Region
Southern Finland
Fishing in Southern Finland: Coast, Lakes and Culture
This overview of southern Finland covers Uusimaa, Kanta-Häme, Kymenlaakso and South Karelia. It stretches from Helsinki and the coastal towns on the Gulf of Finland to the lakes around Hämeenlinna and southern Saimaa. This wider travel region offers a variety of starting points for fishing holidays, city breaks and trips into the countryside.
Places to stay and fish in Southern Finland
Accommodation
Villa Red House – Affordable Fishing Holiday on Lake Simpelejärvi
Melkoniemi, South Karelia
from €130
Accommodation
Villa Tarula – Fishing Holiday on Lake Simpelejärvi
Melkoniemi, South Karelia
from €200
Accommodation
Villa Hiekkaranta – Fishing Holiday with Private Beach on Lake Simpelejärvi
Melkoniemi, South Karelia
from €200
Coastal and lake landscapes
Along the coast of Uusimaa, skerries, bays and harbour towns follow one another. Kymenlaakso is characterised by the Kymijoki River and its estuary. The hinterland features wooded and lakeside landscapes; South Karelia covers the southern part of Lake Saimaa. Choose your starting point based on the body of water you wish to explore, as the distances between these sub-regions vary.
Fishing grounds in the Gulf of Finland
Pike and perch are among the most popular target fish in coastal waters. Sheltered bays, island shores and more open waters each require different planning. A boat trip with a local guide can help you choose a suitable fishing spot and the right method. For shore-based fishing, choose a spot where your chosen method is permitted.
Rivers and inland waters
There are further fishing opportunities along the Kymijoki and in the southern lake district. Special permits and conservation rules apply to river sections with migratory fish. In the case of trout and landlocked salmon, it is important to distinguish between fish populations and permitted fishing. Information on the specific section should therefore be obtained before booking a tour.
Culture in Helsinki and Espoo
Helsinki offers museums, architecture and excursions to the offshore islands. Neighbouring Espoo combines cultural attractions with coastal and woodland areas. Both cities are ideal for combining individual days’ fishing with a city break. Also plan the route between your accommodation, the tour meeting point and the sights you wish to visit.
Other starting points
Hämeenlinna is known for Häme Castle and is situated in the lake district of Kanta-Häme. Lappeenranta combines its historic fortress with its location on Lake Saimaa. Kotka offers maritime attractions on the Gulf of Finland. From Hämeenlinna you can reach the lakes of Kanta-Häme; from Lappeenranta, Lake Saimaa; and from Kotka, the coast and the lower reaches of the River Kymijoki.
Getting there and onward travel
Helsinki-Vantaa is a major arrival airport. There are also ferry connections via Helsinki, for example from Germany, Sweden and Estonia. Trains, buses and cars provide access to various towns in the south. For remote accommodation and island destinations, plan the final leg of your journey separately and take into account the journey times for ferries or transfers.
Plan your fishing holiday
Compare holiday options in southern Finland based on location, travel dates and what’s included. A holiday on the coast has different requirements to a stay on Lake Saimaa or in Kanta-Häme. By making the right choice, you can combine days of fishing, nature excursions and culture into a varied holiday.
