The inundation project for the river Danube (Donau) between 1870 und 1875 not only changed the outline of the river completely but layed the foundation for a vast recreational area, including former arms of the river near the City center. Fishing on the backwater called “Old Danube“ (Alte Donau) has been managed by the OEFG since the club’s foundation in 1880.

The beat encompasses the complete former bed of the river Danube from Floridsdorf to Stürzlwasser, including the so called “water park“ (Wasserpark) and the “Emperor’s water“ (Kaiserwasser). Opening day is 1st of March and fishing is allowed from boat and bank. The “Old Danube“ beat is comparable to a clear lowland lake, differing considerably from the river Danube in water chemistry, temperature regime and biological aspects. The “Old Danube“ covers a space of 156 ha (approximately 280 acres). Its chief supply is from the ground water as well as from a few springs.

The area provides excellent fishing for carp, pike, tench, European catfish (“Wels“) and eels. Extensive weed beds offer excellent sport for bream, roach and rudd as well as perch, whereas the hard fighting asp prefers more open water. The Old Danube is well known among experts for big fish: catfish up to 120 lbs, carp (20-40 lbs) and pike above 20 lbs are figured in the yearly catch records.

A state licence for Vienna (“Amtliche Fischerkarte Wien“) is compulsory (available at our office) !