Crayfishing on the Råne river

For a few days in August, crayfish fishing provides a great feast and family festivity. The lower section of the Råne River has one of Sweden’s most abundant populations of Swedish European crayfish. When dusk falls, small fires light up where people gather to cook something tasty on the fire or just socialise while waiting for the next cage emptying. The crayfish are cooked in dill or according to a secret recipe and served with delicious accompaniments. The crayfish party is a longawaited event and a perfect end to the summer season.

The noble crayfish was introduced into the Råne River in the 1950’s and a strong population has been established from Råneå by the sea and further upstream. During three nights in August, a fishing licence purchased in the respective village will allow you to go crayfishing. About 50,000 crayfish are fished during these days, as locals come together to fish from the river banks and boats. The noble crayfish population in the Råne River has, thus far, been safe from the crayfish plague. It is therefore of utmost importance that the equipment used here has not been used in other waters before.