Dive into Vodňany’s Traditional Fish Market: A Must-See Event in South Bohemia

Every year, there is a special event called the Vodňany Fishing Days that takes place in May. This town, which used to be a free royal town, has been known for its fish farming for more than 500 years. It has had a fishing school for almost a century, and for over fifty years, it has also been home to the Research Institute of Fisheries and Hydrobiology of the University of South Bohemia. This institute is well-known for its contributions to fisheries science, gaining recognition not just in the Czech Republic but internationally.
Vodňany, located in South Bohemia, is a town closely connected to water, and its name reflects this association. In addition to having the only secondary school of fisheries in the Czech Republic, the local museum and the Mostecký Mill also highlight water-related topics and fish farming. The Vodňany Fishing Days will kick off on Thursday, 21 May, and will wrap up on Saturday, 23 May. So, what exciting activities can you anticipate this year?

Delicious Fish and Expert Knowledge

The main attraction of this event is Svobody Square, where a traditional fair will be held on Saturday. At this fair, you will find craft stalls and opportunities to taste different fish dishes. Normally, Vodňany’s square hosts traditional markets every Saturday morning, but during the fishing days, these markets will be enhanced with stalls selling live fish and a variety of specialty fish dishes. Tasting sessions for these dishes will occur at places like Zátiší, Rechle, Na Valše, and Nad Velkou podvinicí.

Now, what about the cultural program? Visitors can enjoy a diverse musical line-up, featuring performances from children of the local music school and youth center, an eclectic band called VoŠuKa, and rock concerts in the evening at the Blanice site. Families can also enjoy a four-kilometer themed trail full of activities and board games. The Gelasta Vodňanský Library offers a special music program as part of the Vodňany Fishing Days, showcasing talented performers and bands. You can look forward to a varied lineup including acts like Detrofox, Dopamine Youth, Došly nápady, and Matěj.

Saturday 23 May will not only bring the popular fish market but also a lot of music and entertainment. Additionally, there will be a chance for visitors to enjoy Open Days at the facilities of the Faculty of Fisheries and Water Protection at the University of South Bohemia and the Secondary School of Fisheries. This is a unique opportunity to explore fish farming, visit the museum, and even see live sturgeons.