Region
Southern Lakeland
Fishing in the Southern Lakeland: Saimaa, Karelia and nature
Saimaa, Kallavesi and Pielinen characterise Finland’s Southern Lakeland. This travel region encompasses North Savo, South Savo, North Karelia and South Karelia. Amidst lakeside towns, wooded islands and narrow waterways, you’ll find fishing spots, Karelian cuisine and cultural attractions. The Saimaa is also home to the rare Saimaa ringed seal, the protection of which plays a particularly important role when travelling on the water.
Places to stay and fish in Southern Lakeland
Towns by the water
Kuopio lies on Lake Kallavesi and is an important starting point in the north of this travel region. Joensuu is the centre of North Karelia on the River Pielisjoki. Lappeenranta lies on the southern shore of Lake Saimaa, whilst Savonlinna is situated amongst several sections of the lake. Mikkeli, Imatra and Varkaus round off the selection of starting points. Which town is best suited to your trip depends on the waters you plan to visit and the excursions you have in mind.
What makes the Southern Lakeland so special?
The Southern Lakeland thrives on water – both literally and figuratively. Because the lakes were once the main transport routes, the towns are often situated on isthmuses or peninsulas, with winding shorelines stretching for long distances. Culinary-wise, the region is characterised by Karelian heartiness: the Karelian pasty, filled with rice, and kalakukko, a fish-and-bacon pie baked in rye dough from Kuopio. Culturally, the region offers everything from the Savonlinna Opera Festival to the museums and events in the lakeside towns, whilst the Orthodox Valamo Monastery near Heinävesi bears witness to the centuries-old religious diversity of Eastern Finland.
Places of interest
Savonlinna is home to the medieval Olavinlinna Castle, which also serves as a venue for the opera festival. Punkaharju is known for its forested ridges nestled amongst lakes. In Imatra, the Imatrankoski rapids are a popular attraction; the water releases take place on fixed dates. The Puijo Tower in Kuopio and Ukko-Koli in Koli National Park offer sweeping views of lakes and forests.
Scenic highlights
Bays, islands and narrow straits divide the large lakes into very diverse landscapes. On Lake Pielinen, the wooded heights of the Koli region rise up, whilst on Lake Saimaa, long shorelines and numerous islands characterise the landscape. On boat and canoe trips, open stretches of water alternate with sheltered sections. Plan your route according to the weather, your experience and local conditions.
The region’s waters
Pike, perch and zander are well-known target fish in the Saimaa lake district; Kallavesi, Pielinen and Puula also offer a variety of fishing grounds. The vendace, known as ‘muikku’ in Finnish, is primarily known as a regional food fish and should not be confused with the larger whitefish. Near Lieksa, the Ruunaa rapids complement the lake landscape. Strict conservation regulations apply in some cases to trout, landlocked salmon and char; their presence does not imply a general licence to catch them. In Saimaa, protected areas and restrictions designed to protect the ringed seal must also be observed.
Getting there
Flights: Kuopio, Joensuu and Savonlinna are possible arrival airports. Compare the current flight connections and onward travel to your destination with a journey via Helsinki.
Train/car: Journey times from Helsinki vary considerably depending on your destination. Plan your journey to your chosen location and the onward route to your accommodation.
On the ground: A round trip can take in Lappeenranta, Imatra, Savonlinna and Joensuu. Cars, trains and buses are suitable for different stages of the journey. Excursion boats and cycle tours complement your stay at individual lakes and locations.
Flora and fauna
The Saimaa ringed seal lives exclusively in the Saimaa lake district. Guided observation tours offer insights into its habitat and provide information on the conservation of these animals. You can spot waterbirds and ospreys on the lakes and along the shores. Forests, reed beds and islands offer a variety of habitats. Keep your distance from seals, their resting places and protected shore areas.
Activities
Fishing trips for pike, perch or zander can be combined with canoeing trips, walks in the Koli area and cultural excursions. In Savonlinna, seasonal boat trips and the opera festival round off your stay. Karelian cuisine includes Karelian pasties and fish dishes. In winter, depending on the weather, cross-country skiing and guided ice fishing are also available; the ice’s load-bearing capacity must be assessed on site.
Your fishing holiday in the Southern Lakeland with FISHERMANS-LODGE
Discover accommodation and fishing experiences in the Southern Lakeland on FISHERMANS-LODGE. Compare the location on each lake, the services included and travel dates, and plan suitable nature and cultural excursions to complement your stay.
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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.
