The White Sea is a fascinating destination for deep sea fishing, known for its cold northern waters, rugged coastline, islands, bays, and diverse marine habitats. Located in northwestern Russia, the sea connects to the Barents Sea and offers anglers opportunities to explore remote Arctic fishing grounds. Depending on the location and season, anglers may encounter species such as cod, haddock, salmon, trout, pike, and other cold-water fish.

From the shores of Karelia and the Kola Peninsula to remote islands and coastal villages, the White Sea offers a range of fishing environments. Some locations are accessible by boat, while others are better suited to guided or expedition-style fishing trips. In this guide, we explore 25 of the best places for deep sea fishing in the White Sea, including popular coastal areas and remote northern destinations.’

Kandalaksha Gulf — Northwest White Sea

Kandalaksha

Kandalaksha is one of the main coastal gateways to the northwestern White Sea and the Kandalaksha Gulf. The surrounding waters include deep channels, rocky shorelines, islands, and sheltered bays that create varied fishing habitats. Anglers can explore coastal and offshore areas for cold-water species, with conditions changing significantly by season. Kandalaksha is also a practical base for arranging boat trips into the wider gulf.

Types of Fish: Cod ➤ salmon ➤ trout ➤ pike ➤ other cold-water species
Where to Fish: Kandalaksha Gulf ➤ coastal waters ➤ deep channels ➤ island areas
Where to Stay: Kandalaksha ➤ local hotels ➤ guesthouses ➤ coastal accommodations

Umba

Umba is a coastal settlement on the Kola Peninsula with access to the White Sea and surrounding rivers and bays. The area is particularly associated with northern salmon fishing, while nearby coastal waters provide additional opportunities for boat-based angling. Rocky shorelines, river mouths, and shallow-to-deep transitions create different fishing environments. Its combination of freshwater and marine access makes Umba an interesting base for anglers exploring the southern Kola Peninsula.

Types of Fish: Salmon ➤ trout ➤ cod ➤ haddock ➤ other coastal species
Where to Fish: White Sea coast ➤ river mouths ➤ coastal bays ➤ offshore waters
Where to Stay: Umba ➤ local guesthouses ➤ fishing lodges ➤ coastal accommodations

Varzuga

Varzuga is a remote coastal destination on the Kola Peninsula, well known for its river and White Sea fishing environment. The Varzuga River is particularly associated with Atlantic salmon, while nearby coastal waters provide opportunities for marine fishing. Anglers can explore river mouths, tidal areas, rocky coastline, and offshore waters depending on the season. The area’s remote setting makes it especially appealing for anglers seeking a traditional northern fishing experience.

Types of Fish: Salmon ➤ trout ➤ cod ➤ haddock ➤ other cold-water species
Where to Fish: Varzuga River mouth ➤ White Sea coast ➤ tidal waters ➤ offshore grounds
Where to Stay: Varzuga ➤ fishing camps ➤ local lodges ➤ guesthouses

Chupa

Chupa is located along the Kandalaksha Gulf and provides access to the intricate coastal waters of the White Sea. The surrounding area features islands, rocky shores, bays, and deeper channels suitable for different fishing techniques. Anglers can explore both sheltered coastal waters and more exposed areas by boat. Chupa’s location makes it a useful starting point for exploring the northern part of Kandalaksha Gulf.

Types of Fish: Cod ➤ haddock ➤ salmon ➤ trout ➤ other cold-water species
Where to Fish: Kandalaksha Gulf ➤ island channels ➤ rocky coastline ➤ offshore waters
Where to Stay: Chupa ➤ local guesthouses ➤ fishing camps ➤ coastal lodges

Velikiy Island

Velikiy Island lies within the island-rich waters of the Kandalaksha Gulf, offering a remote setting for coastal fishing. The surrounding waters include rocky shorelines, channels, and deeper areas where cold-water fish can be found. Boat access is important for reaching the most productive areas around the island. Its isolated character makes it better suited to guided or organized fishing trips than conventional shore-based fishing.

Types of Fish: Cod ➤ haddock ➤ trout ➤ salmon ➤ other cold-water species
Where to Fish: Island channels ➤ rocky drop-offs ➤ deep coastal waters ➤ White Sea
Where to Stay: Chupa ➤ Kandalaksha ➤ fishing camps ➤ expedition-style accommodations

Kuzema

Kuzema is a small coastal settlement in the Kandalaksha Gulf region with access to the White Sea’s remote northern waters. The coastline around the settlement features rocky shores, islands, bays, and channels that can support a range of cold-water fishing opportunities. Boat trips provide access to deeper waters beyond the immediate coastline. The area’s quiet, remote character makes Kuzema suitable for anglers looking for a less-developed White Sea fishing destination.

Types of Fish: Cod ➤ haddock ➤ salmon ➤ trout ➤ other cold-water species
Where to Fish: Kandalaksha Gulf ➤ coastal bays ➤ island channels ➤ offshore waters
Where to Stay: Kuzema ➤ local guesthouses ➤ fishing camps ➤ Kandalaksha accommodations

Tersky Coast — Southern Kola Peninsula

Kuzomen

Kuzomen is a small coastal settlement on the Tersky Coast, situated near the White Sea and the mouth of the Varzuga River. The surrounding waters offer a mix of coastal fishing, tidal areas, and access to nearby river habitats. Anglers can explore shallow bays, rocky shoreline, and deeper coastal waters by boat when conditions are suitable. Its remote location makes Kuzomen a good choice for travelers looking for a quieter northern fishing experience.

Types of Fish: Salmon ➤ trout ➤ cod ➤ haddock ➤ other cold-water species
Where to Fish: White Sea coast ➤ Varzuga River mouth ➤ coastal bays ➤ offshore waters
Where to Stay: Kuzomen ➤ Varzuga ➤ fishing camps ➤ local guesthouses

Varzuga

Varzuga is one of the better-known fishing destinations along the Tersky Coast, particularly for Atlantic salmon. The Varzuga River flows into the White Sea, creating a productive transition between freshwater and marine habitats. Anglers can combine river fishing with coastal trips targeting cold-water marine species. The remote setting, traditional villages, and surrounding wilderness make Varzuga an attractive base for a northern fishing adventure.

Types of Fish: Salmon ➤ trout ➤ cod ➤ haddock ➤ other cold-water species
Where to Fish: Varzuga River ➤ river mouth ➤ White Sea coast ➤ offshore waters
Where to Stay: Varzuga ➤ fishing lodges ➤ salmon camps ➤ local guesthouses

Kashkarantsy

Kashkarantsy is a remote coastal settlement along the southern Kola Peninsula facing the White Sea. The area features rugged shoreline, rocky bays, tidal waters, and offshore fishing grounds that can be explored by boat. Cold-water species may be targeted depending on the season, weather, and local fishing conditions. Its limited infrastructure makes it more suitable for guided trips and anglers seeking a remote coastal experience.

Types of Fish: Cod ➤ haddock ➤ salmon ➤ trout ➤ other cold-water species
Where to Fish: White Sea coast ➤ rocky bays ➤ tidal waters ➤ offshore grounds
Where to Stay: Kashkarantsy ➤ fishing camps ➤ local guesthouses ➤ expedition accommodations

Chavanga

Chavanga is a remote settlement on the Tersky Coast with access to both the White Sea and the Chavanga River. The river and coastal environment provide different fishing opportunities, particularly for salmon and other cold-water species. Anglers can explore river mouths, tidal areas, rocky coastline, and nearby offshore waters. Chavanga’s isolation makes it best suited to organized fishing trips and travelers looking for an Arctic wilderness experience.

Types of Fish: Salmon ➤ trout ➤ cod ➤ haddock ➤ other cold-water species
Where to Fish: Chavanga River ➤ river mouth ➤ White Sea coast ➤ offshore waters
Where to Stay: Chavanga ➤ fishing camps ➤ river lodges ➤ local guesthouses

Pyalkitsa

Pyalkitsa is a small coastal destination on the southern Kola Peninsula overlooking the White Sea. Its surrounding waters include rocky shoreline, sheltered bays, tidal areas, and deeper coastal grounds. Boat-based fishing provides access to areas farther from shore where marine species can be targeted. The remote character of Pyalkitsa makes local knowledge and organized arrangements especially useful for anglers.

Types of Fish: Cod ➤ haddock ➤ salmon ➤ trout ➤ other cold-water species
Where to Fish: White Sea coast ➤ rocky bays ➤ tidal waters ➤ offshore grounds
Where to Stay: Pyalkitsa ➤ fishing camps ➤ local guesthouses ➤ expedition accommodations

Ponoy

Ponoy is primarily famous for the Ponoy River and its Atlantic salmon fishing, while the surrounding region also provides access to the White Sea. Anglers can combine river fishing with coastal excursions toward the river mouth and nearby marine waters. The area’s remote coastline and extensive Arctic wilderness create a distinctive setting for fishing trips. Because of its isolation, Ponoy is best suited to organized fishing camps, guided trips, or experienced anglers.

Types of Fish: Salmon ➤ trout ➤ cod ➤ haddock ➤ other cold-water species
Where to Fish: Ponoy River ➤ river mouth ➤ White Sea coast ➤ offshore waters
Where to Stay: Ponoy fishing camps ➤ river lodges ➤ expedition accommodations ➤ local guesthouses

Karelia / Onega Bay

Kem

Kem is a historic coastal town in Karelia and an important access point to the White Sea. The surrounding waters feature islands, rocky skerries, channels, and sheltered bays that create varied fishing environments. Anglers can explore coastal and offshore waters for cod, haddock, salmon, trout, and other cold-water species. Kem is also a convenient starting point for boat trips toward the nearby islands and remote fishing grounds.

Types of Fish: Cod ➤ haddock ➤ salmon ➤ trout ➤ perch
Where to Fish: White Sea coast ➤ island channels ➤ rocky skerries ➤ offshore waters
Where to Stay: Kem ➤ local hotels ➤ guesthouses ➤ fishing accommodations

Belomorsk

Belomorsk is a coastal town on the White Sea and a useful base for exploring the surrounding bays and island waters. The area contains rocky shorelines, tidal channels, and offshore fishing grounds that support a variety of cold-water species. Boat trips can reach fishing areas beyond the immediate coast, while nearby rivers add opportunities for salmon and trout fishing. Its location makes Belomorsk a practical starting point for exploring the White Sea coast of Karelia.

Types of Fish: Cod ➤ haddock ➤ salmon ➤ trout ➤ pike
Where to Fish: Onega Bay ➤ coastal waters ➤ island channels ➤ river mouths
Where to Stay: Belomorsk ➤ hotels ➤ guesthouses ➤ coastal accommodations

Rabochiy Ostrov

Rabochiy Ostrov is part of the island-rich White Sea environment around the Karelian coast. Its surrounding waters feature rocky shores, narrow channels, and deeper areas that can be explored by boat. Fishing conditions vary with tides, weather, and season, with cold-water marine species among the potential targets. The remote island setting makes it more suitable for guided or organized fishing trips.

Types of Fish: Cod ➤ haddock ➤ salmon ➤ trout ➤ other cold-water species
Where to Fish: Island channels ➤ rocky coastline ➤ deep coastal waters ➤ White Sea
Where to Stay: Kem ➤ Belomorsk ➤ fishing camps ➤ expedition-style accommodations

Kuzova Islands

The Kuzova Islands are a group of rocky islands in the White Sea near the Karelian coast. Their surrounding waters contain channels, reefs, rocky seabeds, and sheltered areas that provide varied habitats for marine life. Anglers can explore the islands by boat and fish around underwater structures and coastal drop-offs. The scenic and remote setting makes the Kuzova Islands particularly appealing for wilderness-style fishing trips.

Types of Fish: Cod ➤ haddock ➤ salmon ➤ trout ➤ other cold-water species
Where to Fish: Island channels ➤ rocky reefs ➤ coastal drop-offs ➤ offshore waters
Where to Stay: Kem ➤ Belomorsk ➤ coastal guesthouses ➤ fishing camps

Solovetsky Islands

The Solovetsky Islands form a historic archipelago in the White Sea and offer a mixture of sheltered bays, rocky coastlines, and open marine waters. Fishing around the islands can include cold-water species, while nearby rivers and coastal habitats provide additional opportunities. Boat access allows anglers to explore channels and offshore areas around the archipelago. Fishing should be planned around local conservation rules, protected areas, and seasonal restrictions.

Types of Fish: Cod ➤ haddock ➤ salmon ➤ trout ➤ pike
Where to Fish: White Sea channels ➤ island coastlines ➤ sheltered bays ➤ offshore waters
Where to Stay: Solovetsky Islands ➤ Solovki village ➤ guesthouses ➤ local accommodations

Sumsky Skerries

Sumsky Skerries is an island-rich coastal area featuring rocky islands, narrow passages, and sheltered waters. These varied marine habitats provide opportunities for boat-based fishing in the White Sea. Anglers can work around rocky structures, channels, and deeper water where cold-water species may gather. The area’s remote character makes it particularly suited to small-boat and guided fishing excursions.

Types of Fish: Cod ➤ haddock ➤ salmon ➤ trout ➤ other cold-water species
Where to Fish: Rocky skerries ➤ island channels ➤ deep passages ➤ coastal waters
Where to Stay: Kem ➤ Belomorsk ➤ coastal guesthouses ➤ fishing camps

Kondostrov

Kondostrov is an island in the White Sea region surrounded by rocky coastline and cold coastal waters. The waters around the island include channels, underwater structures, and deeper areas that can be explored from a boat. Anglers can target cold-water species while moving between sheltered island waters and more exposed fishing grounds. Because of its remote nature, organized trips and local knowledge are useful for accessing the best areas.

Types of Fish: Cod ➤ haddock ➤ salmon ➤ trout ➤ other cold-water species
Where to Fish: Island channels ➤ rocky seabeds ➤ coastal drop-offs ➤ offshore waters
Where to Stay: Kem ➤ Belomorsk ➤ fishing camps ➤ expedition accommodations

Onega Bay

Onega Bay is a large northern inlet of the White Sea stretching along the coast of Karelia and Arkhangelsk Oblast. Its extensive coastline contains islands, skerries, tidal channels, river mouths, and deeper offshore waters. Anglers can explore different habitats by boat, with cod, haddock, salmon, trout, and other cold-water species among the potential targets. The bay’s size and varied coastline make it one of the more diverse fishing areas in the White Sea region.

Types of Fish: Cod ➤ haddock ➤ salmon ➤ trout ➤ pike
Where to Fish: Onega Bay ➤ island channels ➤ coastal waters ➤ offshore grounds
Where to Stay: Kem ➤ Belomorsk ➤ coastal villages ➤ local guesthouses

Arkhangelsk / Dvina Bay

Onega

Onega is a coastal town in Arkhangelsk Oblast located near the southern part of the White Sea. The surrounding waters provide access to bays, river mouths, islands, and coastal fishing grounds. Anglers can explore both marine and estuarine environments, with cold-water species available depending on the season. Onega is also a useful base for boat trips toward the Onega Peninsula and nearby White Sea waters.

Types of Fish: Cod ➤ haddock ➤ salmon ➤ trout ➤ pike
Where to Fish: White Sea coast ➤ Onega River mouth ➤ coastal bays ➤ offshore waters
Where to Stay: Onega ➤ local hotels ➤ guesthouses ➤ coastal accommodations

Onega Peninsula

The Onega Peninsula extends into the White Sea and features a rugged coastline with numerous bays, islands, and rocky shores. Its surrounding waters provide a variety of habitats for cold-water marine species and migrating fish. Boat-based fishing can reach deeper coastal areas and offshore grounds beyond the peninsula. The remote coastline makes this area particularly suitable for guided trips and wilderness-style fishing.

Types of Fish: Cod ➤ haddock ➤ salmon ➤ trout ➤ other cold-water species
Where to Fish: Peninsula coast ➤ White Sea bays ➤ island channels ➤ offshore grounds
Where to Stay: Onega ➤ coastal villages ➤ fishing camps ➤ local guesthouses

Severodvinsk

Severodvinsk is located on the Dvina Bay of the White Sea, close to the mouth of the Northern Dvina River. The surrounding coastal waters combine estuaries, tidal channels, shallow bays, and deeper marine areas. Anglers can explore both coastal and offshore waters depending on conditions and local regulations. Its proximity to Arkhangelsk also makes Severodvinsk a convenient access point for exploring the southern White Sea.

Types of Fish: Cod ➤ haddock ➤ salmon ➤ trout ➤ pike
Where to Fish: Dvina Bay ➤ Northern Dvina estuary ➤ coastal waters ➤ offshore grounds
Where to Stay: Severodvinsk ➤ local hotels ➤ guesthouses ➤ Arkhangelsk

Arkhangelsk

Arkhangelsk is a major northern Russian port located along the Northern Dvina River near its entrance into the White Sea. The city provides access to extensive river, estuary, and coastal fishing environments. Boat trips can travel through the Dvina Delta toward Dvina Bay and wider White Sea waters. Its established transport and accommodation infrastructure makes Arkhangelsk a practical base for exploring the southern White Sea region.

Types of Fish: Cod ➤ haddock ➤ salmon ➤ trout ➤ pike
Where to Fish: Northern Dvina Delta ➤ Dvina Bay ➤ coastal waters ➤ offshore areas
Where to Stay: Arkhangelsk ➤ city center ➤ waterfront hotels ➤ local guesthouses

Dvina Bay

Dvina Bay is a large inlet of the White Sea surrounding the mouth of the Northern Dvina River. The bay contains extensive tidal flats, channels, islands, estuaries, and deeper marine waters that create diverse fishing habitats. Anglers can explore both freshwater-influenced areas and open coastal grounds by boat. Its connection to the wider White Sea makes Dvina Bay an important fishing area in the Arkhangelsk region.

Types of Fish: Cod ➤ haddock ➤ salmon ➤ trout ➤ pike
Where to Fish: Dvina Bay ➤ Northern Dvina estuary ➤ tidal channels ➤ offshore waters
Where to Stay: Arkhangelsk ➤ Severodvinsk ➤ Onega ➤ coastal guesthouses

Final Thoughts

The White Sea offers a distinctive Arctic fishing experience, combining cold productive waters with rugged coastlines, remote islands, and traditional northern fishing communities. From accessible coastal areas to isolated offshore grounds, anglers can explore a variety of habitats and target different cold-water species.

The best fishing location depends on the species you want to catch, the season, accessibility, weather, and the type of fishing experience you prefer. Remote destinations may require experienced guides, specialized boats, and additional preparation. Before planning a trip, always check current fishing regulations, permits, seasonal restrictions, weather conditions, and local access requirements to ensure a safe and responsible fishing experience.

FAQ: Deep Sea Fishing in the White Sea

1. Where is the White Sea located?

The White Sea is located in northwestern Russia and forms an inlet of the Barents Sea. It is surrounded by regions including Karelia, Arkhangelsk Oblast, and the Kola Peninsula.

2. What fish can you catch in the White Sea?

Depending on the location and season, anglers may encounter cod, haddock, salmon, trout, pike, perch, and other cold-water species. Available species vary considerably between coastal, estuary, and offshore waters.

3. What is the best time for fishing in the White Sea?

The best time depends on the target species and location. Summer generally provides more accessible conditions, longer daylight hours, and more practical opportunities for boat-based fishing.

4. Can beginners go fishing in the White Sea?

Yes, but conditions can be challenging in some remote areas. Beginners are generally better served by going with an experienced local guide who understands the waters, weather, equipment, and local regulations.

5. Is deep sea fishing available throughout the White Sea?

Fishing opportunities vary by location. Some coastal destinations have boat-based fishing access, while remote islands and northern areas may require specialized boats or organized expeditions.

6. What fishing methods are used in the White Sea?

Depending on the species and location, anglers may use trolling, jigging, bottom fishing, spinning, and bait fishing. Local guides can recommend the most suitable method for current conditions.

7. What equipment do I need for White Sea fishing?

For offshore fishing, anglers generally need durable saltwater rods and reels, strong line, suitable lures or jigs, and appropriate terminal tackle. Warm waterproof clothing and reliable safety equipment are also important in northern waters.

8. Is fishing in the White Sea safe?

Weather conditions can change quickly, particularly in remote Arctic areas. Anglers should monitor forecasts, use appropriate safety equipment, and follow local guidance when traveling offshore.

9. Do I need a fishing permit in the White Sea?

Fishing rules and permit requirements can vary by location, species, fishing method, and season. Check the current local regulations before fishing, particularly in protected areas.

10. Are there guided fishing trips in the White Sea?

Some coastal areas offer guided fishing and boat excursions, while remote destinations may require specialized expedition arrangements. Availability can vary significantly by season and location.

11. Can you catch cod in the White Sea?

Cod are present in the broader northern Russian marine environment, although their abundance and accessibility vary by area. Local conditions and seasonal movements determine where anglers may encounter them.

12. What should I bring on a White Sea fishing trip?

Bring warm layers, waterproof outerwear, non-slip footwear, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen, personal medication, and appropriate safety equipment. For offshore trips, follow the equipment recommendations provided by your local guide or charter operator.