NASVA · SAAREMAA

Fishing in Saaremaa – right on the banks of the Nasva River

Saaremaa and fishing have always gone hand in hand. Ipu Puhkemaja sits on the banks of the Nasva River in an old fishing village where the river, the sea and fishing have shaped local life for generations. Ipu himself, after whom the house is named, was a fisherman all his life.

If you come to Saaremaa for a fishing trip, you can start right behind the house. There is a private floating dock by the river – bring your fishing rod, sit by the water and try your luck. Roach, perch and pike are among the fish caught in the Nasva River.

And if you feel like exploring further, Saaremaa has plenty more fishing spots to discover.

Where to fish in Saaremaa?

Saaremaa offers a wide variety of fishing opportunities, from rivers and shallow bays to the coastline and open sea. Where to go depends on the season, how you want to fish and, of course, what you are hoping to catch.

Nasva River

For guests staying at Ipu, the easiest fishing spot is right behind the house. The Nasva River connects the Mullutu-Suurlaht lake system with the sea, and fishing has been part of life in Nasva for generations.

Nasva is especially well known for spring roach fishing. As the weather gets warmer and the roach begin their spawning migration, anglers gather along the river from across Saaremaa and beyond.

At Ipu, there is no need to drive anywhere – just grab your fishing rod and head down to the river.

Suurlaht and Mullutu Bay

Inland from Nasva lies the Mullutu-Suurlaht area, another well-known fishing area in Saaremaa. It is a natural next stop if you want to explore beyond Nasva or head out on the water by boat.

Parts of the area are protected, and restrictions may apply to fishing and boating. It is therefore worth checking the current rules before heading out.

Salme River and Kuke Stream

If you are happy to explore a little further around the island, the Salme River and Kuke Stream are also known for spring roach fishing.

Together with the Nasva River, these are among the classic Saaremaa fishing spots that attract anglers during the spring roach migration.

The Saaremaa coast and sea

If the river is not enough, there is a whole sea around you.

Saaremaa's long and varied coastline offers a completely different fishing experience, with species and fishing spots changing throughout the season. Depending on the time of year, anglers fish the coastal waters for species including garfish, perch and flounder. Saaremaa is also well known among sea trout anglers.

What can you catch and when?

Fishing in Saaremaa changes considerably with the seasons.

Spring means roach fishing for many locals. The Nasva River is one of Saaremaa's best-known places for it.

In the second half of May, garfish arrive in the waters around Saaremaa. Their season is short and usually lasts only a few weeks.

Summer brings a wider variety of fishing opportunities. Perch and flounder are among the species caught around Saaremaa, while pike can be found in inland waters.

If you are targeting a particular species, check the current closed seasons, minimum sizes and other fishing restrictions before your trip.

Bringing your own boat

If you bring your own boat to Saaremaa, Ipu makes a convenient base for your fishing trip.

About one kilometre from Ipu Puhkemaja towards the sea, there is a public boat launching point. Boats can also be launched at Suurlaht.

You can stay in Nasva, launch the boat in the morning and choose where to fish depending on the weather and your plans for the day.

No boat? No problem.

You can also rent a boat locally in Saaremaa.

Saaremaa Paadilaenutus operates directly in Nasva, making it the most convenient option for guests staying at Ipu. They have several boats based in Nasva, including boats equipped specifically for fishing.

See boats from Saaremaa Paadilaenutus →

Another option is Nuki.ee in Kuressaare, where boats are also available for rent. This can be a good choice if you want to take the boat to a fishing spot of your own choice.

See boat rental at Nuki.ee →

So leaving your own boat at home does not mean you have to miss out on a day of fishing.

Do you need a fishing permit in Saaremaa?

It depends on where and how you fish.

Fishing with one simple hand line is generally free in Estonia. Other fishing methods usually require a recreational fishing right, while certain fishing areas or types of fishing may require a separate fishing card.

Minimum fish sizes, closed seasons and catch restrictions also apply. Regulations can change, so it is always worth checking the latest rules before you go fishing.

Fishing, sauna – or both?

Not everyone in your group has to be an angler to enjoy staying at Ipu.

One person can head out fishing early in the morning, another can sleep in and someone else can get the sauna ready. The house has four bedrooms, sleeps up to eight guests and the Nasva River is right behind the house.

If the fish are biting, there is a fully equipped kitchen where you can cook your fresh catch. And if they are not, you still have the river, sauna, terrace and a good reason to try again the next morning.