Änättikoski
General Description and Target Fish Species
In the northeastern part of Kuhmo, near the eastern border, lies Änättikoski, renowned for its trout. Nestled within a beautiful coniferous forest landscape, this rapids is a must-visit destination in Kuhmo’s extensive network of flowing waters. The wild trout of Änäti and Lentiira enjoy feeding in the fast currents of Änättikoski. Most often, it is a trout thrashing at the end of the line, but grayling are also present. Additionally, the certainty of catching is improved by stocking catchable-sized trout.
Änättikoski covers the first section of the water route connecting Lake Änättijärvi and Lake Lentiirajärvi. The 500-meter-long, relatively narrow Änättikoski ends in an intermediate pool cleverly named Suvanto. From there, the river makes a bend to the west, continuing as a broader stream for another kilometer. At the end, the flow narrows and rushes under a road into the turbulent Aittokoski, which is closed to fishing.
Änättikoski is suitable for both fly fishing and spinning. The casting distances are short, and fishing is mostly done with precise, short casts. The fishing spots at Änättikoski begin right at the headwaters, where fish gather to snap at insects.
The upper part of the rapids is wider and rocky, with the main current flowing along the eastern shore. However, it is worth casting flies or lures across the entire width of the rapids, as trout may seek shelter in pockets along the sides of the main current.
Further downstream, the flow narrows. The middle section of Änättikoski features short rapids steps, between which are a few meters of small pools. Every stone’s edge and current-dug hole can be a potential hiding place for fish, even large ones, so they should be thoroughly explored. Towards the end, the channel widens slightly again. The lower end often sees fewer anglers, so the trout there might be less wary.
The distance to Änättikoski from the center of Kuhmo is 45 kilometers. Coming from the south, turn right onto Myllyntie after passing the village of Lentiira. There is a parking area at the end of the road. See the parking area’s location on the map (Google Maps). A short, accessible path leads to the west bank of the upper rapids, where there is a hut and a campfire site.
At the shore, there is a casting pier for accessible fishing, but otherwise, the shore paths wind through sometimes dense forest. For those in need of accommodation, Lentiira Holiday Village is a ten-minute drive away.
Fishing permit for Änättikoski
In addition to the general fisheries management fee, you need a fishing permit for Änättikoski. The permit costs €25 per day. Longer permits are also available. Children under 15 years old fish at half price.
You can purchase the permit from the Lentiira Holiday Village website or kalakortti.com. Permits are also sold by the fishing and hunting store Pääkkönen & Piirainen in the center of Kuhmo. For instructions on buying a mobile fishing permit, visit kalallakainuussa.fi.
Key rules:
- Minimum sizes: adipose fin-clipped trout 50 cm, adipose fin-intact trout 60 cm, grayling 35 cm.
- Catch limit: 1 trout per angler per day.
- Aittokoski is closed to fishing!
- Fishing season is year-round, except for the closed season from September 1 to November 30.