What could be a better way to spend a summer day than out on the water?
The crystal-clear lakes of Ylläs invite you on a rowing or paddling trip right into the heart of breathtaking fell scenery. When the sun is shining and fluffy clouds reflect on the lake’s surface, all sense of hurry simply fades away.
In September, as the autumn colors begin to appear, the trees along the shoreline turn brilliant shades of yellow and orange, and the scent of the season drifts in from nearby wetlands. On early mornings, the lake may be covered in thick mist—but the magic truly begins when the sun starts to warm the air. The fog slowly lifts, revealing the rugged fells behind it—Lapland at its most enchanting.
Rowing is a perfect way to enjoy nature in complete peace. You can also turn your outing into a fishing trip or pack a picnic for a relaxing break on the shore. Below, we’ve gathered a few tips for a calm and memorable day on the waters of Ylläs.
Rent a rowboat and head out onto the lake, surrounded by fells
You can easily rent a rowboat for Lake Kesänkijärvi or Lake Pyhäjärvi from Sport Corner in Ylläs. Booking is simple – either in advance online or directly at the rental shop. Please note that online bookings for the following day must be made by 5:00 PM. Payment is always made on-site at the shop, where you’ll also receive the boat key, drain plug, and life jackets. The boats are already waiting at the lakes, so you can head straight out onto the water. After your trip, return the key, plug, and life jackets back to the rental shop.
Both lakes are located within the Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park, surrounded by stunning fell scenery. They’re easy to reach by car, and the boat storage areas are right next to the parking lots.
A day rental at Sport Corner means you can use the boat during the shop’s opening hours. The staff will do their best to tailor the rental time to suit your plans. In summer, when daylight lasts well into the evening, it’s possible to arrange returning the key and plug to the shop’s mailbox. Just mention this when making your reservation.
A boat trip is perfect for the whole family and a great way to spend time together. You can stop for a break, try fishing, or simply float peacefully and enjoy the views. You might spot a school of fish or a waterbird gliding by, and birdsong carries from the forested shores. If you’re lucky, you might even see a reindeer peeking through the trees.
Lake Kesänkijärvi – embraced by the fells
Lake Kesänkijärvi lies right next to Kesänkitunturi and offers stunning views for rowers. The lake is peaceful and easy to reach, and you can even combine your boat trip with a short hike along the national park’s trails. For fishing enthusiasts, Kesänkijärvi offers the chance to catch perch and whitefish.
Lake Pyhäjärvi – tranquility and good fishing luck
Nestled between Aakenustunturi and Pyhätunturi, Lake Pyhäjärvi is especially popular among anglers: here you might catch pike, perch, or even trout. Rowing on Pyhäjärvi is a calming experience—you’ll often hear nothing but birdsong and the gentle splash of water beneath your boat. The lake’s deepest point reaches over thirty meters, making it an intriguing destination for more experienced fishers as well.
Fishing trip on the lake
Both Lake Kesänkijärvi and Lake Pyhäjärvi are popular fishing spots. On a calm summer evening, it’s a joy to float quietly in the middle of the lake, chatting softly and wondering if anything will bite. So get your fishing permits in order and try your luck! The best way to check which permits are needed for each lake is to contact the customer service of Eräluvat (the Finnish wilderness permit service), where you can also purchase the necessary licenses. For simpler questions, the Yllästunturi Visitor Centre Kellokas is happy to help.
Tips for fishing in Ylläs
- Get your fishing permits in advance: You’ll need the national fisheries management fee and possibly a specific permit for the lake area. Permits can be easily purchased at eraluvat.fi.
- Time your fishing for morning or evening: Fish are most active during the cooler parts of the day.
- Try a light spinning rod or a simple bait rod: Fishing from a rowboat is easy and relaxing.
- Pay attention to depth and water temperature: Fish prefer different depths depending on the weather and water conditions.
- Respect fishing regulations: Follow any catch limits and minimum size requirements.
Snacks and slow moments
As with so many moments in nature, a good snack basket is the perfect finishing touch to a rowing trip.
Pack a selection of your favorite treats and enjoy them at your own pace. On Lake Kesänkijärvi, you can row from the boat storage area at the western end to the dock on the eastern shore, where you’ll find a traditional Lappish shelter (kota) for cooking. Just remember that you’re in a national park, so fires are only allowed at designated spots. Nearby, you’ll also find the café Kesänginkeidas, where you can enjoy ready-made refreshments.
At Lake Pyhäjärvi, there’s a fire pit and a kota close to the boat launch and storage area. You can row or fish on the lake and then return for a relaxing break or end your peaceful outing with a snack surrounded by nature.
Head out on the water and find your peace
Whether you’re a fisher, a hiker, or simply someone seeking peace in nature, a rowing trip on Lake Kesänkijärvi or Lake Pyhäjärvi is an experience to remember.
Pack a picnic, put on your life jacket, and head out onto the water. In the embrace of the fells, the rush of everyday life fades away and your mind finds rest.