Angling Adventures in Finland's Wild Waters
Fly fishing in Finland 🇫🇮 is a fantastic experience, thanks to the country’s pristine lakes, rivers, and coastal waters teeming with fish like trout, grayling, pike, perch, and salmon. Here’s what you need to know:
Best Regions for Fly Fishing
Lapland (Lappi) – Remote rivers like the Teno (Tenojoki) and Naätämöjoki are legendary for Atlantic salmon and large trout.
Eastern Finland (Karelia) – Rivers such as Lieksanjoki and Pielisjoki offer great grayling and trout fishing.
Archipelago Sea & Coastal Areas – Sea-run brown trout and pike are common in brackish waters.
Central Finland (Lakeland) – Thousands of lakes with perch, pike, and trout (e.g., Lake Inari).
Key Fish Species
Atlantic Salmon (Teno River, one of Europe’s best salmon rivers).
Brown Trout (wild & stocked, found in rivers and lakes).
Grayling (abundant in clear, fast-flowing rivers).
Pike & Perch (great for warmwater fly fishing).
Best Time to Fish
May–June: Spring hatches (mayflies, caddis) for trout & grayling.
July–August: Salmon fishing peaks in Lapland.
September: Great for autumn trout and grayling.
Regulations & Licenses
Fishing permits are required (varies by region).
National fishing license (for state-owned waters) can be bought online: www.eraluvat.fi.
Private waters may require additional permits.
Catch-and-release is encouraged for salmon and trout.
Recommended Gear
Rods: 5–7 wt for trout/grayling, 8–10 wt for salmon/pike.
Flies: Nymphs (Pheasant Tail, Hare’s Ear), streamers (Zonkers, Clousers), dry flies (Elk Hair Caddis, Adams).
Waders & Boots (essential for river fishing).
Guides & Lodges
Tana River (Teno): Local guides for salmon fishing.
Wild Brown Trout Finland (specializes in trout trips).
Lakeland lodges offer boat access to lakes.
Tips
Mosquito repellent is a must in summer!
Respect nature – Finland has strict environmental laws.
Try ice fishing in winter for a unique experience.
Would you like recommendations for specific rivers or fly patterns? 🎣