On a weekday afternoon, two friends who cycled in from Zaandam were fishing from De Ruijterkade behind Central Station, and they say they keep going all winter.
The Amsterdam Angling Association says its membership grew from 14,500 to 16,000 over the past year, with many young people among the newcomers.
Over the past five years, the number of free youth permits it issues, which let children under 14 fish with one rod in local waters, has risen by 45%.
Its youth coordinator says parents know less about the sport than they used to, so online media now help draw young people in.
Fishing videos reach young audiences
Niels Traa posts fishing tips on TikTok to nearly 25,000 followers, most of them aged 12 to 24.
Daniel Hop started his Vismeester account two and a half years ago and now has more than 65,000 TikTok followers.
According to the association, a youth permit costs €15 to €35 a year and basic gear about €45.
Some young anglers say the hobby still strains their budgets because they always want the latest gear.
If you are pricing up a new rod, check out our directory of sports shops in Amsterdam.