Latvia is a hidden gem for anglers, offering a variety of fishing opportunities in its rivers, lakes, and the Baltic Sea. Known for its diverse fish species, pristine natural environment, and relaxed fishing culture, Latvia is an increasingly popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. Here’s a complete guide to help you navigate fishing in Latvia, whether you’re a seasoned angler or a curious beginner.
Overview of Fishing in Latvia
Latvia, located on the eastern shores of the Baltic Sea, has an abundance of rivers, lakes, and coastal waters, providing ideal fishing conditions. The country’s temperate climate, lush forests, and clean waters make it an excellent habitat for many fish species.
- Popular fishing seasons: Year-round, though some species are seasonal.
- Types of fishing: Freshwater (rivers and lakes), saltwater (Baltic Sea), and ice fishing (winter).
- Popular species: Pike, perch, zander (pike-perch), trout, salmon, sea trout, bream, eel, and grayling.
Types of Fishing in Latvia
Freshwater Fishing
Latvia is rich in lakes and rivers, making freshwater fishing very popular.
- Lakes: Latvia has more than 2,000 lakes, the largest of which is Lake Lubāns. Other notable lakes include Lake Engure and Lake Usma. They are home to species like pike, perch, roach, and bream.
- Rivers: The Daugava, Gauja, and Venta are the largest rivers in Latvia and excellent for fishing salmon, sea trout, and pike.
Key freshwater fishing spots:
- Gauja National Park: Famous for trout and salmon fishing in spring and fall.
- Venta River: Known for its large salmon and sea trout population.
- Lake Burtnieks: A great spot for catching pike and zander.
Saltwater Fishing (Baltic Sea)
Latvia’s coastline stretches over 500 km along the Baltic Sea, offering excellent sea fishing opportunities. The coastal waters are home to sea trout, cod, flounder, perch, and herring.
- Popular sea fishing spots:
- Jūrmala: Near the capital Riga, a famous resort town known for surfcasting for sea trout and flounder.
- Pāvilosta and Liepāja: Excellent for boat fishing, offering cod, perch, and sea trout.
Ice Fishing
Ice fishing is very popular during Latvia’s cold winter months, typically from December to March when the lakes freeze over. Ice fishing mainly focuses on perch, roach, and pike.
Best ice fishing locations:
- Lake Lubāns: One of the largest frozen lakes, great for ice fishing.
- Smaller lakes and ponds near Riga: These often attract anglers during winter for a more accessible ice fishing experience.
Top Fishing Locations in Latvia
Here’s a list of some of Latvia’s top fishing destinations:
| Location | Type of Water | Fish Species | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lake Burtnieks | Freshwater | Pike, zander, perch | Northern Latvia, popular for large pike. |
| Gauja River | River | Salmon, sea trout, pike | Gauja National Park, best for fly fishing. |
| Venta River | River | Salmon, sea trout | Known for the Venta Rapid waterfall. |
| Jūrmala Beach | Saltwater (Sea) | Sea trout, flounder | Coastal town, surfcasting hotspot. |
| Pāvilosta | Saltwater (Sea) | Cod, flounder, perch | Great for deep-sea fishing. |
| Lake Engure | Freshwater | Pike, perch, roach | A shallow lake, great for pike fishing. |
| Lake Usma | Freshwater | Pike, perch, roach | Surrounded by forests, great for camping and fishing. |
Fishing Regulations and Licensing
Fishing License Requirements
In Latvia, fishing requires a valid fishing license, whether you’re a local or a tourist. Licenses can be purchased online or from fishing gear shops, and they vary depending on the fishing type and location.
- Coastal and sea fishing: No license is required for recreational fishing along the coast.
- Freshwater fishing: A license is required, especially in protected rivers, lakes, and national parks.
- Special licenses: Some areas, especially those known for salmon and trout fishing, require an additional fishing permit for controlled fishing zones.
You can purchase fishing licenses:
- Online: Through the official Latvian government portal (www.manacope.lv).
- At local tourism centers: Especially around popular fishing spots.
- In fishing shops: Across major towns and cities.
Fishing Seasons and Restrictions
- Closed seasons: Some species have restricted fishing periods, especially during spawning times:
- Salmon: Closed from October 1 to December 31.
- Sea trout: Closed during spawning seasons (October to December).
- Pike and zander: Have restrictions in late spring (typically April to May).
- Catch limits: There are also limits on how many fish you can catch per day. For example, catching salmon or sea trout is often limited to 1-2 fish per day.
- Protected areas: Some national parks, rivers, and lakes have additional regulations, including catch-and-release policies or no-fishing zones.
Fishing Equipment and Tackle
Latvian fishing culture favors a wide range of fishing styles, from fly fishing in rivers to trolling and deep-sea fishing in the Baltic.
Basic Equipment:
- Rods: Medium-heavy rods (2-4 meters) for freshwater fishing (pike, perch) and lighter rods for smaller fish like roach or bream.
- Reels: Spinning reels for general freshwater fishing and baitcasting reels for trolling.
- Lures: Spinners, soft plastic baits, and jigs for freshwater; spoons and trolling lures for Baltic Sea fishing.
- Ice fishing gear: Short ice rods, ice augers, and small jigs or live bait are typical for catching perch and pike under the ice.
Where to Buy or Rent Gear:
- Fishing shops: Available in Riga, Jūrmala, Liepāja, and other cities. Popular stores like Eholotes.lv and Salmo.lv offer a variety of gear.
- Renting equipment: Some fishing resorts and guides offer rental equipment for day trips, especially for sea fishing or ice fishing.
Hiring a Fishing Guide in Latvia
Latvia offers numerous guided fishing tours, ideal for visitors unfamiliar with local waters or fishing regulations.
- Professional fishing guides: They provide all necessary equipment, offer local expertise, and ensure compliance with regulations.
- Costs: Guided fishing trips can range from €50 to €200 per day, depending on the type of fishing (freshwater, deep-sea, or ice fishing).
Popular tour operators include:
- Latvian Fishing Adventures: Specializes in river fishing, especially for salmon and trout.
- Fishing Latvia: Offers both freshwater and saltwater guided tours, including boat rentals.
Seasonal Fishing Events and Tournaments
Latvia hosts several annual fishing events and tournaments that attract locals and international anglers alike.
- Latvia Ice Fishing Championship: Held during winter, this competitive event focuses on ice fishing techniques and draws crowds from across the country.
- International Pike Fishing Tournament: Typically held in spring, focusing on pike fishing in lakes and rivers.
- Baltic Sea Fishing Competitions: Various regional contests throughout the year, focusing on cod, sea trout, and perch fishing.
Fishing-Friendly Accommodation
Many lodges, camps, and resorts cater specifically to anglers in Latvia.
- Fishing lodges: Many lakeside cabins and riverside lodges offer comfortable stays with private fishing areas, boat rentals, and even fish-smoking facilities.
- Campsites: Around Lake Usma and other large lakes, campsites provide access to excellent fishing spots and basic amenities.
Popular fishing accommodations include:
- Usma Lake Resort: Offers boats for rent, ideal for pike and zander fishing.
- Engure Lake Fishing Camp: A quiet, nature-friendly retreat with fishing amenities.
Fishing Etiquette and Sustainability
- Catch-and-release: This is encouraged, especially in protected rivers and during breeding seasons, to preserve fish stocks.
- Respect nature: Latvia’s lakes and rivers are mostly pristine, and keeping them clean is a cultural value.
- Follow local rules: Be aware of specific regulations in each area, particularly regarding seasonal bans and catch limits.
Fishing in Latvia offers a unique experience with its variety of fish species, beautiful natural surroundings, and relaxed, sustainable approach to angling. Whether you prefer tranquil freshwater lakes, fast-moving rivers, or the challenge of the Baltic Sea, Latvia has something to offer every angler. With abundant fishing spots, easy access to equipment, and professional guides, Latvia is an excellent choice for both local and visiting fishing enthusiasts.
