Kapsajoki calls the water adventurer
A silent wilderness river, full of possibilities.
Kapsajoki is Lapland’s hidden gem – a water route offering unforgettable experiences for both recreational fishers and paddlers. High in the fell region, about ten kilometres east of Pulju, lies one of Kittilä’s many lakes named Pyhäjärvi. The Kapsajoki River begins here, fed by the lake’s clear waters and surrounding headwater streams. From there, the river flows through diverse landscapes and eventually joins the Ounasjoki River near Golfrannantie. The full route stretches 95 kilometres and invites paddlers and hikers alike to experience the peace and rhythm of Lapland’s wilderness from the water.
Along the route there are a total of twelve rest areas accessible from the water: eleven maintained by the Municipality of Kittilä and one by Metsähallitus. Six of these serve as starting or ending points, which can also be reached by car. Along the way, there are rapids classified as grade I–II.
The character of the river route
“The upper part of Kapsajoki is a beautiful, wilderness-like river – narrow and winding. The lower part becomes wider and has a stronger current. If you have any doubts, I recommend hiring a guide!” – Jani Vaattovaara, local outdoor enthusiast and a teacher.
Some of the route’s landing spots can also be used as starting and ending points. They are accessible by car via roads of varying condition.
Starting point: Pyhäjärvi
Kujerivaara Kota (10 km)
Karhula Kota (31 km)
Nyssäkoski Lean-to (45 km)
Lintulantie Lean-to (55 km)
End point: Torpanniva Lean-to (95 km)
Rapids: mostly classes I–II, in spring occasionally III
Scenery: fell birch forests, pine heath forests, and peaceful sandy shores
Rest areas: 12 maintained wilderness sites with lean-tos, huts, campfire sites, and clear signposts
Book a canoeing or fishing trip
Canoes landed at a lean-to site on the Kapsajoki River. Behind the lean-to, a woodshed and an outhouse can be seen. Photo: Municipality of Kittilä / Janne Pussila
A Dream for Anglers
Kapsajoki is a renowned wilderness trout river, restored in 1994 after decades of log driving. It is a recreational fishing water managed by Metsähallitus, with a naturally reproducing fish population (no stockings). Canoeing down Kapsajoki is an excellent way to explore the remote shoreline. The gentle flow makes paddling easy and ideal for a multi-day fishing adventure.
You can also book a guided fishing trip,which includes local knowledge, equipment, and optional transportation. The trips are suitable for both experienced anglers and beginners.
To fish in Kapsajoki, you’ll need an area-specific angling licence. These permits are easy to purchase online via Metsähallitusor on-site at Visit Levi Tourist Info.See the detailed information and permit numbers below to choose the right option for your route.
Fishing season: year-round (trout spawning protection in effect from Sept 11 to Nov 15)
Permit price: €15 / day, €70 / season
Discounts: 50% off for under 18s; children under 15 can fish with a guardian’s permit
Family permit: double the catch quota
Catch quota: 1 salmonid / 3 hours, max 3 per day. Whitefish is not included in the quota
Species: grayling, pike, whitefish, trout
Location: state-owned waters along a 30 km stretch north of the Köngäs–Pokka road
Minimum sizes: trout 50 cm, grayling 30 cm
Fishing with one rod only; catch reports must be submitted at www.tuikki.fi (also for released fish)
The Pyhävasa open wilderness hut, located in the northern part of the permit area, is available for hikers and anglers.
Note: The lower section of Kapsajoki, from the Alalaen area downstream, belongs to the Sirkka–Köngäs fishing cooperative.
Permit prices: €10 / day, €20 / week, €30 / month, €50 / year
Permits are personal
Paddlers on the Kapsajoki River, photo: Municipality of Kittilä / Janne Pussila
Canoeing Trips on the Kapsajoki River
Kapsajoki offers a unique setting for canoeing adventures – both by day and by night. The route takes you through the peaceful landscapes of Lapland, following a clear-water, sandy-bottomed wilderness river that shifts between calm stretches and more lively riffles and small rapids.
The river is classified as Class I–I+, and helmet use is recommended. In places, the rocky riverbed may cause a kayak or canoe to scrape or bump against submerged stones, especially during lower water levels. For this reason, the route is best suited to paddlers with some experience – or for those joining a guided tour with a local expert. Guided trips include a clear safety briefing, route support, and the insight of someone who knows the river well.
Kapsajoki is at its best in spring and autumn, when the water levels are optimal for paddling.
All included in one booking:
Kayak or canoe rental
Transportation between starting and ending points
Route planning and safety briefing
Welcome to experience the power of Kapsajoki – new dimensions of water adventures await!
Lean-to and campfire site. Photo: Municipality of Kittilä / Tuija Laitakari
