Diving the Listertalsperre

Site Overview

Listertalsperre is a training and reef dive site in Central German Quarries & Lakes, Germany, reached from the base town of Attendorn. The Listertalsperre is the smaller sister reservoir to the Biggesee, with clear water, submerged trees and relaxed training dives. It is a quieter alternative in the Sauerland lake country. The site reaches a maximum depth of 25 m with an average profile around 14 m and a shallow start near 3 m, which places it firmly in the intermediate category and means divers should hold at least an Open Water certification. Conditions are typical of the freshwater lake environment: visibility generally runs from 4 to 14 metres, the current is weak, and the water temperature ranges between 5 and 20 degrees Celsius with low surge exposure. The marine community is centred on Northern Pike, European Perch, Zander, Common Roach, Common Rudd, European Eel, and the full species list is detailed below for divers planning a trip. The combination of slope, forest topography and rock and sand substrate gives Listertalsperre its distinctive character within the Central German Quarries & Lakes region. Listertalsperre is a strong representative of why German diving is so highly regarded, blending the geology, history and biodiversity that define the country's underwater exploration. It pairs naturally with the other sites of the Central German Quarries & Lakes region for a varied holiday, and with the right thermal protection and, where relevant, the correct specialist training, it offers a memorable dive for photographers, naturalists and wreck, reef or freshwater enthusiasts alike. As with every German dive, a drysuit and a careful respect for cold-water limits turn a good day into a great one.