Introduction
Lake Ontojärvi is a popular destination for trolling enthusiasts. Large pike and zander attract anglers from afar to experience the generous waters of Ontojärvi in Kuhmo. You might also catch big perch, and occasionally a trout may strike your lure. Ontojärvi also draws ice fishers during winter—especially the areas around boat ramps are local favorites for ice fishing.
The lake area is vast, and fortunately, there are many places where you can launch a boat. There are beautiful rest spots along the lake, perfect for taking a break and enjoying a packed meal while fishing. You’ll find stunning sandy beaches and wilderness-like scenery along the shores. Ontojärvi is truly a paradise for summer-loving anglers, with its fish stocks and natural surroundings.
If you’re fishing from a kayak, it’s recommended to follow the shoreline and stop between the islands to try your luck. These areas can be full of surprises, so be prepared for some serious catches.
Licenses and Regulations
Lake Ontojärvi is part of the Kuhmo fisheries area lure fishing zone. A lure fishing license is required if you fish with more than one rod. Licenses are available for a day, a week, or the whole season.
You can purchase either a lake-specific license for Ontojärvi or a combined license that covers multiple lakes in the Kuhmo area. The license is valid for fishing in lake areas only.
You can buy the license through the link below:
The national fisheries management fee must be paid properly. By paying this fee, you are allowed to fish with one rod from the shore or from a boat on lake areas. Ice fishing (jigging) and angling with a float are free of charge.
Closed seasons for fish species, minimum catch sizes, and restricted fishing areas can be found on the following website: https://kalastusrajoitus.fi/#/kalastusrajoitus
Boat Launch Sites
Information about boat harbors in Kuhmo
Jämäs features both a slipway and a roller
Tervasalmen Rest Area, equipped with a slipway
Near the Paloniemi Camp Center, there is a roller ramp, a slipway, and facilities for winter boat storage.
In Hietaperässä, near the school beach, there is a roller ramp, a slipway, and winter storage facilities for boats.
Rest Stops and Summer Excursions
Ärjä:
A beautiful rest stop featuring a kota (Lapp hut), campfire site, wood shelter, and an outdoor toilet. The location also offers a stunning sandy beach.
Please note: the shoreline is somewhat rocky, so exercise caution when approaching by boat.
https://www.outdooractive.fi/fi/poi/kuhmo/aerjae-kota-ontojaervi-kuhmo/804047985/
Roukonpuro:
Kuhmo’s most beautiful swimming beach.
Also, check out the KoeKainuu blog post about Roukonpuro: https://www.koekainuu.fi/roukonpuro/
Ylä-Honkinen:
A rest stop located along the Terva Trail. The site features a lean-to shelter (laavu), campfire site, wood shelter, and an outdoor toilet. There is a beautiful soft sandy beach. The beach is sheltered and relatively deep, with few rocks, making it easy to land a boat.
https://www.luontoon.fi/fi/reitit/tervareitti-kuhmo-10692
Links related to Ontonen:
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Trolling tips for fishing in Ontonen
https://kalallakainuussa.fi/tarina/ontojarven-uisteluvinkkeja/
Contact Information for Fishing Associations
https://kalallakainuussa.fi/yhteystieto/kuhmon-kalastusalueen-osakaskunnat/
Familiarize yourself with the area in advance by using the Retkikartta map.
https://www.retkikartta.fi/