Paardenvissers

Fishermen mounted on Brabant draft horses wade into the North Sea waters to catch grey shrimp using traditional nets while navigating the coastal shallows with remarkable skill.

This centuries-old tradition developed when coastal communities discovered that horses could access shallow fishing grounds during low tide periods that were otherwise unreachable by conventional methods.

UNESCO recognized this practice in 2013 as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, celebrating its role in preserving local maritime identity through annual festivals and community celebrations.

Demonstrations occur regularly from April to September, lasting approximately 45 minutes each session, with safety guidelines provided to visitors who observe from designated shoreline areas.

This fishing method represents one of the world's last remaining traditions where horses and riders collaborate in marine environments to sustain traditional subsistence activities.

Location: Koksijde

Address: Zeedijk, 8670 Koksijde, Belgium 8670 Koksijde

Phone: +3258512910

Website: https://paardevissers.be

GPS coordinates: 51.13438,2.66967

Latest update: October 2, 2025 13:46