As an adult in the Netherlands, you can generally only fish at sea without a VISpas (from a beach, pier, or boat). For almost all inland waters, you do need written permission, such as a VISpas, day permit, or permission from the owner/manager.
That sounds strict, but it's actually logical: most inland waters are leased or managed by associations, municipalities, or other parties. They determine who can fish and under what conditions. (HSV Almere, 2026)
Where can you fish without a VISpas?
For adults, there are roughly three situations where you can fish without a VISpas:
1) At sea (coastal waters/sea area)
Fishing at sea is the most well-known exception: for recreational rod fishing there, you generally do not need permission or a permit.
Please note that "sea" in practice sometimes conflicts with harbors, inland waters, and connecting waters. In some harbors or waters that actually fall under inland waters/association waters, permission may be required. If in doubt: check the location in VISplanner or inquire locally.
2) In private ponds or pay-to-fish waters
Think of trout ponds, commercial fishing parks, or private waters where the owner sets the rules. You don't fish "freely" there, but based on their own ticket or permission. So this is fishing without a VISpas, but not without rules.
3) With a day permit (without membership)
Some waters offer day or week permits. You don't have to be a member of an association, but you buy a separate permit for that specific water.
Can you fish without a VISpas?
Yes, but only if you are either fishing at sea, or have other valid permission (such as a day permit or permission for private water). The basic rule for inland waters is that you need written permission from the person who holds the fishing rights. The VISpas (in combination with VISplanner or the water list) is the most commonly used form of this.
Can children fish without a VISpas?
For children, there is an important exception: children up to and including 13 years old can often fish with one rod under the supervision of an adult with a valid VISpas (and under the same conditions as the supervisor).
Please note: in practice, this can sometimes be interpreted differently per association/water. Therefore, "checking first" remains advisable, especially if you are fishing in water with additional regulations.
Do you get a fine if you fish without a VISpas?
If you fish in inland waters without valid permission, you risk a fine. For 2026, fine amounts of €160 (fishing without written permission with 1-2 rods) and €370 (with more than two rods) are mentioned.
Additionally, things can go wrong if you cannot show your permit during an inspection. Amounts around €110 are mentioned for this.
Fines can change, and the exact handling depends on the situation, but the message is clear: "I didn't know" rarely helps. So, check your water in advance and bring your documents digitally or physically.
Important: rules also apply without a VISpas
Fishing without a VISpas does not mean fishing without limits. You must still adhere to things like minimum sizes, catch-and-release rules, and closed seasons. And especially relevant for predator anglers: the closed season for lure fishing.
In spring, many inland waters have a period during which lure fishing is prohibited. The exact dates and exceptions vary per water (and sometimes per area). Always check this, even if you are fishing with a day permit or in water where you can fish without a VISpas. (Sportvisunie)
In short: the closed season for lure fishing remains in effect where it applies, regardless of how you arrange access to the water.
Practical approach (how to avoid trouble)
Do you want to "just fish once" in 2026 without becoming a member? Then do this:
First, choose the type of water: sea, private pond, or water with a day permit. Then check the location in VISplanner (or with the manager) to make sure it's inland water and what conditions apply.
And if you're predator fishing: immediately check if there's a closed season for lure fishing applicable at that location and period. That saves disappointment by the water.
Conclusion: where can you fish without a VISpas?
In 2026, as an adult in the Netherlands, you can essentially fish at sea without a VISpas. For inland waters, you almost always need another form of written permission, such as a day permit or permission for private water. Children up to and including 13 years old can often fish with one rod under certain conditions, accompanied by an adult with a VISpas.
