Can you fish for predators when the water temperature is high?

Jul 14, 2026

Mag je roofvissen bij hoge watertemperatuur?

Last checked: July 14, 2026

After a warm period, not only the air, but also surface water can heat up significantly. This raises an important question: is predator fishing at high water temperatures permitted and responsible? The short answer is that national regulations do not include a general maximum water temperature at which recreational fishing is automatically prohibited. However, fishing in warm and oxygen-depleted water can be irresponsible, especially when targeting pike.

Is predator fishing prohibited at high water temperatures?

National regulations for inland fisheries mention, among other things, closed seasons for fish species and bait types, but no general temperature limit. This does not mean that you are automatically allowed to fish everywhere. The fishing rights holder may include additional conditions for a body of water. Therefore, always check the current permissions and rules in the official VISplanner before each session.

Also, pay attention to closed seasons. For pike, a national closed season applies from March 1st to the last Saturday of May. On the IJsselmeer, this period extends until June 30th. Different closed seasons apply to perch and zander. Heat does not change these rules.

Why is warm water stressful for predatory fish?

According to Rijkswaterstaat, higher water temperatures can lead to oxygen deficiency, potentially resulting in fish mortality. The Sportvisunie emphasizes that the effect varies by fish species, water, and situation. Shallow, stagnant waters, in particular, can heat up quickly.

A hooked predatory fish has to exert a lot of effort during the fight. When the water already contains little oxygen, recovery after landing and unhooking can be more difficult. Therefore, predator fishing at high water temperatures requires more restraint than fishing under normal conditions.

At what temperature do you stop pike fishing?

There is no national legal temperature limit for pike fishing. In an article from the official Hét VISblad, an experienced predatory angler states that he personally stops when the water temperature reaches 22 °C, because pike quickly run out of breath in warm water. This is a personal practical limit and not a legal prohibition.

The safest choice is not to look at just one number. Take into account the duration of the heat, the depth and flow of the water, and the behavior of the fish. When in doubt, leave pike alone.

Can you fish for predators at high water temperatures?

Can you still fish for perch, zander, or asp?

For perch, zander, asp, and catfish, the consulted official sources have not published a general safe maximum water temperature. This does not mean that these species can be fished without risk in extreme heat. They too can be stressed by a long fight, low oxygen levels, and prolonged exposure out of the water.

Therefore, do not automatically consider another predatory fish species a safe alternative. When predator fishing at high water temperatures, the condition of the water must always be paramount. Stop completely when fish are gasping for air at the surface, reacting unusually slowly, or gathering en masse at inlets, pumping stations, or flowing water.

How do you check the water temperature?

Measure the temperature with a water thermometer at the spot where you want to fish. The outside air temperature does not accurately reflect how warm the water is. For large state-managed waters (Rijkswateren), you can view current and historical measurements via Rijkswaterstaat Waterinfo.

Is the water warm but you don't see any obvious problems? Then remain cautious. Use appropriate and sturdy equipment to avoid unnecessarily prolonging the fight, keep a landing net and unhooking pliers ready, and preferably unhook the fish in the water. Skip a long photo session and only release the fish when it can hold itself upright stably.

Conclusion: responsible predator fishing at high water temperatures

Predator fishing at high water temperatures is not automatically prohibited nationally, but legally permitted does not automatically mean responsible. Check the rules for the water, measure the water temperature, and leave pike alone in strongly warmed water. For other predatory fish, there is no official universal safe temperature limit. Signs of oxygen deficiency mean you stop immediately and report the situation to the local angling club or water authority.

Has the water cooled sufficiently again and are the conditions responsible? Then read our guide on the best lures for pike.

Frequently asked questions about predator fishing in warm water

Is predator fishing allowed at high water temperatures?

There is no general national maximum water temperature mentioned in the consulted fishing regulations. However, additional conditions may apply to a specific body of water. Always check these in VISplanner.

Is 22 °C a legal limit for pike fishing?

No. The 22 °C limit is mentioned in Hét VISblad as a personal practical limit by an experienced predatory angler. It is not a national legal prohibition. The condition of the water and the fish remains decisive.

When should I stop predator fishing immediately?

Stop when fish are gasping for air, reacting unusually slowly, lying crooked in the water, or gathering at places with current. This can indicate oxygen deficiency. Report such situations to the local angling club or water authority.