Pernoo branch of the Kymijoki River, Kotka

Paddler's equipment A kayak with pontoons or other floats or a canoe with adequate floats. Paddle. A paddling vest to be worn at all times. Signal whistle attached to the paddling vest. In a kayak, an opening cover. Weatherproof paddling equipment. A change of clothes in a watertight container. Mobile phone in waterproof packing in paddling vest. Discharge pump. Compass and map. First aid kit. Camping equipment (tent, sleeping bag, fire equipment, etc.).

Other equipment to be considered.

Helmet for rapids. Dry and wet suit if necessary. White light if paddling in the dark. Spare paddle.

There are 4 rapids on the route, which require paddling experience.

Paddlers should familiarise themselves with the rapids beforehand, as conditions may become more difficult as water levels change.

It is always the paddler's responsibility to choose the descent route and make the decision to descend.

Calculation routes drawn in the route guide are always RECOMMENDATIONS, never absolute truths.

The self-guided hiker must judge the situation on the spot, based on his own observations.

 

General guidelines

Do not set off on a kayaking trip alone or without telling anyone. Make sure you can read the map and map markings. Practise rescue techniques, at least pair rescue. Always keep your mobile phone waterproofed in your paddling vest pocket. Store an emergency number in your phone's speed dial. Download the 112 Suomi mobile app to your phone Make sure you have an up-to-date weather forecast. Make sure you have the right and adequate equipment. Do not paddle under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicants.

Weather and paddling

Be prepared for changes in the weather!

Stormy weather, fog, poor visibility, darkness or sudden heat can quickly surprise you and make paddling difficult.

If the weather worsens, consider whether it is possible to change the route to a safer one, whether it is worth continuing or going back.

Choose a route based on your skills and equipment.

Pack anything that gets wet in a waterproof container and protect your sleeping bag in particular.

Use good quality equipment and make sure it is intact when you set off.

Also make sure you know how to use all your equipment.

Pack enough food and drink, at least for one extra day.

Please note that food spoils more quickly in warm weather.

From Kouvola travel centre you can get to the starting point of the route to Inkeroinen centre with bus 3

From Kotka and Kouvola you can also get to Inkeroinen by local train. Timetables can be found here

For a detailed guide to kayaking routes, click here The River Kymijoki is also a well-known fishing destination. The main species caught in the river basin are rainbow trout and pike perch. Pike, perch and larvae are also regularly caught. In a good case, trout or salmon may also be caught on the end of a line. To fish in the river area between Inkeroinen and Ahvionkoski, you need a permit from the Central Kymi Special Fishing Area. You can claim your permit here. From now on, with the exception of Pernoonkoski, which is a private fishing area, a paid fishing fee is sufficient.