Fishing with children in Saxony: license, age & rules
Fishing with children in Saxony: license, age & rules
Saxony is a true fishing paradise for the whole family – from the Elbe River to the reservoirs in the Ore Mountains and the many ponds of Upper Lusatia, there is water as far as the eye can see. And let’s be honest: there is hardly a more beautiful moment than seeing your child watch the float (that’s the little bobber on the line that indicates a bite) go under for the first time, unable to sit still with excitement. To ensure this moment happens without any nasty surprises, it’s worth taking a quick look at the Saxon rules. Don’t worry – we explain them in a way that parents and grandparents without any fishing experience can understand immediately.
We explain exactly what a fishing license (Fischereischein), a youth fishing license (Jugendfischereischein), and a permit (Erlaubnisschein) mean on our overview page Fishing with children in Germany.
The most important rules in Saxony for children
- Youth fishing license: yes, from age 9 to under 16. "Persons who have reached the age of nine but have not yet reached the age of sixteen may be issued a youth fishing license without a fishing examination" (§ 22 Para. 1 Sentence 1 SächsFischG). This is the easy way to get started with the hobby.
- Fishing alone? Generally no. With the youth fishing license, your child may only fish if accompanied by an adult who holds a fishing license. This means an adult with a valid license must be present and keep an eye on things.
- Important exception, stated literally in the law: Holders of a youth fishing license "may only fish if accompanied by an adult who holds a fishing license, unless they have been a member of a fishing club for at least one year" (§ 22 Para. 1 Sentence 2 SächsFischG). Therefore, anyone who has been a club member for a year is allowed to fish on their own.
- Regular fishing license from age 14: "A fishing license is only issued if the applicant 1. has reached the age of fourteen, 2. possesses the necessary expertise to practice fishing, and 3. there are no grounds for refusal" (§ 21 Para. 1 SächsFischG). Between the ages of 14 and 16, both options exist side-by-side: a youth fishing license or a regular license. The youth fishing license becomes invalid upon reaching the age of 16 (§ 20 Para. 2 Sentence 2 SächsFischG).
- Club events: "A fishing license is not required for persons who have not yet reached the age of sixteen if they are participating in an event organized by fishing clubs and are supervised by knowledgeable representatives of the fishing clubs" (§ 20 Para. 3 Sentence 1 SächsFischG). A great opportunity to try it out easily. The fisheries authority may allow further exceptions in special cases (Sentence 2).
- Permit / Fishing pass: In addition to the license, you always need a permit for the specific body of water – the so-called fishing pass (Angelkarte). It regulates where, when, and what you are allowed to fish for. It is mandatory.
Special features in Saxony
Saxony has two very practical special rules that make getting started easier. First, the club event exemption: During supervised club activities, even younger children can fish without their own license as long as knowledgeable club representatives are watching over them. Second, the waiver of the mandatory supervision requirement after one year of club membership – a great incentive to join a fishing club early. There, your child will also learn a lot about fish, nature, and respectful engagement with the hobby along the way.
How to get started
Start small: A simple float, a light leader (that’s the thin piece of line directly attached to the hook), and a quiet spot by the water are perfectly sufficient for the first attempts. Children love it when things happen quickly – so choose a body of water where even a small fish might bite to keep the excitement going. It is better to plan short sessions than a whole day, as attention spans are limited, and ending on a high note ensures your child will be eager for the next time. You can find an overview of which rod, reel, and accessories suit which age on our page Fishing equipment for children by age.
And because it is often windy by the water and damp early on, suitable clothing is worth it: Robust, weather-resistant, and of course cool fishing apparel for children and teenagers ensures your offspring won't want to head to the car shivering after half an hour.
Children & Teenager Angler T-Shirts
Robust, comfortable, and with the fish motifs that little anglers love.
Where can you get the youth fishing license in Saxony?
In Saxony, the local fisheries authority (lower level)—that is, the city or municipal administration of your place of residence—is responsible (residency in Saxony is required). There, you can get the youth fishing license for 9- to 16-year-olds without an examination. Bring along: a color passport photo, the youth’s signature, proof of residence, and a copy of their ID; parents can apply using the form. Forms and information are consolidated on the state website fischerei.sachsen.de; the fee is approximately €9.
Children & Teenager Angler Hoodies
Robust, comfortable, and with the fish motifs that little anglers love.
Always additional: the rules of your body of water
It is very important, regardless of where you fish: beyond the general rules described here, the specific regulations of the individual body of water always apply. Every lake, river, and coastal section has its own body of water regulations with its own requirements – for example, regarding permitted fishing methods and bait, the number of rods, closed seasons and minimum sizes, night and keepnet fishing, bag limits, or restricted bank areas. These water-specific rules are usually printed directly on the permit (fishing pass) or can be obtained from the issuing authority (fishing club, water manager, or authority). Check and observe them before every day of fishing – in case of doubt, the rules of the specific body of water take precedence over the general information on this page.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
From what age can you get a youth fishing license in Saxony?
In Saxony, children and teenagers from 9 to 16 years old can obtain a youth fishing license – without a fishing examination. This is the uncomplicated way to get started, allowing your child to fish when accompanied by an adult.
Is my child allowed to fish alone in Saxony with the youth fishing license?
Generally no. With the youth fishing license, fishing is only permitted when accompanied by an adult who holds a fishing license. However, there is an important exception: If your child has been a member of a fishing club for at least one year, the supervision requirement is waived.
When can you get a regular fishing license in Saxony?
The regular fishing license is available in Saxony from the age of 14, once the fishing examination has been passed (§ 21 Para. 1 SächsFischG). Therefore, between 14 and 16, the youth fishing license and the regular license exist side-by-side. It is best to ask the State Angling Association of Saxony (Landesanglerverband Sachsen) directly for the exact requirements for the fishing examination.
Can my younger child fish in Saxony without a license at all?
Yes, within a certain framework. For those under 16, there is no requirement for a fishing license if they are participating in an event organized by a fishing club and are supervised by knowledgeable club representatives. This is how your child can easily get a taste of the hobby.
Do I need a fishing pass in addition to the license in Saxony?
Yes. In addition to the fishing license, you always need a permit (fishing pass/Angelkarte) for the specific body of water. The fishing pass defines where and under what conditions you are allowed to fish.
We strive to provide you with accurate information and update our pages regularly. The information is provided without guarantee. Please notify us of any discrepancies so that we can update the information.
Tight Lines – your Fin-Buddies Team 🎣
Last updated: September 2026