The Two-Document System
In Germany, you need two documents to fish legally:
| Document | Purpose | How to Get |
|---|---|---|
| Fischereischein (Fishing Licence) | Personal qualification — like a driving licence | Pass fishing exam (in German) OR tourist licence |
| Angelkarte (Water Permit) | Permission for a specific water body | Buy from water owner/club/online |
Tourist Fishing Licences (No Exam!)
Four German states offer tourist fishing licences — no exam required:
| State | Cost | Duration | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brandenburg | €12 | 1 year | Local authority |
| Mecklenburg-Vorpommern | €23 | 28 days | Tourist info, online |
| Schleswig-Holstein | €38 | 28 days | Online (urlaubs-angelschein.de) |
| Thuringia | €19 | 3 months | Local authority |
Fishing the Baltic Sea
The Baltic Sea (Ostsee) is the most popular fishing destination for tourists:
- No water permit needed (the sea is not leased)
- Tourist licence from SH (€38) or MV (€23) is sufficient
- Cod, herring, flatfish, sea trout — seasonal
- Cod daily limit: 5 fish (2026 EU regulation)
Penalties for Illegal Fishing
- Without fishing licence: Fine up to €75,000
- Without water permit (poaching): Criminal offence — up to 2 years prison (§293 StGB)
- Equipment confiscation: All fishing gear can be seized
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a fishing licence to fish in Germany?
Yes. Germany requires two documents: a Fischereischein (fishing licence proving you passed an exam) AND a Fischereierlaubnisschein (permit for the specific water body). However, 4 states offer tourist licences without an exam.
Can tourists fish in Germany?
Yes! Four states offer tourist fishing licences (Touristenfischereischein) without an exam: Brandenburg (€12/year), Mecklenburg-Vorpommern (€23/28 days), Schleswig-Holstein (€38/28 days), and Thuringia (€19/3 months).
What happens if I fish without a licence?
Fishing without a licence is an administrative offence with fines up to €75,000. Fishing without a water permit (poaching) is a criminal offence under §293 StGB with up to 2 years imprisonment.
Can I use my foreign fishing licence in Germany?
Generally no. Foreign fishing licences are not recognized. You need either a German Fischereischein (requires passing a German exam in German) or a tourist licence in the 4 eligible states.
Where can I fish without any licence in Germany?
Nowhere legally. You always need at least a Fischereischein or tourist licence. At commercial trout ponds in some states, the entrance fee replaces the water permit, but you still need a fishing licence.