Fishing with children
Share unforgettable fishing moments
Do you fancy an outdoor hobby together? If you like fishing and have a fishing license, you can easily introduce your offspring to your passion: Young people aged 10 to 16 can obtain a youth fishing license in North Rhine-Westphalia without a test. Younger children can also cast a rod without a license if accompanied.
Rules and requirements for fishing with children
Standing relaxed on the bank, letting your gaze wander over the water and waiting for the next catch is great fun for fishing enthusiasts of all ages. Fishing is also a great way to spend quality time together in nature. If you want to discover fishing together with your children, North Rhine-Westphalia offers the best conditions for this: 54,000 hectares of water attract over 250,000 anglers with a rich fish population.
For unadulterated fishing fun, please note the following:
- Children under the age of 10 cannot yet obtain a youth fishing license and are not allowed to carry their own fishing rod.
- Fishing enthusiasts over the age of 10 must hold a fishing license and have it with them while fishing. This is only valid when accompanied by an adult who has a fishing license.
- A youth fishing license can be issued to young people between the ages of 10 and 16 without an examination. It is available from the municipality for the current calendar year and costs 8 euros. Discounts are possible in many places on request.
- The validity of the youth fishing license can be extended four times, but not beyond the age of 16.
- The fishing test can be taken from the age of 14 at the responsible local authority.
Worth knowing
In addition to the (youth) fishing license, a so-called permit must be purchased for the selected body of water. The permit for the Rhine, for example, is available as an annual or 3-day permit from various fishing and pet stores.
Notes and suggestions
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Take your time
Allow enough time for your excursion. You should plan at least two hours for fishing with children.
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Pack your food
Think about food and drink. Fresh air makes you hungry and thirsty!
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The optimal fishing time
The best time for fishing is the quiet morning and evening hours.
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The ideal fishing spot
Look for a suitable spot with good fishing opportunities, preferably in shallow and calm waters, for example on lakes or canals.
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Suitable clothing
Make sure you wear suitable clothing, it can still be cool in the morning and cool down again quickly in the evening. And the weather sometimes changes faster than you think.
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Don't give mosquitoes a chance
Think about mosquito repellent. Insects are particularly fond of all bodies of water.
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Life jackets save lives
Do not leave your child unattended! Deep water and currents can be dangerous. Children should always wear a life jacket, even if they can already swim. It protects them from drowning!
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Further safety precautions
Keep sharp hooks and knives in a safe place. Children should only be allowed to use them - if at all - under supervision.
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First aid
Don't forget a small first aid kit with plasters, disinfectant and bandages.
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Protecting nature
Pay attention to the protection of nature and be a good role model for your child. This includes respecting the animals and treating the plants in the area with consideration. Leave the fishing spot clean and take your garbage back with you.
WHERE CAN WE FIND HELP AND ADVICE?
Information, decrees and regulations for fishing with children can be found on the website of the North Rhine-Westphalia Fishing Association.
If you have specific questions, the relevant fishing authorities in your town or district can provide information. Or you can contact the Fischereiverband NRW directly.
Children, young people and adults who would like to try out fishing without obligation can take part in a "taster fishing session" without a fishing license. Information and offers are best obtained directly from a fishing club in your area.
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