Lake Vättern

Jönköping, Sweden · Freshwater · Intermediate

Extraordinarily clear, deep and cold, Vättern holds Arctic char left behind by the last ice age. Trolling the open water and jigging the drop-offs both produce well.

Getting there & access

  • Fish from: boat

HEALTH ADVICE: the Swedish Food Agency (Livsmedelsverket) warns that wild-caught char from Lake Vattern, and wild trout, whitefish and salmon from Vattern, can contain high levels of dioxin and PCB. Children, young people and anyone who is pregnant, breastfeeding or planning a pregnancy should eat these fish at most two to three times a year; other adults can eat them about once a week. The Agency also advises not eating eel at all. Check the Food Agency's current advice before eating your catch, and confirm current fishing rules with the county board.

Access information source

Species

  • Arctic char
  • lake trout
  • whitefish

Best times to fish

  • Char (Sep-Nov)
  • Spring trout trolling
  • Calm mornings

Recommended gear

Essential

  • Trolling or vertical jigging outfit
  • Small spoons and jigs
  • Sounder
  • Downrigger

Optional

  • Boat with GPS
  • Warm layers
  • Landing net

Regulations and requirements

  • Free handheld-tackle fishing applies on Vättern as one of the five great lakes
  • Char have a closed season during autumn spawning
  • Trolling rod limits and minimum sizes apply — check current rules

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

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