Watersports

Watersports
There’s nothing Hungarians enjoy more than taking to the water; despite its relatively small size, the country has produced a wealth of swimmers who have made a splash on the international stage, and its water-polo team has dominated the world (winning gold in every one of the last eight Olympics). Lake Balaton is the main centre for watersports, providing opportunities for beginners and experts alike. Windsurfing, sailing and even wakeboarding – an offshoot of waterskiing in which the rider is pulled around a circuit by a mechanised pulley – are all extremely popular here. You’ll find a plethora of places to rent watercraft – from windsurfers to pedaloes – all around the shoreline.
Lake Balaton also offers some excellent fishing, with species including carp, pike-perch, eel, bream and razor fish. Permits are available from Tourinform offices, some post offices and tackle shops at the lakeside. Those who want to fish in the open water can hire boats from many of the landing stages. For further information, contact the National Federation of Hungarian Anglers (www.mohosz.hu); the organisation even operates a couple of anglers’ farms in Balatonszepezd (tel: +36 87 468113) and Tihany (tel: +36 30 946 4647) from where you can rent boats.