Merikoski Fish Ladder, Oulu Travel Guide

The Merikoski Fish Ladder, a 750-meter-long structure, stands as a testament to ecological engineering in the heart of Oulu. Constructed in 2003, it is the longest fish pass in Finland, created to enable migratory fish to navigate past the Merikoski power plant and access the upper reaches of the Oulujoki River.The ladder consists of 64 steps, rising 11 meters in total, allowing fish to overcome the obstacle presented by the power plant. The fish pass is divided into three sections: the entrance from the old bundle driving channel next to the power plant, the ascent groove in the riverbed, and the final landscaped section in Hupisaaret park. An observation room at the end of the pass offers visitors an underwater view of the fish. A webcam also allows for remote viewing of the fish.Since its opening, the fish ladder has facilitated the upstream migration of over 16,000 salmon and 3,000 trout, along with other species like perch, bream, and roach. The best time to observe the fish is from May to October. The structure has become a landmark, increasing the scenic value of the Hupisaaret park and providing a valuable research location.