Unga jägare från Stockholm förenas över gränsen – oförglömlig älgjakt och gemenskap i Finlands skogar

When the Finnish Hunters’ Association extended an invitation for a moose hunt in Ostrobothnia, young hunters from Stockholm responded with overwhelming enthusiasm. The interest was so great that the organizers had to use a lottery system to determine who could join the adventure.

Hunting Without Borders

Behind the trip was a local collaboration known as “Kretsar i samverkan” — a network of Stockholm County’s hunting circles. This initiative saw a golden opportunity: to allow young hunters to pursue moose while forming new friendships that transcended national boundaries.

The invitation spread quickly through emails and social media, and soon replies poured in. The Finnish hosts managed the food, lodging, and hunting grounds, while the Swedish participants covered their own travel expenses.

The group explored approximately 26,000 hectares of lush forest in Ostrobothnia, an area roughly parallel with Sundsvall across the Gulf of Bothnia. Their accommodations featured a comfortable lodge with sleeping quarters and a sauna, ideal for hunting trips. Adding to the excitement, the local hunting club had just completed a brand-new slaughterhouse in time for their visit.

A Smooth Journey Across the Border

Crossing into Finland with firearms turned out to be less complicated than expected. A Swedish weapon license sufficed, and no weapon passport was necessary. Online customs registration simplified the process even further, while the Finnish hosts assisted the guests in obtaining a national hunting card.

Forty Hunters, Six Moose

In total, about 40 hunters from Finland, Sweden, and Estonia gathered for a thrilling weekend in the woods. By the conclusion of the hunt, six moose — including one large bull — had been harvested. Managing meals and logistics for nearly sixty people, along with hunting dogs, posed a challenge, yet the organizers handled it with impressive efficiency.

Similar Hunts, Subtle Differences

For the Swedes, the hunting experience was largely familiar, but some differences stood out. In Finland, for instance, it is mandatory to wear an orange vest during hunting. This rule enhances visibility and safety — going beyond Swedish traditions, where a bright cap often suffices.

One curious observation was the absence of hearing protection among Finnish hunters. The Swedes, used to earmuffs, found this surprising. Even communication equipment varied; Finnish radios operated on different frequencies, but smartphone apps easily bridged the gap.

More Than a Hunt — A Shared Experience

For the young Stockholmers, the trip offered much more than a hunting opportunity. Evenings spent around campfires, shared meals, and storytelling sessions built a sense of community that transcended hunting itself.

Ultimately, this journey was about connection — strengthening bonds that go beyond borders and preserving traditions for future generations. It reminded everyone involved that hunting is not merely about the chase but about culture, cooperation, and continuity.

Could more cross-border hunts like this deepen understanding among young hunters and reinforce the values at the heart of this timeless tradition?