Fishing Gear on Flights with Austrian Airlines: How to Travel Stress-Free to Your Fishing Trip in Finland or Scandinavia
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.
By Lars Hahne
July 31, 2025
Fishing Gear with Austrian Airlines: What’s Allowed?
Austrian Airlines generally permits the transport of fishing gear, including rods, reels, nets, and lures. Equipment can be checked as sports baggage or—depending on size—carried in your hand luggage. Key factors are dimensions, weight, and airport security regulations.
More details available directly from Austrian Airlines:
Sports and Special Baggage | Austrian Airlines
Can You Bring Fishing Gear in Your Carry-On?
Some parts of your gear can be brought into the cabin, while others must be checked. Here's an overview:
Item | Allowed in carry-on? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Fishing line | Yes | No issues |
Lures with hooks | No | Must be checked |
Lures without hooks | Yes | Allowed if no sharp or pointed parts are present |
Hooks, knives, pliers | No | Must be checked |
Telescopic/mini rods | Possible | Only if within hand luggage dimensions (55×40×23 cm, max. 8 kg) |
Foldable nets | Possible | If small and compact enough |
Hand luggage allowance (Economy Class):
- One bag: 55 × 40 × 23 cm, max. 8 kg
- Plus one personal item: 40 × 30 × 10 cm
Important: Sharp or pointed items like knives and hooks are not allowed in carry-on luggage. Final decisions are made by airport security staff.
More info: Vienna Airport – Security Check
How to Transport Fishing Gear as Checked Baggage
If your rods are too long or you’re carrying sharp tools, your equipment must go in the hold. Austrian Airlines accepts fishing gear as sports baggage under the following conditions:
- Up to 2 items: one with the rod, one with accessories
- Max size per item: 200 cm total (W + H + D)
- Max weight: 32 kg per item
Fees by destination:
- Domestic: €70
- Europe: €80
- Middle East / North Africa: €100
- Intercontinental medium haul: €200
- Intercontinental long haul: €250
If you're flying on the Economy Light fare, fees always apply. In other fare classes, sports gear may be included free of charge if within baggage limits.
Packing Tips for Sensitive Fishing Equipment
To ensure your gear arrives safely, follow these recommendations:
- Use hard rod cases or sturdy tubes for rods
- Wrap reels in clothing or padding
- Sharp tools (hooks, knives) must be packed securely in checked baggage
- Clearly label your gear with name tags or identifiers
Connecting Flights in Scandinavia: Will Your Gear Be Checked Through?
Austrian Airlines offers solid connections to Scandinavia with transfers available. Your baggage will be checked through if:
- The connecting flight departs from the same airport
- The connection is within 24 hours (12 hours for United Airlines)
- You're flying with Austrian or a Lufthansa Group or Star Alliance partner
Tip: If you're traveling on separate tickets, through-checking may not be possible—check in advance.
What Happens If Your Fishing Gear Is Delayed or Damaged?
If your fishing equipment arrives late or damaged, report it immediately at the airport.
- You'll receive a case number and can file a report online
- You have up to 3 days after your flight to submit a damage claim
More info and online form:
Delayed or Damaged Baggage | Austrian Airlines
Traveling as a Group: What You Need to Know
For groups of 10 or more passengers, Austrian Airlines offers special conditions. Important steps:
- Send your gear details in advance to specialcases @austrian.com
- Include number, weight, and size of all items
- Austrian will check available cargo space for your flight
Transporting Frozen Fish – Is It Allowed?
Frozen fish cannot be checked as hold baggage. It can be carried in your hand luggage if:
- Size and weight limits are met
- Packaging is secure
- No customs restrictions apply in your destination country
Note: Austrian does not provide refrigeration or take responsibility for customs clearance.
Disclaimer on Accuracy
We contacted the press offices of Lufthansa, Finnair, and Austrian Airlines to obtain official information on fishing gear transport. We also reviewed the publicly available guidelines on their websites.
Despite our best efforts, rules may change without notice. We assume no liability for the accuracy or completeness of this information.
When in doubt, always check directly with your airline.
Information in this post is based on official airline sources, as of July 2025.
Flying with another airline?
Check our guides for:
Lufthansa