The Kola Peninsula is the northernmost territory of European Russia, situated north of the 66th Parallel. The Kola Peninsula boasts more than 130.000 lakes and rivers. The rivers are an important habitat for the Atlantic salmon, which return from Greenland and the Faroe Islands to spawn in fresh water. As a result of this, a recreational fishery has been developed, with a number of remote lodges and camps available to host sport-fishermen.

The Atlantic Salmon sport fishing program of Kola Travel is mainly based on the South coast of the Kola Peninsula and in particular on the Umba and Varzuga rivers. Coming close to nature and away from civilization you can enjoy excellent fishing and get a truly unforgettable experience on the number of fish that passes along these rivers. Having been here once, you will not wish to look for a better place. The Umba and Varzuga river shores are a fishing paradise for both amateur and professional fishermen. Experienced guides will show you the best place for the great fishing. The fishing is based on “Catch and release”. The fishing camps at Umba River and Varzuga River possess several advantages:

• An extended fishing season. The season starts as soon as the rivers are open (usually in late May), and continues through to October. Two different runs of salmon occur during this period, creating a nearly continuous flow of fish entering the system.
• Fishing suitable for everyone. Anyone can find an appropriate fishing activity or location. One can have an easy day of fishing from a boat, or a wrestle a huge salmon from the riverbank.
• The chance of hooking big salmon - or lots of salmon. During each week of the season there are chances to pull in really big fish, and not just great numbers of smaller salmon.
• Safe water conditions. The water level remains relatively constant and a lack of water is never a problem.
• The Umba Lodge and newly-built Varzuga Lodge. These are simply the most comfortable and attractive timber lodges on Kola Peninsula.
• Reasonable prices. We don't need expensive helicopters to enter the fishing camps. Therefore we can offer very reasonable prices given the quality of the accommodation and fishing.

• All fishing is based on Catch&Release rules.
• Only barbless single or double hooks are allowed.
• Fishing-tackle has to be suitable for catching Salmon!
• For spinning we advise: reel: Shimano, line: 0.35 - 0.40, blinker type: crocodile, Kyasamo 20-30 grams and the use of wobblers.
• Rusty Rat and small Sunray Shadow-Tubes. Use bigger flies at the beginning and end of the season. During summer dry flies also work very well. Try a Bomber!

Both single- and double-handed rods are fine.

• Single handed of 9 to 10 ft in line classes 6-10.
• Double handed of 12 to 15 ft in line classes 9-12.

• Neoprene or Gore-Tex waders with corkers/cleats. Wading staff for the Krivetz fishing.
• Fishing jacket and mittens.
• Warm clothes and cap for cold evenings or for early or late season.
• Rain clothes.

• Green Highlander
• Red Butt
• Silver Doctor

An essential fly for Umba river
Hook: single or double 2-8
Tag: oval copper tinsel
Tip: red antron
Tail: red antron
But: yellow hackle
Body: flat copper tinsel
Ribbing: oval copper tinsel
Wing: black foxtail with some copper flash
Front hackle: black
Head: black
Cheeks optional