Hunting and fishing
Hunting and fishing are subject to specific regulations and are not included in the right of public access.
Hunting requires a permit, and is regulated by various laws and ordinances, with specific rules applying to different species and regions. A fishing permit is often required when fishing in lakes.
Keep in mind
- The right of public access still applies even where hunting is ongoing, but for your own safety, avoid these areas during active hunts.
- You are not allowed to interfere with or disturb hunting activities.
- A fishing permit is required in most lakes and waterways.
- Take your trash home with you, including lines and hooks.
- Show consideration when traveling on water by avoiding unnecessary noise or large waves.
- Keep in mind that launching a boat with a trailer or towing vehicle you need the landowner’s permission.
Free sport fishing
Swedish citizens can fish without a licence in public waters. Foreign citizens are also allowed to fish licence-free in these waters, provided they use hand-held gear. Sport fishing without a licence is permitted in some private coastal waters and in Sweden’s five largest lakes: Vänern, Vättern, Mälaren, Hjälmaren, and Storsjön (in Jämtland). In all other lakes and waters, a fishing licence or other permit is required. Methods such as net fishing, trolling (with or without a motor), and tip-up fishing are not allowed without a valid licence.
Rules for fishing
Fishing is regulated by the Fisheries Act, the Fisheries Ordinance, and FIFS, a compendium of regulations issued by the Swedish National Board of Fisheries.
These statutes contain provisions on numerous matters, including gear for recreational fishing. Fishing is prohibited within 100 metres of stationary fishing gear, including fish farms.
You may temporarily use a private jetty on an occasional basis, as long as it is not part of the private protection area. However, you must leave immediately if the owner needs to use it.
Fiskeregler för fritidsfiske - Fiske och handel - Havs- och vattenmyndigheten (havochvatten.se)