Hunting
You can purchase different hunting permits for small or big game. State-owned areas provide hunting opportunities also for those who do not have access to an area belonging to a hunting club or similar. Persons who live permanently in Northern Finland in the area referred to in section 8 of the Hunting Act do not need a separate permit to hunt on state-owned land in their home municipality.
Purchasing a hunting permit is an investment in nature, as the permit revenue is spent on game management and ensuring the renewal of game animal populations. Metsähallitus experts and Game and Fisheries Wardens work with you to ensure that hunting is sustainable and lawful. In state-owned areas you must follow the Outdoor etiquette, which refers to jointly agreed good fishing and hunting practices.
The hunting areas managed by Metsähallitus vary in size, topography and permit conditions. Most of them are located in areas used for commercial forestry, where forestry work may also be carried out during the hunting season.
News for hunters
25.7.2025
Restoration work at Kellankoski and Kärnänkoski rapids in August
Restoration work will begin on August 1 at Kellankoski rapids, part of the Kolima–Keitele rapids route in Viitasaari. The restoration of Kärnänkoski rapids, which began last autumn, will also continue. These works will affect fishing in the area. Currently, the sale of fishing permits is paused due to high water temperatures.
24.7.2025
Stocking paused due to warm water
Fish stocking is currently suspended at several Metsähallitus fishing sites due to high water temperatures. The pause applies to Lake Matildanjärvi in Teijo, Lake Teerilampi in Ikaalinen, Lakes Niemisjärvet in Evo, Lake Koirajärvi in Salamajärvi National Park and nearby Lake Kaunislampi, as well as Lakes Maasydänjärvi and Ahvenlampi in Sievi.
21.7.2025
Angling permit sales on hold at eight sites due to warm water
Starting Monday, July 21, Metsähallitus will suspend fishing permit sales for the following sites: Langinkoski, Latokartanonkoski, Karvionkoski, Keihärinkoski, Kolima–Keitele rapids route, Konnuskoski, Kotala Rapids and Irninjoki. Water temperatures at these locations have risen to critical levels for salmonids. Customers are advised to cancel any permits purchased in advance.
16.7.2025
Waters are warming – Avoid fishing for salmonids
The cool summer has turned into a heatwave, and water temperatures are rising rapidly. Warm waters are stressful for salmonids, and they may not recover after being released. Metsähallitus therefore recommends avoiding fishing for salmonids and instead targeting species that tolerate heat better.