Our story · Updated 10 November 2026 · 6 min
Since 1938: generations of fish on the Herenstraat
From Gerrit Schaap’s shop in 1938 to today: the story of a familiar Leiden fishmonger in five chapters.
By Schaap’s Vishandel · fishmonger since 1938
Walk along the Herenstraat in Leiden and you may notice fresh fish, fried kibbeling and smoked mackerel before you see the shop. Number 48 has housed Schaap’s Vishandel since 1938. This is the story of a business that has served generations of Leiden residents.
1938 — Gerrit Schaap starts the business
Gerrit Schaap opened his fish shop when neighbourhood fishmongers were part of everyday life in Leiden. His name stayed with the shop and remains above it today.
1957 — the Haasnoot family takes over
Cor Haasnoot began working for Mr Schaap at thirteen, learning the trade from the ground up. He took over the business in 1957. The Schaap name stayed as a tribute to the founder, and the Haasnoot family became associated with it throughout fish-loving Leiden.
2009 — the third generation
In 2009, the third generation officially took over. The shop moved into the twenty-first century while keeping the personal, friendly atmosphere valued by customers. As Aldert Haasnoot puts it: ‘People come here for the fish, but also for a chat. Sometimes it feels like a meeting place for the neighbourhood.’
2018 — eighty years of memories
On 1 January 2018, the business celebrated eighty years. Customers contributed photographs and memories for an anniversary book, reflecting how the shop has been part of everyday life in the city.
Today — looking towards the fourth generation
Alongside the Herenstraat shop, the team also visits Leiden’s market on Wednesdays and Saturdays and Hoogvliet in Voorschoten on Fridays. The range has grown and the website has arrived, but the heart of the business remains fresh fish, honest advice and a good conversation.
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