Destination
Savonlinna
Fishing in Savonlinna: Lake Saimaa, the islands and culture
Savonlinna is situated amongst several sections of the Saimaa lake district. Olavinlinna Castle, the opera festival and the surrounding islands make the town an ideal base for cultural and nature trips. For anglers, there are various fishing grounds for pike, perch and zander. The choice of accommodation depends on the section of the lake you have chosen and the excursions you have planned.
Places to stay and fish in Savonlinna
Fishing areas in Saimaa
In Lake Saimaa, bays, island shores and open water alternate. Pike, perch and zander are among the well-known target fish. Choose a fishing area and method to suit the season and your level of experience. With accommodation on the right stretch of lake, you can combine fishing trips with excursions to Savonlinna.
The fisheries management fee and local permits
Finland’s fisheries management fee and a local fishing permit serve different purposes. Depending on your age, fishing method and chosen waters, you may need one or both. Simple hook-and-line angling and ice fishing are not permitted everywhere either. Check the rules for your specific section of the lake: paying the national daily or weekly fee does not provide a permit for all fishing throughout Saimaa.
Protected fish and ringed seals
Special conservation regulations apply to trout, landlocked salmon and char in the Saimaa region. The Saimaa ringed seal and its habitats are also protected. Check any fishing restrictions before your fishing trip and keep your distance from resting and breeding areas. Guided observation tours provide insights into the seal’s habitat.
Boat, equipment and guide
Check whether a package includes a boat, equipment and a guide, or whether these services must be booked separately. A guide can help with choosing a fishing area and a boat route. Agree on the meeting point, tour duration and arrangements in the event of bad weather. On larger lakes, the distance and open water areas should be appropriate to the group’s level of experience.
Olavinlinna and other places to visit
Olavinlinna Castle is a landmark of Savonlinna and, in summer, the venue for the opera festival. In the surrounding area, the wooden church at Kerimäki and the ridged landscape of Punkaharju add to the experience. You should check opening times, event dates and seasonal boat trips separately to ensure they can be combined with your fishing days.
Muikku and regional cuisine
Muikku refers to the vendace, a typical edible fish of the lake region. It is not to be confused with the larger whitefish and is mainly enjoyed through local fishing and gastronomy. Try regional fish dishes in restaurants and at markets. Many hosts can provide information on how to prepare your own catch. Check in advance whether a kitchen, barbecue or smokehouse is available for this purpose.
A trip to Savonlinna
Check transport links to Savonlinna Airport or travel options by train and road. Even if your accommodation is near the town, jetties and your chosen fishing grounds may be further away. Compare the offers currently listed on FISHERMANS-LODGE and plan the final leg of your journey to your accommodation.
