Rügen's coastal waters offer some of the best fishing in the Baltic Sea, but success depends on timing. Whether you're casting from the shore or heading out with a charter, knowing what's biting each month is key. This fishing season calendar covers the main species around the island, with tips on locations, bait, and regulations. For a broader overview, see our complete guide to Port Gager.
Spring (March–May): The Season Awakens
As the ice retreats and water temperatures rise above 5°C, fish become more active. Spring is ideal for trout, pike, and early sea-run species.
March–April: Trout and Pike
Rainbow trout and brown trout move into shallower waters to feed. The best fishing spots include the Kleiner Jasmunder Bodden and the bays near Glowe and Lohme. Use small spinners or live bait. Pike are also active in the same areas, especially in weedy shallows. A valid Rügen fishing license (€25 for a week) is required.
May: Garfish and Sea Trout
Garfish (hornfish) arrive in large schools along the coast. They can be caught from piers and jetties using feather rigs or small shiny lures. Sea trout (migratory brown trout) run in the rivers and streams emptying into the Baltic. The river Beke near Sagard is a known hotspot. Catch-and-release is encouraged for sea trout over 50 cm.
Summer (June–August): Peak Season for Pelagics
Warm waters bring mackerel, garfish, and flounder into easy reach. This is the busiest time for guided fishing tours, which often depart from Sassnitz and Binz.
June: Mackerel and Garfish
Mackerel start to appear in June, especially around the chalk cliffs and offshore reefs. Trolling with small spoons at 2–3 knots is effective. Garfish remain plentiful. A typical morning catch can yield 10–20 fish per angler. Prices for charter trips start at €60 per person for a half-day.
July: Flounder and Cod
Flounder are abundant on sandy bottoms near the Greifswalder Bodden and around the island of Vilm. Use a running rig with a small hook and a strip of squid or worm. Cod (Baltic cod) are also present in deeper waters (15–30 m) north of Rügen. The minimum landing size is 35 cm, and daily bag limits apply (3 per angler in 2025).
August: Eel and Perch
Eel fishing is popular in the lagoons and brackish waters. Night fishing with a ledger rig and worm bait works best. Perch are active in the same areas, taking small plugs and jigs. Note: eel is a protected species; catch-and-release is mandatory in many areas.
Autumn (September–November): Prime Time for Predators
Cooling waters trigger feeding frenzies. This is the season for large cod, sea trout, and pike.
September: Cod and Sea Trout
Cod move closer to shore to feed on herring and small fish. The area around the Kap Arkona and the reefs off Dranske are hot spots. Jigging with 100–150 g lures from a boat is productive. Sea trout run in the rivers; the rivers Zingst and Barthe are good bets. Use fly fishing gear or spinning rods with small spoons.
October: Pike and Zander
Pike are aggressive in autumn, preparing for winter. Large dead baits (herring, eel) or big soft plastics work well. Zander (pikeperch) are more active in low light; try deep holes in the Bodden. A guided trip with a local expert can be booked through our partners.
November: Herring and Whitefish
Herring spawn in the Greifswalder Bodden from October to November. Use a herring rig with small silver hooks; a good session can yield 50–100 fish. Whitefish (coregonus) are also present in the deeper, colder parts of the Bodden. They are often caught on small spinners or fly patterns.
Winter (December–February): Ice Fishing and Hardy Anglers
Winter fishing is quieter, but dedicated anglers can still catch pike, perch, and eelpout (burbot). Ice fishing is possible on the Bodden when the ice is at least 10 cm thick (check local conditions).
December–January: Pike and Perch Under Ice
Drill holes in 2–5 m of water near weed beds. Use a jigging spoon tipped with a minnow. Perch often school in the same areas. A tip-up rig with a live minnow can catch pike. Always carry ice picks and wear a life jacket.
February: Eelpout and Sea Trout
Eelpout (burbot) spawn in February and are active under ice. They are caught on dead bait or small jigs. Sea trout can be found in the lower reaches of rivers that remain ice-free. Fly fishing with a sink tip line and a small streamer can be rewarding.
Year-Round Tips and Regulations
All anglers aged 16 and older must hold a valid fishing license (Fischereischein) from Mecklenburg-Vorpommern (€40 for one year) and a day ticket for the specific water (€10–15). The season for salmon is closed; however, our salmon sourcing ensures you can enjoy smoked salmon year-round at Port Gager. For a taste of the sea, try our smoked trout recipe. Pair your catch with a wine from our pairing guide.
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