Fishing in the Zaan region 

Directly north to Amsterdam lies the Zaan region: probably the most famous polder area of the Netherlands. This unique labyrinth of polder ditches and canals with its excellent stocks of fish like bream and roach, but also predatory fish and carps, furthermore is a true open air museum of Dutch history. Old-Dutch houses, warehouses and of course dozens of windmills, the symbol of Dutch culture par excellence. On the opposite sides of the Zaan – one of the larger waters suitable for catching zanders, complete with fishing guides – lie the polders Westzaan and Oostzaan.

Boat fishing in the Zaan


Typical Dutch

This is a typically Dutch area that will put a smile on any angler’s face. It’s a quiet and peaceful area but it’s still close enough to Amsterdam for spending a day out in the field. Or the other way around. At www.visplanner.nl and the VISplanner app the waters in the Zaan area all turn up nice and blue.

Streetfishing in Zaandam

You only need one document (the VISpas) to get access to all these beautiful fishing spots. Tip: try angling for polder carp in springtime and summertime. Armed merely with a rod, a reel, a net and a can of corn you’re certainly in for a good catch here, amidst the pastures, cows, vast grass lands, windmills and picturesque villages.

Carp fishing in a small polder water
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