Fishing

Grayling (Thymallus thymallus)

The grayling is a highly regarded salmonid species known particularly for its tall, beautifully colored dorsal fin. It is a popular target among anglers due to its active behavior. The grayling is quite common in the Teno River system and other clear waters of Northern Lapland.

Grayling can be found especially in the calm sections and edges of the Teno River’s main channel, where the water flows moderately. They often prefer shallower, slightly flowing areas where they wait below the surface for insects drifting with the current.

The clear fell lakes and remote ponds of the Teno River system are also excellent grayling waters. In these waters, grayling often gather in shallow areas and shore zones, particularly during spring and summer evenings when insects hatch on the surface. The region’s small streams and large ditches can be true grayling treasures where the fish thrive in sheltered spots.

For fly fishing grayling in the Teno River system, a #3–#5 weight fly rod and a light line are sufficient. The ideal hook sizes are #12–#16, small enough to attract grayling yet effective. In clear weather, lighter or natural colors like olive and brown are preferred, while in dim light and at night, darker flies work best. Grayling often feed along the stream’s edge or in shallow calm spots where food drifts by easily.

Fly selection should be adjusted according to the time of day.

• Morning: When the water is cooler, grayling are often active near the surface. Dry flies like Elk Hair Caddis, Klinkhåmer, or Adams in sizes 12–16 work well. Light nymphs and emergers are also worth trying.
• Daytime: Insects become more active as temperatures rise, and grayling may rise more actively to dry flies. During bright conditions and calmer waters, more subtle flies may be required. Try imitating surface insects with CDC Caddis, Black Gnat, and Olive Dun. When fishing below the surface, small nymphs and pupae such as Caddis Pupa or Zebra Midge are worth experimenting with. If the grayling doesn’t rise, it may be necessary to use wet flies or streamers, particularly in deeper spots.
• Evening: Grayling are often most active in the evening. Insect hatches and swarming attract them in large numbers. Their diet can be imitated with dry flies like Elk Hair Caddis (brown or olive), Mosquito, and Black Klinkhåmer. In the surface film and just below it, try various emergers that imitate insects struggling on the surface.
• Night: While the Teno River’s summer nights are bright, grayling can be more cautious and tend to sink to deeper waters. During night fishing, dark flies that are visible to fish in low light are most effective. Surface flies like Black Gnat and Dark Hendrickson, as well as dark and small streamers like Woolly Bugger or Black Leech, work well.

The Teno River system offers excellent grayling fly fishing opportunities throughout the summer and fishing season from June 10 to August 10. Dry flies, nymphs, and streamers can all be effective when selected according to the time of day and water conditions. Particularly memorable for many anglers is the experience of dry fly fishing during the bright summer nights along the legendary Teno River.

Brown Trout (Salmo trutta)

The brown trout is found in the Teno River system in three ecological forms: the sea trout (Salmo trutta), the lake trout (Salmo trutta lacustris), and the brook trout (Salmo trutta fario).

These forms differ based on their habitat and migratory behavior. The clean, cool flowing waters of the Teno River provide ideal conditions for brown trout, but maintaining healthy trout populations requires responsible management and conservation efforts. Brown trout can be easily distinguished from salmon by their almost straight-edged tail, the distinct mouth extending behind the eye, and spots extending down to the belly. Sea trout, which migrate from the sea and are locally found, can be identified by their coloring: sea trout are much brighter than local individuals.

The sea trout is the most significant ecological form in the Teno River system. It migrates to the Barents Sea to grow, where abundant food allows for rapid growth. Adult individuals return to their home rivers in the spring to spawn. The tributaries and brooks of the Teno River serve as important spawning grounds for the sea trout, and the oxygen-rich gravel beds in flowing water provide optimal conditions for the development of eggs. The sea trout’s life cycle and survival depend on the quality of spawning sites and the accessibility of migration routes. The lake trout is found particularly in the upper reaches of the Teno River system, where it can spend part of its life in lakes. Spawning occurs in fast-flowing waters in the fall, as it does with other forms of brown trout. The brook trout, on the other hand, lives its life in small tributaries of the Teno River system. In these environments, brown trout often remain small due to limited food availability. Brook trout use the gravel beds of the streams for spawning and thrive in clear, cool water typical of the upper reaches of the Teno River and its tributary brooks.

A brown trout angler can target the main river’s fast-flowing stretches and larger pools, as well as the area’s smaller rivers, brooks, or the clear lakes of the tundra region. Brown trout prefer waters with rocky, fast-flowing areas and the shallower parts of lakes. The most important factor for the brown trout’s well-being is the availability of food, such as insects, sticklebacks, and vendace. Anglers should also consider the time of day when fishing for brown trout. Larger individuals are usually found in the shallower parts of the waters and along the edges of currents during the evening and night, or when the light shifts toward dusk. During the day, brown trout are best targeted in deeper or faster-flowing parts of the water.

Popular and effective flies for brown trout fishing are available in all types: dry flies, nymphs, and streamers. For dry flies, examples include Elk Hair Caddis, Goddard Caddis, and Klinkhammer. For nymphs, Pheasant Tail and Hare’s Ear are effective. For streamers and small fish imitations, Muddler Minnow, Zonker, and Woolly Bugger are also good choices. When using imitation flies, natural colors (olive, brown, gray) should be used, but in the evening and in murkier waters, brighter colors (orange, red) may work better when fishing with nymphs and streamers. The strength of the brown trout and its excellent eyesight should be considered when selecting the leader line.

Humpback / Pink Salmon (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha)

The humpback or Pink salmon is an invasive species commonly found in the Teno River system as well as the Näätämö River. It spawns in these rivers that flow into the Arctic Ocean during odd years and migrates upstream in mid-summer.

Its fly and lure fishing has become increasingly popular worldwide and has quickly gained traction in the Arctic Ocean rivers. It is a popular recreational fishing target, especially in North America along the Pacific Coast. The Pink salmon eagerly bites the lure and provides a fierce fight, offering enjoyable moments for anglers. In the main channel of the Teno River, the mass migration of Pink salmon typically occurs around Midsummer and mid-July. Along the Arctic coast near river mouths, they can be fished starting from mid-June.

A light one-handed fly rod is sufficient for fly fishing for Pink salmon. According to the Teno River fishing regulations, the fly rod must be no heavier than a #6 weight. The regulations also specify that floating fly lines should be used for fishing for Pink salmon. The leader line should be no thicker than 0.25 mm. It is recommended to use fluorocarbon leaders, as they withstand the fish’s teeth a bit better. Lure fishing is also allowed, as per the Teno River fishing regulations. The lure can have only one treble hook, no larger than size #8. Lures should feature bright colors like orange and pink, as well as other fluorescent hues. It is best to retrieve the lure slowly, letting it “drift” with subtle tugs to provoke a strike. Pink salmon prefer shallow, but moderately flowing shorelines and areas where they can be targeted by fly fishermen. The best times to catch them are early mornings and evening twilight when they are most active.

Pink salmon must not be released back into the Teno River system. They should be killed as quickly as possible after being caught. Pink salmon is an excellent food fish, rich in nutritional value, and can replace Atlantic salmon in any salmon recipe. The skin of the Pink salmon is also ideal for crafts, making its fishing in the Teno River system highly recommended.

Whitefish (Coregonus lavaretus)

The whitefish is a highly valued and diverse species of salmonid that thrives in cool and clean waters. It is a slender, silvery fish with a darker back and relatively large scales.

Its mouth and head shape are influenced by its lifestyle: the whitefish can either be a lake-dwelling bottom feeder or a plankton-eating whitefish. Whitefish inhabit a variety of environments and are found in many types of water systems. They prefer clear, oxygen-rich lakes that provide suitable conditions for both plankton-feeding and bottom-feeding whitefish. The clear, shallow lakes and ponds of the tundra region offer excellent living conditions for the species. In these waters, whitefish are often smaller in size but excellent in taste. In Upper Lapland, there is also a migratory form of the species, which moves from rivers to lakes and the sea. Whitefish in the Teno River and its tributaries migrate to the gravel beds of the rivers in the fall to spawn. In rivers and streams, whitefish favor calmer sections along the banks, shallow pools, and areas near bottom rocks. During the summer, whitefish often come close to the shore, where they feed on insects and larvae on the surface.

Fly fishing for whitefish is a precise and technical form of angling that requires light tackle, thin lines, and the right kinds of flies. A light rod in the #3–#5 range is ideal, with fiberglass rods being particularly suitable for whitefish fishing. A thin leader, such as 0.12–0.18 mm, is necessary because whitefish are cautious and can easily detect thick lines. Effective dry flies include small emergent patterns and Klinkhamers. For nymphing, whitefish are attracted to small nymphs such as the Pheasant Tail Nymph, Hare’s Ear Nymph, and Zebra Midge. Careful presentation is key when fishing for whitefish. The best places to catch whitefish are in clear lakes and slow-moving river sections, especially on summer evenings when they feed on the surface.

Arctic Char (Salvelinus alpinus)

The Arctic char, also known as the “northern trout,” is a cold-water fish belonging to the salmon family. It is known for its beautiful appearance: its silvery side, reddish fins, and speckled body make it easily recognizable. The Arctic char thrives in cool, oxygen-rich waters, preferring northern lakes and mountain streams

The Paistunturi and Kaldoaivi fell areas are famous for their excellent char waters. These areas have several remote, shallow, and crystal-clear lakes and ponds that are ideal for Arctic char. The tributaries and upper reaches of the Teno River may contain smaller char populations.

The Arctic char is highly adaptable and occurs in three main forms: the local lake char, the anadromous sea char, and the permanently small dwarf char. Local chars are typically found in mountain lakes and ponds, feeding mainly on insects, crustaceans, and small fish. Growth in these waters is slow, but the fish can be long-lived. Dwarf chars, which feed on plankton and invertebrates, have limited growth potential due to their poor diet. Sea chars migrate to marine areas to feed and return to rivers to spawn, typically growing larger than the local populations.

Several factors can influence successful Arctic char fishing. Dusk and dawn are often the best times to fish for char. Calm weather and clear water provide optimal conditions, but on cloudy days, char may be more active. Char are cautious in clear water, so approach fishing spots carefully and avoid making excessive noise. In mountain lakes and ponds, char often move in schools, circling the waters in search of food.

Arctic char can be caught with small spoons, spinners, or flies. Surface flies, such as those imitating mayflies, dragonflies, and midges, are particularly effective.

Pike (Esox lucius)

The pike is one of the most common and targeted predatory fish in Finland, also found in the Teno River system and the wilderness areas of Northern Lapland. The pike populations living in Lapland’s clean and clear waters play an essential role in maintaining the aquatic ecosystem’s balance, while also producing truly large specimens.

The pristine environment of Lapland makes its pike excellent for eating. In the Utsjoki area, pike fishing offers a great opportunity to experience the waters of the Arctic fell region, as pike thrive in various habitats and provide exciting moments for anglers.

The main channel of the Teno River is renowned for its salmon, but nowadays, pike are also increasingly found there. Pike living in the main channel and its tributaries prefer slower-flowing sections and sheltered bays within calm pools. Occasionally, pike can also be found in rapids and particularly in their tailwaters. In the fell region, pike can be found in most lakes and ponds.

Pike can be caught with lures or flies, respecting local fishing regulations. When fly fishing, pike readily strike large streamers and poppers. Recommended fly-fishing gear includes a strong rod and a durable leader to protect the line from the pike’s sharp teeth. In the main channel of the Teno River, a fly rod of up to #6 weight single-hand rod and a leader with a thickness of 0.25 mm are allowed. For fishing in the fell areas, heavier equipment is recommended.

When selecting lures and flies, having bright colors is essential. Effective colors include green, yellow, red, orange, silvery, and black.

Perch (Perca fluviatilis)

The perch is Finland’s national fish and the most common and versatile fish species in our waters. It thrives well in the waters of the Utsjoki and Teno River Valley areas. The perch is easily recognizable by its greenish or grayish back, dark vertical stripes on its sides, and reddish or orange lower fins. Resilient and adaptable, the perch inhabits not only the calm sections of the Teno River’s main channel but also the fell areas, including lakes, rivers, and smaller ponds.

Light spinning gear works well for perch fishing, such as small spinners like Mepps and Vibrax or small spoon lures. Jigging is also an effective way to catch perch. Particularly recommended for the fell waters are small, colorful micro jigs.

Fly fishing for perch is a fun and versatile method because perch are active, easily attracted, and common. It’s also suitable for beginner fly fishers, as perch eagerly bite on lures and provide enjoyable resistance with light fly-fishing gear. It’s advisable to use relatively light fly rods and floating fly lines.

Perch will go for a variety of flies, ranging from small streamers to dry flies. Especially effective are small baitfish imitations with colors such as black, green, orange, and silver.

Salmon (Salmo salar)

The salmon (Salmo salar), the king of the river, swims through the powerful rapids towards the upper reaches. The journey begins when the salmon is a smolt, migrating to the open sea to grow. Once fully grown, the salmon returns from the sea to the river to spawn in the upstream gravel beds.

Some salmon may spend up to four years in the sea before their first spawning journey. Typically, salmon spend two years at sea, growing to weights of 3–8 kilograms. Some individuals may return to the river up to three times and grow to over 20 kilograms. Salmon only feed in the sea, so it remains a mystery why they bite lures.

Salmon fishing on the Teno River has a long and significant history, stretching back centuries. The Teno River salmon has been a central part of the lives and livelihoods of the local Sámi people and other residents of the region. Fishing was originally practiced primarily for sustenance using traditional methods such as nets, hook and line, weirs, and drift fishing. In the 19th century, and especially in the early 20th century, the salmon fishing on the Teno River began to attract fishing tourists, particularly British gentlemen, who brought with them the tradition of fly fishing. The Teno River became a world-class salmon river, and famous fly fishermen helped make the region a renowned fishing destination.

The status of the salmon in the Teno River system has been concerning in recent years, sparking widespread discussion among anglers, researchers, and authorities. The Teno River’s salmon population has traditionally been one of the world’s most important wild salmon populations, but in recent years, the numbers of salmon have dramatically declined. Currently, fishing for salmon in the Teno River system is prohibited in order to protect the population.

Gyrodactylus salaris

Gyrodactylus salaris is a small salmon parasite that lives on the skin of salmon and is particularly harmful to salmon populations. The spread of this parasite to new water bodies poses a significant threat, and anglers must follow specific precautions to prevent its spread. This is especially important in sensitive salmon areas like the Teno River, where protecting salmon populations is crucial.

How Anglers Can Prevent the Spread of Gyrodactylus salaris

1. Drying and Disinfecting Equipment
   1. Dry your fishing gear thoroughly: The parasite’s eggs and spores can survive in moist fishing equipment for several days. Thorough drying of gear (for at least 48 hours) is an effective way to prevent the spread.
   2. Disinfect your equipment: If drying is not possible, gear should be disinfected with special disinfectants such as Virkon-S solution or hot water (at least +60 °C).
   3. Disinfection stations are available especially in the Teno River fishing area, and their use is recommended and often mandatory.
2. Avoid Transferring Equipment Between Water Bodies
   1. Do not use the same fishing equipment in multiple water bodies without disinfecting them. This applies to:
      1. Rods, reels, lines, lures, and flies.
      2. Wading gear (boots, waders).

• Boats, canoes, or other watercraft.

1. If fishing in multiple water bodies, disinfection must always be carried out before moving to a new location.

3. Using Disinfection Stations
   1. Official disinfection stations are located in the Teno River area and other salmon river areas.
   2. Anglers should use these stations, as they provide the correct substances and methods for cleaning equipment.
   3. Proof of disinfection may be required before fishing can begin, which is common practice along the Teno River and other protected areas.
4. Prohibition of Transferring Fish and Water Between Water Bodies
   1. Never transfer fish, water, or other biological materials from one water body to another.
   2. This includes baitfish and animal-based lures, which are prohibited in the Teno River.
   3. Also, avoid leaving water in your gear or boats.
5. Follow Regional Guidelines and Regulations
   1. Before fishing, check the official regulations and guidelines for the area, such as fishing rules and equipment disinfection requirements.
   2. Compliance with regulations is mandatory when fishing in the Teno River and other sensitive areas.
6. Responsible Fishing and Sharing Information
   1. Spread awareness about the risks of the parasite to other anglers.
   2. Lead by example and follow all guidelines, even if they are not strictly enforced.
   3. Report to authorities if you observe sick fish or suspect the presence of the parasite in water bodies.

Summary

Gyrodactylus salaris is a serious threat to salmon populations. However, anglers can effectively prevent its spread by simple measures such as thorough drying of equipment, disinfection, and compliance with regional regulations. This is especially important in sensitive salmon areas like the Teno River, where protecting salmon populations is vital.

For more information and to find disinfection stations in the Teno Valley, visit the ELY Center’s website.