Catfish Fishing in the Danube Delta at Holbina Trei Bibani
Catfish is the king of the Danube Delta waters — a massive predator that fights long and hard and rewards the angler's patience with one of the most intense sport fishing experiences. In Holbina's private lakes, catfish grow undisturbed all year round, and our guides know exactly where the big specimens hide.
Holbina catfish: the giant of the Delta's waters
Catfish (Silurus glanis) is Europe's largest freshwater fish and a bottom-dwelling predator, most active during the cooler hours of the day and at night. In Holbina's lakes, the catfish population is dense and well maintained, and fights with the big specimens can last tens of minutes. This is the trip for anglers looking for a test of endurance, not just catch count.
When catfish fishing is best
The optimal period for catfish at Holbina is May-June and September-October, when water temperature favours the predator's activity. Catfish are most active early morning, late evening and at night — a good catfish session often calls for patience and a trip outside the usual fishing hours. Since these are private lakes, our guides can arrange a night session on request.
No closed season on private lakes
Just like pike, catfish in Holbina's lakes are not subject to the closed seasons applied to the Danube Delta's public waters, managed by ARBDD. The resort's private lakes are managed directly by Holbina, so catfish fishing stays legal all year round.
Technique and gear for catfish
Recommended gear: a rod of about 3.6 m, a 4000-size reel and 0.30 mm line — catfish demand sturdy equipment, capable of handling long fights. Fishing is done exclusively with artificial lures, per Holbina's rules; live bait is always prohibited. Our guides help you choose the right lure for each lake and time of day.
Catch & release: how we protect the catfish population
Every catfish caught at Holbina is photographed and released safely, with proper handling for a fish of this size — a suitable landing net and a receiving mat. The single-hook-per-lure rule and the ban on live bait apply here too, keeping the lakes stocked with big specimens, year after year.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best season for catfish fishing at Holbina?
May-June and September-October are the optimal periods, when water temperature favours catfish activity. Since these are private lakes, though, you can book a great session at any time of year.
Can I fish for catfish at night at Holbina?
Yes. Catfish are most active in the evening, at night and early morning. Our guides can arrange sessions during these hours, on request.
What gear is recommended for catfish fishing?
A rod of about 3.6 m, a 4000-size reel and 0.30 mm line. Fishing is done exclusively with artificial lures, live bait being prohibited under the rules.
Can I fish for catfish during the closed season?
Yes. The closed season applies to the Danube Delta's public waters, not to Holbina's private lakes, which are managed directly by the resort.
How much does a fishing package cost at Holbina?
Weekday packages start at 2,500 lei/person for 3 days and include boat fishing, double room accommodation, full board and return transfer from Dunavatul de Jos. The full list is on the Offers page.
Plan your stay at Holbina
Contact us for reservations and personalised offers.