Yokanga Russia - Fly Fishing for Atlantic Salmon
YOKANGA - Salmon hunting for the committed Salmon angler
To many, the Kola Peninsula consists of rivers that are so prolific that it is almost impossible not to catch lots of salmon. This is a misconception that can raise expectations to an unrealistic level if the right advice is not sought before traveling. Yes, certain rivers have an abundance of fish but on the north coast it is a very different story. Here people do not read catch records for the numbers caught, instead it is the size that matters.
The Fishing
The Yokanga River is located in Russia, above the Arctic Circle at about 67.5º north latitude. It is one of the more recent Kola Peninsula rivers to be opened to western fishermen. It is located on the north eastern edge of the Kola, about 175 miles from Murmansk. This is an extraordinary, dramatic and rugged river that has forged itself through the tundra to flow into the Barents Sea. The banks are covered in stunted birch trees and scrub, barely given long enough to break out in leaf between the arrival of a short summer and the advent of the winter snows. As it cascades down through lakes and freestone pools, the Yokanga has wonderful fly water interspersed with fast flowing draws. Salmon seem to sit effortlessly on the lips of pools, ready to cause all sorts of problems for those that have a fly taken as it swings over the lie. It is a physically challenging river that requires a reasonable level of fitness to get the most out of it. It is also a mentally challenging river where a true salmon fisher will be rewarded for their efforts.
* Click at the pictures to enlarge
Accommodation
Designed and built in Canada, the lodge was reconstructed on the bluff overlooking the Home Pool. There is a commanding view over 4 km of the river including Boulder Alley and the fabled Lyliok pool. The lodge can accommodate 16 rods in a combination of double and single rooms, all with en-suite bathroom, power shower and 24 hour hot water. With a large, light and spacious upstairs dining room and bar, the lodge is a comfortable and congenial base. The kitchen produces hearty food to fuel fishermen for a weeks' fishing. The bar has a variety of beers and wines available as well as high quality Russian vodka.
* Click at the pictures to enlarge
Getting there
All trips to the Yokanga start with an overnight in the Hotel at Helsinki Airport on the Friday. We then charter a private plane to Murmansk on Saturday morning, arriving in Murmansk at noon (a flight of about two hours) It will return to Helsinki on the following Saturday. From Murmansk you will take a helicopter to the camp which takes approximately 1 1/2 hours.
Hosted-trip with Stefan & Alexander Haider
Dates on request
Rates 2018
- June 9 – June 16: GBP 7.700
- June 23 – June 30: GBP 10.800
- July 7 – July 14: GBP 6.900
- July 14 – July 21: please request
- Aug 4 – Aug 11: please request
Included in cost
Seven (7) nights double occupancy accommodation. Six (6) full days guided fishing (2 angler per guide). Round-trip Helicopter-transfers from Murmansk to the Lodge. Fishing license.
Not included
Round-trip airfare from your home to Murmansk (MMK). Round-trip taxi transfer between the Murmansk airport and the hotel. Meals and accommodation in Murmansk or any other en route cities. Liquor (other than Vodka) and wine. Gratuities for guides and lodge staff. All fishing equipment, tackle and flies.
Quick Facts Yokanga River Middle Camp
| Location | Yokanga river, Kola Peninsula / Russia |
| Season | Early June through mid August |
| Capacity | Maximum of 16 anglers per week |
| Closest major air hub | Murmansk (MMK) |
| Target species | Atlantic Salmon |
| Documents required | Valid passport. A valid visa is required for citizens of most countries. |