With the warmth of summer and the energy of the sun, it’s the perfect time to try something new or finally dive into that hobby you’ve been thinking about. Held in July, Ylläs Outdoor Week is a great chance to explore new activities, rekindle old passions, or simply enjoy nature in good company.
First cast into fly fishing
I decided to channel the energy I’d built up over spring and early summer and signed up for a fly fishing course I’d been dreaming about for ages. On the day of the course, I walk through the sliding doors of Jounin Kauppa and head to the Ylläs Experiences desk, where a small crowd of people in outdoor gear has already gathered — clearly my fellow course mates. There are solo participants, small groups, and one couple already trying on waders and boots in the back room. A passing shopper calls out mid-grocery run to ask if there’s still space on the upcoming canoeing trips.
Once everyone’s geared up, we split into two cars and drive about fifteen minutes along the river to our fishing spot on the banks of the Äkäsjoki. Flowing from Muonio through Äkäslompolo to Äkäsjokisuu, the river is home to a rich variety of fish. You might catch grayling — just make sure it’s between 30 and 35 cm — or spot sea trout, which is protected and must not be taken, even if found dead. The river also hosts familiar species like perch and whitefish, and according to our guide, fish population studies have even found the occasional young salmon.
Fishing in Äkäsjoki comes with specific regulations, so it’s important to check them in advance. You’ll find all the details when purchasing a fishing permit at eraluvat.fi.
It’s best not to rush into the water headfirst
Fly fishing isn’t just about casting the line — it’s also about observing your surroundings and settling into the moment. We take a pause to watch the river and the nature around us: are there fish rising to the surface, or insects drifting by that they might feed on? What kind of currents does the river form, and where do we see darker pools or calmer shallows where fish might rest their fins?
Our guide and fly fishing guru, Jani Ollikainen, demonstrates the casting technique. The rod lifts to eleven o’clock, tilts back over the shoulder, and the eye follows the motion. The line flicks through the air a few times, and with a relaxed but purposeful cast, the fly lands on the water. The rod follows the fly as it drifts with the current, while Ollikainen gathers the line and makes small tugs with his other hand. Then it’s my turn to try.
Moments of silence and the power of water
The strength of the river’s current takes me by surprise. Luckily, the water level in Äkäsjoki is moderate around mid-July. The shapes of the riverbed and stones are clearly visible through the sunlit, shimmering water. Wading through the flowing stream adds just the right amount of excitement to an otherwise peaceful activity.
A female goosander swims past me, hugging the riverbank, with a couple of fluffy chicks trailing behind. It’s a magical feeling to be part of nature and quietly observe, from the middle of the river, as the little ones climb onto their mother’s back to rest. At this point, it’s clear: even if I don’t catch a single fish today, this trip has already exceeded all my expectations.
Hours pass as I cast the line and watch the fly drift with the current. I’m so immersed in the moment that I don’t notice the others have already reeled in and started making their way quietly back to shore.
You don’t need any prior experience to enjoy fly fishing
Fly fishing is rarely just about catching fish — it’s a nature experience, much like hiking in the fells or cycling through forest trails. It brings together many fascinating elements: being outdoors, the precision of casting, and that thrilling feeling that a fish might strike at any moment. There’s also just the right amount of technique involved, and practicing it feels both meaningful and rewarding.
So no, you don’t need to be an experienced angler to enjoy fly fishing.