Common Nase

Identification

The nase is a slender, streamlined fish with a distinctive horseshoe-shaped mouth on the underside of its head. With this hard lower jaw, it scrapes algae from rocks — a unique feeding technique among Dutch fish. The back is dark grey to greenish, the flanks silvery, and the belly white. During spawning season, males color spectacularly: orange-red pectoral and pelvic fins and a darker back. Can reach 50 cm and weigh over 2 kg.

Behavior & ecology

The nase lives in schools on the bottom of flowing rivers and large streams with gravel beds. Schools systematically graze rocks for algae, biofilm, and small invertebrates. In spring (March-May), nase schools migrate upstream to shallow gravel banks to spawn — a striking spectacle where hundreds of fish gather. The species requires clean, oxygen-rich water and undisturbed gravel substrate.

Fishing techniques

The nase is a popular sport fish in southern Limburg:

• Bait: Small pieces of bread or dough on a fine hook (size 14-18). Maggots and casters also work.
• Method: Light match or Bolognese technique in current. Present the bait just above or rolling along the bottom.

The nase fights powerfully in current and provides great sport on light tackle.

In the Netherlands

Found mainly in the Maas and Waal and their tributaries in Limburg and Gelderland. In the Geul and Gulp, the nase is a characteristic species. With 586 records, the most recent from 2024, the population appears stable.