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.
Roeselare-Leie Canal (Belgium Fishing Spots)
A Man-Made Waterway
The Roeselare-Leie Canal is an artificial waterway that connects the city of Roeselare to the Leie River at Ooigem. The canal follows the course of the Mandel River between Roeselare and Ingelmunster. This 16.5 kilometer canal was excavated over a period of 10 years, from 1862 to 1872. The canal provided much-needed employment in the Roeselare region. Ships laden with grain, sand, and other essential goods traversed the canal, supplying businesses located along its banks.
A Canal with Potential
The canal’s head at Roeselare, marking the beginning of the Roeselare-Leie Canal, is characterized by thriving industrial activity. The area houses producers of animal feed, as well as a prominent pastry manufacturer. To maintain the canal’s water levels, water is pumped from the Leie River near Ooigem. The Leie Region Tourism Board and local municipalities are collaborating on a project to enhance the canal’s recreational appeal, including the surrounding green spaces. Boating tours are already organized during the summer months. Anglers are also commonly spotted along the canal’s banks.
A Well-Defined Waterway (Belgium Fishing Spots)
The Roeselare-Leie Canal measures 16.5 kilometers in length and is 30 to 45 meters wide, with widened areas of over 100 meters at bends. Its average depth reaches 3.5 meters. The banks are almost entirely reinforced with concrete. A slight current is often present due to the operation of the lock. The water is relatively clear, with minimal aquatic plant growth. The canal bed primarily consists of silt, stones, and sand.
Access and Restrictions
Angling is permitted from the Roeselare harbor to the mouth of the Leie River at Ooigem. The canal’s banks are reinforced with concrete throughout most of its course. The right bank mostly features a straight concrete wall. At the Emelgembrug bridge, the left bank is reinforced with rubble stones, where a well-developed reed bed can also be found. The canal’s slopes are steep along its entire length. A cycle path runs alongside the canal, with rows of trees that cast shade over parts of the water.
A Dedicated Spawning Area
A two-hectare fish spawning area has been created in Ingelmunster, adjacent to a frog spawning area located on the Trakelweg road, parallel to the Ringbrug bridge. This area is connected to the canal via two pipes. Fishing is prohibited in the spawning area.
A Diverse Fish Community (Belgium Fishing Spots)
The Roeselare-Leie Canal is home to approximately 16 fish species, including eel, bream, rudd, gudgeon, carp, ide, stone loach, roach, rudd, tench, three-spined stickleback, gudgeon, sunfish, perch, pike perch, and silver carp. Perch, followed by roach, are the most abundant species in terms of numbers. In terms of biomass, gudgeon is dominant, followed by roach and eel.
Prime Fishing Spots
The canal’s predatory fish population consists of larger perch (>20 cm) and pike perch. Excellent fishing spots are located at the marina in Kachtem and at Ooigem, near the lock. The bends at Roeselare and Ingelmunster are better spots for carp and predator anglers. Carp of impressive size are regularly caught in these areas, a dream come true for any carp angler.
Reaching Fishing Spots
The canal is easily accessible, as numerous roads run alongside it. For instance, the Noordkaai or Zuidkaai in Izegem and the Trakelweg in Ingelmunster offer convenient access and parking near fishing spots.
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.
Rupel River (Belgium Fishing Spots)
A Meeting of Rivers
The Rupel River is a short but wide tributary of the Scheldt River, formed by the confluence of the Nete and Dijle rivers near Rumst. It flows into the Scheldt River opposite Rupelmonde. The Rupel River is influenced by the tides, a phenomenon noticeable in its surroundings. The rising tide of the Scheldt River creates a slightly brackish environment in the Rupel.
A River in Flux
The Rupel River’s flow primarily follows rainfall patterns, especially during the winter. The Rupel was once infamous for its poor water quality. However, thanks to water purification projects and industry efforts, water quality has steadily improved. This improvement is evident in the return of fish and birdlife to the river and its surroundings.
A Deep and Wide River (Belgium Fishing Spots)
The Rupel River is 12 kilometers long, with a width ranging from 130 to 230 meters. Its depth can reach 7 meters. The depth varies along the river, with approximately 2.90 meters at Rumst, 3.60 meters at Boom, and 6.90 meters at Rupelmonde. The banks are mostly natural, often lined with reeds or stone rubble. There is always a current present.
Influenced by Tides
Remember that the Rupel River can have strong currents, and water levels can fluctuate by about 1 meter. The tides cause water levels to rise by 2 to 3 meters, and the river’s width can increase from 100 to 230 meters.
A Diverse Fish Population
The Rupel River is home to approximately 15 fish species, including perch, eel, flounder, roach, bream, gudgeon, bitterling, ide, brackish water goby, rudd, European catfish, sea bass, stickleback, rudd, and pike perch. Roach and flounder are the dominant species, both in terms of weight and numbers. One local angler even claims to have caught 23 European catfish in just two months!
Fishing Tips (Belgium Fishing Spots)
A Flemish Community fishing permit is required. A feeder rod or a casting rod with a weight between 100 and 150 grams is recommended for fishing in the strong currents. Anglers should be prepared for crabs if using worms as bait, as they are commonly found in this river.
Samber (Sambre) River (Belgium Fishing Spots)
A Journey Through Two Countries
The Sambre River originates in the village of Le Nouvion-en-Thiérache, France, on a high plateau. From its source to its confluence with the Meuse River in Namur, Belgium, the Sambre River flows downhill, covering a total distance of 194 kilometers. The Sambre River is 105 kilometers long within Belgium.
A Canalized River
The majority of the Sambre River was canalized between 1825 and 1839. The river features numerous locks along its course. A towpath runs alongside a portion of the winding river.
A Serene Riverine Landscape (Belgium Fishing Spots)
The Sambre River is 105 kilometers long in Belgium and has an average width of 25 to 30 meters. The river’s depth averages around 3 meters. Its banks are mostly natural, although they are often reinforced with concrete in villages and towns. A light current is typically present.
Diverse Species and Notable Catches
The Sambre River is home to a wide variety of fish species, including roach, bream, perch, pike, pike perch, chub, catfish, eel, carp, and more. Roach, bream, and carp are the most commonly found species. Carp weighing up to 40 pounds are regularly caught, along with impressive pike and large catfish.
Fishing Regulations
A fishing permit issued by the Walloon Region is required.
Schelde (Escaut) River (Belgium Fishing Spots)
A River Across Borders
The Scheldt River, known as the Escaut in France, originates in France and enters Belgium west of Mons. It flows north and east across Belgium, with its estuary, the Port of Antwerp, joining the North Sea in the Netherlands. Of its total length of approximately 430 kilometers, about 330 kilometers are navigable thanks to a series of locks.
A River Under Pressure
The Scheldt River is heavily used for transportation, and its waters carry significant pollution. The river is heavily polluted by industrial and sewage effluent from several major cities, including Lille, Brussels, and Ghent. This pollution is particularly concentrated in the area of Antwerp, where the Scheldt has an average annual discharge of about 80 cubic meters per second.
Major Tributaries (Belgium Fishing Spots)
The Scheldt River drains a large portion of lower and central Belgium. As you travel downstream from the Franco-Belgian border, you encounter its major tributaries: the Lys (Leie) River, the Dendre River, and the Rupel River. The Lys River, which stretches for 214 kilometers, originates in France and forms a small part of the Franco-Belgian border. The Dendre River is 88 kilometers long.
The Rupel River
The Rupel River, only 12 kilometers long, is formed by the confluence of the Nete River and the 97-kilometer Dyle River.
Semois (Semoy) River (Belgium Fishing Spots)
A River Across Borders
The Semois River originates in Arlon, Belgium, and flows into the Meuse River in France. It stretches for 190 kilometers, with 20 kilometers flowing through France, where it is spelled “Semoy.” In Belgium, the river flows primarily through the province of Luxembourg, with a small portion in the extreme southeastern part of Namur. The Semois River marks the southern boundary of the Ardennes region. Its basin covers 1329 square kilometers, with 1229 square kilometers located in Belgium.
A Scenic River Basin
The Semois River basin includes the Semois, Vierre, Rulles, Breuvanne, Civanne, and Vresse rivers. It is often described as the most beautiful river basin in Belgium. The Semois begins as a small stream but widens as it flows downstream. Many sections are shallow enough to wade, while others are considerably deeper, depending on the location.
Trout and Other Species (Belgium Fishing Spots)
Trout are not abundant in the public sections of the river. Anglers primarily target barbel and chub in these areas.
A Diverse Fish Population
Eighteen fish species are officially recorded in the Semois River. The most popular targets for anglers visiting the Ardennes region include brown trout, rainbow trout (introduced), barbel, chub, and grayling. Other fish species found in the river include pike, perch, pike perch, eel, bream, carp, roach, rudd, dace, minnow, and gudgeon. Some protected species, such as the brook lamprey, are also present, along with rare occurrences of other species.
Public Access and Permits
For public sections of the river, a fishing permit issued by the Walloon Region is sufficient. The fishing permit is personal and valid for the entire year. It can be obtained at any post office in Wallonia. The permit can also be acquired online using the website: http://permisdepeche.be/nl. The permit is available at the end of the online process. You can download and print it for fishing.
Private Access and Permits (Belgium Fishing Spots)
For sections of the river that are considered non-public, a public fishing permit is required, along with a membership card from the local fishing association. Day or multi-day permits can often be obtained through these associations. If you wish to fish in non-public areas, it is essential to inquire beforehand with the local associations, as they typically manage specific sections of the river. In some cases, permission from the landowner may also be necessary. The website permisdepeche.be often allows for online purchase of membership cards for some associations.
Public Fishing Areas
Public access is available on the Semois River, downstream from the Delea Mill (or Nawes) in Herbeumont, to the French border, downstream from Bohan. This section covers approximately 80 kilometers.
Notable Fishing Spots
Some of the best fishing spots on the Semois River include Herbeumont, Dohan, Le Sati, Bouillon, Corbion, Frahan, Alle, Mouzaive, Vresse, Membre, and Bohan.
Sûre River (Belgium Fishing Spots)
A Transboundary River
The Sure River is a border river that flows between Luxembourg and Germany. It originates in Belgium as the “Our” River near the village of Ouren. The Our River flows to Bollendorf, Germany, where it becomes the Sure River. The Sure River then joins the Moselle River at Wasserbillig, Luxembourg. While the geographical details are interesting, the focus here is on the fishing opportunities.
Fly Fishing Opportunities
The Sure River and its upper reaches, the “Boven-Sure,” offer exceptional fly fishing. This region is a prime destination for catching trout, grayling, and chub. The stunning natural surroundings appeal not only to fly fishers but also to anglers using fixed rods and casting rods.
Effective Flies (Belgium Fishing Spots)
Near the village of Wallendorf, on the German side of the Sure River, a small dam creates a perfect spot for fly fishing for trout and grayling. Popular choices for flies include dry flies, such as the Klinkhamer Special, especially in black, the Coachman, and the March Brown. If you have a favorite fly or a creation you believe would be successful on this river, let me know, and I’ll give it a try!
Nymphs and Streamers
The Pheasant Tail nymph is an excellent choice for this stretch of water. Smaller streamers can also be effective.
Wading Considerations
Downstream from Wallendorf, there are numerous opportunities for wading. This section is located between a hiking path and the highway on a higher elevation, so fly fishing from the bank is not possible everywhere.
A Common Set of Rules (Belgium Fishing Spots)
Anglers fishing in the border rivers of Luxembourg and Germany must adhere to specific regulations. Children under 7 years old are prohibited from fishing. Children aged 7 to 14 can fish free of charge, but only under the supervision of an adult with a valid fishing permit. Anglers over 14 years old must have a fishing license (Fischereierlaubnisschein) and valid identification.
Fishing Permit Categories
Fishing permits are divided into two categories:
Category A: “Uferschein” (Bank Permit): This permit is valid for the Moselle, Sure, and Our rivers with one (fly) rod. Wading is prohibited on the Our River. The costs are as follows: 600 Luf per year, 400 Luf per month, and 200 Luf per week.
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Category B: Boat Permit: This permit is valid for the Moselle, Sure, and Our rivers with one (fly) rod. Boats are prohibited on the Our River. The costs are as follows: 1600 Luf per year, 1000 Luf per month, and 400 Luf per week.
Vesder River (Belgium Fishing Spots)
A River Celebrated
The Vesder River, a picturesque waterway in Belgium, has been praised for its beauty. Victor Hugo, the renowned French writer, once described the Vesder as “sometimes a ravine, often a garden, always a paradise.”
Fishing Opportunities
Fishing in the Vesder River basin is highly popular among both tourists and local residents. The area offers diverse fishing zones managed by numerous angling associations, including the Ligue Royale des Pêcheurs de l’Est (LRPE) and the Royale Association des Pêcheurs de Pepinster (RAPP).
The LRPE (Belgium Fishing Spots)
The LRPE manages the fishing zone on the Vesder River in Baelen, Limbourg, and Verviers, as well as several fishing ponds, including Mangombroux. This totals 16.6 kilometers of open fishing zones.
The RAPP
The RAPP manages the fishing zone on the Vesder and Hoëgne rivers in Pepinster, along with the “Doux Fonds” fishing pond.
A Combined Permit
Anglers wishing to fish in the areas between Verviers and Nessonvaux, managed by the Royale Association des Pêcheurs de Pepinster, can utilize a “LRPE/RAPP Partnership” permit. This permit allows for no-kill fishing in the Vesder zones managed by both associations for €100 per year, instead of €125 for the full permits.
Required Permits (Belgium Fishing Spots)
To ensure a safe and peaceful fishing experience, anglers are required to purchase a fishing permit from the Walloon Region. This permit can be obtained from the LRPE or RAPP, or both, depending on the location of your intended fishing spot. All permits can be purchased from the tourism office of the “Land of the Vesder.”
Zenne River (Belgium Fishing Spots)
A River Entirely Within Belgium
The Zenne River, also known as the Senne in French, is a river in Belgium that originates at an elevation of 123 meters in the hamlet of Naast, south of Zinnik. It flows through Brussels, where the river was covered over, before reaching Heffen, where it empties into the Dijle River at an elevation of 5 meters. The Zenne merges with the Leuven-Dijle Canal at the Zennegat, a location just north of Mechelen. The upper course of the Zenne River (up to Halle) is incised in the Paleozoic bedrock. The Zenne River is the longest river that flows solely through the territory of Belgium.
Scenic Beauty
The Zenne River flows gracefully through the verdant landscape of the Hombeek Plateau. The Zennegat, where the Zenne River, the Dijle River, and the Leuven-Dijle Canal converge, offers breathtaking views. The Zenne, Dijle, and Nete rivers eventually join to flow into the Rupel River, making the Zennegat a picturesque location and a pleasant habitat for fish and birds.
Zilver Lake (Belgium Fishing Spots)
A Recreation Destination
The provincial domain of Zilvermeer is located in the municipality of Mol, Belgium. Several lakes were created in this area after sand extraction. The domain is open for day recreation, offering activities such as walking, swimming, fishing, rowing, and diving. Sailing and surfing are also permitted in groups or for members of the local sailing club. The diving area of Zilvermeer is shared with surfers and sailors. A separate beach is available for non-divers who wish to sunbathe or swim.
A Unique Underwater Environment
The Zilvermeer diving area, measuring approximately 200 by 300 square meters, is nestled within a natural reserve. In recent years, the water’s pH has shifted from acidic to neutral, enabling fish to survive in the lake. However, the visibility and water temperature have decreased.
An Underwater Park (Belgium Fishing Spots)
An underwater park is being developed in the lake. Several routes have been designated, and maps are available on panels around the lake. The park features numerous individual elements, including silos, a diving bell, a bench, and more. The Zilvermeer is an ideal location to test your navigation skills.
Accessibility
The domain is open when the Atlantis facility is open. A calendar with opening times is available at the facility.
Zwalmbeek (Belgium Fishing Spots)
A Tributary of the Scheldt
The Zwalm River is a tributary of the Scheldt River. It originates in the town of Brakel, Belgium. After Brakel, the Zwalm flows through the municipalities of Zottegem and Zwalm. The Zwalm River empties into the Scheldt River at the border between Welden and Nederzwalm. The Zwalm Valley is renowned for its scenic banks and the Zwalm waterfalls. The left bank is gently sloping, while the right bank is generally steep.
River Characteristics
The Zwalm River has a gradient of 1.5 meters per kilometer. It is 14 kilometers long, 6 to 10 meters wide, and 0.5 to 2.5 meters deep. The banks are primarily natural, with occasional reinforcements using wooden posts. The river always has a current, and aquatic plants can be found in several areas.
A Diverse Fish Population (Belgium Fishing Spots)
The Zwalm River boasts a diverse fish population, with 11 to 22 species documented. These include perch, roach, three-spined stickleback, gudgeon, carp, chub, eel, rudd, gudgeon, pike, tench, chub, bream, spined loach, bitterling, and more.
Prime Fishing Spot
The most abundant area for both fish numbers and species is the downstream section, including the spawning area near the Zwalmmolen mill.
Fishing Regulations
A fishing permit issued by the Flemish Community is required to fish in the Zwalm River.