Salmon fishing in the Lainio River: how to fish for Baltic salmon at Camp Onka

The Lainio River in northern Lapland is one of the Torne River's most important tributaries and receives a large proportion of the Baltic salmon that migrate up through the system every summer. At Camp Onka, you fish approximately 9.5 kilometres of private water, with a maximum of eight rods per week. This provides plenty of space and peaceful fishing far from roads and crowds.

What the week looks like

You fly to Kiruna, collect your rental car and drive for approximately an hour and a half to the camp. You spend the first evening checking your equipment and having dinner. Six full days of fishing follow.

Fishing is primarily done independently. A fishing host introduces you to the beats, and if you want a guide, one can be booked. You have unrestricted access to the entire stretch during the week and can fish when conditions are at their best, even late in the evening.

The season month by month

Salmon fishing runs from mid-June to the end of August, and each part of the season has its own character:

• June attracts experienced salmon anglers with higher water levels and the chance of catching large, newly arrived salmon.
• July often offers consistent fishing for both large salmon and medium-sized fish.
• August is ideal for more technical fishing with lighter tackle and excellent evening sessions as the water level drops and the salmon hold together more tightly.

Flies and lines

Early in the season, salmon are often fished with larger tube flies and heavier lines. As the water level drops, smaller flies, lighter tippets and floating lines become more effective. Classic salmon flies in dark and natural colors work well, especially in the evenings and at night when the salmon are most active.

More than salmon

The river also holds resident populations of trout and grayling, and pike can be found in nearby waters. This provides variety during quieter periods.

Accommodation and meals

You stay at Lapland Guesthouse near the river, in a double room. There is a sauna, with the option of using a hot tub and jacuzzi by the river. Meals are prepared with ingredients from the mountains and forests: breakfast every morning, packed lunches for days by the water, and dinner in the evening.

Summer daytime temperatures are usually between 10 and 20 degrees, and the light nights in June and July mean you can fish for much of the day. Bring layers and rain gear.

Read more

If you are more interested in grayling and dry-fly fishing, read about fly fishing in Tjuonajokk.

Fancy salmon fishing in Lapland?

The weeks run from Sunday to Sunday between mid-June and the end of August. Contact us about availability.

View the fishing trip to Camp Onka

Frequently asked questions about salmon fishing at Camp Onka