there’s a lot that matters in fishing, and some things that matter even more
Tips and links
How to rent a boat
You can inquire about boats by email info(att)ylostalo.fi. Please arrange the exact handover time for your rental boat by contacting Juha Karimo at +358 40 540 4342 (WhatsApp)
Rental boats are picked up and returned clean and refueled to the Ylöstalo harbor. You can also launch your own boat there. All borrowed items must be returned to their proper places. Boats can be refueled 24/7 with a card at Förby Marina.
Boat rental policy
Rental boats are hired on a 24-hour daily rental basis. During the high season, boats are passed on to the next cottage guests on the same day, so the rental period will never exceed the length of your cottage stay. You can find the boat rental terms and conditions here.
Navigating on the water
Before heading out, make sure to check the marine weather forecast. Dress warmly and always wear a life jacket or a flotation suit. It’s wise to review navigation basics and bring a nautical chart in case your devices fail. Conditions at sea can change quickly. Careful navigation will help you avoid running aground – but if it happens, please notify Juha immediately.
Respecting Privacy and Everyman’s Rights on the Water
Everyman’s rights also apply at sea. In Finland, everyman’s rights extend to waterways as well, but always with respect for others. Do not disturb those living by the shore. Please avoid fishing or boating too close to private piers, a minimum distance of 50 meters is required. All piers are private property.
Avoid landing on bird islets during the nesting season from April to July.
About Fishing
In the red-marked area on the map, fishing is permitted with permits sold by the Norrby fishing water owners. You may use multiple rods simultaneously, or fishing with nets. Instructions for fishing in Finland you find here. One week fishing permits can be purchased from Metsähallitus at the Eräluvat website.
For the beginners, a local fishing guide can take you through your first steps, so that soon you are experiencing the excitement of sea fishing. You will receive the right equipment and the guide will take you to the best fishing spots. Here you will find the fishing guides.
What makes Särkisalo a great place for fishing
Särkisalo’s islands are made for fish. Countless peaceful bays, inlets, reefs, and islands provide ideal conditions for spawning and offer protection for young fish. However, the large variations in depth, including deep areas between the islands, are just as important for fish as the low areas.
Strong flowing water keeps the sea rich in oxygen and nutrients. The same tidal movement visible in Strömma can be felt at the Ulkoluoto bridge and in all narrow places, creating excellent living conditions for both predator and prey fish. It’s no wonder that record pike are caught here, and there are plenty of other species like pikeperch (zander), perch, white fish, herring etc.
How to ensure there are enough fish
The Norrby fishing water owners stock the area with whitefish and pikeperch. Protected passages for fish and bird chicks are maintained in the Ylöstalo reeds. We have also sunk a few spruce branches in the shoreline reeds in front of the cottages, favorite spawning spots for perch.
The minimum size for pikeperch is 42 cm. It is recommended that you do not take more fish than you need and can handle. Pike over 80 cm, perch over 35 cm and zander over 60 cm should be released (Finnish Fishing Guide Guild).
More tips for Anglers
Restaurant Tiiranta serves a tasty weekday lunch from 11:00 to 14:00. Check their Facebook page for the latest menu and opening hours. If you’re in the mood for a change from your fish menu, it’s a great option. Tiiranta is also open on weekends and in winter, and it has a small shop.
In summer time there are more restaurants open in Särkisalo. The nearest grocery store is at the Perniö roundabout. Kemiö also offers good shopping options and is only a little further away.
Rowing boats
The rowing boats for the cottages are stored at the harbor, where they are sheltered from changing weather conditions.
Before use, empty any water and check the drain plug, the rope and anchor. If you don’t have your own life jacket, you can borrow one from the harbor shed. Always remain seated while in the boat.
When returning the boat, always pull it ashore and secure it properly. Do not leave it tied to the pier, where it may sink in heavy rain or strong winds. Be aware that on stormy weather the sea level can rise suddenly by up to a meter. If you picked up the boat from the harbor, make sure to return it there.
