Programme description

Driving distances along the route:

• Kuhmo – Lentiira: 40 km
• Lentiira – Suomussalmi: 90 km
• Suomussalmi – Hossa: 95 km

(See the full route on the map.)

Detailed programme

Additional details about each destination and fishing permits can be found via the embedded links.

KUHMO

Kuhmo is especially known for its rapids – more than 200 of them. A tailored three-day combined permit is available for anglers between 1 April and 31 August. The fly-fishing season begins early in April when the first stoneflies hatch, even while snow still covers the ground. A combined permit is also available for Kuhmo’s wilderness lakes, which are excellent for trolling.

Right in the town centre flows River Pajakka, Kainuu’s largest free-flowing river. It is divided into two fishing areas: Pajakkakoski and Saarikoski (popular lure-fishing spots with varied pools and currents) and Akonkoski (an eco-fishing area). Pajakkakoski also offers accessible fishing spots. Its gentle 450-metre rapid can be explored in detail in this article.

Lentuankoski, flowing from Lake Lentua, is a well-known rapid, a sight in itself, and a versatile fishing and hiking destination — also accessible.

Near village of Niva, Kaarneenkoski is a special area that can be rented exclusively for private groups.

Recommended accommodation:

• Hotel Kalevala on the shore of Lake Lammasjärvi — ideal for anglers who want to enjoy sauna services and the restaurant’s signature local pike-perch dishes.
• Lentuankoski Camping — relaxed atmosphere next to the Lentuankoski rapids. Accommodation options include cabins, caravan sites, camper areas and tents.

Kuhmo’s most popular fishing spots are listed on visitkuhmo.fi.

LENTIIRA

Anglers should not miss Lentiira, a northern Kuhmo village surrounded by quiet forest landscapes. Through forests rapidly flowing Änättikoski rapid offers excellent conditions for catching trout and grayling, with enough variety for several full days of fishing. The wide open waters and sheltered coves of Lake Lentiiranjärvi provide a perfect setting for a relaxing lake-fishing trip.

Lentiira Holiday Village makes a great base for your stay. They offer guided service for both lake and river fishing, rowing and motor boats, equipment rentals, and a variety of accommodation options — from cabins to tent, caravan, camper and barn lodging. The smoke sauna is heated almost daily. Fishing permits for Änättikoski can be conveniently purchased from their online shop.

SUOMUSSALMI

On the way from Kuhmo to Hossa, trolling enthusiasts should stop at Lake Kiantajärvi, an easily accessible and highly valued fishing lake. For accommodation in the town centre, choose Guesthouse Kuutamo or Spa Hotel Kiannon Kuohut, where you can also buy fishing permits, rent gear, and order guided tours.

The Korvua–Näljänkäjoki combined permit area offers 110 km of naturally fish-rich river waters for fly and lure fishing. The cosy apartments at Kieppituvat are located near the fishing area and provide comfortable accommodation.

HOSSA

A paradise for both hikers and anglers, Hossa National Park offers fishing opportunities in its clear-water ponds, peaceful lakes, and the rapids of the Hossanjoki River — a favourite among fly fishers. Campfire sites, shelters, marked trails and wilderness huts support easy exploration. Maps and fishing permits are available at the Hossa Visitor Centre.

Recommended accommodation:

• Camping Hossan Lumo — lakeside camping and cabins on the shore of Hossanlahti.
• Matkalaisen Pirtti — atmospheric countryside accommodation 20 km from Hossa.

For a summary of Suomussalmi’s and Hossa’s most popular fishing spots, visit visitsuomussalmi.fi.
Also see information on accessible fishing sites in Hossa.

Good to know

This self-guided fishing holiday is a route suggestion; all services and permits are booked directly from each provider.

If you want to add variety to your holiday, you can explore local attractions and hiking routes. Get to know the trails in Kuhmo and Suomussalmi through our route guide.