Arctic Wilderness Chronicles: Wild River & Lake Fishing in Finnish Lapland
Quick Fit
Level
Target species
Technique
Guide speaks
About this experience
This extraordinary angling experience takes place in the heart of Finnish Lapland, venturing into the northernmost region of Finland right at the edge of the Arctic Circle. Known for having the purest and cleanest air in the world, this vast and unique wilderness offers an unparalleled connection to nature. The operational fishing activity spans the entire year, divided into the open water season and the closed water (ice fishing) season. Focusing primarily on the pristine northern Finnish waters—with possibilities to reach neighboring Swedish and Norwegian locations—this adventure presents a humbling, magnificent environment and a genuine opportunity to secure the catch of a lifetime.
Photos
What you can catch
Atlantic Salmon
The ultimate prize of the northern rivers (Tornio, Muonio, Simo rivers). Highly regulated to protect the natural run.
Season
Grayling
The iconic sail-finned fish of Lapland. Targeted during open water and through the ice, with a strict spring protection period.
Season
Arctic Char
Summer or winter expedition.
Season
Pike
The aggressive predator of the north. Fished year-round, offering spectacular strikes in open water and steady action under the ice.
Season
Zander
Whitefish
Available after salmon season.
Season
Lake Trout
Brown Trout
A highly sought-after species in the wilderness rivers (e.g., Ounas river). Strictly protected during the autumn spawning period.
Season
Perch
Abundant in Lapland's waters. A favorite target for winter ice fishing expeditions under the bright spring sun.
Tailored for All Skill Levels and Goals
Every service and expedition is built on a tailor-made basis, ensuring the trip adapts entirely to the desires and skill levels of the guests. During the open water season, fishing methods range from precision casting and traditional fly fishing to relaxed trolling. During the winter, the focus shifts to authentic Arctic ice fishing. For those interested in cultural heritage, there is even an opportunity to experience traditional local fishing methods, such as net fishing or fishing with a trident. Whether embarking on a half-day introduction or a full-time guided wilderness expedition, everything starts from the environment and the specific goals of the angler.
Sustainable Harvesting & Wilderness Dining
Operations are strictly guided by the principles of sustainability, closely obeying the protocols and etiquette of Fishing Lapland and the Finnish Fishing Guide Guild. The primary policy across all waters is Catch & Release (C&R), especially concerning the highly regulated native salmonid tribes. However, depending on the specific location and species, selective harvesting is permitted. If the regulations allow, keeping a moderate catch to cook a fresh wilderness dinner is a cherished part of the Lapland experience. All matters regarding keeping or releasing fish are reviewed prior to the trip to ensure the utmost respect for the local ecosystem.
The boat
Base Camp Pello
2 river boats with motors.
Base Camp Ounas
boat + motor + kayak/canoe
Season
May – October
June, July, August (salmon) / March, April (spring ice fishing)
Accommodation
Tailored Lodging Options
Depending on the desired location and the level of quality requested, lodging can be seamlessly arranged through a network of local collaborating partners. There is also the possibility to rent the company's private cabins independently, without any guided fishing services attached, offering an authentic way to experience a traditional Finnish summer.
Base Camp Pello
This base camp provides the conveniences and comforts of a fully equipped small house. The property features running water and standard electricity, complete with a fridge, freezer, oven, and all essential basic kitchen tools. To ensure ultimate relaxation after a long day on the river, a traditional Finnish wooden sauna is available on-site.
Base Camp Ounas – The Traditional "Mökki"
For those seeking a deeper connection to the environment, Base Camp Ounas offers a traditional Finnish wilderness cabin experience, locally referred to as a "mökki." While it intentionally lacks running water and standard grid electricity to preserve its authentic rustic atmosphere, it remains highly functional. A solar power system provides reliable lighting and the ability to charge essential devices like phones and laptops. The cabin is also equipped with a gas stove, oven, and fridge. The immediate surrounding area offers excellent access to waters holding grayling, brown trout, pike, and perch.
Trip options
Choose the option that fits your group
FAQ
Finland
Finland is one of the Nordic countries bordering in the north Norway, Sweden and Russia by land. Finland has a habitat of approx. 5,5 million with capital of Helsinki located at the south tip of the land. Finland is safe and modern country to visit. Finland has been chosen happiest country in the world for couple of times in a row now in the year 2024!
Lapland
Lapland is the northern most region of Finland, it´s centre is Rovaniemi which latitude is arctic circle. The region consists 1/3 of the country´s area and has only 180 000 residents - so the room is plenty!
People
Lappish people are easy going and friendly - first impression could be shy and introvert but that´s only half of the story...
Travelling
You can find Rovaniemi and Lapland easily by plane, train or bus. Now Rovaniemi has over 20 straight European city flight connections. Trains are user friendly, especially in summertime, with low prices and reliability. Busses inside Finland might be extremely cheap when booked early.
Fishing
Finland holds a concept of "every man´s rights" (jokamiehenoikeudet) in legislation which gives great freedom to roam in the nature - notice that responsibilities follow with higher freedom. Fishing permits wise country is seen as whole and separate; at the start there is national permit following a local permit. Finland holds over 120 000 lakes which gives you the basic idea of various possibilities and locations to fish
Emergency
In case of emergency, you do not need to worry. Finland offers high quality medical attention, no matter where you might be located. Lapland´s main hospital is in Rovaniemi, where patients are taken to via helicopter from the wilderness if needed. In basic experience, the guides are familiar with first aid and this is usually enough to take care of accidental situations.
Lapland, Finland
