Big Perch in the Netherlands: How We Fish with Jan Boomsma

The Netherlands is a flat country rich in water, and beneath the surface of its lakes, rivers and canals, the fish grow large. Perch over 3 kilos, zander over 100 centimetres and pike over 120 centimetres can be found here. On our fishing trips, we focus on large perch and fish together with Jan Boomsma and his colleagues, who guide sport anglers from across Europe.

How large do the perch get?

Perch over 45 centimetres are common. Sometimes fish around 50 centimetres are landed that weigh more than 3 kilos. The nutrient-rich waters are full of baitfish and crayfish, making the perch muscular and heavy for their length.

Three types of water

The large lakes can change quickly. Sometimes the fish are in shallow water among baitfish schools, while at other times they are deeper along drop-offs and structures.

Rivers and canals offer more current-driven fishing where predatory fish gather densely, but they are more selective.

The guides fish every day and know how the fish move throughout the season and which areas are showing the most activity right now.

The methods

We fish from a well-equipped fishing boat using the methods that work best for large perch: jigging with shads and craws, hard baits such as crankbaits and jerkbaits, and chatterbaits when the fish are really active. Shimano equipment and lures are available to borrow.

Pike and zander

You can also target pike and zander, which also grow really large here. Pike thrive in areas rich in vegetation, while zander are often found deeper along drop-offs and structure. The country is also home to asp, sea trout, ide and catfish.

The trip

You fly to Amsterdam and are picked up at the airport. Then you spend full days fishing with a guide from morning to evening, and on the last day you fish until the afternoon before being driven to the airport for your flight home. Accommodation varies between trips. Full board is included, with breakfast, a packed lunch on the water and dinner. You only need a valid passport or ID card to travel.

There are closed seasons that determine when you can travel, and we cover them in the article about the season and closed seasons in Holland.

Keen on Holland?

If you want to travel on different dates, stay longer or focus on a particular species, the trip can be customised. Emil at Outside Travels has been there himself and will be happy to answer your questions.

See the fishing trip to Holland

Frequently asked questions about fishing in the Netherlands