Salmon closed season in Germany: all states compared
The closed season for salmon differs by German state; we compare 13 states. Minimum sizes range from 50 to 60 cm. 8 states protect it all year. Today (2026-10-23) it is in closed season in 13 states: Baden-Württemberg, Bayern, Brandenburg, Bremen, Hamburg, Hessen, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Niedersachsen, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Rheinland-Pfalz, Sachsen, Schleswig-Holstein, Thüringen. As of 2026-10-23
Salmon closed season by state
| State | Closed season | Days | Minimum size | Today | Checked |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baden-Württemberg | protected all year | 365 | – | closed | 2026-10-18 |
| Bayern | protected all year (Elbe, Rhine, Weser catchments) | 365 | – | closed | 2026-10-18 |
| Brandenburg | protected all year (stocked salmon excepted) | 365 | – | closed | 2026-10-18 |
| Bremen | 15 Oct – 15 Mar | 152 | 60 cm | closed | 2026-10-18 |
| Hamburg | protected – no targeted fishing or killing | 365 | – | closed | 2026-10-18 |
| Hessen | catching prohibited | 365 | – | closed | 2026-10-18 |
| Mecklenburg-Vorpommern | 1 Sep – 31 Mar | 212 | 60 cm | closed | 2026-10-18 |
| Niedersachsen | 15 Oct – 15 Mar | 152 | 50 cm | closed | 2026-10-18 |
| Nordrhein-Westfalen | protected all year | 365 | – | closed | 2026-10-18 |
| Rheinland-Pfalz | no fishing allowed | 365 | – | closed | 2026-10-18 |
| Sachsen | 1 Oct – 30 Apr | 212 | 60 cm | closed | 2026-10-18 |
| Schleswig-Holstein | 1 Oct – 28 Feb (inland waters) | 151 | 60 cm | closed | 2026-10-23 |
| Thüringen | protected all year | 365 | – | closed | 2026-10-23 |
Length of closed season
FAQ
When is the closed season for salmon 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 · Eel