Fishing is highly popular in the EU continent, as the region is home to countless breathtaking lakes, rivers, and coastlines. These pristine waters invite fishing enthusiasts from all over the world to enjoy the serene beauty of nature and the thrill of fishing.
What distinguishes European fishing is its strict regulations, dedication to environmental protection, and pursuit of “quiet fishing.” The goal is to ensure that both the aquatic species and the people around you don’t get disturbed. In this environment, a solar power station has become an essential piece of core equipment for modern anglers, providing reliable power support for fishing trips.
If you want to know more about fishing in the EU and the right equipment to pack, keep reading!
Core Rules and Challenges of European Fishing
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Fishing License and Fishing Rights
Many EU countries require a fishing license before you start fishing, which you can obtain from the member state or regional authorities. For example, if you plan to fish in Germany, you will need to apply for a license at the local town hall (Rathaus), at a cost of approximately €25.
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Catch & Release
As the name suggests, catch and release is an angling practice where a fish is carefully caught and then immediately returned to its natural habitat. This is particularly important if the fish is of a prohibited size or species.
Fishing regulations, which vary by region, often limit the number of salmon and trout that can be kept. In the UK, for example, there is a legal daily quota that each angler is permitted to harvest[1].
- 1 pike (up to 65 cm)
- 2 grayling (between 30 cm and 38 cm)
- 15 small fish (up to 20 cm), including species such as barbel, chub, common bream, dace, perch, and common carp.
When practising catch and release, caution is essential to ensure the fish does not undergo excessive stress or physical harm, which could jeopardise its survival and the health of its population.
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Zero Tolerance for Noise and Pollution
Global warming is severely impacting the world, and the EU is no exception, which is the fastest-warming continent. One of the major drivers behind this is high GHG emissions from traditional fuel sources.
Consequently, many regions now have strict policies to prevent people from riding a fuel-powered fishing boat on lakes. Even during fishing, you are required to maintain a very low profile and not make loud noises. Otherwise, the people around you and the fish might get disturbed, leading to heavy fines.
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Extended Outdoor Stays
If you are eager to catch specific species such as a catfish or pike, you might have to do night fishing or multi-day fishing. In such a scenario, don’t forget to bring in your necessary equipment and devices to prevent any discomfort. Also, seek permission to stay overnight near the water body, depending on your region.
Overview of Fishing Knowledge
Summer is indeed the most productive and promising fishing season in the EU. During this time, you’ll have access to almost all saltwater and freshwater species. So don’t forget to plan your trip during this season. However, you need to master the basic knowledge before arriving, such as the right fishing techniques and the best spots to try. There are two popular European fishing techniques:
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Carp Fishing Method[2][3]
Carp are powerful freshwater fish, easily recognised by their robust, deep-bodied profile and scales that range in colour from gold and yellow to dark bronze.
Typically, carp fishing involves attracting carp to a specific area with bait and presenting it on a specialised rig. Carp are cautious feeders known to mouth and taste bait carefully. A well-presented rig is designed to exploit this feeding behaviour, increasing the chance of a successful hook-set when the fish takes the bait.
If you need suggestions about rig types you can use to do simply fishing, then hair rigs and pop-up rigs are ideal. You can employ either live baits, such as worms and minnows, or artificial ones, like a variety of eco-friendly soft plastics.
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English Feeder Fishing
English feeder fishing is another approach that you can try to capture wild fish species. So what happens is that you use a device called a “feeder” to attract fish to the hook. It’s actually a basket or cage that’s filled with dissolvable bait.
As soon as the feeder enters water, the bait dissolves, creating a cloudy environment and scent that attracts aquatic creatures. There are different types of feeders to explore, including block-end feeders, open-ended cage feeders, and feeder bombs.
It doesn’t matter which fishing method you are adopting; patience is the key to having a great catch. Let your fish find the bait, and don’t be eager to reel in the feeder too quickly. Also, practice your rig-tying skills, so you’ll have a less stressful and more enjoyable day on the water.
Recommended European Fishing Spots
Wondering which European fishing spots can prove to be a fish heaven for you? Here are a few picks that aren’t only beautiful but also provide you with good catches:
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Serbia’s Gradač River[4]
Serbia’s Gradač River is 11 km long and varies in width from 5 to 20 m. What’s truly amazing is that the chemical and biological composition of water is purely clean. It’s warmer temperature averages around 13 degrees Celsius, and there are over 800 species of plants and 100 species of birds.
You can find a variety of fish in the water, ranging from the mighty salmon that grows to a huge 70 inches, to grayling. If you plan to stay near the river, there are many guest houses that can accommodate you, such as the Tetrebovac guest house.
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Italy’s Po River[5][6]
As Italy’s longest river, the Po flows from west to east across a vast basin of 71,000 square kilometres and discharges the highest volume of water at its mouth.
It is the ideal destination for anglers dreaming of a legendary catch. Here, you can typically land catfish weighing between 20 to 40 kg and measuring over 2 meters, with some record-breaking specimens reported to weigh around 114 kg. The prime fishing seasons are April and May, though September also offers good opportunities.
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Italy’s Lake Trasimeno[7]
Italy’s Lake Trasimeno is situated in the heart of Umbria, surrounded by reeds and mesmerising white lilies. For nature lovers, it’s heaven on Earth as it’s home to wild ducks, cormorants, and kingfishers.
Fishing is excellent year-round for species like carp, pike, perch, red shrimp, and catfish. Quaint towns dot the shoreline, many right on the water’s edge, making it easy to find the perfect base for both fishing and exploring the region.
The Importance of Solar Generators
Now that you are aware of the basic fishing methods and spots in the EU, you must be looking for a power solar generator. But why a solar model? What benefits does it offer? Let’s find out!
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Environmentally Friendly
First things first, solar generators are eco-friendly. Since they use solar energy to produce electricity, there is no risk of harmful greenhouse gas emissions. The energy produced is clean, ensuring you have a fishing adventure without spoiling the environment.
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Silent Operation
Unlike traditional generators that have moving parts, solar generators operate very quietly. They have solar panels that make no noise while converting sunlight into electricity. This silent operation allows you to have fun without disturbing neighbours, other fishers, and even the aquatic lifestyle.
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Portability
Solar generators are quite lightweight and compact as they don’t feature a fuel tank, which is generally present in fuel generators. You can carry them around easily to have stable power at the fishing spot without worrying about additional load.
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Cost-Effective Feature
Considering the high energy prices, opting for fuel power stations was no longer viable. Solar generators might seem expensive upfront, but they actually save you money in the long run.
Sunlight is free, so you don’t need to spend money on refuelling. In addition, it requires minimal maintenance and repairs, which further translates to cost savings.
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Energy Independence
Remote fishing spots might not always have access to grid electricity. In such a situation, carrying your own solar generator can provide energy independence.
You can charge your essential navigational and communication devices without any stress. On top of this, you can use it to power an electric grill and oven to enjoy freshly cooked fish right on the spot.
Jackery Solar Generator
Need a reliable power source for your next fishing trip? Jackery is the one-stop shop. Here are the top two suggestions to suit different needs and budgets:
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Jackery Solar Generator 240 v2
Jackery Solar Generator 240 v2 can satisfy your basic electronics and lighting devices.
- Possessing a 256 Wh capacity and 300 W output, it delivers stable power to all the connected devices.
- It’s extremely lightweight, weighing around 7.94 lbs, so you can take it anywhere easily. The latest version got an upgrade, from NCM battery to LFP battery, that lasts for 3,000 lifecycles, providing peace of mind.
- Versatile charging options, including solar, wall, and car charging options.
- It operates at 42dB and releases zero emissions, which makes it a safe choice for EU water bodies.
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Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2
However, if you are in search of something more powerful, the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2 is your best bet.
- With its 1070 Wh power capacity and 1500 W power output, it can power all small to large outdoor equipment, ensuring complete energy independence.
- It has ChargeShield 2.0 technology with 62 protection layers that protect the generator and all connected appliances.
- The Lifepo4 battery lasts for 4,000 cycles, offering a 10-year lifespan even with daily usage.
- Compatible with the Jackery app, where you can turn on the Emergency Charge Mode to have it full in less than an hour.
- Operates at less than 22dB, so you can soak in nature’s beauty without disturbing the peace.
Fishing Gear Checklist
Now, go through the following checklist to make sure you’ve got everything you need for a great trip:
- Fishing Tackle: You should carry the fishing tackle essentials, including rods, reels, and lures. Always check with local authorities to confirm that your lures are approved for use in the area. Note that some lead lures may not be used as they are toxic materials and can pollute the aquatic environment.
- Portable Fish Finder: Get a portable fish finder, a compact handheld device that uses wireless sonar transducers to project sound waves and interpret the returning echoes, displaying underwater information. If you need recommendations, then the Garmin Striker 4 series is a good choice.
- GPS Device/Offline Maps on Mobile Phones: Getting lost while exploring the lake is not an uncommon occurrence. Therefore, you should carry a portable GPS device, such as a compass, and download offline maps, like Google Maps, to find your way back to the site.
- Camp Lights and Headlamps: If you plan to stay overnight at the lake, it’s essential to have sufficient lighting options, such as camp lights and headlamps. They provide necessary illumination so you can catch fish easily and don’t fall victim to tripping incidents.
- Documents: Don’t forget to pack your important documents, especially the passport and a valid fishing license. You can either apply online for that or come in person and get it at a local fishing tackle store.
Conclusion
Fishing in the EU is a surreal experience as the region has heartwarming water bodies that are sure to impress visitors. Looking for reliable and budget-friendly power solutions for your adventures? Contact Jackery today and get your hands on a green and quiet solar generator!