Sea trout on Gotland: the spring, autumn and winter seasons

Leende sportfiskare knäböjer i vattnet och visar upp en havsöring på Gotland

Emil Randemo |

Gotland is one of Sweden's best-known destinations for sea trout. The island has approximately 800 km of coastline with cliffs, kelp beds, shallow flats, reefs and depth edges, and sea trout move along much of it for most of the year. But the fishing varies greatly depending on when you visit. We fish year-round, focusing on the periods when sea trout are most active close to shore.

Trip at a glance

  • Destination: the coast of Gotland, staying at Scandic Visby
  • Season: year-round, with a focus on spring, autumn and winter
  • Species: sea trout
  • Method: fly fishing or spin fishing, wading from shore with a guide
  • Food: breakfast buffet and outdoor lunch cooked on a Muurikka by the sea
  • Travel: ferry from Nynäshamn or Oskarshamn, or flight
Smiling sport angler holding a silver-bright sea trout by the reeds on Gotland
Bright sea trout from the coast of Gotland.

Spring, March to mid-May

Spring is peak season. The days grow longer, the water slowly warms up, and both the trout and their prey become active. The fish spread out along the coast and hunt over shallow areas, kelp beds and depth edges. This is the period when the chance of several contacts in a day is usually greatest.

Autumn, October to December

In autumn, we fish for bright sea trout that do not participate in spawning but instead chase baitfish along edges and structures. Some areas are closed during the spawning season, and the guides ensure that you fish permitted and productive stretches. While the water is still relatively mild, we often stay near deeper areas where the trout search for food. Autumn often offers consistent fishing and powerful fish.

Winter, January and February

Winter fishing is more technical, but it can be highly rewarding. Sea trout stay very shallow and close to shore, while the days are short. The weather can be tough, with cold and wind - something many experienced coastal anglers appreciate.

What about summer?

Fishing is possible all year round, but sea trout fishing is more limited in summer. That is why we focus on spring, autumn and winter.

Silhouette of a sport fisher casting into the sea at sunset on Gotland
The wind determines where the fish are.

The wind determines the day

Gotland’s weather is strongly influenced by the Baltic Sea. The wind determines the waves, water movement and where the fish are, and conditions can change quickly. That is why you fish on the move and change stretches of coastline depending on the day’s conditions. The guides monitor the weather and wind and choose locations each morning. Bring warm and waterproof clothing; even a sunny spring day can feel cold by the water.

What a trip looks like

You take the ferry from Nynäshamn or Oskarshamn, or fly, and stay at Scandic Visby with a sauna, jacuzzi and outdoor pool. The fishing days are guided and take place wading from shore, with a breakfast buffet at the hotel and an outdoor lunch cooked on a Muurikka by the sea. You choose your own dinner from among Visby’s restaurants.

Flies, lines and lures for coastal fishing have their own guide to fly fishing and spinning on Gotland.

Interested in sea trout fishing on Gotland?

We tailor the trip to your dates, number of fishing days and group.

Fly fishing on Gotland

Spinning fishing on Gotland

Frequently asked questions about sea trout fishing on Gotland

When is the best time?

Spring, from March to mid-May, is peak season. Autumn and winter also offer good fishing, with different characteristics.

Are there protected areas?

Yes, some areas are protected during the spawning season in autumn. The guides make sure you fish in permitted areas.

What is the weather like?

The wind from the Baltic Sea has a major influence. Spring and autumn are often cool with brisk winds, so bring warm and waterproof clothing.

Questions about the trip?

We’re happy to help with planning and questions about the fishing. Call us at +46 313 758 200 or email info@outsidetravels.com.

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