Fly fishing or spinning in Gotland: flies, lines and lures for sea trout

Sportfiskare i vadare kastar med spinnspö i havet vid Gotland

Emil Randemo |

On Gotland, you fish for sea trout from shore, wading along the coast. Fly fishing and spinning are equally effective, and we offer trips for both. Regardless of the method, it is about choosing the right lure, using the right pace and being able to read the coastline. This is how the guides usually approach it.

The trip at a glance

  • Destination: the Gotland coast, with accommodation at Scandic Visby
  • Season: year-round, with a focus on spring, autumn and winter
  • Species: sea trout
  • Method: fly fishing or spinning, wading from shore with a guide
  • Food: breakfast buffet and outdoor lunch cooked on a Muurikka by the sea
  • Travel: ferry from Nynäshamn or Oskarshamn, or flight

Fly fishing

Lines

Fishing is mainly done with floating and intermediate lines. They allow you to cover different depths and present the fly naturally. In winter, when the trout move into very shallow water, the floating line is especially effective.

Flies

During cold periods and calm conditions, small flies that imitate amphipods, shrimp and ragworms are often the most effective. When sea trout are actively hunting, larger baitfish imitations are better, especially along drop-offs and structures where the trout wait for prey.

Casting and retrieving

You often cast diagonally along the coast or straight out toward deeper areas, varying the retrieve according to the water temperature and how active the fish are.

Green and white coastal lure over wet seaweed on the Gotland coast
Coastal lures are a reliable choice for covering water while spinning.

Spinning

With a spinning rod, you can cover a lot of water quickly. These lures usually work well:

  • Coastal lures and spoons for covering water.
  • Pencilbaits and slim stickbaits in shallow, calm water.
  • Inline lures that run steadily even in strong winds.
  • Smaller wobblers when the water is cold and the fish are sluggish.

The guides show how pace, casting angle and retrieve affect your chances, and that is often where the difference between an empty and a successful day lies.

Two sport fishers wading in the sea by the rocks on Gotland at sunset

Read the coast

Sea trout patrol shallow flats, seaweed beds, drop-offs and areas of current. Where they hold depends on the wind, waves and water temperature, which is why you often change locations. This is a physical and tactical form of fishing where you move along the coast rather than remain on the same rock. The fishing can be demanding, but those who persevere often make contact with strong, large sea trout.

Other fish on the hook

The focus is on sea trout, but along the coast, cod, flounder and ide may also occasionally take the fly.

Equipment on site

If you do not have your own equipment, fishing equipment and waders are available to borrow on site. Let us know when you book.

We describe the best time to go in our overview of the sea trout season on Gotland.

Fly fishing or spinning?

We offer guided trips for both. Choose what suits you, or get in touch if you want to try a bit of both.

Fly fishing on Gotland

Spinning on Gotland

Frequently asked questions about fly fishing and spinning on Gotland

Do I need my own equipment?

No, fishing equipment and waders are available on site if you wish.

Which lines are used for fly fishing?

Primarily floating and intermediate lines.

Can you catch species other than sea trout?

Sometimes cod, flounder and ide take the bait, but the focus is on sea trout.

Questions about the trip?

We are happy to help with planning and answer questions about the fishing. Call us at +46 313 758 200 or email info@outsidetravels.com.

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