Fisherman's Blog

This article marks the beginning of a multi-part column on the ecological quality of Finland’s waters, their importance for angling tourism, and the challenges the country faces in managing its aquatic ecosystems and fish populations.

With over 180,000 lakes, countless rivers, and an astonishing variety of species, Finland is one of Europe’s top fishing destinations. Pristine nature, clean waters, and diverse fish species such as zander, pike, perch, salmon, and grayling make fishing in Finland a truly unique experience – for beginners and seasoned anglers alike.

Yet Finland often flies under the radar as a fishing destination in Europe. While many anglers focus on well-known regions in Norway, Sweden, or even Central Europe, Finland offers an impressive range of opportunities – combined with a particularly high ecological quality of its waters. But how stable is this balance really?

What impacts do climate change, conflicting uses, or invasive species have on aquatic ecosystems? And how can sustainable fisheries management help preserve the country’s exceptional natural resources for the long term?

To gain deeper insight into these questions, I spoke with Dr. Petri Suuronen – one of Finland’s leading experts in fisheries research and aquatic ecosystem management. For over four decades, he has been working on the ecological assessment of water bodies, the development of sustainable use strategies, and resolving conflicts between human activity and nature. His perspective offers a valuable behind-the-scenes look at Finland’s water landscapes – and is essential reading for anyone interested in fishing in Finland or supporting the preservation of this remarkable natural heritage.

If you're planning a fishing trip to Finland or Scandinavia, chances are you'll be flying with Austrian Airlines. The Austrian carrier offers numerous connections to the north – but how exactly do you transport your fishing gear on the plane? What can you take in your carry-on, what needs to be checked in, and what fees should you expect?

In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know for a smooth and stress-free start to your fishing adventure with Austrian Airlines.

If you're planning a fishing holiday in Finland, chances are you'll be flying with Finnair – the national airline of Finland. But what should you keep in mind when bringing your fishing gear on the plane? How can you safely pack your rod and landing net for the journey? In this article, we explain everything you need to know about flying with Finnair when heading to Finland for a fishing trip.

A fishing holiday in Finland promises unforgettable nature experiences, crystal-clear lakes, and trophy-sized fish – provided your gear arrives safely. Many guests of FISHERMANSLODGE travel by plane. But what should you consider when bringing fishing equipment to Finland with Lufthansa? We’ll explain everything you need to know about flying with fishing gear – from baggage rules and registration to taking your catch back home.

Lapland is considered a true paradise for fly fishers – and for good reason. This remote region in the far north of Finland is sparsely populated, meaning you can spend days on many river stretches and lakes without encountering another person. Here, you'll find pure air, fresh water you can drink straight from the rivers, and wild fish in breathtaking, untouched landscapes. What more could an angler ask for?

To gain even more insight, I conducted a short interview with Teemu Vehviläinen, also known as the "Grayling Guide." He has been passionately fly fishing in northern Finland, Sweden, and Norway for over 35 years.

In May, I traveled through Eastern Finland to test accommodations and meet potential partners. My fourth stop on this journey took me to Musta Mäntyjärvi – a cabin in the middle of nowhere, without electricity or running water. For many Finns, that's nothing unusual – but for me, it was a truly special experience.

The pike is the apex predator in many of Finland’s lakes and rivers – aggressive, adaptable, and fascinating.
If you want to target pike in Finland successfully, you’ll need more than just the right lure: understanding their behavior, preferred locations, and seasonal patterns is the key to success. Especially in Finland’s pristine waters, a strategic approach pays off – the variety of structures and conditions is vast.

Tip: Without a fish finder (echo sounder), it’s difficult to locate the right depths and underwater features. It’s best to check before your trip whether your accommodation or fishing boat includes a fish finder – many providers in Finland already mention this in their listings.

Finland is considered one of the most diverse fishing destinations in Europe – with thousands of lakes, rivers, and a long coastline, the country offers ideal conditions for anglers of all experience levels. To help you plan your trip, we have created an overview of the most popular fish species in Finland – categorized into coarse fish, predatory fish, salmonids, and saltwater fish.

Finland is one of the best countries for pike fishing – with its clear, pristine lakes and vast waters, it offers ideal conditions for anglers who want to experience this powerful predator fish. If you want to enjoy your catch especially deliciously, you should cut the pike fillets into small pieces and dip them in a crispy beer batter. A Finnish beer like “Lapin Kulta” pairs particularly well with this. In this post, I’ll show you how to easily prepare this classic dish at home.

You’re out fishing, just caught some fresh fish, and want to make a delicious soup or sauce? But how do you make a fish stock quickly and easily while on the go, without fancy equipment or ingredients? Don’t worry, it’s totally doable—even on a fishing trip!

Kalakeitto is the traditional Finnish fish soup that has been a staple on northern tables for centuries. Originally, it was prepared by fishermen and hunters who celebrated the freshness of their catch right in the kitchen. The soup is especially popular with salmon, which is abundant in Finland’s clear lakes and rivers. Besides salmon, pike-perch, pike, or char also make delicious alternatives.

I used to be the spontaneous type when it came to fishing holidays in Finland. Pack the suitcase, throw in everything that looked vaguely like fishing gear – a bit of everything, just to be on the safe side. The result? Way too much unnecessary stuff, and the really important items were still sitting back home in the basement.
At the lake, I’d end up with three types of spinners but no sign of my favorite wobblers. In the worst case, I had to search for a local tackle shop – time-consuming, expensive, and definitely not the relaxed start to a fishing holiday I had in mind.
These days, I take a different approach. More structured – and above all: well-prepared.

My experience growing up in Finland's archipelago sea highlights what makes it extraordinary. I

used to think there were only pike and perch in the sea. Then I caught a zander… herring…

burbot…cod…. seatrout and finally a whitefish all within two miles of the dock where I kept my

little rowing boat. The vast expanse of islands and water is in itself so overwhelming that it can

be hard to ever get beneath the surface. To find the whitefish season in spring.

Instead of airport stress, the daily Finnlines ferry connection from Travemünde to Helsinki offers a comfortable, flexible, and eco-friendly alternative – perfect for anglers looking to head north in a relaxed way. During the roughly 30-hour journey, you can sit back, enjoy the onboard amenities, and travel to Finland with your own car, campervan, or even boat.

Craving a hearty yet refined fish soup with a delicious smoky aroma? Then try our delightful Smoked Perch Soup! Made with fresh and smoked perch, creamy cream, and aromatic dill, this recipe brings pure Finnish flavor to your plate.

Perfect for cozy evenings or when you want to surprise your loved ones with something special.
Give it a try and let yourself be inspired by the fine flavors of Finland!

If you've fished in Germany before, you know how bureaucratic it can get: mandatory courses, exams, paperwork – and in the end, you're only allowed to fish in selected areas. Finland is refreshingly different. Fishing here is easy, affordable, and open to everyone – surrounded by pristine wilderness and fish-rich waters.

A fishing holiday in Finland is a dream come true for many anglers. Countless lakes, wild rivers, and the sea offer an incredible variety of fish species and fishing opportunities. But whether you're an experienced angler or a beginner, one question often arises: Is it worth hiring a fishing guide? The answer is a definite yes! Here are the key reasons why a guide can make the difference between a good trip and an outstanding fishing adventure.

Finland is a paradise for anglers and is considered one of the best fishing regions in Europe. With over 188,000 lakes, countless rivers, and an impressive archipelago, the country offers countless opportunities for an unforgettable fishing holiday in Finland. Whether in the wild nature of Lapland, at the tranquil lakes of the Saimaa Lake District, or along the breathtaking Baltic Sea coast – every angler will find their personal dream fishing spot here.

A fishing holiday in Finland offers countless opportunities to enjoy nature and experience exciting catches. Particularly recommended is fishing with traps and nets – a traditional method that is not only easy to use but also highly effective. Once properly placed, you can leave the traps in the water for longer periods and check them regularly. The great advantage: you can gently and easily release unnecessary fish – an option only possible with traps. This sustainable practice helps maintain the natural fish stock and protects the environment.

Finland is a fantastic country for salmon fishing! With its pristine rivers, crystal-clear lakes, and breathtaking coastline, it offers ideal conditions for anglers in search of the king of fish. However, to fish for salmon sustainably and in accordance with the law, there are several important regulations to keep in mind. Here, you'll find everything you need to know about the latest salmon fishing regulations in Finland in 2025.

Finland – the land of a thousand lakes, endless forests, and vast silence – is a paradise for nature lovers and anglers. If you're planning a fishing holiday in Finland, you should bring more than just your rod and bait. This guide gives you all the essentials: from weather and prices to mosquitoes, healthcare, and cultural insights.

Finland is a paradise for nature lovers, water sports enthusiasts, and especially anglers. With over 188,000 lakes, countless rivers, and the unique Baltic Sea coastline, the country offers the perfect conditions for an unforgettable fishing vacation. For many, boating in Finland is an essential part of the experience – because those who are flexible can find the best spots away from the shore.

To ensure that your adventure on Finnish waters is not only exciting but also safe and stress-free, we have gathered the most important information about boating – with a special focus on fishing.

Anyone who wants to go fishing in Finland needs the right equipment – ​​but where is the best place to buy it? The Scandinavian country is large and sparsely populated, so there aren't any fishing shops on every corner. Nevertheless, you can find a wide selection of high-quality fishing equipment in Finland, whether in specialty stores or online.

Finland is accessible in many ways – whether by plane, ferry, or car. Depending on where you're starting from and where you want to go, there are various options to reach your destination comfortably.