North Holland

Massimo Catarinella / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Urban freshwater fishing across a vast network of historic canals teeming with perch, pike, and zander. Popular for street-fishing enthusiasts looking for exciting multi-species action right in the heart of the city.

Access. Completely accessible on foot from the streets and bridges throughout the city. Street fishing gear and local tackle shops are widely available.

Notes. Requires a national VISpas permit and local municipal permissions. Catch-and-release is strongly encouraged for urban predatory fish.

Aruba

dreese / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Aruba's offshore waters are renowned for consistent sportfishing, particularly for wahoo, barracuda, and kingfish. The island's geography allows for quick access to deep-water fishing grounds just minutes from the harbor.

Access. Numerous sportfishing charters operate out of the main harbors in Oranjestad and Palm Beach, providing all necessary gear and local expertise.

Notes. Catch and release is encouraged for billfish. Visitors should book with reputable, registered charter companies to ensure compliance with local environmental regulations.

Curacao

Roger W from Sarasota, Florida, U.S.A. / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)

The southern coastline of Curaçao is a prime location for both reef fishing and offshore big-game angling. The deep waters close to the island attract pelagic species like marlin, sailfish, and yellowfin tuna.

Access. Fishing charters are readily available at the marinas in Willemstad and Spanish Water, offering specialized trips for tourists ranging from light tackle reef fishing to heavy-duty trolling.

Notes. No specific recreational fishing license is required for tourists on charter boats, but all fishing must comply with local maritime laws and protected area boundaries.

North Brabant

Global Wetlands Nederland / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

A freshwater tidal wetland labyrinth of willow forests, creeks, and winding rivers providing exceptional sport for pike, zander, and asp. Ideal for kayak fishing and quiet boat excursions.

Access. Best explored by renting a small fishing boat or kayak from local marinas at Drimmelen or Werkendam.

Notes. Strict nature reserve rules apply in certain protected zones. A standard VISpas is mandatory for all freshwater angling.

South Holland

Joram Schurink / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0 nl)

A dynamic brackish estuary connecting river systems to the North Sea, renowned for excellent populations of sea trout, zander, and large perch. A favorite destination for both shore anglers and boaters.

Access. Accessible via shorelines around Hellevoetsluis or by charter boat operating from local marinas.

Notes. Tidal regulations apply in brackish zones. A VISpas is required along with adherence to national closed seasons for game fish.

North Holland

Txllxt TxllxT / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

A massive inland freshwater lake offering premier boat fishing for trophy zander, perch, and pike. The vast open waters provide world-class sportfishing conditions for trolling and vertical jigging.

Access. Best accessed via charter or private boat from the surrounding harbors such as Lelystad, Hoorn, or Enkhuizen. Local fishing guides operate regularly.

Notes. A VISpas with specific lake endorsements is required. Strict size limits and closed seasons apply during the spring spawning months.

Groningen

Reboelje / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

A expansive shallow lake situated on the border of Friesland and Groningen, offering fantastic freshwater fishing for pike, perch, and whitefish amidst stunning natural scenery.

Access. Shore access is available at several designated recreation areas; boat launching facilities are located at Lauwersoog.

Notes. Part of a protected national park with seasonal restrictions in bird-nesting areas. VISpas required.

Limburg

Romaine / Wikimedia Commons (CC0)

A scenic, broad river stretch running through the southern province of Limburg, famous for heavyweight barbel, zander, and catfish. Popular with both float and feeder anglers.

Access. Accessible from numerous accessible riverbanks, piers, and designated fishing platforms along the Limburg trail.

Notes. Cross-border fishing rules may apply near the Belgian border. A valid VISpas is required.

Curacao

dronepicr / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)

The rugged northwestern tip of Curaçao offers deep-water access close to shore, making it a prime spot for targeting wahoo, mahi-mahi, and tuna. The dramatic drop-offs provide an exciting environment for boat-based sport fishing.

Access. Visitors can book private fishing charters departing from nearby marinas or arrange trips with local captains who specialize in the Westpunt offshore grounds.

Notes. No specific recreational fishing license is required for visitors, but anglers must respect marine park boundaries and local catch regulations.