Fishing along the Körös is a way of life for many people, but it is also a special experience for those who try it as part of a holiday. The Szarvas backwater is ideal for this: calm waters, rich fish stocks and the kind of tranquillity that slows you down immediately.
Whether you're just trying out fishing on holiday, or you're an experienced angler but don't know the rules and procedures for fishing in the Saras, we've got the basics.
Fishing in Szarvas - how does the licence work?
In Hungary, you can only fish with a valid licence, and it's no different in Szarvas.
Basically, you need three things:
- state fishing licence
- Catch logbook
- an area ticket (specifically for the water where you want to fish)
A day ticket can now be redeemed in several ways. One of the easiest ways is to do it online at Hungarian National Fishing Association in its system, where, after registering, you can obtain all the necessary documents in just a few steps (look for „T(the ”Buy a ticket” menu item).
If you prefer to do it in person, you can also buy tickets at local fishing shops, where you can also get the basic information you need about the water area rules and current information.
Fishing in Szarvas: can you take the fish you catch?
Some of the fish caught on the Holt-Körös in Szarvas can be taken and consumed in accordance with the local fishing regulations, but size, species and quantity restrictions apply in all cases, so knowledge of the rules is mandatory (the rules are updated every year).
- the noble fish (e.g. carp, perch, pike, amur, bream) can be taken
- there are size and piece limits
- the daily/annual quota must be respected
- certain specimens must be returned (e.g. too small or too large according to the rule).
No fishing gear? How to get started
If you don't have your own fishing gear, you don't have to invest in a complete set just to try out fishing in the Szarvas. At Palov's Guesthouse, you can rent a hobby fishing set, perfect for a relaxed day of fishing on the pier. This is not professional equipment, but an easy to use, basic set-up to try out the sport.
However, the Holt-Körös is not only ideal for fishing, but also for many other water experience for those who want to actively explore the area.
Don't forget!!! Before you go fishing the tourist ticket must be replaced!
If you still want your own equipment, you can buy it in fishing shops in Szarvas.
What fish live in the Holt-Körös in Szarvas?
One of the great advantages of the waters around Szarvas is the variety of fish. Common catches include carp, grass carp, pike, zander, catfish and various species of bream.
This means that almost every fishing method has its place - from peaceful fishing to predation.
Interesting fact: the calm waters of the estuary mean that many fish grow really big here, so it's not uncommon to catch some big fish.
And let's not forget the children! Yes, they need to buy a day ticket too.
Even though real „professional” fishing isn’t exactly meant for kids, the float fishing version can be a real treat for them, since there are lots of tiny „sneci” swimming around the piers all day long.
When should you go fishing in Szarvas?
The Körös River is a season-long experience, but there are a few good times.
In spring and autumn, fish tend to be more active, with many people swearing by the early morning and evening hours. In summer, the heat during the day can slow down the catches, but the water comes back to life in the early morning and around sunset.
And of course there is night fishing in Szarvas: silence and cooler air are the best bait :)
Fishing etiquette - what to look out for on the water
One of the greatest assets of the Szarvas Lagoon is its tranquillity. This is partly ensured by the fact that anglers and holidaymakers look after each other.
What to look out for when fishing:
- Keep a reasonable distance from other anglers.
- Throw the fitting in so as not to disturb others.
- Watch out for people around you, especially those on the water.
- If your gear also gives an audible alarm (e.g. a catch alarm), set it at a volume that won't disturb resters - especially at night.
An unwritten rule: when in doubt, ask questions. Most anglers will be helpful, especially if they see you have a respectful attitude towards the sport and the fish.
More than just fishing - the Körös lakeside atmosphere
What makes many people love fishing in the Szarvas is not just the fish. It's the whole experience. For many people, fishing is not really about catching fish, but about the peace and quiet of being able to enjoy a little get away from it all.
The proximity of water, the slower pace, the morning mist over the estuary, or a quiet evening on the pier - these are the moments that make you long to go back.
Spending a few days here will give you a completely different experience to just popping out for a few hours. There's time to wait it out, observe the water and really get into it. And, of course, it's worthwhile to have other activities programmes in Szarvas also plan for.
Whether you've been fishing for a long time or you're just starting out and want to try it in a truly relaxed environment, the Szarvas Lagoon is ideal for both.
At Palov’s Guesthouse, the proximity of the water is not just a sight to behold—it also sets the rhythm of your days here. The private dock, the direct waterfront access, the peaceful surroundings, and the fully equipped vacation home all come together to create an experience where fishing isn’t a separate activity, but a natural part of relaxation.
If this atmosphere is close to you, we welcome you to Palov's Guesthouse, where you can enjoy the the waterfront is really only a few steps away from you.
