Matjes are "virgin" herrings - still without roe or milk, but already with a higher fat content for reproduction, which makes them particularly tender.
Except for the pancreas, whose enzymes account for the distinctive taste and the tender yet firm consistency, the fish is traditionally stored in an oak barrel.

The short fishing season, in the North Sea from May to July, is a special event for all herring fishermen, which is celebrated everywhere - also in Emden.
During the Herring Days at the end of May, the Ratsdelft - formerly the landing stage for the herring cutters - becomes a promenade: Live bands play, the Emder Laufgemeinschaft organises its "Matjes Run", which has become a tradition. And, of course, maties will be served, as well as other fish dishes.

A magnet for the 150,000 or so visitors each year, however, are the many traditional ships from Germany and abroad that moor in the Binnenhafen (Inland Harbour) and Ratsdelft on these days and bring a breath of the long-gone seafaring romance back to the city.