Fishing in Åland: Fish Species,
Seasons & Fishing Areas
How is the fishing season in Åland?
The fishing season in the Åland Islands is long. It is interrupted only by short off-season periods, usually in December and the second half of March. The rest of the year you can fish productively.
But not all waters of the Åland archipelago fish equally well all season. In some areas the fish are only catchable for a short window; in others the season runs much longer. April is a good time for sea trout, while autumn is considered a good season for perch.
Summer is often seen as a weaker time for fishing, but this is a misconception. The fish do not disappear — their locations, behaviour and feeding times change. If you understand these changes and choose the right approach, summer fishing can still produce excellent catches.
This is where knowing the local waters matters most. An experienced guide can help you choose the right fishing areas for the weather, the season and the behaviour of the fish.
April is a great time for catching sea trout
Big perch caught on a wobbler
Pike and perch are the main targets in Åland, and large fish are regularly caught here. Pike over 100 cm are a realistic trophy, and perch can also grow to impressive sizes. Zander is found only in certain areas, so you need to know where to look, but there it can provide excellent fishing. Sea trout is another interesting target, especially at the right time of year.
Trophy fish are not caught on every trip, but zander over 6 kg are landed every season, and fish up to 8 kg have been caught here. What you catch depends on the season, the weather and the water you choose.
We are always glad to help you choose the right bait for our waters. Most of what you already use will work here — jerkbaits, soft plastics, wobblers and spoons all catch fish in Åland. There are, of course, local nuances.
We have put together sets of the baits that work best here. Get in touch and we will gladly share what we know about fishing in a place as special as the Åland Islands.
What fish species can you catch in Åland?
Our base sits on the shore of Kalvfjard, at a crossroads of fishing routes. These waters are effectively an inland bay, and that matters: the main spawning grounds of north-western Åland are here, and combined with depths ranging from 0 to 20 m it makes the fjord unique.
The season at Finnö Stugby opens as soon as the ice melts, usually in early April, and runs until freeze-up. The sheltered nature of the fjord keeps the water clear through the summer months and gives reliable ice in winter.
Our exclusive 1,500 ha of private water make Northern Åland one of the best places for a fishing holiday.
Even so, there is no single best spot in the archipelago. We choose the fishing area according to the trophy you want to target, the time of year and the weather. Fish change their location and behaviour as conditions change, so we adjust the choice of area before and during your trip.
Where does Finnö Stugby fish in Åland?
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The Åland Islands are home to plenty of big zander, and catching fish over 6 kg is nothing out of the ordinary. The biggest zander caught from my boat in 2024 tipped the scales at 7.4 kg.
But landing such monsters is easier said than done. The key to a successful fishing trip lies in your guide. It’s not just about having a high-tech fishing boat equipped with cutting-edge sonar and fish-finding gear (though that’s a game-changer). The real challenge is that zander don’t inhabit all waters of the archipelago — only specific areas hold them.
To make things even trickier, spawning and feeding migrations come into play. One day, the zander are here; the next, they’re miles away…
But one thing’s for sure — a trophy zander is a catch to remember. The Åland Islands are just the place where every passionate angler has a real shot at landing one!
Trophy Zander in Åland
Looking for family-friendly fishing holidays in Åland?
While you spend time on the water, your family can enjoy a comfortable stay surrounded by the nature of the archipelago.
Our spacious villas are suitable for groups of 6–8 people and include private saunas, fully equipped kitchens and fireplaces. The waterfront location makes it easy to combine fishing with relaxing days at the cottage, short boat trips or time outdoors with the family.
Children can also join you on the boat and enjoy seeing the fish and underwater contours appear on the sonar screen.
It’s a comfortable option for families who want to combine fishing with a relaxing holiday in Åland. Our accommodation is rated 9.5/10 on Booking.com for comfort and location.
Trophy Pike, Perch and Zander from Our Waters
Frequently Asked Questions
Where to get fishing licenses in Åland?
Fishing permits in Åland apply to specific fishing areas. When we prepare your trip, I will recommend the fishing areas that best suit your plans and normally include permits for at least two areas. This gives you more flexibility if fishing conditions change during your stay. If you decide to explore additional waters that are not covered by your permits, you can purchase an additional permit for that area. The permits included in your offer and their cost are clear before your arrival, so there are no hidden charges on the spot.
When is the best time to catch trophy fish?
The fishing season runs from spring through late autumn. Spring and autumn offer the best opportunities for trophy pike, while summer is excellent for both pike and perch. Tell us what you'd like to catch, and we'll recommend the best dates for your trip.