The Oulujärvi trap permit area covers state-owned public water areas in Ärjänselkä and Niskanselkä (approximately 31,500 hectares) and other state-owned water areas in Niskanselkä (approximately 9,500 hectares). In addition to this, many other smaller state-owned water areas around Lake Oulujärvi belong to this permit area.
Lake Oulujärvi has strong populations of perch, pike, pike-perch, and vendace. Whitefish, trout, and burbot are also caught.
1 January–31 December
14.11.2025
At the turn of the year, five large angling permit areas will be redistributed into 52 new permit areas. In addition, the boundaries of trap fishing permit areas will be revised. All trap fishing permits for 2025 and permits for the large angling areas must be purchased no later than 30 November 2025.
Trap fishing in this permit area always requires a trap permit. You will also be required to pay the fisheries management fee, unless you are under 18 years of age, over 70 years of age, or are 65 years of age or older as of 31 December 2023.
The trap permit for this area only entitles you to fish waters specified in the water area directory and marked in the map window on this page. Always check water area-specific trapping restrictions, protected areas and any other instructions in the water area directory/PDF-map. You can find the water area directory/PDF-map under Map files and brochures.
There are boat ramps and excursion harbours around Lake Oulujärvi. There are also several campfire sites and lean-to shelters in the islands of Lake Oulujärvi.
More information about the area and hiking services are available at Luontoon.fi.
Accommodation can be found from Kajaani, Paltamo, Vaala and also the Manamansalo Island.
Information about tourism services can be found on the following pages:
Lake Oulujärvi is regulated to meet the needs of hydropower production. The water level in the lake therefore varies according to the season, which is important to keep in mind when moving on the lake.
The power company stocks whitefish, trout, and pike-perch to compensate for the disadvantages caused by the regulation of the watercourse.
Call cost €0.00/min + mobile charge/local network rate. Urgent orders always by phone.
Pasi Korhonen
Each angler must ensure the careful and respectful handling of fish caught regardless of whether the fish will be released or eaten. Read the guidelines here!
Visitors to Metsähallitus wilderness sites are expected to observe Outdoor etiquette. It encourages fishers and hunters to take nature, other people, catches and game into consideration in all activities. Find out more about the etiquette!
Public water areas are found at sea and in large lakes. Fishing there often requires only the fisheries management fee. Read more!
Permits are sold for the period: 1.1.–31.12.2026
Permits are sold for the period: 1.1.–31.12.2026
Permits are sold for the period: 1.1.–31.12.2026
