Ryabaga Camp, Ponoi, Kola Peninsula, Russia

The Ponoi River needs little introduction from a fishing perspective as chances are if you fish for salmon then you will already know of the Ponoi and its reputation as one of the finest if not the finest Atlantic salmon rivers in the world.

Probably the best Atlantic salmon river in the world

The Ponoi River needs little introduction from a fishing perspective as chances are if you fish for salmon then you will already know of the Ponoi and its reputation as one of the finest if not the finest Atlantic salmon rivers in the world.

No other Atlantic salmon river in the world can match the Ponoi’s enviable combination of catch numbers and size; it really does meet that perfect equilibrium. It also offers a very long season, starting in late May and ending in early October. Within this period there are two very distinct seasons; the Spring and the Autumn, both holding individual appeal.

The fishing can be done from the bank or from the boat with a huge variety of water making both perfectly feasible. Indeed, the Ponoi is the perfect river no matter what your experience level or age, as there truly is something for everyone!

The finest lodge on the Kola Peninsula

The Ryabaga Camp on the Ponoi River is the flagship lodge for the whole river, if not the whole of the Kola Peninsula. It is a benchmark to which most other wilderness lodges across the world can only aspire to reach or emulate.

The level of service, comfort and general running of the operation at Ryabaga is truly amazing given its location. This is a true testament to the team at the camp, who represent the finest of what the Kola has to offer, both in terms of the international guide team on the river through to the camp staff who look after every little detail to make your experience unforgettable.

Ryabaga operates from late May through to early October, taking 20 rods per week accommodated in safari style tents, which include a wood burning stove, solid hardwood floors and running water. There is also a ‘guesthouse’ option at an additional cost, which is great for intact parties wanting some privacy. We have visited the Ponoi on numerous occasions and have first-hand knowledge of these camps so please do get in contact to see if the Ponoi is for you and let us assist you with that trip of a lifetime.

“A place I hold close to my heart and one that I would recommend every avid salmon angler to visit at least once, no matter their age or experience level. The Ponoi really does offer something for everyone.”  P.Baxendale – UK

The Ponoi River

The Ponoi River is easily identifiable on any map since it is the largest on the Kola Peninsula at over 250 miles long. It is also one of the few rivers in the world that still maintains a healthy population of wild Atlantic Salmon.

It is located just above the Arctic Circle at a latitude of approximately 67 degrees North, flowing from West to East, entering the Barents Sea on the South-East coast of the Kola Peninsula.