Lake Saimaa & Beyond: Fishing Trips with a South Karelian Heart
Quick Fit
Level
Target species
Technique
Guide speaks
About this experience
This premium angling experience takes place in the breathtaking landscapes of South Karelia, focusing on the vast waters of Lake Saimaa and its surrounding hidden gems. This region is legendary for its vibrant fish populations, offering a genuine opportunity to chase the top predatory species of Finnish inland waters: powerful Northern Pike, elusive Zander, and trophy-sized Perch—Finland's national fish. Every trip is tailored to follow the hottest seasonal patterns, ensuring optimal positioning on the water from May through November.
Photos
What you can catch
Pike
Finland's largest predator. Found in shallow weed beds and deep structural drop-offs. Catch Quotas for Selective Harvesting: Pike: 2 pcs/person (60 cm – 80 cm)
Season
Perch
Finland's national fish. Exceptionally high population in Lake Saimaa. Can be taken home. Catch Quotas for Selective Harvesting: 5 pcs/person (under 37 cm)
Season
Zander
Primary target for LiveScope precision sessions. Soft plastic lures 3–45cm. Catch Quotas for Selective Harvesting: Zander: 2 pcs/person (42 cm – 60 cm)
Season
Tailored for All Skill Levels and Goals
From first-timers holding a rod for the very first time to seasoned veterans testing advanced techniques, this trip adapts entirely to the goals of the group. The atmosphere onboard remains relaxed, educational, and focused on enjoyment. Whether casting for abundant schools of perch, trolling peacefully across scenic bays, or engaging in high-stakes precision jigging, the itinerary is customized to match the exact pace, patience, and desires of the guests.
Chef-Level Fish Handling & Sustainable Harvesting
This service strictly follows the principles of sustainable and responsible sport fishing. Every catch is handled with the utmost respect. To safeguard healthy fish stocks for the future, moderate, selective harvesting is practiced. Large breeding individuals and endangered species are always released immediately. Furthermore, strict ethical rules apply: perch or zander are not targeted at depths greater than 10 meters unless they are kept for food, and targeting large pike and zander is completely avoided if the water temperature rises above 20°C.
If medium-sized fish are kept for the table, they are stored in a live well and properly dispatched to ensure premium quality. Because of a deep background in professional gastronomy, the catch is handled with ultimate culinary respect.
Catch Quotas for Selective Harvesting:
Zander: 2 pcs/person (42 cm – 60 cm) Pike: 2 pcs/person (60 cm – 80 cm) Perch: 5 pcs/person (under 37 cm)
Chef-Prepared Dining by Agreement
To elevate the time on the water, premium food services and catering can be arranged by prior agreement. Because the guide is a graduated professional chef with a deep passion for high-quality, clean ingredients, the culinary experience is treated with the same level of expertise as the fishing itself. Whether a hearty wilderness lunch on the shore or a customized menu featuring locally gathered ingredients is desired, dining is tailored entirely to the group's preferences. A separate quote can be requested to discuss specific food and menu options to perfectly complement the expedition.
The boat
Buster M Fish (2023 Model)
For expeditions requiring maximum versatility and efficiency, the guiding service utilizes a modern Buster M Fish (2023 model). Designed specifically for active sport fishing, this vessel comfortably accommodates up to four anglers, ensuring ample space for precision casting and seamless movement. The boat features dedicated bow and stern casting decks, offering an elevated, highly stable, and safe platform that provides maximum comfort throughout a full day on the water.
To guarantee the best possible approach to fishing spots, the vessel is equipped with a Minn Kota electric trolling motor, allowing for quiet, stealthy movement and precise positioning. The onboard marine electronics are state-of-the-art, featuring dual Garmin Echomap Ultra 10” displays connected to a GT56 side-imaging transducer and two LVS34 LiveScope transducers. This advanced setup brings the underwater environment to life in real-time, making predator tracking highly efficient and exciting. Furthermore, the boat’s layout is highly customizable, allowing the equipment to be perfectly adapted to various fishing methods and specific environmental conditions.
Season
May – November
May, June, July, August, September, October
Trip options
Choose the option that fits your group
Lappeenranta, Finland
