Ultimate Guide to Fishing in Hungary for Foreigners, Tourists, and Expats
With its abundance of lakes, rivers, and well-maintained fish populations, Hungary offers a plethora of opportunities for fishing enthusiasts, tourists, expats, and foreigners alike. Whether you are a seasoned angler or a novice keen on exploring the world of fishing, Hungary’s waters have something for everyone. From the famous Lake Balaton to the majestic Danube River and the serene Tisza River, there is no shortage of fishing spots to explore in Hungary.
To fish in Hungary as a non-resident, it is essential to acquire a state fishing license and a local permit. While this requirement applies to most fishing locations, there are exceptions for certain private lakes and gravel pits. If you hold a fishing license from your home country, it can serve as a substitute for the Hungarian state license, reducing the need for additional permits.
For those without a fishing license, joining a Hungarian fishing club through the Hungarian Fishing Association (MOHOSZ) is a straightforward process. The annual fee for membership is approximately 10-15 euros, allowing you to obtain local permits for specific fishing areas.
Hungary boasts a variety of popular fishing spots, such as Lake Balaton, the Danube, Tisza Rivers, and Lake Venice, each offering a unique angling experience. Fishing in Hungary is not only affordable but also accessible, with state licenses priced under EUR 10 and local permits available in nearby settlements.
For those new to Hungary’s fishing scene, guided fishing tours provided by companies like Gone Fishing Hungary offer a convenient way to start fishing in the country. These guided trips take care of everything from permits to equipment, ensuring a hassle-free experience for non-residents.
When it comes to fishing regulations in Hungary, adults are permitted to fish with two rods and a maximum of three hooks per rod, while juniors and children have their own restrictions. Purchasing licenses can be done at fishing shops near major bodies of water or in Budapest for larger lakes and rivers.
In addition to well-known fishing spots, Hungary also boasts some hidden gems for anglers to explore, such as Maconka Reservoir, Ráckevei-Soroksári Danube Branch, Storage Shed Lakes, Nagybajcs Fishing Lake, and Palotaváros Lakes.
Over the years, Hungary has witnessed impressive fishing records, with notable catches including the largest carp weighing 51.20 kg caught at Euro Aqua Lake and catfish exceeding 74 kg in the Ráckevei-Soroksári Duna Branch. Other large species like grass carp and pike-perch are commonly found in lakes like Balaton and Tisza.
In conclusion, fishing in Hungary offers a thrilling and enriching experience for anglers of all levels, surrounded by stunning landscapes and a diverse range of fish species. From accessible licensing procedures to guided fishing tours, Hungary provides everything needed for a memorable angling adventure. So grab your gear and explore the rivers and lakes of Hungary for a truly unforgettable fishing experience!
