Our top 5 pike fishing places in Sweden, bait tips and regulations
Pike fishing is a popular activity in Sweden, and there are several great locations where anglers can target this species. Here are some top locations, angling tips, techniques, and regulations for fishing pike in Sweden.
What are the best pike fishing places in Sweden?
This is our top 5 pike fishing locations in Sweden:
- Lake Vänern: Lake Vänern is the largest lake in Sweden (and of the EU!) and offers excellent pike fishing opportunities. Focus on the shallower bays and weedy areas for pike.
- Lake Vättern: Another large lake that is known for its clear waters and sizable pike. Fishing around rocky structures and drop-offs can be really rewarding.
- Stockholm Archipelago: The archipelago around Stockholm provides numerous opportunities for pike fishing. Look for weedy bays, rocky shorelines.
- Dalälven River: This river in central Sweden has stretches that are perfect for pike fishing. Focus on deeper pools and slower-moving sections.
- Lake Mälaren: Near Stockholm and it has various pike hotspots. Target submerged structures and reed beds.
What are the best tips and techniques for pike fishing in Sweden?
- Use large lures: Pike are predatory fish and are attracted to large lures. Jerkbaits, swimbaits, and soft plastics in natural colors are effective.
- Retrieve techniques: Experiment with different retrieval speeds and jerking motions to mimic wounded prey. Pike often strike when the bait appears vulnerable.
- Fish near weeds: Pike frequently hide near underwater vegetation. Cast your lures near weed beds, and be prepared for strikes near the edges.
- Live bait: Live or dead baitfish, such as roach or herring, can be highly effective for pike. Use a wire leader to prevent bite-offs.
- Fish in low light: Dawn and dusk are prime times for pike fishing. These fish are often more active during low-light conditions. And let’s be honest, these are beautiful conditions too!
- Use polarized sunglasses: Polarized sunglasses help you see pike lurking in the water, even in challenging light conditions.
What is the best time of the year to catch pike in Sweden?
Pike fishing is usually closed during the spawning season, which typically occurs from late April to early June. Depending on the location and conditions. Right after spawning pikes start feeding aggressively, so then they are easier to catch. During the summer the fish moves to deeper waters. From late August on is a great moment to catch some big pike trophies!
Catch and Release regulations in Sweden
Many Swedish waters encourage catch and release practices for pike to help sustain healthy populations. However, some areas may allow limited pike harvesting, so it's important to know the specific rules for the location you're fishing.
What are the minimum size limits for pike in Sweden?
Many regions in Sweden have minimum size limits for keeping pike, typically to protect smaller individuals and ensure sustainable fishing. The minimum size limit often ranges from 40 to 45 centimeters (approximately 15.7 to 17.7 inches). This means that any pike caught below the specified minimum size must be released unharmed.
Do you need a fishing license (permit) for pike fishing in Sweden?
In Sweden, you often need a fishing permit (fiskekort) to fish in various waters. These permits can be obtained online, from local fishing shops, or sometimes directly at the fishing location. For our top 5 pike fishing locations we have made an overview of the regulations:
- Lake Vänern: Recreational fishing is classed as free fishing with handheld tackle. So you don’t need a fishing permit for recreational fishing in Vänern’s private or public water, but there are fishing rules that you must follow. Read more about these rules here.
- Lake Vättern: No fishing license is required! Fishing for personal use with a handheld tackle is permitted all over the lake. This includes fly fishing and other lure fishing that do not require the use of a boat. Equipment other than handheld rod or trolling gear is forbidden for visitors, e.g. nets, long-lines and traps. Check here for more info.
- Stockholm Archipelago: No license is required. To learn more about the minimum and maximum sizes if you want to keep your catch, read here.
- Dalälven River: Here you need a fishing permit. For more specific details and info about where you can buy a license, read here.
- Lake Mälaren: No permit required for hand-held equipment. Specific catch and release information is available here.
Always check the latest regulations and the local guidelines to ensure you are fishing responsibly and in compliance with the rules in the specific area you plan to fish.
Are you looking for a cabin near pike fishing spots in Sweden?
Tight lines!