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18 June 2024

Logistics of a Fishing Trip: Transportation and Accommodation (Part 2)

admin2276 Fishing trips, Tours and expeditions 0

A trip to Scandinavia for a fishing expedition is a dream come true for many. The beautiful landscapes, clean waters, and abundance of fish make Sweden and Finland increasingly popular destinations for fishing adventures. However, to ensure a successful trip, proper logistical preparation is essential. How to get there, where to stay, and what to bring? Here’s a comprehensive guide.

Transportation

The choice of transportation depends on various factors such as budget, comfort, the amount of gear, and travel preferences. This decision affects not only the travel time but also the ability to transport fishing and camping equipment. Each option has its pros and cons, detailed below are the most popular ways to get to Sweden and Finland.

Airplane – Flights to Scandinavia

Flying is the fastest way to get to Scandinavia. Airlines offer many connections to major cities in Sweden and Finland, such as Stockholm, Gothenburg, Helsinki, and Turku. Flights from Warsaw to Stockholm take just 1.5 hours, making it possible to be at the lakeside with a fishing rod in hand the same day.

When choosing to fly, pay attention to the airline’s policy on transporting fishing gear. Some airlines offer special baggage packages for anglers, which can significantly simplify the journey. Also, consider weight restrictions—packing needs to be done thoughtfully. If planning to bring large equipment like fishing rods, kayaks, or belly boats, it’s best to consult with the airline in advance to ensure it’s possible.

Flying is an excellent option if you have reserved a cottage with a boat and can limit yourself to a small amount of gear. Renting a car on-site is usually necessary if traveling independently and not using a travel agency, which often offers airport pickup. Public transportation is generally inefficient, though in some cases, taking a train might be a good solution.

Car and Ferry – Traveling with Your Vehicle from Poland

For trips to the northern edges of Europe, traveling by car is often preferred. This method offers undeniable advantages, such as complete freedom in planning the route and the ability to take more gear without worrying about baggage limits. The road route from Poland to Sweden or Finland goes through Germany and Denmark or via the eastern side through the Baltic states and Russia. The most convenient way, however, is to take a direct ferry from Poland, e.g., from the Tri-City to Karlskrona or Nynäshamn. The ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki is an excellent option when traveling to Finland and often, when going to Swedish Lapland, it shortens the total travel time with a similar distance to cover by car.

Traveling by car also allows easier customization of the trip to your needs and preferences. You can stop along the way, visit interesting places, and fully enjoy the journey. Driving through the picturesque landscapes of Scandinavia is an attraction in itself. In the north, you can encounter not only road signs warning about moose but also reindeer herds that sometimes occupy the entire roadway, halting traffic. In such cases, the only option is to wait until they move back into the forest.

If planning a trip with your boat or inflatable, the car becomes practically the only option. It’s worth exploring different routes, including crossing the bridge through Denmark or various ferry options. For long routes north, consider an overnight stop, but when traveling in a group, it’s possible to travel without sleep breaks, changing drivers every few hours.

When deciding on the route option, it’s best to calculate all available options considering the total time spent on the road (including time in the car and on the ferry), costs (fuel and ferry costs, and potential overnight stays if considered). Depending on individual priorities, different options may turn out better—not always the one you would intuitively choose.

How to Organize the Route?

Determining logistics and packing for a fishing trip to Scandinavia is a crucial preparation stage. If planning to fish from the shore or having a reserved boat waiting, packing is relatively simple. In such a situation, take primarily fishing gear, clothing suitable for various weather conditions, and food. However, it’s essential to check what’s available on-site—there have been cases where the boat was there, but there was no mention of a motor or echo sounder. Assuming only personal equipment, usually, there is plenty of space in the car, and depending on the overall trip configuration, one car is often sufficient for four people.

If planning to take your inflatable or boat, the situation becomes more complicated. An inflatable is relatively easy to transport and can be packed in the car’s trunk. However, it takes up a lot of space, especially if also taking a motor. If additionally planning wild camping and taking camping gear, space becomes an issue. Transporting everything in the car usually means packing it to the ceiling (of course, folding the rear seats) and still limiting the gear to a minimum. Alternatively, especially when traveling in a larger group, consider an additional cargo trailer. Often, traveling further north, we chose to travel with four people (two teams) in one car, which allowed changing drivers and increased travel comfort. In such cases, a trailer is essential, packing almost everything: all equipment, including two inflatables and two motors, tents, mattresses, fishing gear, etc. This organization method allows taking more equipment without overloading the car and ensuring comfort during the long journey.

Traveling with your boat provides ample space for gear, but usually means having only two drivers available, which is challenging for long routes, for example, to Lapland. In such cases, planning the route well and regular driver changes (usually mandatory every 2 hours on our trips) is crucial to avoid excessive fatigue.

Accommodation

Choosing the right place to stay is essential for comfort and success during a fishing trip. Scandinavia offers a variety of accommodation options, from comfortable holiday cottages to more rugged camping conditions.

Holiday Cottages

Holiday cottages are a popular choice among anglers. They offer comfortable conditions, proximity to fishing spots, and the ability to cook your meals. Renting a cottage near a lake or river provides convenience and saves time that can be spent fishing instead of commuting. Cottages are often equipped with essential amenities like a kitchen, bathroom, and sometimes a sauna, adding charm to the stay. Booking a cottage, either directly or through a travel agency, guarantees convenience.

If planning to fish on a large river or lake, the boat’s matter is crucial. If not bringing your own and renting on-site, make sure the equipment meets your expectations. The boat’s size, type (displacement or planing), engine size (popular small boats with 4HP or 6HP engines might not cover long distances on water), and additional equipment like an echo sounder or trolling motor are significant. Analyze the fishing spot’s character and your fishing style to avoid disappointment if the great lake doesn’t satisfy you due to unsuitable equipment.

Where to Find Accommodation?

When going on an organized trip, everything is usually provided. This is the most convenient but means choosing from available fishing spots. If wanting to go to a different water body or organize the trip independently—e.g., visiting several fishing spots during one trip—you need to find accommodation yourself. Websites like www.booking.com or www.airbnb.com are well-known and a good starting point for searches. However, in Scandinavia, a significant part of potential rental homes isn’t available on these popular services. It’s worth checking other, more local ones. Some reliable sites we’ve used include: www.stugknuten.com/defaulteng.asp, https://www.dancenter.co.uk/, https://www.vrbo.com/pl-pl, and https://www.interhome.pl/.

When searching for a cottage with a boat, inquire about it—though not always, in many cases, the property owner may have a boat available or help organize one on-site, though this shouldn’t be expected in every case.

Camping and Tents – Wild Camping

For those seeking closer contact with nature, camping and wild camping are ideal. This is also our favorite way of organizing our trips. Scandinavia, thanks to its “Allemansrätten” (right of public access), allows camping almost anywhere, with some restrictions on private lands and nature reserves.

A cool but not cold evening, crackling campfire, and a shared meal prepared on an open fire after a day of fishing—these are moments often remembered… Wild camping in a tent offers unparalleled freedom and the chance to experience a real adventure.

However, appropriate preparation is crucial—a camping stove, a warm sleeping bag, clothes, and a solid tent are essential—not always the conditions are as we imagined. When wild camping, also take care to minimize environmental impact. Scandinavians value their nature highly, so follow the leave-no-trace principles—don’t leave trash, avoid damaging vegetation, and keep noise to a minimum. It’s also good to know local regulations regarding camping and fires to avoid unpleasant surprises.

Choosing this accommodation option presents additional challenges: selecting a camp spot and a boat launching site—this travel variant means relying on your “floating device,” unless opting for shore fishing, which is an alternative mainly by rivers.

Here we return to Google Maps, analyzing satellite images in detail—usually, all potential launching spots can be identified this way. However, don’t limit yourself to one spot, as maps don’t show everything. Often on-site, it turns out that access to the lake at the chosen point is blocked by a locked gate—such situations have increasingly occurred even in the far north in recent years. Therefore, identify at least several alternatives to check when reaching the lake.

Secondly, similarly select a camp spot. Ideally, it should be close to the slipway—this provides the greatest comfort. Next, choose places accessible by car and boat launched elsewhere. Finally, choose places only accessible by boat—e.g., on an island. Such camping has extra charm but creates additional operational problems related to transporting all equipment and possibly returning to the car for extra items.

Selecting a camp spot besides the popular Google Maps, also use the Google Earth Pro application, which can be installed on your computer for free. It allows viewing additional satellite images over time, usually taken at different times of the year and under various weather conditions (and at different water levels in the reservoir).

As with choosing a boat slip location, all assumptions will be verified on-site. Access to the chosen place may be locked, and a beautiful lakeside meadow might be a swamp or rocky ground covered with moss. In many cases, we chose small forest roundabouts near the water, remnants of heavy equipment turning areas used for logging in previous years. Usually, these are well-hardened, flat, and easily accessible places, providing comfort while being close to nature.

What to Bring from Poland?

Good preparation for a fishing trip is key to success. It’s important to bring everything that might be needed, both for fishing and daily life at the camp. Remember, Scandinavian weather can be capricious—within one day, you can experience scorching sun and heavy rain, and within a few days, thirty-degree heat can drop to barely above freezing, especially if going further north. Be prepared for all possibilities when traveling to Scandinavia.

Fishing Gear

The foundation is, of course, fishing gear. Rods, reels, lures—all should be well-chosen and checked before the trip. When fishing from a boat, an echo sounder with GPS is essential, ideally with pre-loaded bathymetric maps to help find the best fishing spots.

What sets to take? We’ll delve deeper into fishing-specific issues in future parts of this series, but generally speaking—you need to bring everything. Often, at the end, you fish with 3-4 lures throughout the trip, but the key is identifying what those lures are. Though Swedish and Finnish waters are often very fish-rich, it doesn’t mean fish bite always and everywhere. We know many cases where anglers focused on a specific fishing style suffered bitter failures, unable to adapt to the fishing conditions.

I remember one of the first trips to Sweden many years ago on Lake Hjalmaren, when spring pikes, caught a few days earlier by a friendly team in meter-deep water, literally vanished, and all indicated spots were empty. A sudden weather change, with strong winds, rain, and a pressure drop, caused the pikes to go very deep—we found them at 12-16 meters but couldn’t provoke bites. Occasionally, we noted delicate nibbles on large soft baits. The trip’s savior turned out to be zanders, which bit wonderfully on several-meter-deep rocky flats, both traditionally on soft baits and jigs, and small crankbaits in trolling.

This shows why and how to prepare equipment-wise for a trip—from jerkbaits, soft baits, and spoons for shallow water fishing, through heavy “meatballs,” all trolling gear, and vertical fishing equipment, as well as alternative toys for other fish species. Most of the gear may remain unpacked, but if the fish don’t bite as hoped, it’s good to have options to experiment with.

Such details as lines, additional accessories, landing net, hooks, line scissors, anti-pike leaders, and a whole lot of small items don’t need reminding—but remember, in remote areas, there might not be any store to replenish missing gear.

Camping Equipment and Other Essentials

Camping gear is indispensable at the camp. A solid tent, sleeping bags, sleeping pad or mattress, and a camping stove are fundamental. Also useful are tools for preparing meals, such as basic pots, pans, and cutlery. Bring a food supply, including dry high-calorie products like rice, pasta, and groats. Canned goods and instant soups can be an emergency option, but it’s better to supplement the diet with freshly caught fish.

Also, remember to have a supply of clean water or water filters to use lake water.

Every angler going on such a trip likely has their tried-and-true methods, and camping or broadly bushcraft is a vast topic described by experts. Therefore, in our fishing trip texts, I’ll give only a few tips from our trip experience:

Scandinavian weather can be very unpredictable, so be prepared for all conditions—ready for heat but more so for several days of rain at a few degrees Celsius. Good rain gear is fundamental. For me, in “light rain,” it’s a comfortable set (jacket and pants) with a membrane, including a cap and Goretex gloves. For real downpours lasting longer—waders and a storm jacket. Additionally, staying warm is crucial—several variants of fleece and down clothing are a must-have on such trips. In a budget version, foam rubber boots and rubberized rain sets, which work great in the field and are really robust, can be a cheap alternative.

Cracked lips from wind and sun and cut hands from pike are standard and hard to avoid, so hand cream and vitamin ointment for lips are real reliefs on such trips.

Scandinavia is largely a huge rocky area—tent stakes usually bend easily—think about titanium stakes or alternatively—long, strong steel nails that can be driven into the ground.

Consider safety and comfort during long days on the water. A life jacket is not only a safety element but also psychological comfort. Also, have a first aid kit with basic dressings, disinfectants, and medicines in case of minor injuries or ailments. Additionally, take spare batteries, power banks, and appropriate flashlights and camping lights.

Food Storage

While wild camping, food storage becomes a key challenge. If access to a refrigerator is limited, use natural cooling methods. Often, the lake becomes our cooler. Products requiring freshness, like packaged meat, can be stored at the lake’s bottom in an old-fashioned wire fish basket weighted with stones. Tie it to a line with the other end attached to a buoy, such as a five-liter water bottle. Water at the bottom, a few meters deep, is around 4 degrees Celsius, allowing food storage for at least a few days even in the hottest weather.

Summary

The logistics of a fishing trip to Scandinavia might seem complicated, but with proper preparation, it becomes part of the adventure. Choosing transportation, accommodation, and assembling the necessary gear are key elements affecting the trip’s success and comfort. Good planning allows enjoying every moment spent fishing and exploring the charms of Scandinavian nature.

Each trip is not only a challenge but also unforgettable memories that last long. Whether planning to travel by plane, car, or with a travel agency, the most important is to enjoy every moment among beautiful landscapes and fish-rich waters of Scandinavia. In future articles of our series, we will discuss in detail the necessary equipment, on-site organization, and practical tips to help maximize fishing opportunities in Scandinavia. We invite you to read!

10 June 2024

Fishing trip to Scandinavia step by step: where to begin? (part 1 / 5)

admin2276 Tours and expeditions 0

For many years in Poland, there has been a concerning trend of declining fish populations in our waters. Skilled anglers familiar with the waters and fish habits can still fish effectively, but compared to many foreign fishing spots, the results often pale. Overfishing, pollution, and climate change significantly impact the quantity and quality of fish in rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, severely affecting fishing in Poland. As a result, many passionate anglers begin seeking alternative locations to pursue their passion. Increasingly, they choose foreign fishing spots, and Scandinavia, with its fish-rich waters and pristine nature, becomes one of the most desired destinations for fishing trips, especially since it’s relatively close to Poland.

Why Scandinavia?

Sweden and Finland combine natural wealth with extraordinary hospitality. Lakes, rivers, and the Baltic Sea are full of diverse fish species that tempt with their size and fighting spirit. A trip to Scandinavia is not just a fishing adventure but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of Poland’s northern neighbors. Anglers can expect abundant catches—especially pike, perch, and zander, which are beloved and prized trophies. Besides these, salmon, trout, grayling, and many others attract enthusiasts.

Scandinavia offers something unique—space, silence, and unspoiled nature, where one can truly feel free. Anyone who has tried fishing on the Baltic skerries, fish-rich and almost deserted rivers, or in deep lakes knows that it is an incomparable experience.

Organizing the Trip: Independently or with a Travel Agency?

Planning a fishing trip is a complex process where the primary role is deciding whether to organize the trip independently or use a travel agency. This decision influences later choices such as the destination, accommodation, and boating equipment. Therefore, it is worth considering which option will better suit your preferences and possibilities.

Organizing the trip independently provides great freedom and flexibility. You can tailor the travel plan to your needs and interests and often save money. However, independent planning requires more preparation and handling of formalities. You need to book transport, accommodations (or choose your favorite camping option, though this is also additional effort), and purchase necessary fishing permits. For those who enjoy full control over their trip and take pleasure in planning, this option may be ideal. Additionally, it offers almost unlimited choice of fishing spots, often with zero fishing pressure and a vast number of fish.

On the other hand, choosing a travel agency is an option for those who value comfort and professional organization. Travel agencies offer comprehensive packages that include transport, accommodation, meals, and all formalities related to fishing. Although it is a more expensive option, it provides peace of mind and certainty that all aspects of the trip are taken care of. Usually, before the trip, you receive information about the fishing spot, expected good fishing spots, etc. However, you then need to adjust to the available offer, at least in terms of available fishing spots.

Which option is better? There is no definitive answer, and everyone must decide for themselves.

Choosing the Trip Destination

One of the most crucial steps in planning a fishing trip is choosing the right place. Scandinavia offers a variety of waters that will meet the expectations of even the most demanding anglers. Choosing the place is critical because each water body has different conditions and offers various fish species. Everything depends on the angler’s individual preferences and the fish they aim to catch.

Scandinavian rivers are a proposal for those who prefer dynamic fishing and close contact with nature. The swift currents and crystal-clear water of mountain rivers are the kingdom of salmonids, while the middle and lower river courses are primarily home to pike and zander, which can be targeted both from the shore and, preferably, from a boat.

For sea fishing enthusiasts, the skerry archipelagos of the Baltic are a real treat. Picturesque islands create a unique landscape, and pike, gorging on a high-protein herring diet, grow to enormous sizes.

Lakes are the true kingdom of Sweden and Finland. Sweden alone has about 100,000 (one hundred thousand!) lakes, with the largest, such as Lake Vänern in Sweden or Saimaa in Finland, offering vast water spaces where you can catch massive pike and zander, as well as salmon, trout, and char. Smaller lakes are ideal for those who enjoy spending time in a peaceful environment, enjoying the silence and beauty of nature.

How to Choose the Right Location?

Choosing the right place for a fishing trip is a crucial step that often determines the success (or failure) of the entire trip. The decision mainly depends on your personal preferences, especially the type of fish you are targeting.

The basis is to establish the shoreline conditions for the trip, such as the maximum distance you are willing to travel, the region’s choice, and the fishing method (e.g., pike trolling or fly fishing for grayling). Each place has slightly different conditions, but the selection principles are often similar. Illustratively, we will focus on presenting the selection process when preparing for a typical trip to a lake targeting pike.

If you use a travel agency’s services, the matter is simpler—you can rely on their experience and choose the water from the available offer based on the provided information and advice. However, if you decide to organize the trip independently, you need to put in more effort. If you have a suitable boat (own or rented), it is usually safer to choose larger lakes because in small bodies of water, the fish population can be unpredictable—sometimes limited in number or small in size. For example, a few years ago, we caught hundreds of pike on a lake, none of which exceeded 80 cm. We later learned that this small, shallow, and less fertile water had a poor food base for predators, leading to stunted growth of the entire population.

Existing inflows and outflows increase the chances that the water is in good condition—flow ensures better oxygenation. It is best to choose lakes with at least two inflows. We usually aim for lakes with a varied shoreline and islands—this provides a natural base for fish habitats and makes it easier for us anglers to navigate such a reservoir. Large, deep ribbon lakes are usually harder to recognize, even though they can hide giant pelagic fish. A few years ago, getting to them often depended on luck and time spent on the water. Nowadays, with Live technology equipment, it is possible to target these giants with a focused approach on single specimens. However, a varied shoreline still offers more opportunities and shelter from the weather—winds in Scandinavia can blow up for days and make fishing on open water not only ineffective but impossible.

When choosing a fishing spot, it is also worth opting for waters where there is an alternative fish species to catch. Let them be zander, perch, trout, or other fish meeting our expectations. Sometimes, the main target of the trip is inactive, but then other fish often become active, turning a complete failure into a success.

Our process of selecting a fishing spot, which has proven successful for us over 13 years of organizing trips to Scandinavia, includes several steps:

Initial selection using Google Maps, aiming to choose waters as far from cities and villages as possible. The fewer houses on the shores, the better. However, it is worth remembering that in Sweden or Finland, many people have summer houses by the lakes that remain empty most of the year and are visited only for a week or two during the holidays. This makes even seemingly isolated lakes a quiet and ideal fishing spot.
Checking the lake’s bathymetry. Nowadays, bases like Navionics or Active Captain cover most lakes and rivers available to anglers. Therefore, it is best to check selected reservoirs in advance. Varied depth favors the pike population, while extensive deep basins increase the likelihood of very large pike.
Checking fish population information, often available on websites where licenses can be purchased. In Sweden, useful sites include www.ifiske.se, www.altfiske.se, www.sportfiskeguide.se, and www.natureit.se. In Finland, it is worth using www.eraluvat.fi and www.metsa.fi.
Internet analysis: checking information on internet forums, Facebook groups, searching for photos on Instagram from a specific location, and looking up other available information online. To increase effectiveness, besides searching in Polish and English, it is worth looking at the source—websites in Swedish and Finnish may contain valuable information, and tools like Google Translate and entire webpage translations solve the language barrier.
If necessary: contact local guides or water caretakers in the municipality.

Documents and Fishing Permits

Fishing in Scandinavia requires appropriate licenses and permits. Regulations vary depending on the region and type of waters. In Sweden, fishing in most waters requires licenses that can be purchased online or at local fishing stores. It is essential to pay attention to specific regulations for individual regions, which may specify additional restrictions and rules—some waters are private and do not allow fishing at all.

Both in Sweden and Finland, prices start from a few euros for a one-day permit and go up to several dozen euros for long-term licenses. The starting point is to determine the water’s owner and check the rules for that particular reservoir. Before purchasing, it is also advisable to familiarize yourself with local regulations concerning closed seasons, catch limits, and seasonal bans. A few years ago, our friend realized just a few days before his trip, after purchasing a license, that the wild mountain lake in western Sweden he was headed to had a ban on fishing from private boats, and during his trip, there was no possibility to rent a boat locally. As a result, he had to change the fishing spot at the last minute. Therefore, it is worth checking everything in advance to avoid unpleasant surprises.

Summary

Planning a fishing trip to Scandinavia can be an extremely exciting and rewarding endeavor. Good organization and proper preparation will allow you to enjoy a fishing adventure in one of the most beautiful regions of Europe. Scandinavia offers unique conditions that will undoubtedly provide unforgettable experiences for every angler.

In the following four parts, we will share our experiences regarding the organization and logistics of the trip, accommodations, equipment (fishing, camping, clothing, etc.), and most importantly, our strategy and tactics for fishing on large and unknown waters.

30 March 2023

Planning a Wildlife Safari in Poland: What You Need to Know?

admin2276 Bird watching, Tours and expeditions 0

Are you an avid wildlife enthusiast looking for a unique and unforgettable experience? Look no further than Poland, a hidden gem in Europe with an incredible array of animal species and breathtaking natural beauty. From the wild Biebrza marshes to the ancient Bialowieza Forest and the meandering Wisla River, there’s something for every wildlife lover to explore.

Before embarking on your Polish wildlife safari, there are a few things you need to know. In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to prepare for your adventure, including what to pack, where to go, and what to expect.

Preparation

Before setting off on your Polish wildlife safari, it’s important to do some research and prepare yourself. Start by researching the types of animals you’re likely to see and familiarizing yourself with their behavior, habits, and natural habitats. There are several good books and online resources available that can help you with this. You will need to decide what kind of experience are you up to and which area you will visit.

You should also check the weather forecast for your planned time of travel, and make sure to pack accordingly. Dressing in layers is recommended, as the weather in Poland can be unpredictable and vary greatly throughout the day.

What to Pack

When packing for your Polish wildlife safari, it’s important to keep in mind that you’ll be spending lots of your time outdoors, so comfortable and practical clothing is essential. Here are some things you should consider packing:

Comfortable walking shoes
Waterproof and windproof jacket
Warm clothes for cooler temperatures
Sunscreen and insect repellent
Binoculars and camera with telephoto lens

The other things you might consider, especially, if you do your wild life watching on your own:

Map and compass or GPS device
First aid kit
Drinks and snacks
Smartphone and powerbank

Best Spots for Wildlife Watching

Poland is home to a vast array of wildlife, with some of the best spots for animal watching being the Biebrza Marshes, the Bialowieza Forest, and the Wisla River. The Biebrza Marshes is the largest wetland area in Central Europe, and is home to over 200 species of birds, including the rare aquatic warbler and black stork and habitat of mammals – moose, wolf, fox and many others. The Bialowieza Forest is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to the European bison, as well as wolves, lynx, and wild boar. The Wisla River is the last such big and natural river in Europe. It is home to a variety of animals (there are so many beavers!), fish species, including the prized European catfish and great observation area for animals and birds – storks, herons, cranes and many others with a white-taled eagle on top.

Animals and Birds to Watch

When it comes to wildlife watching in Poland, there are several species that are particularly worth keeping an eye out for. In addition to the European bison and moose, you may also spot wolves, lynx, wild boar, red deer and bear. Birdwatchers will be delighted to see white-tailed eagles, black grouse, and capercaillies, among many others.

Differences Between the Seasons

The best time to visit Poland for wildlife watching depends on the season. Spring is an ideal time for bird watching, as many species return to Poland after spending the winter in warmer climates. Summer is a great time to see a variety of animals, including wolves and lynx, as they are more active during the longer days. It is also a great time for wild-life watching from the boat. Autumn is the best time to see deer and moose, as it’s mating season and they are more visible. Winter is a great time to see bison, moose and wolf as they are easier to spot against the snowy landscape.

Engaging a Professional Guide

While it is possible to explore Poland’s wilderness on your own, engaging a professional guide can greatly enhance your experience. A guide can provide invaluable knowledge about the local wildlife, as well as the best spots for animal watching. They can also help ensure your safety and provide any necessary equipment or supplies.

In conclusion, planning a wildlife safari in Poland is an unforgettable experience that offers a unique opportunity to see some of Europe’s most fascinating animals in their natural habitats. With a little preparation and the right equipment, you can explore the beautiful wilderness areas of Poland and encounter some truly amazing wildlife.

Remember to pack comfortable clothing and gear, including binoculars and a camera, and do your research before you go. Poland is home to a variety of animal species, including bison, wolves, lynx, and numerous bird species, so keep your eyes peeled and your camera at the ready.

If you’re not an experienced outdoors person or unfamiliar with the area, it’s worth considering hiring a professional guide. They can offer you the benefit of their expertise and ensure that you make the most of your time in Poland, whether you’re looking to see rare birds, photograph wild animals, or simply soak up the stunning natural beauty of the region.

So if you’re looking for an adventure that’s off the beaten path, consider planning a wildlife safari in Poland. You won’t be disappointed!

8 January 2023

European bison on a photo safari in the Białowieża Forest

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While the fishing season in the lowlands in Poland is slightly suspended at the beginning of the year, right now we have one of the best moments to observe nature, especially the large mammals that live in our forests.

Recently, we have devoted some time to European bison living wild in the Białowieża Forest – both in the National Park and in the rest of the forest. Usually, the most effective and at the same time the most convenient way to observe European bison in the winter is going by car and visiting forest clearings and forest borders one after another – known spots of expected bison presence . Bison willingly go out to such places and nibble green shoots, leaves and twigs, just like winter crops on sown fields.

In the early days, using the remnants of the snow, we devoted most of our time to searching and tracking bisons in the forest backwoods. Tracking animals is a great adventure in itself!

In this way, we managed to approach elk in a birch grove, as well as deer, roe deer and wild boars. However, the bisons were very careful – too careful to be photographed. Twice we managed to track down and see a small herd consisting of a few animals. In both cases, however, the animals got spooked as they approached a convenient photographic position.

The next few days, in a small group of 2-4 people, we decided to look for bison in the clearings. A tour of spots, where bison appear regularly, quickly gave us a good result. European bison appeared regularly at several sites, allowing convenient photography from a distance. In one case, we were able to get very close to the herd with the young – a great experience!

There are still a few weeks ahead of us, which are worth spending on observing animals – now is the best time to do it!

29 September 2022

Asps from Bug river

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The season gradually comes to the end – we have probably one or two weeks of asps active feeding in Mazovia. It is worth to utilise this time to the maximum possible extent.

Last weekend we hosted on our boat two anglers, who had never caught asp before. As asp feeds very well now in all fisheries, we chose the wild part of the Bug river, where other anglers are rarely found. Having a pontoon at our disposal, we were able to move freely around the best places from which we took active fish.

What’s important, the water is already cool, so looking for an asp attack on the surface can only lead to frustration. The fish bites well, but a bit deeper – in half of the depth or even near the bottom, in channels and deep currents with underwater obstacles. We encourage you to try it yourself!

And for those anglers who need more information, we will be delighted to help. Just contact us and ask a question. We will be happy to answer!

We also invite you to our joint trips!

8 September 2022

Bird watching by Wisła river

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September is a great time for bird watching and – in general – wild life observation by Wisła river (Vistula river). It is not as hot as it was just a few weeks ago, and birds and animals are active for a longer and longer part of the day.

An additional attraction are often species of birds gathering in flocks and getting ready to depart for the winter. Recently, we were watching the gathering of storks and cranes, and a few days ago, together with our guests, we watched huge flocks of lapwings that group on sandy Vistula islands. Since the observation took place from a boat, and lapwings are known for their timidity – we used binoculars and the photos we took are far from perfect. Nevertheless, it was a great bird watching experience.

As usual on our section of the river, we saw a few white-tailed eagles and an osprey and which we scared away, while he was watching the river carefully from the branch, looking for its future prey. This is great, the ospreys are more and more common by Masovian Wisła

Before the end of the day, at dusk, we also spotted a beaver, which was eating willow twigs on a sand bar. Great observation before the end of the day!

If you are interested in bird watching in Poland with Wild River guides – do not hesitate to see our offering here.

6 August 2022

Fishing license and permit in Poland – how to fish legally?

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Poland, which is located in the central part of Europe, offers a number of fishing opportunities – both in terms of numerous fish species and various waters: starting from small ponds, through lakes, streams, rivers, and ending in the Baltic Sea.

As much as 3% of Poland’s surface is covered by water. It is no wonder, that fishing is such a popular activity in Poland – it is estimated that the total number of anglers in Poland amounts to 1.5 million, of which approximately 600,000 people are members of the Polish Angling Association (PZW).

The most popular in the country is active fishing for predatory fish (pike, catfish, zander and asp), carp fishing and traditional fishing with ground methods or with a float.

To legally fish, Poles need a fishing license in Poland (issued by public authorities) and an additional fishing permit issued by the water owner (PZW for most of public waters). However, foreigners who want to fish legally in domestic waters, are exempt from the obligation to have a fishing license in Poland, but they absolutely must have a permit issued by the owner or user of the water.

Fishing license in Poland

Polish citizens fishing in Poland are required to have a fishing license, which can be obtained after passing the official examination on the knowledge of state regulations regulating the principles of fishing in Poland. The exam can be taken at the local circle of the Polish Angling Association and on the basis of a passed exam, the fishing license is issued by the county governor (starosta).

What is important, the fishing license in Poland is a document valid indefinitely.

Exemptions from the obligation to have a Polish fishing license

There are two groups of people exempt from the obligation to have a fishing license when fishing in Poland. The first group consists of children and teens up to 14 years of age. Children have the right to fish without a fishing license if they fish under the supervision of an adult angler with a fishing license (and a permit issued by the owner of the water).

The second group are foreigners, who have been exempted from the obligation to have a fishing license and only need a fishing permit in Poland from the owner of the water to fish legally.

Fishing permit in Poland

A fishing permit in a given body of water is always an absolutely required document. In Poland, the vast majority of waters (including all flowing waters – streams and rivers) belong to the state treasury and majority of the above are under management and supervision of the Polish Angling Association (this also applies to all the largest Masovian rivers – Vistula, Narew, Bug) and the permit issued by the Polish Angling Association is to fish legally there.

The list of waters managed by PZW is available on the association and its districts respective websites at https://www.pzw.org.pl/home/. Unfortunately, most of the information on the website is in Polish, but in case you cannot use the help of a Polish-speaking person, you can use the tools available on the Internet that automatically translate the website into English.

All other waters are under management of:

PGW Wody Polskie, a company established to provide all-round management pf public waters (not limited to fishing and angling). The list of water reservoirs and the rules for purchasing a permit for waters under the management of PGW can be verified at https://www.wody.gov.pl/nasze-lowiska (unfortunately also in Polish)
Fishing farms
Fishing associations
Private owners
Fishing clubs

For the last four groups, the possibility and conditions of obtaining a fishing permit should be individually verified. It is not always possible by commercial means – some fishing clubs require charity involvement in activities for the benefit of local waters and improvement of their quality (e.g. participation in fish stocking, cleaning, water guarding, etc.)

Purchase of a fishing permit in the Polish Angling Association

The basic and traditional way of purchasing a PZW water permit is a visit to the local PZW club. You can find the nearest PZW club here: https://www.google.pl/maps/search/Polski+Związek+Wędkarski+Koło

Prices vary depending on the region, type of water (lowland and mountain waters), number of fishing days (annual or periodic fee – weekly, three-day or one-day), and in some cases also the method of fishing (e.g. additional fee for trolling fishing). The fees for PZW members are lower than for foreigners and non-members.

The second method of purchasing a permit is to visit a local fishing store, most of which can sell he PZW permit.

The third option (usually the most convenient when buying a short-term license) is to buy a fishing permit online. Each PZW district has its own regulations in this regard, but most districts cooperate with the platform available at: https://eokon.eparki.pl/

Fishing permit for foreigners in and around Warsaw

In 2022, the fees for fishing for foreigners are as follows:

One-day permit: PLN 50
Three-day permit: PLN 110
Weekly permit: PLN 140
Annual permit for lowland waters: PLN 400
Annual permit for lowland and mountain waters: PLN 450

The permit can be purchased at https://ompzw.eparki.pl/ or at one of the fishing clubs, the list of which is available here: https://ompzw.pl/kola-wedkarskie.

Obvously, the purchase of a permit is just the beginning of the adventure, and the biggest challenge is choosing the right place, time, methods and lures to successfully catch your dream fish. If you do not have enough time, we invite you for a trip with our fishing guides in Poland. We present our offer available on our website: https://wildriver.pl/index.php/en/fishing-guide-in-poland/ or you can contact us directly anytime here.

In case of doubts or difficulties – please contact us and we will always be happy to help.

29 July 2022

Another catfish fishing tour in Poland is a huge success!

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Let’s imagine a situation in which we – as an avid angler – are in a foreign country. We are able to find one or two days for fishing, but we do not know where to start and how to get the local fish…
This is exactly the situation for Simon, whom we had the pleasure to host on our boat. Simon stayed in Poland for a few days in family matters and he decided to use the services of a fishing guide to go on a catfish tour. He also wanted to see the beauty of the Vistula near Warsaw and actually, he was counting to have at least some with fish.

After picking up our client from the agreed place, we drove to the fishing spot and prepared the equipment. Our fishing started around 9.00. We focused on fishing with the clonk and quite quickly we had the first catfish raising from to the bottom toward the bait (we could clearly observe it on the fishfinder with the livescope sonar technology), but we were yet to wait for the bite. Soon, we realized, that on this day the “silent teaser” was much more attractive for the fish, and the classic teaser with beads was interesting for the fish (they were raising from the bottom, too), but at the same time it must have been somehow worrying, because no catfish approached the bait.

Within the few hours that we had at our disposal, we went by boat for about 10 km of the river, checking all the promising spots. Most of the fish were in the deepest holes and channels, which was basically expected – hot water, burning sun and very low water level in Wisła river… During the day we had 4 strikes on our client’s rod, two of which ended with hooking a fish and the rod bending into the arc.

Believe us, the emotions accompanying the haul of the first catfish in your life are enormous, and the adrenaline is almost bursting with your ears!
A catfish 140cm is not a giant, but already a large and strong fish that you can fight for a while. But there was no issue with that! – Simon did a great job, as you can see in the photos. Congratulations again!

At the moment, we are just entering the best period for catfish fishing – both in terms of quantity and, above all, quality. And the time for giants will come at the end of August.

We invite you to go on trips with our fishing guides!

25 July 2022

Green woodpeckers guided observation tour in Poland

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The weekend is behind us! As always, it was difficult to reconcile all the ideas, goals, availability of guides and the needs of our clients. However, we do what we can!

On Saturday, we went on a several-hour trip to observe various species of birds living in the forests and fields by the Vistula river. Much of our attention has been devoted to several species of woodpeckers. In the forest area, we observed numerous great spotted woodpeckers, as well as lesser spotted woodpecker and black woodpeckers.

In more exposed terrain, we saw a few green woodpeckers. They feasted on ants while sitting in the grass and whistling.

Do you know that the green woodpecker is the second largest species of woodpecker living in our country? It grows up to 35 cm. Unlike most of his cousins, he rarely drums on a tree, but is much easier to find on the ground in meadows and fields (usually near trees and bushes around)

Green woodpeckers are relatively rare, but it is even more difficult to see it, because it matches the color of the grass and plants.

25 July 2022

Asps keep feeding!

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Even though Masovian Wisła is perhaps not the best fishery in the world, we are constantly catching beautiful asps. The time for the biggest ones will gradually come in the last days of August, but in terms of quantity, we cannot complain!

Recently, several people contacted us, asking about the asp hot spots and methods of fishing. We try to help everyone in fishing Polish waters as much as possible, but not everything can be explained during a telephone conversation. The easiest way to make sure a fishing trip is successful is to go fishing together with a professional fishing guide, who perfectly knows the terms and conditions of fishing in Poland, fishing methods, hot spots and lures dedicated for a given predator.

To back up the above, just look at the pictures. A few days ago we were hosting on our boat two guests from Japan and both of them added asp to their trophies lists.

Congratulations!