Fishing in Sweden: A paradies for predator fishing?

Overview:
1. Fish Species in Sweden
2. Boat Fishing in Sweden
3. Essential Equipment for fishing in Sweden
4. Best Target Fish in Sweden
5. Ideal Fishing Times in Sweden
6. Fishing Without a License in Sweden
7. Recommended Baits for Fishing in Sweden

Hey dear fishing enthusiast!
In this post, we want to share our experience of fishing in Sweden with you. Here, you'll find everything you need to know to prepare for your next fishing vacation in Sweden. Enjoy reading! 

Fish Species in Sweden

Freshwater Fish in Sweden

Sweden offers a diverse range of fish species in its freshwater bodies, from small streams and lake inlets to large lake expanses. The specific fish population varies depending on the type of water. Expect good catches of the following species:

- Perch
- Pike
- Walleye
- Trout
- Rainbow Trout
- Sea Trout
- Brook Trout
- Arctic Char
- Salmon
- Eel
- Rudd
- Catfish
- Bream
- Roach
- Carp
- Chub
- Tench
- Ide
- Vimba Bream
- Ide

Saltwater Fish in Sweden

In Sweden's saltwater bodies, you can find:

- Salmon
- Sea Trout
- Herring
- Cod
- Mackerel
- Flatfish
- Flounder
- Plaice
- Turbot
- Brill
- Dab
- Pollack 

Boat Fishing in Sweden

Fishing from a boat in Sweden is not only enjoyable but also practical. With the aid of a sonar, you can locate fish in the vast Swedish lakes.

Do I need a boat license in Sweden?

No, it's straightforward to rent a fishing boat in Sweden. There are no age restrictions or horsepower limits for the boat motor. The dimensions of the boat you can operate are limited to 12 meters in length and 4 meters in width. More information on boat operation can be found on "visitsweden.com"

Renting Your Own Fishing Boat in Sweden

Within legal limits, you can also rent your own boat. Choose a boat that you can handle efficiently; a 5-meter boat is often a practical choice for up to 4 people.

Booking a Boat with a Fishing Guide in Sweden

If you prefer hassle-free boat fishing in Sweden, consider hiring an experienced fishing guide with their boat. While it might be the priciest option, it's likely the most effective. The guide knows the best spots, maneuvers the boat skillfully, and is equipped with the latest technology to lead you to the fish.

The choice is yours, ranging from a small rowboat rented locally to a guided fishing day. What will you decide? 

Essential Equipment for fishing in Sweden

Before fishing in a foreign country like Sweden, it's natural to wonder about the necessary equipment. We'll guide you through it, and trust us, you need less than you think.

Spin Fishing in Sweden

For spin fishing in Swedish lakes and rivers, 2-3 fishing rods are sufficient. For light spin fishing targeting perch and trout, a short rod (2.10-2.40 meters) with a casting weight of up to 15 grams, paired with a reel (size 1000-2500) and a braided line of about 6 kg strength (0.12mm diameter) is suitable. For larger fish like walleye and pike, use a 2.70-3.00 meters spin rod with a casting weight between 15-60 grams, paired with a reel (size 3000-4000) and a braided line with a strength of at least 10 kg (0.15mm - 0.18mm diameter). If specifically targeting large pike with big lures, carry a stronger rod (around 100 grams casting weight) and a braided line of at least 0.18mm diameter.

Still Fishing in Sweden

For simple bottom or float fishing, a 3-meter all-round rod with a casting weight between 5-30 grams is sufficient. A reel size of 3000 or 4000 is suitable. Unlike spin fishing, it makes sense to use a monofilament line with a strength of 0.25-0.30mm for normal fishing in Sweden. For specialized techniques like feeder, waggler, or carp fishing, pack specific equipment for those methods.

Sea Fishing in Sweden

Sea fishing for sea trout or salmon on the coast presents its own challenges. We recommend a soft, 3-meter rod with a casting weight of 10-40 grams. Choose a reel with a minimum size of 2500 and a braided line with a diameter of at least 0.16mm (though this might be too thin for salmon). IMPORTANT: Ensure the reel you choose is "saltwater-resistant." While non-saltwater-resistant reels can be used, they should be thoroughly rinsed in clear freshwater after each use. Still, depending on the model, there is a risk of damage from saltwater. 

Best Target Fish in Sweden

For the best fishing experience in Sweden, target perch, zander, and pike. The abundance of these species in Swedish waters, such as Asnen, xxx, or xxx, provides excellent fishing prospects. Whether you're after quantity or size, Sweden offers great chances of success. While 45cm+ perch might be rare, lakes in Sweden boast impressive zander exceeding 85 cm, and pike are abundant in both quantity and size.

Sea Trout on the Swedish Coast

Sea trout fishing along the Swedish coast is also highly rewarding, with good stocks of large specimens and less crowded areas compared to Germany.

Giant Coarse Fish in Sweden

Anglers targeting coarse fish won't be disappointed. Almost all lakes in Sweden have excellent stocks of coarse fish. For a unique experience, try float fishing with worms, maggots, or bait fish for large tench, carp, or bream. 

Ideal Fishing Times in Sweden

The best time to fish in Sweden varies regionally based on the season and climatic conditions.

Fishing in Northern Sweden

In Northern Sweden, where it remains cold for an extended period, the best fishing window is between May and October.

Fishing in Central Sweden

In Central Sweden, milder temperatures extend the fishing season from April to November.

Fishing in Southern Sweden

In Southern Sweden and the coastal region, you can fish throughout the year. 

Fishing Without a License in Sweden

Yes, you don't need a traditional fishing license with an exam, as in Germany. However, you do need a fishing permit for each specific water or region, which you can purchase from local fishing shops, tourist information centers, or online on IFiske (link: https://www.ifiske.se/index.php/de/). On IFiske, you can also see where you need a fishing card. 

Recommended Baits for Fishing in Sweden

Despite clear water, bright and flashy bait colors are popular in Sweden. Given the size of the waters and comparatively low angling pressure, fish in Sweden may not be as accustomed to artificial lures as in other regions. Here are the key lures for spin fishing and natural baits for Sweden:

Spin Fishing Lures for Sweden:

- Soft plastic with jig head: A classic lure that shouldn't be missing in Sweden

. Opt for a smaller size (up to 10 cm) and jig heads around 10 grams.
- Wobblers/Hardbaits: Effective in many shallow lakes, suitable for both casting and trolling from a boat to locate fish.
- Spin Jigs: Ideal "search baits" for bass, zander, and pike, allowing long casts and versatile retrieval. Useful not only for catching but also for covering a lot of ground, especially from the shore.
- Spoons/Spinners: Long coastal spoons are essential for sea trout fishing. They also work well in rivers. Bring a handful of spinners for river fishing for trout or perch.

Natural Baits for Sweden:

Keep in mind that in Sweden, the availability of natural baits for purchase is less common than in Germany. Either collect or catch them yourself, or ensure you buy enough when the opportunity arises.

- Worms: The classic natural bait that works for perch, tench, whitefish, and trout, including sea trout.
- Maggots: Essential for catching bait fish or for consistent fishing for whitefish such as bream, roach, and Rudd.
- Bait Fish: Swedish lakes are perfect for presenting a bait fish with a float. Bring handy roach, bleak, or whatever your water offers. Live bait works exceptionally well!

Ready for your fishing adventure in Sweden? We hope this guide provides you with all the information you need. Tight lines!