 9 kilometers, features natural banks along most of its length, particularly on the right side, up to the Steenstrate. This area is heavily forested, making access to the water challenging, though the fishing is generally good. The left bank, however, offers easy access via a towpath that runs along its entire length. This towpath is not accessible by car.

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Both sides of the canal are lined with tall reeds. Beyond Steenstrate, the right bank also features a towpath, though the banks here are relatively steep, transitioning to a more flat terrain. The left bank is generally dense with trees and shrubs, with limited access to the water. This section is characterized by overhanging trees and shrubs, offering a picturesque setting. A narrow path is available, but even with a utility cart, reaching a fishing spot can be difficult.

The Middle Canal (De Midden Vaart)

The Middle Canal, measuring 7 kilometers, primarily features natural banks on the left side, reinforced with rubble stones amidst growing plants. In certain areas, the bank is composed of a concrete retaining wall, which is undergoing further development. A towpath runs the entire length of the canal, though it is not accessible by car. The water is easily accessible, allowing for fishing throughout the section.

The Upper Canal (De Hoge Vaart) (Belgium Fishing Spots)

The Upper Canal, spanning approximately 4 kilometers, has a right bank primarily consisting of a concrete retaining wall, reached via a sloping grassy slope. This bank is rather monotonous and runs along the road that follows this section of the canal. The left bank, on the other hand, is generally natural, with concrete walls appearing only at the end. This bank features beautiful reed beds. Unfortunately, car access is limited to a few spots. A towpath runs along the entire left bank.

Abundant Fish Life

The Ieperleekanaal supports approximately 20 fish species, including perch, eel, bream, roach, carp, pike, pike perch, chub, tench, ide, bitterling, crucian carp, grass carp, gudgeon, rudd, and stickleback. Bream and roach are the dominant species in this canal.

Prime Fishing Spots

A well-known spot for both pike and carp is located at the beginning of the Middle Canal, between the Boezingebrug bridge and the lock, including the lock itself. A good fishing spot on the Upper Canal is located at the beginning of the section, upstream. On both the right and left banks, an incoming stream flows into the canal. This spot is particularly productive for roach fishing during the winter, while carp often feed in the shallow waters on summer evenings. Another notable carp spot is the pile of logs on the right bank.

The Most Popular Area (Belgium Fishing Spots)

The Lower Canal is the most popular section for fishing, as it offers the best fishing opportunities. Both the Steenstrate and the monument to the Van Raemdonck brothers are known for excellent carp fishing. It is rare to find these locations without carp anglers.

Reaching the Fishing Spots

Fishing spots are easily accessible by car where roads exist, however, the best spots are often reached on foot, requiring a short walk. A utility cart can be a helpful tool.

Fishing Permits and Rules

A fishing permit issued by the Flemish government is required to fish on the canal. It can be purchased at any post office.

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Fishing is permitted during the spawning season and at night, though a larger fishing permit is required for these activities. Anglers must immediately release any caught fish, and the use of a keep net is prohibited.

Ijzer (Ysere) River (Belgium Fishing Spots)

A Belgian River Flowing to the Sea

The IJzer River originates in northern France, west of Kassel, with two official sources in Buisscheure and Lederzele. It is the shortest of Belgium’s three rivers that flow into the sea (the other two being the Meuse and the Scheldt). The IJzer is also the only Belgian river to empty into the sea at Nieuwpoort, while the Scheldt and Meuse flow into the sea in the Netherlands.

A Challenging but Rewarding Fishery

The IJzer is considered a prime fishing destination, though it can be challenging to navigate due to the sometimes strong currents and high water levels. The river carries a substantial volume of water from the region to the sea. Despite these challenges, the improved fish population offers anglers numerous opportunities. Carp fishing, whitefish fishing, predatory fish fishing, and eel fishing with a traditional eel spear are popular practices throughout the river’s length.

A Diverse Riverine Ecosystem (Belgium Fishing Spots)

The IJzer stretches for 78 kilometers, with 45 kilometers flowing through Belgium. Its average width ranges from 10 to 35 meters, and its depth varies from 2 to 3.5 meters. The banks are primarily natural, with concrete banks appearing occasionally starting from Diksmuide. A slight current is sometimes present. The water is generally murky, with some aquatic plants. The riverbed mainly consists of silt and sand.

Fishing Along the River’s Course

Angling is permitted from the French border to the river’s mouth at the sea, including the old branch arm at Roesbrugge. In the spring of 2004, 15 fishing platforms were installed along the IJzer near St-Jacobskapelle in Diksmuide.

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These platforms were established at the request of the Ijzer Valley Anglers’ Association, thanks to the support of the West Flanders Fisheries Association (PVC West-Vlaanderen), and financed and constructed by the Flemish Agency for Waterway and Waste Management (AWZ).

Designated Fishing Areas

On the right bank of the IJzer, near the Beerstblotestraat, 20 concrete fishing platforms have also been installed.

A Healthy Fish Population (Belgium Fishing Spots)

The IJzer River boasts a diverse and healthy fish population, Its fish stock has grown significantly in recent years, making it one of the better fishing waters in the Westhoek region. This positive trend is attributed to the improved water quality over the past 20 years, due to the wastewater treatment programs implemented by Aquafin and the V.M.M., which are widespread in the Westhoek region.

Popular Species and Fishing Spots

Roach, rudd, carp, bream, and eel are abundant in the river. Predatory fish, while less prevalent, are also showing a positive increase, especially pike perch. The spawning basin of Sint-Joris, a district of Nieuwpoort, is a popular spot among carp anglers.

Reaching Fishing Spots

Public roads often run alongside the IJzer, providing easy access to fishing spots and nearby parking.

Fishing Permits and Rules (Belgium Fishing Spots)

A fishing permit issued by the Flemish government is required. These permits are available at any post office.

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Fishing is permitted during the spawning season and at night, though a larger fishing permit is required. Anglers are required to immediately release any caught fish, and keep nets are prohibited.

Lesse River (Belgium Fishing Spots)

A Scenic Fly Fishing Destination

The Lesse River, nestled in the heart of the Belgian Ardennes, provides a captivating fly fishing experience. This pristine river, known for its clear waters and stunning surroundings, is home to a variety of fish species, with trout and chub being the most sought-after targets. The beauty of the Lesse River makes it a perfect destination for a day of fishing and enjoying the tranquil natural environment.

A Blend of Fishing and Hiking

The Lesse River is surrounded by dense forests and steep cliffs, offering a serene backdrop for anglers. As the area is popular for hiking, visitors can easily combine a day of fly fishing with a few kilometers of exploring the surrounding trails. The fly fishing on the Lesse is considered light, making it an even more appealing activity for those who prefer a less intense fishing experience.

Effective Fly Fishing Techniques (Belgium Fishing Spots)

A variety of flies can be used effectively, depending on the season and water conditions. Dry flies, nymphs, and streamers all prove effective. You’ll be surprised to see how even small trout will rise to the challenge of a large wooly bugger!

Wading the Lesse

The Lesse River is very wadeable, with a large section accessible to anglers. The recommended starting point is at the village of Lesse, where a barbecue spot provides convenient parking and a perfect spot to don waders and prepare gear.

Navigating the River

From Lesse, anglers can wade in two directions. The right side, though offering beautiful riffs and a more secluded atmosphere, presents some challenges. The river widens and deepens in parts, and as you’re wading downstream, it’s crucial to avoid spooking fish. Wading upstream on the left side is generally easier, with most sections being wadeable. However, water levels can fluctuate throughout the year due to rainfall, so it’s important to exercise caution.

Additional Fishing Spots (Belgium Fishing Spots)

Several additional, shorter stretches of the Lesse River are also accessible for fishing, as indicated on the map. While wading, remember to take precautions, as the riverbed is rocky and can be slippery.

Leuven-Dijle Canal (Belgium Fishing Spots)

The Leuven-Dijle Canal: A Historic Waterway with Angling Opportunities

The Leuven-Dijle Canal, also known as the Leuvense Vaart, is a waterway connecting the Zennegat in Mechelen to Leuven, where it ends at the canal basin. This canal is the second to be constructed in the province of Flemish Brabant, making it one of the oldest canals in Belgium. In 1994, after its acquisition by the NV Sea Canal and Water-Bound Land Management Flanders, the original name, Leuvense Vaart, was changed to its current name, Kanaal Leuven-Dijle.

The Canal’s Dimensions and Features

The Leuven-Dijle Canal is 30 kilometers long, with a width of 20 to 22 meters. Its maximum depth ranges from 2.5 to 3 meters. Some sections of the canal feature natural banks, while others are reinforced with concrete. The elevation difference between the water level and the bank height ranges from 1 to 1.5 meters. The canal occasionally experiences a gentle current. Water clarity is generally clear to slightly cloudy, with patches of plant growth in some areas. The riverbed consists mainly of mud.

Popular Fishing Spots and Targeted Species (Belgium Fishing Spots)

The towpath on both sides of the canal is primarily used by walkers and cyclists. Fishing is allowed from the Leuven canal basin to the Zennegat lock, as well as in the “De Hond” feeder canal in Leuven.

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Popular fishing spots along the canal include the bridge near Schiplaken, the area near the Hofstade Bridge, the wider section near Weisetter, the fishing arm after the Tildonk lock, and the canal basin in Leuven. Anglers primarily use fixed rods to target bleak and bream. Local carp specialists also frequent these waters. During the winter months, the Leuven canal basin offers excellent opportunities to catch large bleak.

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For pike anglers, perch are readily available, although they are typically smaller in size.

Diverse Fish Species

The most common fish species found in the Leuven-Dijle Canal include bleak, perch, carp, and bream. Additionally, anglers can encounter other species, including tench, pikeperch, sunfish, pike, eel, American bullhead, and more. Some sections of the canal are known to have an abundant population of small perch. Large carp, weighing up to 20 kilograms, are also caught regularly.

Accessibility and Regulations (Belgium Fishing Spots)

The majority of fishing locations along the canal are easily accessible by car, particularly near roads that run alongside the waterway. The towpath on both sides of the canal is mainly used by walkers and cyclists.

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A fishing license from the Flemish region is required, available for purchase at any post office. Fishing is permitted during spawning season and at night, but a special fishing permit is needed. All caught fish must be immediately released, and the use of a landing net is prohibited.

Navigation Speed Limits

The maximum speed limit on the Leuven-Dijle Canal is 12 kilometers per hour.

Maas (Meuse) River (Belgium Fishing Spots)

The Meuse River: A Vital Waterway of Belgium

The Meuse River, also known as the Maas, is a major waterway that flows through Belgium, France, and the Netherlands. It enters Belgium from France in the south and flows northeasterly, forming a 48-kilometer segment of the Belgo-Dutch border before continuing its journey into the Netherlands.

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The Meuse ultimately empties into the North Sea, completing a total journey of 950 kilometers, with approximately 192 kilometers flowing through Belgium. The Meuse River has drained most of the Belgian territory south of its valley.

A Variable Flow

The Meuse River has an average annual discharge of 273 cubic meters per second, although it can experience significant fluctuations in flow. For over three months, the discharge can drop to less than 30 cubic meters per second.

Tributaries of the Meuse River in Belgium (Belgium Fishing Spots)

Within Belgium, the Meuse River receives several major tributaries, starting from the downstream direction: the Lesse, Sambre, and Our. The 80-kilometer Lesse River, originating in southeast Belgium, joins the Meuse. The Sambre River, extending for 190 kilometers (originating in France), is another significant tributary. The Our River, like the Lesse, is entirely within Belgium.

The Ourthe River

The Ourthe River, draining about 12% of the Belgian territory, originates in the southeast from two branches, each approximately 50 kilometers long. The river flows northward for 135 kilometers before merging with the Meuse at Liège. Its main tributaries include the 93-kilometer Amblève and its tributary, the 48-kilometer Warche, and the 73-kilometer Vesdre, which joins near the Ourthe’s mouth. Several reservoirs are located along these tributaries.

The Semois River

The Semois River, also originating in Belgium, flows for 180 kilometers before joining the Meuse River in France.

Nete River (Belgium Fishing Spots)

The Grote Nete: A Hidden Gem for Anglers

The Grote Nete is a tributary of the Nete River, which flows into the Scheldt River. It spans 44 kilometers and is not navigable. The Grote Nete originates near Hechtel-Eksel. From Lier onwards, it merges with the Kleine Nete to form the Nete or Beneden Nete, sometimes referred to as the Grote Nete in this section. Its most prominent tributaries are the Wimp and the Grote Laak rivers.

A Distinctive Waterway

The iron-rich soil of the Kempen region imparts a characteristic rusty brown color to the river’s waters.

Characteristics of the Grote Nete (Belgium Fishing Spots)

The Grote Nete measures 44 kilometers in length and is 18 meters wide. It has an average depth of 2 meters. The banks are primarily natural, with occasional reinforcements using wooden posts. A slight current is usually present. The water clarity varies, with some sections being clear and others murky. Aquatic plants can be found in certain areas. The riverbed primarily consists of mud.

Fishing Opportunities and Regulations

The most interesting fishing areas are located near Olmen and Meerhout, where anglers target roach, gudgeon, and perch. The chub, once rare in the area, is also making a comeback and is frequently caught.

A Diverse Fish Population

The Grote Nete and its tributaries support over 30 different fish species. Anglers can encounter sunfish, dogfish, the rare brook lamprey, and the scarce spined loach, along with numerous other species. Flounder, a flatfish that originates in the Scheldt estuary and migrates upstream through the Rupel and Beneden-Nete rivers, is occasionally caught in the Grote Nete. The fish population has notably improved in the area between Westerlo and Lier in recent years. Perch and pike are the most common predatory fish in the river. Anglers can also target eel and gudgeon.

Reaching the River (Belgium Fishing Spots)

The Grote Nete is easily accessible for anglers.

Fishing Permits and Rules

A fishing permit issued by the Flemish government is required. Permits are available at any post office.

Specific Fishing Restrictions

Pike and pike perch fishing is prohibited from March 1st to May 31st. The use of fish as bait, or parts thereof, and artificial lures larger than 2 centimeters, is also forbidden during this period.

Closed Season and Night Fishing

All fishing is prohibited from April 16th to May 31st. Night fishing is strictly prohibited at all times.

Boating Speed Limits (Belgium Fishing Spots)

Vessels with a draft of less than 1 meter are restricted to a speed limit of 12 kilometers per hour. Vessels with a draft of 1 meter or more have a speed limit of 9 kilometers per hour.

Oise River (Belgium Fishing Spots)

A Transboundary River

The Oise River originates in southern Belgium and flows for over 300 kilometers through the Paris Basin in a southwesterly direction, before reaching northern France. It is the most important tributary of the Seine River after the Marne.

A Course Through Two Landscapes

The Oise River rises in Belgium, south of Chimay in the Thiérache region, at an elevation of 309 meters. It flows for 351 kilometers, of which 341 kilometers are in France, before emptying into the Seine River near Conflans-Sainte-Honorine in the Yvelines department of France. The Oise River is navigable for inland vessels from Compiègne to its mouth.

Connecting River Systems

Parallel to the Oise River, from Guise onwards, runs the Canal latéral à l’Oise, which connects to the Canal de Saint-Quentin at Janville. Through these canals, the Oise River is linked to the Meuse and Scheldt River basins.

Ourthe River (Belgium Fishing Spots)

Two Source Rivers

The Ourthe River has two source rivers: the Western Ourthe (Ourthe Occidentale) which originates near the village of Libramont, and the Eastern Ourthe (Ourthe Orientale), which begins at the village of Ourthe. Both source rivers are approximately 50 kilometers long and converge at Nisramont.

A Popular Destination

Nisramont is a popular holiday destination, especially known for Lake Nisramont. This reservoir, formed by a dam on the Ourthe River, is a favorite spot for watersports enthusiasts and anglers. The surrounding woodland also offers much to explore for nature lovers.

The Upper and Lower Ourthe (Belgium Fishing Spots)

The section of the river between Nisramont and the famous village of La Roche-en-Ardenne is referred to as the Upper Ourthe (Haute-Ourthe). From La Roche onwards, flowing north, the river is known as the Lower Ourthe (Basse-Ourthe). The Ourthe flows into the Meuse River near Liège. The Upper and Lower Ourthe together span about 125 kilometers.

A Trout Fisherman’s Dream

The Ourthe River is home to a variety of freshwater fish, but it is renowned for its trout, perch, and barbel. Roach are also frequently found in the river. The Ourthe is considered a rain-fed river, meaning it is solely supplied by spring and rainwater. The water level of rain-fed rivers can fluctuate significantly depending on the season and rainfall. After periods of rain, the water in the Ourthe flows relatively quickly, which makes it less hospitable to carp, a fish that prefers still waters.

Fishing in Ponds

In the Ourthe region, you will also find numerous fishing ponds. These ponds typically offer opportunities for trout or carp fishing using a fixed rod. The ponds in Erezee and Sainte-Ode are popular choices for a day of pond fishing.

Following the Rules (Belgium Fishing Spots)

As in the rest of Belgium and the Netherlands, anglers must adhere to the applicable regulations when fishing in the Ourthe River.

Fishing Seasons

There are specific seasons for fishing in the Ourthe River. The key dates and times to remember are:

• From the third Saturday of March to the Friday before the first Saturday of June: This period marks the start of brown trout fishing. During this time, anglers can only fish from the bank with one or two rods.
• From the first Saturday of June to September 30th: During this period, anglers are allowed to wade and fly fish for trout, and other fish species can also be targeted.
• Fishing Hours: Anglers can start fishing half an hour before sunrise and must finish by half an hour after sunset.

Minimum Sizes

Belgium also has minimum size requirements for caught fish. If a fish is smaller than the minimum size, it must be immediately released back into the water. Additionally, there are limits on the number of certain fish species that can be caught per day. The key rules include:

• Brown Trout: Minimum size 24 centimeters, maximum 5 fish
• Perch: Minimum size 24 centimeters, maximum 5 fish
• Barbel: Minimum size 50 centimeters, no maximum number
• Chub: Minimum size 30 centimeters, no maximum number

Fishing Permit

A fishing permit is required to fish in the Ourthe River basin. A type A fishing permit is typically sufficient, but a type B permit is needed for wading. Fishing permits can be purchased at local post offices or online.

Palingbeek – Zillebeke (Belgium Fishing Spots)

A Natural Haven

The Palingbeek is located within the provincial domain of Ieper-Zillebeke, Belgium. This former canal ditch stretches for approximately 2 kilometers and measures 20 meters wide and up to 2.5 meters deep. Only the initial section is suitable for fishing. The banks are natural, with a maximum height of 0.5 meters above the water level. A walking path runs along both sides. Reedbeds and water lilies create a picturesque setting. The domain is car-free, so vehicles must be parked in the designated parking area or along the road.

A Diverse Fish Population

The Palingbeek is home to a variety of fish species, including roach, rudd, bream, carp, tench, pike, and eel. Reports of carp catches exceeding 10 kilograms have been documented. Additionally, there is a thriving population of large tench, exceeding 2 kilograms, as well as sizeable roach.

Fishing Permits and Regulations

A Flemish regional fishing permit is required. However, additional general domain rules, such as noise restrictions, must be respected by anglers.

A Tranquil Destination

The domain features a visitor center and four marked hiking trails. Other amenities include a play forest, a swimming area, a cafeteria, and a jogging loop.