Many young people fishing: "In the predator fishing world, we are known as Zanderdam"

Fishing is seeing a significant rise in popularity among young people in Amsterdam, with the local angling association recording thousands of new members. The city has even gained the nickname Zanderdam among predatory fishing enthusiasts, as many youths choose to trade screen time for outdoor activities along the canals.
Fishing has surged in popularity among youth in Amsterdam, with the local angling association reporting 2,000 new members over the past year. Children like eleven-year-olds Jaydee and Pepe have taken up the hobby, often choosing to spend their time outdoors along the city's canals rather than staring at screens. This shift is being observed across the city, as many young people seek a genuine connection with nature and a way to relax.
Fishing guide Juul Steyn notes that the city has earned the nickname Zanderdam within the predatory fishing community due to the abundance of zander, or snoekbaars, in the local waters. Experts believe this trend reflects a broader desire among younger generations to find meaningful offline activities. By focusing on the water and the fish, these new anglers are finding a sense of peace and community that traditional indoor hobbies often fail to provide.
Based on reporting by rss. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.


