Fishermen's distress: crop failure due to cormorants threatens the Reibitz autumn festival!

Fishermen's distress: crop failure due to cormorants threatens the Reibitz autumn festival!

In Reibitz, a small community, preparations for the upcoming fishing at Schadebachteich are in full swing. Marcel Reinhardt, the owner of the fishery there, enthusiastically reports that large carp and kilo-heavy catfish are currently swimming in the holding tanks. “We are ready for the event on October 26th and 27th,” emphasizes Reinhardt. The previous harvest in Badrina Pond went without major incidents, but things could be different at Schadebach on the last weekend in October.

One important aspect Reinhardt wants to address is the impact of weather on fish populations. The frost, which caused problems for many fruit growers this spring, is more of an advantage for fishing. “We need a hard frost for several weeks,” he explains. These cold temperatures help fish regulate their metabolism, which is crucial to their health. If this frost is missing, the metabolism is high, and that is anything but good for the fish.

Challenges posed by nature and animals

However, the fishing industry also brings with it challenges. Cormorants and otters in particular can pose a significant threat. “These animals can cause us up to 20 percent crop loss,” warns Reinhardt. Every year the harvest is a gamble, and Reinhardt can only draw a comprehensive balance once all the ponds have been fished. Compared to the quiet harvest in Badrina, you will see a lot more activity during the big autumn fishing at Schadebachteich. The fishermen carry out their work there while numerous visitors look curiously at what is happening.

The event attracts thousands of people every year. With all this hustle and bustle, visitors have the opportunity to buy fresh fish and discover regional products at the craft and farmers market. Even in the early hours of the morning you can look over the shoulders of the fishermen at work and buy the fresh catch. This is a unique opportunity that many people don't want to miss.

Diverse offer for visitors

The event offers visitors not only the opportunity to buy fresh fish, but also a variety of fish specialties. Homemade game burgers, fish soup and flamed salmon attract guests. Smoked fish and various marinades are also on the menu. In addition to carp, tench and impressive catfish swim in the pond's waters, just waiting to be caught.

Reinhardt and his team are already looking forward to the numerous visitors and hope for nice weather on the two days. Travel arrangements have also been taken into account: there are sufficient parking spaces available in the surrounding farmland so that everyone can easily get to the event. This ensures that both fishermen and visitors can enjoy an unforgettable experience when the Schadebachteich becomes the venue for fishing.

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