Experience a traditional German tournament, complete with jousting competitions, taking place along the Danube river reminiscent of medieval times
The Unique Fischerstechen Jousting Tournament in Ulm, Germany
The Fischerstechen, a historic jousting tournament held on the waters of the Danube River, is a unique fusion of medieval spirit and river culture in Ulm, Germany. This event, which has been a part of the city's tradition since the mid-16th century, is organised by the local fisherfolk's guild in partnership with the city[1].
Unlike traditional jousting tournaments that take place on horseback on dry land, the Fischerstechen involves competitors standing on flat-bottomed wooden boats called "Zillen," each crewed by three rowers and one "jouster" armed with a long spear[3]. The objective is to knock each other into the Danube River while maintaining balance and teamwork[1].
The Fischerstechen is a boat joust that offers a water-based element of risk and spectacle, with participants dressed as figures from local history[3][4]. The event goes beyond two men pushing each other into the water, as it represents an important part of being from Ulm and a reflection of the city's spirit[2].
The tournament begins with a musical parade across the city, featuring jousters and members of the guild in elaborate costumes. The parade starts at the city's gothic Ulm Minster church and passes through various city landmarks, including the Central Library and old town's romantic back streets[5].
Participation in the Fischerstechen is reserved for the descendants of Ulm's original fishing families[1]. Florian Fischer, a participant who has competed in seven tournaments, explains that he has never given second thoughts to participating, as it is a source of pride for him[2]. Despite the physical challenges, he has broken one rib and bruised two others[6].
For Fischer, the dedication to the Fischerstechen goes a step further, as he always arrives early to see the water and the current before the event[7]. Each combatant must absorb the impact from the other while maintaining their balance, without ducking or dodging[8]. The objective is for 15 pairs of jousters to go lance to lance over the course of two tournament days[9].
Another notable character in the tournament is the White Fisher, a spectral wraith dressed entirely in white, considered the guardian spirit of Ulm's fisherfolk[10]. Tickets for the Fischerstechen can be obtained through the Maritim Hotel Ulm's website[1].
For those planning to attend, Memmingen Airport is a nearby airport where travelers can fly to. A DB shuttle and train combination ticket can be used to get to Ulm[11]. The spectators are introduced to the participants of the Fischerstechen, some of whom have been in the tournament for hundreds of years and others who have joined recently[1].
The Fischerstechen is a must-see event for those interested in history, culture, and unique traditions. Its combination of medieval jousting, historical reenactment, and aquatic challenge makes it a unique and exciting experience.
Travelers planning to attend the Fischerstechen should consider flying to Memmingen Airport, as a DB shuttle and train combination ticket can be used to reach Ulm. At the tournament, spectators will witness a boat joust featuring descendants of Ulm's original fishing families, dressed in costumes representative of local history, alongside the legendary White Fisher, the guardian spirit of Ulm's fisherfolk. The event is not just a spectacle of two men pushing each other into the Danube River, but a reflection of the city's rich history and spirit, with competitors standing on wooden boats and competing to knock each other into the river while maintaining balance, skill, and teamwork.
