Predatory fish
- Pike
- Zander
- Perch
- Catfish
- Eel
Fishing
Fishing on Lake Mellensee
Lake Mellensee lies around 50 kilometres south of Berlin near Zossen and is one of Brandenburg's state waterways. It connects to the surrounding water system via the Notte and the Notte canal — which is what makes it interesting for anglers, because fish move.
We are anglers ourselves. That means you get no glossy promises from us, but an honest account of what is running when — and the phone numbers of people who know even better.
Fish stocks
What swims in Lake Mellensee
The lake is commercially managed and holds both predatory fish and a healthy coarse fish population.
Coarse fish
- Carp
- Tench
- Bream
- Roach
- Rudd
As anywhere, the actual catch depends on season, weather and water level. If it is your first time here, you will do considerably better with a local guide.
Permits and licences
What you need before the first cast
In Brandenburg you need two things: permission for the specific water (the fishing permit) and — depending on how you fish — the fishing licence.
Permit for Lake Mellensee
The lake is managed by Fischerei Mellensee GbR. Day, week, month and year permits are available from the operator. Mention it when you enquire and we will tell you where to get a permit fastest at the moment.
Fishing licence
Fishing for predatory species in Brandenburg generally requires a fishing licence, issued after passing the angling examination. Coarse fishing is possible in Brandenburg without an examination; the fishing levy is payable in every case.
Closed seasons and size limits
Closed seasons, minimum sizes and permitted methods are set out in the Brandenburg fishing regulations. These change from time to time — check the current position with the state of Brandenburg before you travel.
These notes reflect our understanding and are not legal advice. The applicable rules of the state of Brandenburg and the conditions of the water's operator are what count.
Angling in Brandenburg (state government) (opens in a new tab)
Season
When it is worth the journey
Spring
March to May
The water warms and the coarse fish move into the shallows. A good time for tench and bream — and for quiet banks, because the swimming season has not started.
Summer
June to August
Early starts or late finishes. During the day the lake belongs to swimmers; mornings and evenings belong to anglers. Eel and catfish move on warm nights.
Autumn
Our pickSeptember to November
For many, the best time of year. Pike and zander are building reserves, the banks are empty and the forest is full of mushrooms. Our personal recommendation.
Winter
December to February
Quiet, clear and demanding. Anyone chasing zander in cold water has the lake almost to themselves. Afterwards: hot bath and the fire.
Practicalities
Why the apartment suits anglers
Room for tackle
Rods, nets and boots do not have to stand in the living room. There is space in the hallway and on the terrace, and wet gear is allowed to be wet.
Freezer for the catch
The fridge has a freezer compartment. Whatever you want to take home will survive the drive.
A kitchen for six
Freshly caught fish belongs in a pan, not in a restaurant. The kitchen is equipped for it.
Local contacts
We know the guides and fishermen in the region personally. Ask us before booking blind.
Boat hire
Rowing boats can be hired at the Klausdorf lido. With a valid permit you may fish on Lake Mellensee.
Out early, back late
You have your own key and your own rhythm. Setting off at four in the morning bothers nobody here.
Planning a fishing week?
Tell us your dates and what you are after — we will tell you honestly whether it fits.