Did you know that Helmuth-Schack-See was once a moor? Before this peaceful lake existed there was the Deesmoor a remnant of a glacial valley. Now the Helmuth-Schack-See sits nestled within Hamburg’s Bornpark a tranquil spot on the city’s western edge. It’s a small lake only 330 meters long with a maximum depth of 19 meters. But don’t let its size fool you. This little lake has a big story.
The Helmuth-Schack-See is more than just a pretty place. It’s a vital part of the local ecosystem. The Düpenau stream flows right through it connecting the lake to the Elbe River and eventually the North Sea. The lake bed is covered with mud plants and stones. The water is murky. The shallows are thick with water lilies and reeds.
Anglers frequent the Helmuth-Schack-See. But access is limited. Only six fishing spots are available. You need to be a member of an angling club to cast a line here. If you are a member you might catch some eel perch carp pike or even a tench. The Angler-Interessen-Gemeinschaft von 1962 e V manages the fishing rights.
The lake’s name is a tribute to Helmuth Schack affectionately known as “Opa Schack”. He was a beloved local seaman. He taught children to sail on the lake in small boats. A sign in the Born Center still tells his story. He was a kind man a true heart of the Osdorfer Born neighborhood.
The Helmuth-Schack-See is a testament to nature’s resilience and human connection. It’s a reminder that even in a bustling city pockets of tranquility and history can thrive. The lake is not only a haven for wildlife and anglers but also a treasured memory of a man who shaped the community. It is a place where the past meets the present a peaceful oasis in the heart of a vibrant city. So take a moment to appreciate this little gem next time you are in Hamburg.