Lake Inari

Lapland, Finland · Freshwater · Intermediate

A vast, cold subarctic lake scattered with three thousand islands, deep in Sámi homeland. Big brown trout and Arctic char in wild, treeless country under the midnight sun.

Getting there & access

  • Fish from: boat

Metsahallitus issues the angling permit for the state waters of Lake Inarijarvi and Lake Nitsijarvi through its Eraluvat permit service. The permit is specific to the boating party, so one valid permit covers one boat, and the number of permits is limited. The state fisheries management fee also applies to lure anglers aged 18 to 69, while hook-and-line and ice fishing with one rod are free. The lake has more than 3,000 islands and many shallow areas. Check the Inari fisheries area rules and the permit terms before fishing.

Access information source

Species

  • brown trout
  • Arctic char
  • whitefish

Best times to fish

  • Summer trolling (Jun-Aug)
  • Midnight sun
  • Ice fishing in spring

Recommended gear

Essential

  • Trolling or spin outfit
  • Spoons and deep divers
  • Warm layers
  • Sounder

Optional

  • Boat hire or guide
  • GPS — the lake is easy to get lost on
  • Insect repellent

Regulations and requirements

  • State fisheries management fee plus a regional Inari permit required
  • Trout have a minimum size and there are protected spawning areas
  • Respect Sámi fishing rights and local customary use

Rules change regularly — always confirm with the relevant fisheries authority before you fish.

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