Top 5 Fishing Spots in Sweden

Sweden is a paradise for anglers, with its vast coastline, thousands of lakes, and pristine rivers teeming with fish. From trophy pike in the archipelagos to wild trout in mountain streams, the variety of fishing experiences is unmatched. After decades of exploring these waters, I've compiled what I consider to be the top five fishing spots that every angler should visit in Sweden.

1. Stockholm Archipelago - Pike Heaven

The Stockholm Archipelago, with its 30,000 islands and skerries, offers some of the best pike fishing in Europe. The shallow, weedy bays provide perfect spawning grounds and habitats for monster pike.

The most productive areas are typically around Vaxholm, Möja, and Sandhamn. The combination of brackish water and extensive weed beds creates a unique ecosystem where pike grow to impressive sizes. For the best experience, consider hiring a local guide who knows the hidden hotspots among the countless islands.

2. Lake Vänern - Sweden's Inland Sea

As Sweden's largest lake and the third-largest in Europe, Lake Vänern is an inland sea with diverse fishing opportunities. The lake covers a massive 5,650 square kilometers and reaches depths of up to 106 meters, creating varied habitats for numerous fish species.

The lake is divided into two main basins, Dalbosjön and Värmlandssjön, each with its own character and fishing potential. The western shores and island clusters are particularly renowned for their excellent fishing grounds.

What makes Vänern exceptional is its unique population of land-locked Atlantic salmon and brown trout. These fish behave like their oceanic relatives but spend their entire lives in freshwater, creating a truly special fishing opportunity that you won't find in many other places in the world.

3. Mörrumsån River - Salmon and Sea Trout Paradise

The Mörrumsån River in southern Sweden has been famous for its salmon and sea trout fishing for centuries. This 186 km long river flows from the southern Småland highlands to the Baltic Sea, creating one of Sweden's most prestigious fishing destinations.

The river is divided into different zones or pools, each with its own character and fishing possibilities. The season typically runs from March through September, with peak times varying for different species.

What makes the Mörrumsån River special is not just the quality of the fish but also the beautiful surroundings and the historical significance of the river. Many traditions and fishing techniques have been developed here over the centuries, making it a culturally significant fishing destination as well.

4. Lake Storsjön - Home of the Monster Pike

Located in central Sweden, Lake Storsjön is famous for its massive pike and diverse fishing opportunities. While it may not be as well-known internationally as some other destinations, locals consider it one of the best pike fishing lakes in the country.

The lake covers approximately 464 square kilometers and features numerous bays, points, and islands that create perfect pike habitats. The water is relatively clear, making sight fishing possible in some areas during calm conditions.

What's particularly interesting about Storsjön is the healthy population of large pike. While many lakes have numerous small pike, Storsjön maintains a good balance, allowing pike to grow to trophy sizes. The varied structure of the lake bottom creates diverse habitats that support different feeding and spawning patterns throughout the year.

5. Ammarnäs - Arctic Grayling and Brown Trout

For those seeking a more remote and wild fishing experience, the rivers around Ammarnäs in northern Sweden offer some of Europe's best fishing for Arctic grayling and brown trout. This area is part of Swedish Lapland and provides a true wilderness fishing adventure.

The pristine Vindelälven river and its tributaries flow through breathtaking mountain landscapes, creating a paradise for fly fishing enthusiasts. The crystal-clear waters allow you to spot fish and observe their behavior, making for an exciting visual fishing experience.

What makes fishing in Ammarnäs special is not just the quality of the fish but the entire experience of being in such a remote, unspoiled environment. The midnight sun during summer means you can fish around the clock, and the sparse population ensures you often have entire stretches of river to yourself.

Planning Your Swedish Fishing Adventure

When planning your fishing trip to these amazing Swedish destinations, keep in mind that different regions have different fishing regulations. Most areas require fishing licenses, and some have specific rules regarding catch-and-release, size limits, and protected species.

For the best experience, consider the following tips:

• Research and secure necessary fishing licenses in advance
• Consider hiring a local guide, especially for your first visit to a new area
• Pack appropriate clothing for Sweden's variable weather conditions
• Bring quality fishing gear suited to your target species
• Practice catch-and-release to help preserve these magnificent fisheries
• Book accommodations early, especially during peak season