River Vuoksi

Imatra, South Karelia, Finland · Fly Fishing · Advanced

The outflow of Lake Saimaa, a big, powerful river below the Imatra rapids holding landlocked salmon and large brown trout. Heavy water that suits streamers and sink tips.

Getting there & access

  • Fish from: land-based or boat

The City of Imatra divides the Vuoksi fishing waters into the Vuoksi itself (excluding Mellonlahti) and Mellonlahti, each with its own permit. On the Vuoksi, fly fishing, spinning and trolling are allowed, bait fishing and ice fishing need no Vuoksi permit, and motor trolling is limited to the stretch between Kyyronkoski and the border zone. All fishing is prohibited from 15 October to 15 November between the railway bridge and the river mouth, and grayling are protected from 1 April to 31 May. Check the City of Imatra's current permit terms before fishing.

Access information source

Species

  • brown trout
  • landlocked salmon
  • grayling

Best times to fish

  • Autumn (Sep-Oct)
  • Spring after ice-out
  • Overcast days

Recommended gear

Essential

  • 7-8 weight fly rod
  • Streamers and sink tips
  • Chest waders with studs
  • Wading staff

Optional

  • Beat permit
  • Boat for the deeper runs
  • Rain jacket

Regulations and requirements

  • State fisheries management fee plus a local permit required
  • Saimaa landlocked salmon is critically endangered and must be released
  • Hydro releases change levels rapidly — check flows before wading

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

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