Fishing

Lake Saimaa is Finland’s largest lake system and one of the country’s premier fishing destinations. Its crystal-clear waters, scenic shores, and abundant fish stocks make the region attractive for both seasoned anglers and guests looking to try fishing as part of a relaxing nature retreat.

The Ruokolahti region offers year-round fishing opportunities. In summer, you can fish from the shore, your private pier, or a boat; in winter, ice fishing is a popular local tradition. Fishing on Lake Saimaa requires no long travel and easily becomes a natural part of your stay at ONNI Village.

Fish Species in Lake Saimaa

The waters of Lake Saimaa are home to a wide variety of fish. The most common species include:

  • Northern Pike
  • Zander / Pike-perch
  • European Perch
  • Bream
  • Roach
  • Ide
  • Trout
  • Crayfish
  • Fishing on Lake Saimaa: bream and ide in front of the Lake View Cottage
  • Fishing on Lake Saimaa, a woman holds a huge pike on a pier next to a boat
  • A woman showcases a rich catch of 19 pike after fishing on Lake Saimaa in Finland.
  • A happy fisherman in an inflatable boat holds a caught perch at sunset on Lake Saimaa.
  • A smiling man on the wooden terrace of a cottage holds a large caught ide with Lake Saimaa, Finland, in the background.
  • A happy girl in a life jacket holds a caught small pike in a rowboat on Lake Saimaa.
  • A man wearing glasses on a wooden pier holds a large bream with Lake Saimaa, Finland, in the background.
  • Fishing on Lake Saimaa: A fisherman in a motorboat holds a huge zander caught on a spinning rod.
  • Fishing on Lake Saimaa: A man in a rowboat has caught a zander on a spinning rod.
  • Dinner on the terrace after fishing on Lake Saimaa: Fried perch with vegetables and a cold beer against a forest background.
  • Crayfishing on Lake Saimaa: Several live crayfish in a metal bucket of water before cooking.
  • Fishing on Lake Saimaa: A man in a boat holds a huge caught perch in his hands

Where and How to Fish

Guests at ONNI Village can choose the most convenient way to fish:

  • From the shore — right next to the cottages.
  • From a private pier — each cottage has its own personal pier.
  • From a boat — to reach open waters and more secluded fishing spots.

Boats and Equipment

The rental price of each cottage includes the use of a rowing boat. The boats are located at the shared beach area and are available to guests throughout their stay.

If needed, you can rent a petrol outboard motor, which is especially convenient for fishing in more distant parts of the lake.

For guests arriving with their own boat, a convenient boat launch (slipway) is provided.

Fishing Regulations

Fishing in Finland is regulated by national laws. A license is not required for simple hook-and-line fishing (hook and line) or ice fishing. For all other types of fishing, anglers aged 18–69 must have a valid license. For fishing on our lake, paying the fisheries management fee is sufficient. You can purchase this license yourself at any R-Kioski or online at https://www.eraluvat.fi/en/fishing/fisheries-management-fee. Licenses are personal and can be issued for 1 day, 1 week, or 1 year.

Our guests are responsible for obtaining the necessary permits and must comply with current regulations, including species restrictions, seasons, and minimum catch sizes.

  • Cooking fish soup on Lake Saimaa: A pot of boiling water and a saucepan with fresh vegetables over a campfire.
  • Traditional Finnish pike soup with herbs and onions, cooked in a cauldron over a campfire on the shores of Lake Saimaa.

Guest Experiences: Fishing & Lake Saimaa

Magnificent!

ONNI Village is simply a paradise. Beautiful surroundings, privacy, peace, and quiet. The cottage is spacious, tastefully furnished, and yet very practical. The long pier leading to the lake is magical. We stayed in Cottage E, where we found a homemade fishing rod by a tree near the water. Just be prepared for a slightly weaker Wi-Fi signal. We were very reluctant to leave this wonderful place.
Ivana, Czech Republic
July 2024
Booking.com • 10/10
Translated from Czech

Simply perfect!

Absolutely perfect! Our only regret is that we didn’t stay longer. We spent 10 magnificent summer days in this peaceful holiday village and highly recommend this place! Would stay here again in a heartbeat. Tip: get all your groceries/fishing supplies from Prisma in Imatra.
Martha, Germany
June 2023
Google.maps • 5/5
Translated from English

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