Finland is a real paradise for fishing enthusiasts. It is a land of a thousand lakes and numerous rivers, which offers anglers many places for fruitful fishing. Whether you are a pro angler or an amateur fisherman, there’s a place for everyone in Finland! Below are some of our suggestions.
Saimaa Lake
An obligatory point on the map of every angler is the largest lake in Finland – Saimaa. Here we can go for such fish as pike, zander, or perch. In the summer season, these fish are so active both in the morning and in the evening that every angler has a good chance of successful fishing.
Recommended places at Lake Saimaa:
- Puumala region – one of the best places for pike fishing.
- Pihlajavesi Bay – perfect for zander fishing.
Teno River
For salmon fans, a real paradise is the Teno River, located in the north of Finland. Teno is one of the most important salmon rivers in Europe, attracting both professional anglers and amateurs. The best time to catch large specimens is spring and summer, when salmon migrate up the river.
Lake Inari
For anglers who are looking for peace and quiet, but at the same time want to try their hand at fishing for trout, grayling, and netting, the perfect place is Lake Inari. Inari is located north of the Arctic Circle and is one of the cleanest and wildest lakes in Finland. Every trip to this place is an unforgettable adventure.
The Vuoksi River – A Classic of Finnish Fishing
One of the most famous fishing spots in Finland is the Vuoksi River, flowing through the Karelia region. Vuoksi waters are rich in fish such as pike, zander, as well as trout and salmon. One of the most famous sections of the river is located in the village of Imatra, where anglers have excellent conditions for predatory fish fishing.
Preparing for Fishing in Finland – A Few Practical Tips
However, before we go fishing in Finnish waters, it is worth remembering several important issues:
- Fishing licenses – Finland has different licenses, depending on the type of catch and location. Anglers using methods such as spinning and trolling must purchase a national license, the so-called “Kalastonhoitomaksu”. In addition, local permits may be required in certain waters.
- Fishing season – Depending on the region and species of fish, the fishing season may vary. For example, fishing for Atlantic salmon in the Teno River is highly regulated and takes only a few months per year.
- Right equipment – Finnish waters, especially northern lakes and rivers, are often demanding. Therefore, it is worth getting solid equipment that will cope with changing weather conditions and during a meeting with pike or salmon 😉
- Nature conservation – Finland attaches great importance to the protection of its wild environment. Anglers are required to comply with local fish and environmental regulations, such as catch limits and catch-and-release rules.
So whether you are an amateur or a professional angler, Finland is waiting for you with open arms and plenty of fishing challenges!