Night fishing in Russia offers a unique adventure for anglers seeking the thrill of casting their lines under the stars. With vast and remote regions, Russia’s waters come alive after dark, providing opportunities to catch species that are more active during the nighttime hours. Whether you’re fishing in the expansive lakes of Siberia, the winding rivers of the Volga, or the remote wilderness of Kamchatka, night fishing in Russia presents a whole new dimension to the angling experience.
This guide will help you explore the best locations for night fishing in Russia, the species you can expect to catch, and essential tips to ensure your fishing trip is successful and enjoyable.
Best Locations for Night Fishing in Russia
1. The Volga River – A Vast River for Nighttime Adventures
The Volga River, Russia’s longest and most iconic waterway, is one of the top destinations for night fishing in the country. Known for its rich biodiversity and accessible location, the Volga offers some of the best opportunities for anglers looking to fish during the night. The river is home to a range of species, many of which are more active after dusk.
- Fishing Species: The Volga River is home to several species of fish, including sturgeon, catfish, carp, pike, and zander. Sturgeon and catfish are particularly active at night, making the river a prime location for night fishing.
- Best Time to Visit: While fishing is productive year-round, the best time for night fishing on the Volga River is during the summer months, from late May to September. This is when fish are more likely to bite at night, especially during the warmer evenings.
- Insider Tips: Set up near deep holes or slow-moving stretches of water, where large fish like catfish and sturgeon often hide. Nighttime offers a quieter, more peaceful atmosphere for fishing along the riverbanks, away from daytime boat traffic.
2. Lake Baikal – Fishing in the World’s Deepest Freshwater Lake
Lake Baikal, located in Siberia, is the world’s deepest freshwater lake and one of the most stunning places to fish in Russia. It is known for its clear waters, diverse fish species, and serene environment. While fishing in Lake Baikal is possible during the day, many anglers prefer night fishing to target species that are more active in the cooler, quieter nighttime hours.
- Fishing Species: Lake Baikal is home to a variety of fish species, including the endemic Baikal omul (a type of freshwater salmon), perch, pike, and burbot. Burbot, in particular, are active at night, making them a prime target for night anglers.
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to fish Lake Baikal for night fishing is during the summer months, when the lake is less harsh and temperatures are more favorable for nighttime fishing. May to September is the optimal period for catching fish such as burbot, which feed at night.
- Scenic Highlights: Lake Baikal is surrounded by picturesque mountains, dense forests, and pristine wilderness. Night fishing here offers a peaceful and awe-inspiring atmosphere, with the sparkling stars reflecting off the lake’s surface.
3. Kamchatka Peninsula – A Remote, Natural Paradise for Night Fishing
The Kamchatka Peninsula, located in Russia’s Far East, is known for its volcanic landscapes, geothermal springs, and abundant fish species. It offers some of the most remote and unspoiled fishing environments in Russia, making it a unique place to try night fishing for species like taimen, salmon, and steelhead.
- Fishing Species: Kamchatka is home to taimen, rainbow trout, Arctic char, and various species of salmon. Taimen are particularly active at night, making them a popular target for night anglers in the region.
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to fish Kamchatka is from June to September, with the summer months offering optimal conditions for night fishing. Taimen and salmon are often more aggressive at night, especially when the waters are cooler.
- Insider Tips: Focus your fishing efforts near deep pools, eddies, and undercut banks, where larger fish tend to hide. Since Kamchatka is remote, be sure to hire a local guide who is familiar with the region’s rivers and can help you locate the best nighttime fishing spots.
4. The Don River – Southern Russia’s Rich Fishery
Flowing through southern Russia, the Don River is one of the most fertile and productive rivers in the country. Known for its biodiversity, the river is home to several species of fish that become more active during the night, making it an excellent destination for anglers looking to fish after dark.
- Fishing Species: The Don River is home to a variety of fish, including carp, pike, catfish, zander, and sturgeon. Catfish and sturgeon, in particular, are known for their nighttime feeding habits, and the Don River provides ample opportunities to target these species.
- Best Time to Visit: The best time for night fishing on the Don River is during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (May to September). This is when fish are most active, particularly in the cooler nighttime waters.
- Insider Tips: The Don River features both fast-moving and slow-moving stretches of water, and fish like catfish often congregate in the deeper, slower pools. Night fishing allows you to avoid the daytime boat traffic and enjoy a more serene experience while waiting for the big catch.
5. The Ural River – A Border River with Unique Nighttime Opportunities
The Ural River, which forms part of the natural border between Russia and Kazakhstan, offers some excellent night fishing opportunities. Known for its relatively remote and tranquil setting, the Ural River is an ideal place to fish for large species of fish under the night sky.
- Fishing Species: The Ural River is home to a variety of fish species, including carp, sturgeon, catfish, and zander. Catfish and sturgeon are particularly active at night, making them ideal targets for night anglers.
- Best Time to Visit: The summer months (June to September) are the best time for night fishing in the Ural River, as fish are more likely to feed during the cooler nighttime temperatures.
- Scenic Highlights: The Ural River flows through quiet, remote landscapes, offering peaceful surroundings for night fishing. Anglers can expect an immersive, off-the-beaten-path fishing experience as they cast their lines under the stars.
Techniques for Night Fishing in Russia
1. Use Large Bait and Heavy Tackle for Big Fish
At night, many of Russia’s largest fish species, such as sturgeon, catfish, and taimen, become more active. Use larger baits such as live fish, large worms, or cut-up pieces of baitfish to attract these big predators. For heavy species, make sure to use a sturdy rod and reel with a strong drag system to handle the fight.
2. Focus on Deeper Areas
As the temperature drops at night, many fish, particularly larger species, move to deeper areas of the river or lake. Focus your efforts on fishing in deep pools, undercut banks, and slower-moving sections of water. These areas provide shelter and a constant food supply for fish at night.
3. Use Bright or Glow-in-the-Dark Lures
Many fish species, such as zander, are attracted to brightly colored lures at night. Consider using glow-in-the-dark lures or those with reflective surfaces to increase visibility and attract fish in the low-light conditions. These lures mimic the movement of prey and can be especially effective in murky water.
4. Pay Attention to Water Temperature
Fish behavior is highly influenced by water temperature, and colder waters can lead to increased feeding activity at night. Monitor the water temperature, especially during the summer months, and fish in areas where the water is cooler, such as near springs or deeper pockets of the river.
5. Nighttime Fishing Gear
For night fishing, ensure you are well-prepared with the right gear:
- Headlamp: A bright, waterproof headlamp is essential for navigating the shore and reeling in your catch after dark.
- Reflective or LED fishing accessories: These help you keep track of your gear and ensure visibility on the water.
- Extra warm clothing: Even in summer, temperatures can drop quickly at night, so always bring extra layers and waterproof gear.
What You Can Expect to Catch
1. Catfish
Catfish, particularly the large, predatory species like the European catfish (Wels catfish), are known for their nocturnal feeding habits. In rivers like the Volga and Don, they are frequently targeted by night anglers.
2. Sturgeon
Sturgeon are another species that tend to be more active during the night, particularly in the deeper, slower-moving sections of rivers. Russia’s vast rivers, like the Volga and Ural, are home to large populations of sturgeon, including the Beluga sturgeon, which can grow to impressive sizes.
3. Taimen
The legendary taimen, known for its size and strength, is an excellent species to target during the night. Taimen tend to feed during the cooler night hours, especially in remote rivers like those in Kamchatka and Siberia. These fish offer an incredible challenge for anglers.
4. Zander
Zander, a predatory species that resembles a freshwater pike, are active hunters at night. The Ural and Don rivers are excellent places to fish for zander during the nighttime hours.
5. Grayling and Trout
While not as nocturnal as some other species, grayling and trout can still be caught at night, particularly during the warmer months when they are feeding more actively. Fly fishing for these species during the night is popular in regions like the Kola Peninsula and Kamchatka.
Conclusion: Night Fishing in Russia – A Peaceful Yet Thrilling Adventure
Night fishing
in Russia offers an entirely different experience than daytime fishing. The country’s diverse rivers and lakes provide excellent opportunities to catch large, predatory fish that are more active after dark. From the Volga River to the remote streams of Kamchatka, night fishing in Russia allows you to enjoy the solitude and serenity of the wilderness while targeting some of the world’s most sought-after fish species. With the right techniques, gear, and a sense of adventure, you can make your night fishing experience in Russia a truly unforgettable one.
