Fishing Holidays in Lapland – Untouched Wilderness, Magical Light, and Excellent Fishing Waters

Pure Nature – Fishing in Lapland

Fishing in Lapland means casting your line in one of Europe’s most unspoiled landscapes. The region lies mostly north of the Arctic Circle and is very sparsely populated with only around 184,000 inhabitants. It offers perfect conditions for outdoor activities – from hikes across the fells to canoe trips, wildlife watching, and of course, fishing. Expansive tundra plains, clear rivers, and remote lakes define the landscape. In lower areas, scattered birch trees grow, while lichen and mosses dominate the higher elevations. During summer, endless daylight from the midnight sun bathes the land in a mystical glow. In autumn, the Ruska season – similar to the Indian Summer – transforms forests into a sea of red and orange. Winter, on the other hand, turns Lapland into a sparkling snowy wonderland.

Lake Inari – Fishing on Northern Lapland’s Largest Lake

Lake Inari (Inarijärvi) is a top destination for anglers in Lapland. Covering over 1,000 km² and dotted with more than 3,000 islands, its remote location makes it a true angler’s paradise. Fishing on Lake Inari offers great diversity: trout, grayling, Arctic char, and pike are common catches. The crystal-clear waters, tranquility, and untouched nature make for an especially intense fishing experience. The lake is large enough to offer new spots to explore every day and secluded enough to provide absolute peace.

Diverse Waters and Abundant Fish

Beyond Lake Inari, Lapland is home to numerous other fish-rich lakes and rivers. Lake Kemijärvi (231 km²), as well as the reservoirs Lokka (315 km²) and Porttipahta (149 km²), are among the largest standing waters in the region. The rivers are just as impressive: the Kemijoki, at 512 km, is Finland’s longest river and runs through central Lapland. Its largest tributary, the Ounasjoki, remains entirely in its natural state. The Tornionjoki, together with the Muonionjoki, forms the border with Sweden and is a well-known salmon river. Near the Norwegian border flows the Tanaelva – one of Europe’s most famous salmon rivers. Thanks to the clear waters and minimal human impact, anglers in Lapland can fish for salmon, pike, perch, zander, grayling, and trout. Fly fishers, in particular, will find ideal conditions in the rapids and side arms of these rivers.

Best Time for Fishing in Lapland

The fishing season in Lapland generally starts around May and lasts through October, depending on the waters. During this period, spinning, trolling, and fly fishing are all possible. September is particularly beautiful, when the Ruska colors reach their peak. From December to March, the frozen lakes offer excellent opportunities for ice fishing – especially for Arctic char or pike. During this time, winter activities such as snowshoeing, reindeer sleigh rides, or snowmobile tours make great additions to a fishing trip.

Best Time for Fishing in Lapland

The fishing season in Lapland generally starts around May and lasts through October, depending on the waters. During this period, spinning, trolling, and fly fishing are all possible. September is particularly beautiful, when the Ruska colors reach their peak. From December to March, the frozen lakes offer excellent opportunities for ice fishing – especially for Arctic char or pike. During this time, winter activities such as snowshoeing, reindeer sleigh rides, or snowmobile tours make great additions to a fishing trip.

Getting to Lapland

Despite its remote location, Lapland is easy to reach. There are six airports in the region: Rovaniemi, Ivalo, Kittilä, Kemi-Tornio, Sodankylä, and Enontekiö. Rovaniemi Airport is the largest in Lapland and is served by direct flights from several European cities. The flight from Helsinki takes around 1 to 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can travel by car or overnight train. Many settlements are located along rivers and lakes – ideal starting points for fishing adventures.

Major Cities in Lapland – Gateways to Your Fishing Holiday

Lapland’s cities are small but important hubs surrounded by vast wilderness. Rovaniemi, the capital, combines modern infrastructure with immediate access to nature and is world-famous as the home of Santa Claus. The city offers excellent dining, as well as fishing and outdoor gear shops. Inari, located in the north, is the cultural heart of the Sámi and sits directly on the shores of Lake Inari – perfect for anglers who want to combine nature and culture. Kittilä is a favorite among winter tourists thanks to the Levi ski resort, but it's also near many fish-rich rivers and lakes. Kemijärvi, Lapland’s easternmost town, lies on the scenic lake of the same name and serves as a great base for both fishing and winter tours. These cities offer not only practical infrastructure but also an authentic Nordic lifestyle.

Curious?

Fishing in Lapland is more than just a hobby – it’s a journey into silence, into nature, and into yourself. The region combines wild landscapes with rich culture and provides ideal conditions for relaxation and adventure. Whether it’s fishing on Lake Inari, by a river in the tundra, or ice fishing in winter: those looking for the authentic side of Finland will find it here.