Fishing permits

What licenses do I need to fish in Finland?

Remember your fishing permit!

All fishers aged 18–69 years have to pay the fisheries management fee. However, angling with a hook and line, ice-fishing, and herring fishing with a rig are free of charge!

The fisheries management fee (in finnish kalastonhoitomaksu) grants the right to fish with one rod anywhere in Finland, except in rapids and currents in waters containing migratory fish, areas where fishing is prohibited, certain special sites, and the Åland Islands.

This fee is mandatory for all fishermen aged 18 to 69 who engage in fishing methods other than angling with a hook and line, ice-fishing, or herring fishing with a rig.

Trolling with multiple rods, trap fishing, or crayfishing requires not only the fishing management fee but also the permit from the owner of the water area. Also fishing in special areas usually requires the permit from the owner of the water area.

Photo: PG Fishing Guide

Where to buy licenses?

The fisheries management fee can be paid online at Eraluvat.fi, by downloading the Eräluvat app on your mobile device, by calling the Metsähallitus service number at +358 20 69 2424 (free of charge, weekdays 9–15), or at Metsähallitus’ Nature Centres. Registration requires your name, contact information, and date of birth. Always carry the receipt and your ID card while fishing.

For many river fishing locations, fishing with multiple rods, and fishing with a net or trap, a fishing permit issued by the owner of the water area is always required in addition to the fishing management fee. These so-called local permits are sold at nearby outlets such as fishing tackle shops, gas stations, tourist information points. Fishing permits for state-owned water areas are sold by Metsähallitus, and these permits can be purchased through the Eräluvat website or app

What do fishing licences cost?

Fisheries management fee is:

6 euros for 24 hours
16 euros for 7 day period
47 euros for a calendar year

Fishing permits of the owner of the water area vary in prices, usually customer has an option to choose between a validity period of 6-12-24 hours or one week. In addition to fisheries management fee, permit from the owner of the water area is required for example in many state or private owned rapids and rivers.

Photo: Pielisen Retki

Photo: Shutterstock

Fishing regulations in Finland

During closed seasons the use of fishing gear specifically suited for catching the protected species is prohibited. If you get a fish or crayfish during its closed season, you have to release your catch, regardless of if it is alive or dead.

Some of our water bodies are restricted from fishing either entirely or during certain parts of the year. Additionally, specific closed seasons have been established for certain fish and crayfish species.

Check closed seasons and general catch sizes here.

However in some waters, fishing is completeley banned or restricted. The Fishing Restriction Service contains information on which areas are outside general fishing rights. Also the permitted catch sizes may vary due to regional decisions.

Remember to check the the latest information about fishing restrictions and regulations from the website kalastusrajoitus.fi