The Great Reed Warbler nests in large, continuous and perennial reed beds in nutrient-rich lakes, river mouths and lagoons. The nest is a deep, basket-like construction built firmly between a number of stout reed stems, usually 40–100 cm above the water surface. The female normally lays 3–6 eggs, and the species generally has one brood per year. The incubation is done mainly by the female and lasts about two weeks.