Eel closed season in Germany: all states compared
The closed season for eel differs by German state; we compare 14 states. Minimum sizes range from 35 to 50 cm. Today (2026-10-23) it is in closed season in 4 states: Baden-Württemberg, Bayern, Hessen, Nordrhein-Westfalen. As of 2026-10-23
Eel closed season by state
| State | Closed season | Days | Minimum size | Today | Checked |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baden-Württemberg | 15 Sep – 1 Mar (Rhine catchment only) | 168 | 50 cm | closed | 2026-10-18 |
| Bayern | 1 Oct – 31 Dec (Elbe, Rhine, Weser catchments) | 92 | 50 cm | closed | 2026-10-18 |
| Berlin | none | – | 50 cm | – | 2026-10-23 |
| Brandenburg | none | – | 50 cm | – | 2026-10-18 |
| Bremen | – | – | 45 cm | – | 2026-10-18 |
| Hamburg | – | – | harvest slot 45–75 cm; max 3/day | – | 2026-10-18 |
| Hessen | 15 Sep – 1 Mar | 168 | harvest slot 50–70 cm | closed | 2026-10-18 |
| Mecklenburg-Vorpommern | 1 Dec – end Feb | 91 | 50 cm | open | 2026-10-18 |
| Niedersachsen | – | – | 35 cm | – | 2026-10-18 |
| Nordrhein-Westfalen | 1 Oct – 1 Mar (Rhine main stream only) | 152 | 50 cm | closed | 2026-10-18 |
| Rheinland-Pfalz | – | – | 50 cm | – | 2026-10-18 |
| Sachsen | none | – | 50 cm | – | 2026-10-18 |
| Schleswig-Holstein | none (inland waters) | – | 50 cm | – | 2026-10-23 |
| Thüringen | 1 Nov – 28 Feb | 120 | 50 cm | open | 2026-10-23 |
Length of closed season
FAQ
When is the closed season for eel in Germany?
It depends on the state – see the table. Many states protect predatory fish in spring during spawning.
Is it the same on every water?
No. Local water rules and permits can be stricter. The official regulation and your permit always apply.
Other species: Pike · Zander (pikeperch) · Brown trout · Salmon