For a country with just one coastline, Germany has a deep appreciation for fish, especially pollock, herring and mackerel. From the bustling Fischmarkt in Hamburg to the legendary Fischbrötchen stands scattered across Northern Germany, seafood is a staple—especially among those looking for heart-healthy options. Although rising prices and concerns about put a damper on average consumption in recent years, aquaculture and responsible sourcing are working to turn the tide. Germans love their herring in in fresh, pickled canned or frozen form – all providing a nutritious, delicious boost to the diet.
Northern Germany: Where Fish is König
Not surprisingly, the biggest Fisch-Fans live in the northern states—Hamburg, Sachsen, Schleswig-Holstein, Berlin, Brandenburg, and Bremen—where seafood is a way of life. And no fish has had a bigger impact on German history than the humble Hering.
Herring has been a staple since the 12th century, fueling the rise of the Hanseatic League, the powerful trade network that made cities like Lübeck, Bremen, and Hamburg incredibly wealthy. Fishermen in Lübeck had prime access to the herring spawning grounds off the Swedish coast, but keeping the fish fresh was tricky. Enter Hamburg, which had access to salt mines near Kiel, allowing them to preserve the fish and turn it into a major export. This salty trade made herring one of the most influential fish in European history.
Fischbrötchen, Rollmops & Matjes: Germany’s Best-Kept Seafood Secrets
Germany’s love for fish goes beyond history—it’s all about flavor. And if you’ve never experienced the joy of a Fischbrötchen, it’s time to change that.
–Fischbrötchen – The iconic German fish sandwich, usually made from breaded pollock or with Bismarckhering or soused herring, sliced onions, pickles, and sauce remoulade. Best enjoyed fresh from a harbor-side stand.
–Rollmops – Pickled herring fillets rolled around slices of onion, gherkins, or olives. A Katerfrühstück (hangover breakfast) staple, thanks to its electrolyte-restoring powers.
–Bismarck Herring – a German specialty of pickled herring fillets, named after 19th century German chancellor Otto von Bismarck
–Matjeshering – Young, tender herring pickled in brine, often served with boiled potatoes, apple slices, and creamy sauce. It’s so beloved that Germany throws Matjes Festivals every summer.
–Kieler Sprotten – Smoked sprats (a cousin of herring) from the Bay of Eckernförde, known for their golden shimmer and rich, smoky taste. True Kieler Sprotten must come from Kiel to earn the name.
Why Heart Doctors Love Herring (And You Should Too)
Besides being delicious, herring and other oily fish are packed with Omega-3 fatty acids, which do wonders for your heart, brain, and overall health.
-Supports heart health – Reduces abnormal heart rhythms, lowers blood pressure, and helps prevent artery plaque buildup.
-Boosts brain function – Essential for memory, mood, and focus.
-Loaded with nutrients – High in Vitamin D, B12, iron, and protein, making it a powerhouse for energy and immune support.
In one tin of herring in oil, the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Ernährung (German Nutritionist Association) found a high amount of essential nutrients: 1.8 grams Omega-3 Fatty Acids: 14.3 grams Protein: 18 µg Vitamin D (Calciferol); and 871 µg Iron (Eisen). Compare the cost of a can of herring with your average supplements and you’ll become a canned herring fan.
The American Heart Association recommends eating at least two servings of fish per week, especially oily fish like Lachs (salmon), Makrele (mackerel), and Hering. And if you’re not sure how to fit it into your diet, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered.
Where to Get the Best German Fisch (No Fishing Required)
Skip the grocery store hunt and grab some of Germany’s best canned and pickled fish online. Brands like Appel and Ruegenfisch bring authentic Baltic and North Sea flavors straight to your pantry.
Purchase the Baltic Sea Herring Sampler
Northern German Composed Salad Recipe
German-Style Herring Salad Recipe
Do your heart (and taste buds) a favor—add more Fisch to your life.
