Latvia, with its pristine lakes, flowing rivers, and scenic Baltic Sea coastline, is a top destination for anglers of all levels. The country’s diverse waters offer opportunities to catch everything from freshwater predators, like perch, pike and zander to migratory species like salmon, cod, windfish and sea trout. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful fishing retreat in nature or the thrill of deep-sea fishing, Latvia has it all. Here are the top 7 fishing destinations in Latvia that every angler should visit.
1. Lake Usma
Location: Western Latvia, near Ventspils
Type: Freshwater Lake
Fish species: Pike, perch, zander.
Lake Usma is another top destination for freshwater fishing, particularly for those targeting pike and zander. The lake is surrounded by forests, offering a peaceful and remote fishing experience. Its clean waters and variety of fish species make it a great place for anglers looking for both quantity and quality in their catches.
- Why visit: If you’re looking for a quiet, relaxing fishing spot surrounded by nature, Lake Usma is ideal. Plus, it’s perfect for pike, perch and zander fishing enthusiasts.
- Best time to visit: Late spring to late autumn, when pike, perch and zander are most active.
- A great variety of accommodations around the lake and also a SPA
2. Lake Burtnieks
Location: Northern Latvia, near Valmiera
Type: Freshwater Lake
Fish species: Pike, zander, perch, roach
Lake Burtnieks is one of Latvia’s largest and most popular fishing destinations. Known for its trophy-sized pike and zander, it attracts anglers who are looking for a chance to reel in large, predatory fish. The shallow areas around the lake provide good opportunities for perch, while the deeper zones are where zander and pike lurk.
- Why visit: The lake’s vast size, beautiful surroundings, and the chance to catch big perch pike and zander make it a favorite spot for both local and international anglers.
- Best time to visit: Spring and autumn, when perch, pike and zander are most active.
3. Venta River
Location: Western Latvia, near Kuldīga
Type: River
Fish species: Zander, pike, perch, salmon, sea trout
The Venta River, flowing through the charming town of Kuldīga, is well-known for its salmon and sea trout fishing, especially during their migration seasons. The river is also home to the Venta Rapid (Ventas Rumba), the widest waterfall in Europe, which makes for a stunning backdrop as you fish.
- Why visit: Fishing in the Venta River provides the opportunity to catch salmon in a picturesque setting, and Kuldīga is a charming town to explore after a day of fishing.
- Best time to visit: Autumn for zander, pike, perch. Spring good for salmon, sea trout and pike and summer are also good for pike.
4. Lake Alūksne
Location: Northeastern Latvia, in the town of Alūksne
Type: Freshwater Lake
Fish species: Zander, pike, perch.
Lake Alūksne is one of the most scenic lakes in Latvia’s Vidzeme region. Known for its clear waters and picturesque surroundings, it offers excellent opportunities for both fishing and various recreational activities. The lake is home to several fish species, with pike and perch being particularly popular among anglers.
- Why visit: The lake’s beautiful setting, including the iconic Castle Island (Pilssala) with its medieval castle ruins, makes it a perfect destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. The lake offers great fishing, water sports, and leisure activities.
- Best time to visit: Summer for general recreation and swimming; spring and autumn for fishing when pike and perch are most active.
Key features:
- The lake has four islands, including the famous Pilssala (Castle Island)
- A 2.1 km long pedestrian trail circles part of the lake, offering beautiful views
- The Temple Hill (Tempļa kalns) park provides panoramic views of the lake
- Water activities include boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding
- In winter, the frozen lake becomes a venue for ice fishing and skating
Lake Alūksne is not just a fishing destination but a complete outdoor recreation area, combining natural beauty with historical significance and a range of activities for visitors of all interests.
5. Pāvilosta (Baltic Sea)
Location: Western Latvia, on the Baltic Sea
Type: Coastal
Fish species: Cod, sea trout, perch, windfish, flounder
If you’re more interested in sea fishing, Pāvilosta on the Baltic Sea is one of Latvia’s best spots. Known for its boat fishing trips, Pāvilosta offers the chance to catch species like cod, sea trout, and flounder in the deeper waters of the Baltic. You can also fish directly from the shore, making it accessible for anglers of all levels.
- Why visit: Pāvilosta provides a unique sea fishing experience with the chance to catch larger species like cod, and it’s a great spot for both shore and boat fishing.
- Best time to visit: Spring and summer for cod and sea trout, autumn for flounder.
Latvia offers a diverse range of fishing destinations, from peaceful lakes and fast-flowing rivers to the wide-open waters of the Baltic Sea. Whether you’re seeking a quiet spot to relax or the excitement of catching salmon in a rushing river, these top 7 fishing destinations in Latvia have something to offer. Each location promises a unique experience, beautiful surroundings, and the opportunity to catch a variety of fish species.
Pack your gear, secure your fishing license, and get ready to explore Latvia’s best fishing spots—an adventure every angler will love!
6. Gauja River
Location: Western Latvia, on the Baltic Sea
Type: River
Fish species: Salmon, sea trout, grayling, perch, pike
The Gauja River is one of the most scenic fishing locations in Latvia, flowing through the stunning Gauja National Park. The river is famous for its salmon and sea trout runs, making it a top destination for fly fishers and those targeting these prized species. Aside from migratory fish, you can also catch grayling and pike in the river’s calmer stretches.
- Why visit: The combination of picturesque landscapes and the chance to catch wild salmon and sea trout makes Gauja River a must-visit for any angler.
- Best time to visit: Autumn and early spring for salmon and sea trout, while summer is great for pike.
7. Lake Ķīšezers
Location: Northern part of Riga, Latvia’s capital city
Type: Freshwater lake Fish species: Zander, pike, perch.
Lake Ķīšezers is one of the largest lakes within the city limits of Riga. It’s an important part of the city’s ecosystem and a popular recreational area for locals and visitors alike. The lake is connected to the Daugava River through the Mīlgrāvis canal, which influences its water level and fish population.
- Why visit: Its proximity to the city center makes it an easily accessible natural retreat. The lake offers a blend of urban convenience and natural beauty, with opportunities for fishing, water sports, and leisurely walks along its shores.
- Best time to visit: Summer for general recreation and water activities; spring and autumn for fishing when pike and perch are most active.
Key features:
- The lake covers an area of approximately 17.3 square kilometers
- Its shores are lined with beaches, parks, and residential areas
- In winter, when the lake freezes, it becomes a spot for ice fishing and skating
Lake Ķīšezers is not just a natural feature but an integral part of Riga’s urban landscape. It provides a unique opportunity to enjoy nature and outdoor activities without leaving the city, making it a favorite recreational spot for Riga’s residents and a point of interest for tourists exploring the greener side of the Latvian capital.
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