Kayak fishing in Saimaa / sheltered areas, end of May
Hi all,
Planning a 5-day inflatable kayak fishing trip to Finland in late May / early June. Looking at Lake Saimaa area and up (roughly up to ~5 hours northeast from Helsinki).
I’ve fished a bit in Finland before, so I understand the basics and permits, but the sheer number of lakes is overwhelming. And I am probably overthinking this!
I’m looking for areas with:
- sheltered water (islands / narrow channels, not big open lake)
- kayak launch within ~500 m from parking
- possibility to camp overnight (laavu or tent, following everyman’s rights)
- Can move around, not start 5 day trip from one spot and end it there.
Target species: mainly pike and perch, but also happy with “white fish” like roach, bream, rudd. I mostly fish with light / micro lures.
I’ve been checking also around Savonlinna / Punkaharju. Are these good choices, or are there better regions with similar sheltered conditions?
Also curious about the Suvorov canals, interesting to explore, but unsure if they’re worth fishing.
Not looking for anyone’s secret spots, just general guidance on good regions and what areas to avoid (especially large, wind-exposed water).
Any advice appreciated!