In theory, you can fish in Drenthe while keeping your feet firmly on the ground in Groningen, although that is a bit silly of course. In fact, just across the Drenthe border you will find great nature reserves that are quite fish-worthy. Near Glimmen, for instance. Go and have a look. You will find all the ingredients for a great fishing adventure.
Loving migratory fish: the Lieversche Diep
Just past the Drenthe village of Lieveren, the Lieversche Diep meanders. Or rather: the Lieversche Diepje. This shallow, flowing river is an important nursery area for migratory fish. This is because the water is rich in oxygen and the fish find good shelter there. But that is not all. At this spot, something special has been created to make the fish more comfortable, namely - no joke - a fish ladder. This one is not only very beautiful to see, but also very useful.
Take the (fish) stairs
To prevent our country from flooding, the water management of inland waters has been considerably restricted over the years. Weirs, pumping stations and sluices are examples of barriers that have been built to ensure that our feet stay dry. Nice for people, but not so nice for migratory fish, which find it more difficult to make their way from the sea to the inland waterways. To help the fish with this, some barriers have been equipped with so-called fish passages or fish ladders. A river with baffles is dug around the weir, bridging the gradient. This way, the fish do not have to jump over a weir or swim against a strong current, but can simply get off the fish-friendly ladder. Improving the connection between the Wadden Sea, Lauwersmeer and the waters beyond is the aim of the Fish for Connection project.
" "Nature in the Netherlands is so incredibly beautiful." "
Jan Willem Wijers
In search of pike
A little further downstream is a great place to cast your rod. At least 50 metres away from the fish passage, because no closer is allowed. It is a bit deeper, the current is less strong and there are many water plants. Connoisseurs know: this is a good place to hook a pike. But fish-lovers also enjoy this watery area. Because taking a nice stroll without bait and rods is also allowed here, of course. In fact, it is highly recommended. It is beautiful.
Even if you catch nothing at all
Fishing is not just about that one hurrah moment when a hungry fish sinks its teeth into your bait. Let's face it: fish do not always bite eagerly. Fortunately, a day in nature offers enough entertainment in itself. Look up and you will see geese and birds of prey in the sky. Look down and see frogs and grasshoppers dancing in the tall grass before your feet. Fisherman Jan Willem: "Nature in the Netherlands is so incredibly beautiful. Fishing takes you to places you wouldn't otherwise go. That makes it extra cool for me, and even if you don't catch anything at all, you still have a day out in nature with all kinds of things to see."
For young and old
What could be more fun than going on an adventure with your offspring? Children love being outdoors. Especially when they can admire or even touch the animals from books and films at home! Moreover, children up to 14 years old are allowed to fish in many waters without a licence. The only condition is that an adult accompanies them who has the right fishing permits.
