WELCOME TO LAHEMAA, ESTONIA

Hook your memories!

Fishing guidesHotel listOther things to do

Lahemaa – meaning the land of the bays – is surrounded with a wonderful and pristine nature, rich with bogs and forests, and bounded by breath-taking coastlines and predominantly uninhabited islands. 

Here you will find picturesque indigenous fishing villages and some of the best fishing spots on the Estonian sea coast. They are a mere hour of driving away from the Estonian capital Tallinn.

You can spend time both fishing and hiking through the woods. Taking the time to enjoy Lahemaa forestry nature and fresh air frees the mind from everyday thoughts and leaves a memorable experience. Fishing here is a great way to explore new places which are hard to find elsewhere, as well as a pleasant exercise outdoors.

In Lahemaa forest, bog and coastal ecosystems, as well as semi-natural communities, geological monuments and historic and architectural monuments are protected. Lahemaa is in fact one of Europe’s most important forest protection areas, and, together with its bird and wilderness regions, it belongs to the European Natura 2000 network. 

There are almost 150 springs originating in Lahemaa National Park, which is crossed by seven rivers and a number of smaller streams. The largest of them are Loobu and Valgejõgi (both important for sea trout as well). Falling from the clint terrace, the rivers form waterfalls and cascades, of which the most magnificent ones are the Nõmmeveski waterfall and the Joaveski cascade. 

THE FISHING AREAS AND OFFERS

Our fishing guides offer opportunities to discover places impossible to get to on your own while enjoying a nice workout in the Estonian nature.

There are numerous fishing opportunities in Lahemaa. Fish can be caught from the shore as well as from shallow waters or a boat. Fishing traditions here are long-standing. We have a great supply of sea trout and good places to fish. Moreover, it is possible to catch other types of fish as well, such as pike, perch, white fish, etc. One single permit allows for fishing for different fish in various spots.

Our fishing guides adhere to the rules of ethical fishing, which they also present to the guests. Fishing guides are well equipped and have an exceptional knowledge of Northern Estonia’s shoreline. They help fishermen to recognize places where fish can be found, demonstrate which techniques work best in different situations and how they can be applied correctly and efficiently.

In Estonia, it is possible to fish all year around, different species, times and locations. Sea trout fishing season begins in October and ends in May. We are an ideal place for this type of fishing because rocky beaches and long reefs are sea trout’s favorite habitat. Depending on the weather, it is possible to fish from across the entire coastline of Northern Estonia as well as from the shores of the biggest Estonian islands – Saaremaa and Hiiumaa.

Pike fishing takes place from June to November. The shallow and fast-warming bays off the coast of Western Estonia and the low-lying island shores are special places for fishermen, as these are home to large pikes thanks to the favorable growing conditions. Many anglers from Europe and beyond had to come to Estonia to finally hook the pike of their dreams. 

Ice fishing can be practiced from January to March. Under the right conditions, the best place for ice fishing is the Pärnu Bay, bustling with plentiful schools of sea perch under a thick layer of ice. Fishermen rent snowmobiles directly from the beach hotel to travel to their ice holes, then travel back at the end of the day. 

A DAY OUT WITH A FISHING GUIDE

Typical fishing package includes transport to and from fishing site, briefing on the local fish species, recreational fishing permit, guidance and assistance on fishing, fishing tips and tricks (including sustainable fishing practices), meals (chef workshop available at extra cost). 

Our fishing guides are experienced local fishermen who will make sure that your time in Estonia meets and even exceeds your highest expectations. Enjoy doing what you love while your guide takes care of planning, logistics and safety pre-cautions. 

Up to 5 fishing guides are listed at the destination, all certified with the Baltic Sea Fishing ethical code and holding the necessary licenses. They are highly advanced in fishing skills and service, well respected and known to the Estonian fishing community, fluent in English and often mastering other languages as well.

Everything from full package offers, including dinner and accommodation, to full day, half day, as well as evening trips. Additionally, upon your requests, custom-made fishing trips after can be arranged. 

A TYPICAL FISHING TRIP IN LAHEMAA

FISHING GALLERY

HOTEL LIST

There are several accommodation establishments – from simple guesthouses to a bit fancier hotels – in different parts of Lahemaa, located either on the waterfront, deep in forests or near the national park itself. Several of them offer not only a roof over your head, but also catering, sauna and other amenities and entertainment.

House Kärka – cozy and private holiday home at northern top of Estonia

Ligedama Wabatalu – guest house where every room is equipped with a patio

You can find an additional list here.

OTHER THINGS TO DO

In addition to fishing, you can have a great time hiking at more than 20 study and hiking trails in the untouched woods or visiting posh historical manors and exhibitions in the surrounding area. The more adventurous travelers can also sign up for bear watching deep in the Estonian forests – the country has the highest brown bear population density in Europe. Taking the time to enjoy the wild nature of Lahemaa and to breathe its fresh air will calm the senses and relieve you from everyday worries. 

During the annual salmon run from late October to early December, volunteers are welcome to watch salmon spawns, thus protecting the eggs from poachers. The spawn watch is a great opportunity to spend some time in the nature and to see up-close numerous salmons in their shallow water reeds. 

More information about Lahemaa national park and other recommended activities can be found here.

WE GIVE BACK TO BALTIC SEA FISH POPULATIONS

The BSF fishing guides in actively support measures to improve natural production of coastal and migratory fish by earmarked funds derived from fishing tourism to local fish conservation measures. BSF stems from the EU-funded Retrout project that currently are improving the habitats and fishing production in 12 Baltic Sea rivers. Other improvement measures, such as construction of suitable wetlands for fish reproduction and river watch (guarding) activities are also conducted.

Our fishing guides