The magnificent lakes of Ylläs offer year-round fishing opportunities for both beginners and experienced anglers. While fishing in the beautiful Lapland landscapes, you can enjoy the peace of nature while pursuing different fish species according to the seasons. The abundant fish populations in the lakes attract enthusiastic anglers from different parts of Finland and the world. Here is a comprehensive guide to the best fishing times and locations on the lakes of Ylläs, so you can plan the perfect fishing trip in the Lapland landscape.
When is the best time to fish in the lakes of Ylläs?
The fishing season in Northern Finland’s lakes offers unique opportunities depending on the season. In spring, from mid-May to early June when the ice melts, fishing is particularly rewarding as cold-water fish are at their most active. This is an especially favorable time for catching pike and perch.
The summer months from June to August are the best times for open water fishing, when excellent catches can be made in the evenings and at night. In midsummer, the water is at its warmest, which activates many fish species in surface waters.
In autumn, from September to the end of October, as the waters cool down, fish prepare for winter by building up fat reserves. This is an excellent time for catching grayling and trout, and pike is also active in autumn.
The winter season from December to April offers unique ice fishing opportunities. Late February and March are favorite times for ice anglers, as the days get longer and the sun already provides pleasant warmth. In winter, perch, pike, and whitefish are the most common catch species.
What are the best fishing lakes in Ylläs?
Äkäsjärvi is one of the most popular fishing lakes in the Ylläs area and is particularly known for its abundant pike population. The lake is located next to the village of Äkäslompolo, making it easily accessible. Äkäsjärvi is excellent for both boat and shore fishing.
Kesänkijärvi is a smaller lake known for its clear waters and beautiful surroundings. This lake is particularly good for grayling and trout fishing, and is well-suited for fly fishers.
Ylläsjärvi is located next to the village of the same name and is easily accessible. A variety of species can be caught from the lake, and in winter it is a popular ice fishing spot.
Luosujarvi is a somewhat more remote lake that is especially good for those seeking a peaceful fishing experience. The lake is known for its good whitefish population and is well-suited for net fishing.
When staying in AuroraCottage cabins, you can easily access these fishing lakes – many of our cabins are located just a short distance from the best fishing spots.
What fish species can be caught in the lakes of Ylläs?
The waters of Ylläs are home to a diverse fish population that offers something for every angler to pursue. Pike is one of the most common catch fish, found in almost every lake in the area. Spring and autumn are particularly good pike seasons when larger specimens can be caught.
Perch is another common fish species that can be caught year-round. In summer, perch like to stay near shore vegetation, while in winter they seek deeper waters. Among ice fishers, perch is the most popular catch species.
Grayling is a valued catch fish in the Ylläs area. This magnificent fish is found especially in flowing waters and current areas of lakes. The best time for catching grayling is late summer and early autumn.
Trout is a coveted catch for anglers, particularly found in Kesänkijärvi and the area’s flowing waters. The best time for catching trout is early spring and late autumn when the water is cool.
Whitefish is a species sought especially by winter anglers, caught by ice fishing and nets. Whitefish can be found in several lakes in the area, particularly in Luosujärvi.
How does winter fishing differ from summer fishing in the Ylläs area?
Winter fishing in Ylläs focuses almost exclusively on ice fishing, which requires different techniques and equipment than summer fishing. For ice fishing, you need an ice auger, an ice fishing rod, bait or lures, and warm clothing. Warm winter clothes and ice picks are essential for safety.
Summer fishing offers more options: angling, spin fishing, fly fishing, and trolling. Fishing in open water allows exploration of a wider area and the use of different techniques during the same trip. In summer, using a boat provides access to areas that might be difficult to reach in winter.
Weather conditions have a significant impact: in winter, frost and snow pose challenges, while in summer, rain and strong winds can make fishing difficult. Fish behavior also differs considerably: in winter, fish are generally slower and deeper, while in summer they are more active and closer to the surface.
In winter, popular fishing spots are deep areas and open waters of lakes, while in summer, fishing often focuses on areas near shores, islands, and reefs.
What permits do I need to fish in the lakes of Ylläs?
To fish in the lakes of Ylläs, you need at least the state fisheries management fee, which covers fishing with one rod almost throughout the country. This fee can be paid by all anglers aged 18-64, and it can be paid for a whole year, a week, or a day. The fee can be paid online through the Eräluvat.fi service, at R-kiosks, or by phone service.
Local fishing permits are needed for fishing in special areas. There are several fishing associations and joint owners in the Ylläs area that sell permits for their own water areas. These permits can be purchased from local tourist information centers, shops, or online services.
In the Ylläs area, fishing restrictions and closed seasons must also be taken into account. For example, trout is protected in certain areas, and minimum sizes have been defined for fish. In lure fishing, mesh size limits and other restrictions must be observed.
Responsible fishing is important for the preservation of fish stocks. Make sure you follow catch quotas and release undersized fish unharmed. Also take care of your fishing equipment and waste – leave nature cleaner than it was when you arrived.
Best tips and practices for fishing in Ylläs
A successful fishing trip to the lakes of Ylläs requires some planning and knowledge of local conditions. Early morning and sunset are often the best times to fish, when fish are most active. Weather conditions significantly affect fish behavior – during low pressure, fish usually feed more actively.
In summer, wobbler lures and spoons work best for pike fishing, especially in bright colors. Perch can be caught with small jigs and spinners. For grayling fishing, fly fishing or light spin fishing with small lures is recommended.
When ice fishing in winter, it’s good to look for perch in shallow reefs in the morning and move to deeper waters in the afternoon. Balanced jigs and small jig lures are effective in winter. For whitefish ice fishing, you need a sensitive rod and small, bright lures.
For beginners, we recommend simple angling at Äkäsjärvi or Ylläsjärvi, which have easy shore access. For more experienced anglers, fly fishing for grayling in current areas offers challenges.
As AuroraCottage customers, you can ask your cabin host for local tips on the best fishing spots. We also occasionally organize guided fishing trips through our partners, where you can explore the best locations with a local guide.
Fishing tourism in Ylläs – experiences throughout the year
The lakes in the Ylläs area offer fishing opportunities for all kinds of anglers regardless of the season. The changing seasons bring different fishing techniques and opportunities, making the area an interesting fishing destination year-round. The right equipment, up-to-date permits, and knowledge of local conditions help maximize the fishing experience.
AuroraCottage cabin accommodation offers the perfect base for fishing trips. From our cabins, you can easily explore the area’s diverse fishing waters and experience authentic Lapland fishing culture. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, the lakes of Ylläs await you – welcome to experience the joy of fishing in the midst of Lapland’s magnificent nature!