Russia, with its vast network of rivers, offers some of the most exceptional fishing opportunities in the world. From remote Siberian streams to the mighty Volga River, these waterways are rich in diverse fish species, providing a paradise for anglers. What makes these river fishing spots even more special is the ability to camp along their banks, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in nature and enjoy peaceful days fishing in some of the most scenic locations on earth. Whether you’re fly fishing in the Altai Mountains or casting a line in the tranquil rivers of Karelia, there are plenty of perfect river camping spots for anglers in Russia.
Here are some of the best river camping spots in Russia where you can enjoy fishing and camping in stunning natural surroundings.
1. The Volga River – Volga Region
The Volga River, one of the longest and most famous rivers in Europe, is an angler’s dream. Flowing through central Russia, the Volga is teeming with a variety of fish species, including pike, catfish, sturgeon, and perch, making it an ideal location for both novice and experienced anglers.
Why Visit the Volga River for Fishing and Camping:
- Variety of Fish Species: The Volga River offers excellent fishing opportunities for both freshwater and river species. You can catch sturgeon, pike, catfish, perch, and even the occasional asp or roach.
- Scenic Camping: There are several campsites along the Volga, where you can pitch a tent or rent cabins with direct access to the riverbanks. The picturesque river landscapes, dotted with forests and rolling hills, offer a peaceful and relaxing environment for campers.
- Historical and Cultural Significance: In addition to its natural beauty, the Volga River region is rich in Russian history and culture. You can explore traditional villages and historical sites while enjoying your fishing and camping trip.
Best Campsites Along the Volga River:
- Volga-Akhtuba Floodplain Nature Reserve: This nature reserve offers excellent fishing, with opportunities to catch pike, catfish, and sturgeon. The surrounding floodplain area is perfect for peaceful camping, with campsites located along the riverbanks.
- The Samara Bend: A beautiful and relatively untouched section of the Volga River, the Samara Bend is famous for its stunning natural scenery and excellent fishing. Several campsites along the river provide anglers with easy access to prime fishing spots.
2. The Yenisei River – Siberia
Flowing through Siberia, the Yenisei River is one of the largest and most important rivers in Russia. This river is known for its pristine waters, vast landscapes, and abundant fish species, making it a top destination for both fishing and camping.
Why Visit the Yenisei River for Fishing and Camping:
- Freshwater Fishing: The Yenisei is home to a wide variety of freshwater fish, including salmon, sturgeon, grayling, and perch. Fishing here is excellent throughout the year, with the river offering different challenges and rewards depending on the season.
- Stunning Wilderness: The Yenisei River flows through some of the most remote and beautiful wilderness areas in Siberia. It’s perfect for anglers looking for a rugged, adventurous camping experience while surrounded by spectacular scenery.
- Wildlife and Solitude: Camping along the Yenisei offers peace and solitude, with the chance to spot wildlife such as bears, moose, and eagles in the surrounding forests and rivers.
Best Campsites Along the Yenisei River:
- Krasnoyarsk Reservoir: The area around Krasnoyarsk Reservoir is a prime spot for anglers, with the chance to fish for salmon, pike, and other species. Several campsites are located near the reservoir, offering stunning views of the river and surrounding forested mountains.
- Sayan Mountains: If you’re looking for a more remote experience, the Sayan Mountains near the Yenisei River offer a combination of challenging fishing and rugged, untouched nature. There are several camping sites along the river in the area, perfect for fishing enthusiasts.
3. The Lena River – Siberia
The Lena River is one of the longest rivers in Russia, stretching over 4,400 kilometers through Siberia. It is known for its large fish species and is often considered one of the best rivers for fishing in Russia. Anglers flock to the Lena to fish for sturgeon, salmon, and other large freshwater species.
Why Visit the Lena River for Fishing and Camping:
- Sturgeon Fishing: The Lena River is famous for its large sturgeon populations. These massive fish are a major draw for anglers looking for a challenge.
- Remote and Peaceful: The Lena River flows through Siberia’s rugged wilderness, offering an ideal camping experience for those looking for solitude and untouched natural beauty. There are few tourists, so you’ll have the river and its landscapes all to yourself.
- Spectacular Scenery: The landscape along the Lena is diverse, from dense forests to vast plains, and its pristine waters provide a serene backdrop for camping and fishing.
Best Campsites Along the Lena River:
- Vitus Nikanorov National Park: This national park, located near the Lena River, is a great base for fishing and camping. The area is home to diverse fish species, including sturgeon, and is known for its beautiful landscapes and peaceful atmosphere.
- Yakutia: The remote regions of Yakutia, which the Lena River flows through, are perfect for those looking for an off-the-grid fishing and camping experience. The campsites along the river offer access to incredible fishing spots and breathtaking wilderness.
4. The Volga-Akhtuba Floodplain – Southern Russia
Located near the mouth of the Volga River, the Volga-Akhtuba Floodplain is a sprawling natural reserve that offers some of the best river fishing in Russia. Known for its diverse ecosystems and rich biodiversity, it’s a prime destination for anglers looking for an immersive fishing experience combined with serene camping.
Why Visit the Volga-Akhtuba Floodplain for Fishing and Camping:
- Abundant Fish Species: The Volga-Akhtuba Floodplain is home to a variety of fish species, including pike, perch, sturgeon, and catfish. Fishing in the floodplain is particularly rewarding due to its rich biodiversity.
- Wildlife and Birdwatching: The floodplain is a haven for wildlife, including migratory birds, otters, and foxes. It’s an ideal spot for wildlife enthusiasts who want to combine fishing with birdwatching and nature photography.
- Secluded Camping: The floodplain offers quiet, secluded campsites along the river. You’ll be surrounded by untouched nature, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, swimming, and exploring.
Best Campsites in the Volga-Akhtuba Floodplain:
- Volga-Akhtuba Nature Reserve Campsites: The Volga-Akhtuba Nature Reserve offers several campsites that provide anglers with access to prime fishing areas. These campsites are remote and peaceful, perfect for those who want to fish and camp in a tranquil setting.
- Togliatti Campsites: The area around Togliatti, located on the Volga River, offers a variety of campsites with easy access to the river. It’s a popular spot for anglers looking to catch catfish and pike.
5. Karelia – Karelia Republic
Karelia, located in the northwest of Russia, is home to numerous rivers and lakes that offer excellent fishing opportunities. Known for its pristine wilderness, Karelia provides an idyllic setting for anglers and campers alike.
Why Visit Karelia for Fishing and Camping:
- Crystal-Clear Lakes and Rivers: Karelia is home to thousands of lakes and rivers, including the Vuoksa River and Lake Ladoga, where anglers can fish for pike, perch, and other freshwater species. The water is clean and clear, making it perfect for fishing and swimming.
- Serenity and Solitude: Karelia is known for its peaceful atmosphere. It’s a great destination for those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in nature while fishing and camping in seclusion.
- Scenic Beauty: Karelia’s natural beauty, from its dense forests to its clear lakes and rivers, makes it one of Russia’s most scenic destinations for camping and fishing.
Best Campsites in Karelia for Fishing:
- Paanajärvi National Park: Located near the Finnish border, Paanajärvi National Park is an excellent destination for anglers. The park is known for its pristine lakes, where you can fish for trout, perch, and other species.
- Kivach Nature Reserve: This nature reserve, located near the Kivach Waterfall, offers campsites along rivers and lakes, where you can fish and enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding wilderness.
Conclusion: The Ultimate Fishing and Camping Experience in Russia
Russia offers a wealth of river camping spots for anglers looking to combine their love of fishing with the serenity of camping. From the legendary Volga River to the remote Yenisei and Lena Rivers in Siberia, each destination provides a unique experience, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and teeming with diverse fish species. Whether you’re fishing for sturgeon in the Volga, salmon in Kamchatka, or grayling in Siberian rivers, these locations offer some of the best fishing in the world, paired with the opportunity to camp in pristine natural settings.
