For those of you who lives in Lappeenranta, Saimaa Lake at the moment may appears to be a frozen playground where you can walk, ski, and take pictures etc.
But what if I tell you that there are thousands of fish swimming right underneath your feet, and you can catch them at any time? That’s right, welcome to ice fishing on Saimaa Lake – one of the most traditional Finnish things that you may take part in. And here are some of the basic things that you better keep in mind, before hunting those fellows down.
#1: The weather
Just because you see snow falling, does it automatically means that the roads are soft and safe?
During the Skiing Holiday, the weather suddenly got warmer, thus melting the ice. So this new surface, though has been hardened again and covered by snow, is extremely slippery. Watch your step out there on the lake! (I wrote this article after felling for the first time ever so trust me).
#2: Regulation and destination
Technically, you have every rights to go ice fishing on Saimaa Lake, which means there is no need for any payment or professional certifications. About destination, be my guest – wherever you feel comfortable and hard enough is your perfect fishing spot.
A spot near Lappeenranta harbor. This activity is for everyone!
#3: Clothing
Ice fishing requires you to stay outdoor for quite a while, so make sure you are tucked up well with warm clothes, hat, gloves etc.
#4: Gadgets
Here are some basic gadgets that you will need for ice fishing:
Ice drill – So you can drill a hole on the lake’s surface
Waterproof gloves
Fishing rod, jigs or baits
Folding chair – Unless you want to sit on the ice while waiting for the fish.
Buckets or Ice box – for your trophies!
#5: Instruction
Okay, so we are now up and ready! What’s next is our basic ice-fishing guideline:
- Choose a spot: Make sure your fishing spot is hard enough, because you don’t want to terribly break the ice at its soft parts.
- Start drilling: Making a fishing hole
Get your ice driller work!
- Clear off the drilled ice
Clear the hole up and cover it in a way that makes it less suspicious for the fish
The finished fishing hole
- Start fishing!
Remember, patience and not too much noise are crucial for our journey
- Enjoy the trophies!
Fresh and alive from the frozen Saimaa Lake – these fellows are your reward!
#6: Some small reminders
Good preparation magnifies your chance of getting fish on Saimaa Lake.
Be careful of the slippery ice and the weak ice area.
Be happy. After all, enjoying the beauty of Finnish nature worth more than any fish underneath.
Lappeenranta Harbor (a view from my fishing spot), 03/2019
Khanh Tr.
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