Deutsch
Fly Fishing in Russia
Atlantic salmon. Wild brown trout. Europe's last untouched tundra.
Please note: The conditions for travel to Russia change continually – flight connections, payment routes and entry requirements alike. We check individually what is possible for your dates and tell you honestly if it is not.
The Kola Peninsula in the far north of Russia counts among the most significant salmon fisheries in the world. Rivers such as the Kharlovka, Eastern Litza, Rynda, Zolotaya, Varzina and Ponoi run through the last largely untouched tundra in Europe. Further east, on the Kamchatka Peninsula, the Icha River offers water of an entirely different character.
The upper reaches of the Kharlovka and Eastern Litza also hold an exceptional fishery for wild brown trout. Fish over five kilograms have been taken there on the dry fly. Catch and release is mandatory on every water.
The waters
Kola Peninsula – salmon
The heart of Russian salmon fishing. Three river systems are available: Kharlovka, Litza, Rynda and Zolotaya in the north, Varzina, Sidorovka and Drozdovka further east, and the Ponoi with its well-known Ryabaga Camp. All three rank among the most productive Atlantic salmon fisheries anywhere.
Kola Peninsula – brown trout
On the upper Kharlovka, Litza and Pina, and at the Varzina Trout Camp, the focus shifts to large, entirely wild brown trout. Unlike the salmon lodges, accommodation here is a well-equipped tented camp deep in the wilderness – with individual sleeping tents and a communal tent serving full board.
The Trophy Trout program runs over nine weeks. Two groups switch to the other river system mid-week, each group made up of a leader, a guide and five anglers. Raft drifts are offered alongside. Given the remoteness, outdoor experience and physical fitness are required, and effective insect protection is not optional.
Kamchatka – Icha River
Some 6,000 kilometers east of the Kola Peninsula lies Kamchatka. The Icha River Camp opens up water with little in common with the northern tundra fishing – volcanic landscape, different species, its own character.
Conservation – the Atlantic Salmon Reserve
The Kharlovka, Eastern Litza, Rynda and Zolotaya are protected under the Atlantic Salmon Reserve. The project protects the natural stocks from source to sea. Fly fishers contribute by reporting any sign of illegal activity – and their presence helps fund the survival of one of the last intact tundra ecosystems in Europe. It works: trout stocks have been rising steadily for years.
Frequently asked questions about Russia
Is travel to Russia currently possible?
Which species can I catch in Russia?
What is the accommodation like?
What gear do I need?
When is the best time to fish?
Comparable water that is open right now
If your trip to Russia cannot be arranged at the moment, there are destinations with a very similar character. Tell us what draws you to Russia – the salmon, the wild trout or the wilderness – and we will find the right water.
Inquire about a trip to Russia
Tell us your preferred dates, target species and experience level. We check what is currently possible – and suggest a fitting alternative if Russia is not.
Every trip comes with a detailed information pack covering gear recommendations, fly patterns and practical advice.