Fishing on Finland’s southern coast: the archipelago, lakes and coastal towns

Towns and coastal resorts

Helsinki, together with Espoo and Vantaa, forms the urban centre of the capital region. Further west lies Turku, Finland’s oldest city, on the River Aura. The nearby town of Naantali, with its old town, is well worth a visit. To the east of Helsinki lies Porvoo with its wooden houses by the river. Further along the coast is Kotka at the mouth of the Kymijoki; Kouvola lies inland and is a starting point for trips to Repovesi.

What makes the south coast so special?

On the south coast, you can combine days of fishing with city life and nature excursions. Islands, forests and coastal towns offer a variety of starting points for your trip. The long summer evenings are perfect for spending time by the water or strolling through the town after an excursion. Fishing is also part of the coast’s history: in Langinkoski near Kotka, the fisherman’s hut built for Tsar Alexander III serves as a reminder of this tradition.

Places of interest

The Suomenlinna island fortress off Helsinki is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the city itself, the cathedral and the Temppeliaukio Church, hewn out of the rock, are well worth exploring. Turku offers further places to visit, including its castle and the banks of the Aurajoki. Turku Cathedral is expected to remain closed until December 2028 due to renovation work. In Porvoo, red warehouses characterise the riverbank. The Vellamo Maritime Centre in Kotka tells the story of seafaring and the region’s history. In Repovesi National Park, north of Kouvola, hiking trails, lakes and rocky landscapes await you. The Verla factory village, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, shows how cardboard was once made from wood.

Scenic highlights

Off the coast of Turku and along the south-western Finnish coast lies an extensive archipelago. Small rocky islets alternate with inhabited islands, some of which are accessible via bridges and ferries. The Archipelago National Park protects this diverse coastal landscape. Further east, the Kymijoki River, with its rapids, characterises the area around Kotka, whilst in the hinterland the forests and lakes of Repovesi invite visitors to go hiking and canoeing.

The region’s waters

The brackish waters of the Archipelago Sea and the Gulf of Finland provide fishing grounds for pike, perch and zander. Inland, lakes such as Lohjanjärvi and Vuohijärvi add to the choice. On the Kymijoki, Korkeakoski, Siikakoski and Langinkoski are among the well-known fishing areas. The stretches have different conditions: in the Langinkoski licence area, for example, only traditional fly fishing is permitted. For trips targeting salmon or sea trout, the applicable closed seasons, conservation rules and local permits are crucial. Coordinate your chosen spot and dates with a local guide.

Getting there

Flights: Helsinki-Vantaa (HEL) is a major arrival airport for the south coast and offers connections from Germany. Please check the departure airport, any connecting flights and onward travel to your accommodation for your travel dates.

Ferry: Finnlines operates a service between Travemünde and Helsinki. From Stockholm, you can take the ferry to Turku. If you wish to take your car and fishing equipment with you, please ensure you book a vehicle space and take note of the arrival and check-in times when making your booking.

On site: Plan your train or bus journey to the nearest major town and, from there, your onward journey to your accommodation. For island destinations, ferries or boat transfers may be part of the journey. Check their operating times and, if necessary, coordinate the final leg of your journey with your host; not all accommodation is directly accessible by public transport.

Flora and fauna

White-tailed eagles and numerous waterbirds can be spotted amongst the archipelago. Seals are also part of the Baltic Sea’s wildlife. In the forests and nature reserves along the coast, coniferous trees, deciduous woodland and rocky shores alternate. Pike, perch and zander find a variety of habitats in the sheltered bays. Observe wildlife from a distance and respect the no-entry signs on breeding islands.

Activities

Boat fishing in the archipelago, shore fishing at suitable lakes or a guided fishing trip on the Kymijoki offer a variety of options for your holiday. Choose a method and fishing spot that suit your experience and comply with local regulations. Aside from fishing, the archipelago is ideal for kayaking, whilst the Archipelago Trail is perfect for cycling. Seasonal ferry services are required to complete the full circuit; please check their timetables before planning your trip. In Repovesi National Park, you can go hiking and paddling. Day trips to Helsinki or Turku and a sauna by the water round off the trip.

Your fishing holiday on the south coast with FISHERMANS-LODGE

Plan your fishing holiday amongst the archipelago, coastal towns and inland lakes. Discover the latest accommodation and fishing experiences listed on FISHERMANS-LODGE along the south coast and choose an option that suits your destination and dates.

Discover accommodation and fishing experiences on the south coast now →

Local fishing regulations

Before your day’s fishing, check the permits and current conservation rules for your specific stretch of water. Your host or guide will help you with your planning; the conditions set by the relevant authorities and the fishing area are decisive.