Hiking and fishing: how to get started

Text: Senior Specialist, Communications Tanja Vallo and Specialist, Communications Katri Suhonen, Metsähallitus, Parks & Wildlife Finland

Fishing does not have to be the main purpose of the trip, but you can include it as part of the trip, when there is a suitable time and place for it. Fishing gives you something to do at campsites and, at best, the opportunity to prepare self-caught, fresh food in nature.

As a beginner, you do not need to make major equipment purchases or know everything in advance. You can get started with just some basic knowledge, skills and gear.

The most important thing is to remember that you can't fish for everything everywhere. So, before you go fishing, find out which fish species you are allowed to catch in the area, and what size fish you are allowed to keep. This is often written in the terms of the fishing permit.

When you know the basics, fishing is more relaxed and, above all, you know that you are acting responsibly.

Permits in order

Fishing permits should be taken care of in advance. Fisheries management fee is the basic fee for all fishers aged between 18 and 69 that must be paid when fishing with a spinning rod, for example. The fisheries management fee covers a wide range of fishing opportunities, as it entitles you to fish almost everywhere in Finland. Angling and ice fishing are not subject to a fee, and they are particularly suitable for beginners.

However, you sometimes need a fishing permit from the owner of the water area in question.

• Get started by reading basic information on fishing permits on the Luontoon.fi website.
• To pay the fisheries management fee, visit the Eräluvat.fi service. You can also get fishing permits for state-owned waters from the same place.

You do not need to make major purchases to start fishing. The first thing to do is to find out if there is a company that rents equipment nearby. Sometimes fishing equipment can also be borrowed from acquaintances. Renting or borrowing is a good way to test whether fishing is your thing.

If you develop an interest in fishing, having your own equipment will of course bring freedom: you can fish when you want and get to know your gear at your own pace. For a beginner, simple and inexpensive basic fishing gear is usually all you need.

These are sufficient:

• Pre-assembled spinning rod and reel combos are easy to use and affordable. Line already spooled onto the reel makes it easier to get started, and a few basic lures are more than enough at first.
• Alternatively, you can start by bait fishing. You can also get a ready-made set for angling and dig a baitworm from your own flower bed, for example.
• Pliers to remove the hook from the fish’s mouth.
• Knife for cleaning and preparing the catch.
• A measuring tape that you can use to measure the fish. You only need this if the site has specific rules on catch sizes.
• A landing net that makes it easier to lift the fish out of the water. You can also get the landing net later on, if you get into fishing.

Enjoying and observing nature is often the best catch. However, if you do catch a fish, it is good to know what to do. Key skills include:

• Removing the fish from the hook. Use pliers and remove the hook calmly. For example, if you catch an undersized fish and release it, keep the fish in water or handle it as little as possible.
• Killing the fish. If you take the fish for food, stun and kill it quickly and as painlessly as possible.
• Cleaning the fish. Open the fish, remove the organs and rinse the fish clean.
• More detailed guidelines for responsible fishing can be found in the Eräluvat.fi service.

Storing and preparing your catch

Fish caught during the trip is at its best prepared fresh. If you cannot cook it immediately, keep the fish cool. Especially in warm weather, the time from catching to preparing for food should be kept as short as possible.

At its simplest, you can cook the fish in a pan over a campfire or with a camping stove, or cook it in a foil over hot coals or make a fish soup.

• Fishing permits in order
  Check whether you need a fisheries management fee and a separate fishing permit.
• Check the rules of the area
  What fish species are allowed to be caught and what are their minimum sizes?
• Don't stress about the gear
  Ordinary spinning rods or worm rods are good equipment for beginners. Remember to bring pliers and a knife.
• Prepare in advance for handling your catch
  How do you keep the fish cool or prepare it on the trip?
• Take care of the environment
  Always handle the catch with respect. Take all the litter and pieces of fishing line with you.
• Remember safety
  Check the weather and find out, for example, whether making campfires is allowed. It is a good idea for beginners to start fishing from a pier or a lake shore. Keep a distance to others.
• Read the fisher’s Outdoor etiquette. (eräluvat.fi)
• Finnish recreational fishers’ guide videos for beginners (vapaa-ajankalastaja.fi, in Finnish)