Fishing Information in Switzerland

Fishing in Switzerland is particularly attractive due to the diverse landscapes of waters. The country has numerous rivers, streams, and lakes that provide an ideal foundation for fishing. The most common fish species include trout, perch, pike, and many other species that are native to the clear waters. For most bodies of water, you need a fishing license. For beginners and tourists, day passes or weekly passes are a popular option. Additionally, there are some bodies of water where fishing is allowed without a license – known as free fishing. For longer-term licenses, you need a proof of expertise (short: SaNa), for which you must pass an exam. Here you will find the most important information about fishing in Switzerland.

• What do you need to fish in Switzerland?

  In most places, especially rivers and streams, you need a license. For licenses valid for more than 30 days, a fishing certificate (called SaNa) is required.

• Where can you fish in Switzerland without a license?

  In the section above, you will find a list of all waters where no license or permit is required. Click here!

• How much does a fishing license cost in Switzerland?

  The cost of the Swiss fishing certificate (called SaNa) consists of the learning material for 59.00 CHF and the course for 90.00 CHF.

• Where can you fish without a fishing license in Switzerland?

  In the Free Fishing section, you will find a list of all waters where no fishing certificate is required. Click here!

• Where can you fish in Switzerland?

  We have a map where we have registered most Swiss waters with information on fish species and how to obtain a license or permit. Click here!

• How much is a fishing license in Switzerland?

  One-day licenses typically cost between 20 and 30 CHF.

• Are tourists allowed to fish in Switzerland?

  Yes, tourists are allowed to fish in Switzerland. For short fishing permits, no fishing license is required. Moreover, there are places where you can fish without a license or permit.

In some waters of Switzerland, there is the so-called free fishing right. This means you can fish without a license or permit. However, free fishing is often restricted by allowed baits, number of rods, catch limits, and other conditions. For example, you may only fish with natural baits and with one rod. Of course, you also need to comply with Swiss animal protection laws. Here you will find a directory of these waters.

Since fishing in Switzerland is regulated by the cantons, each canton has different systems that determine how and where you can fish. There are three systems.

• Patent System

  All or almost all waters in the canton are accessible to everyone through a cantonal fishing license.

• Lease System

  All waters are leased, meaning the fishing rights are temporarily or permanently in private ownership.

• Hybrid System

  A combination of the patent system and the lease system.

Anyone wishing to obtain a fishing license in Switzerland that is valid for more than 30 days must acquire the so-called Sachkunde-Nachweis (SaNa). This is obtained through self-study followed by attendance at a course with a final success assessment. During the process, participants learn to identify fish species, handle fish and crustaceans in an animal-friendly manner, and gain general knowledge about fish and aquatic habitats. The exam consists of 50 questions drawn from a catalog of 150 questions. The course usually lasts 7 hours.

More information can be found at:

There are also many bodies of water in Switzerland where fish are stocked to enhance the fishing experience. These are often smaller ponds or mountain lakes located in beautiful and peaceful surroundings. At these stocked trout ponds, anglers can usually purchase daily permits, which often set a catch limit. Alternatively, the catch is sometimes calculated based on weight. These waters are often particularly beginner-friendly, as they have a good fish population. A day at a trout pond is a great way to try fishing and enjoy nature at the same time. Some of these waters are listed here:

This article summarizes the most important legal guidelines for fishing in Switzerland.

• Each canton has specific legal regulations. Often, these differ even from water body to water body.
• In some cantons, fishing is only allowed during certain times of the day (e.g., only during daylight hours).
• Catch limits and minimum sizes are restricted in many waters to protect fish stocks and ensure sustainable use.
• In flowing waters in Switzerland, barbed hooks are prohibited. In most waters, live bait fishing is banned.
• Many waters have protected areas that serve as refuges for fish.
• Some fish species are protected, and others can only be caught in specific seasons. Waters that contain wild trout are often closed in winter.
• Fishing with the sole purpose of releasing all caught fish is not allowed. Fish that naturally occur in the water may be released for ecological reasons.

Our database lists all recorded waters, fishing clubs and fishing shops in Switzerland.