AT A GLANCE
Why go?
Prysstjärnen is a small forest lake in Ragunda municipality, Jämtland, best known as a local trout-fishing destination and the setting of a lively annual ice-fishing opening event. At just under six hectares, it may be modest in size, but it holds a loyal community of anglers who return each season to its sheltered shoreline.↗↗
A Forest Lake with Angling Heritage
Set at 247 metres above sea level amid the dense boreal forests of eastern Jämtland, Prysstjärnen covers only 0.058 square kilometres with a shoreline of under a kilometre. Despite its small dimensions, the lake sits in the Indalsälven main drainage basin and drains via Hälan (Lövåsån) toward the High Coast, 114 kilometres to the east. Its compact size and woodland setting give it an intimate, off-the-beaten-track character quite different from the large scenic lakes of inland Jämtland.↗
The lake lies north of Gevåg, a short distance from the town of Hammarstrand in Berg municipality. Reaching it involves a drive along a forest road that winds between the trees before the water suddenly appears — a satisfying arrival that underscores its secluded nature.↗↗
Fishing
Prysstjärnen is managed by Gerilån-Halåns FVOF, a local fishing and water-conservation association. The principal species are trout, alongside various whitefish. A fishing permit is required; these are available from outfitters in Hammarstrand, including Thomsons Sport (Jakt och Fiske) and Time shop.↗
The lake's biggest draw for the wider community is its ice-fishing season opening, an event that transforms the frozen surface into a social gathering. In its most recent edition, more than 150 people turned out on a sunny winter Saturday, complete with snowmobiles arriving down the forest track, ice-drills humming, coffee and pastries served, music playing, and a prize lottery for the biggest catch. Soup and sandwiches were on sale for those who hadn't packed lunch. It's the kind of low-key, deeply local winter celebration that defines small-town Jämtland life.↗
Getting There and Practical Notes
Prysstjärnen is reached by forest road from the Hammarstrand area; the final approach is unpaved and can be icy in winter, so a suitable vehicle and cautious driving are advisable. The lake has no formal visitor facilities, so visitors should bring their own food, drink, and equipment.↗
For those interested in the broader region, Hammarstrand itself sits in the shadow of one of Sweden's most remarkable landscape stories: the catastrophic drainage of Ragundasjön in 1796, which emptied a vast lake in four hours and reshaped the Indalsälven valley down to the coast. The area's forests and waterways bear the imprint of that event.↗
What makes it special
A little planning goes a long way
- Buy your fishing permit in Hammarstrand before heading out — Thomsons Sport and Time shop are known outlets for the Gerilån-Halåns FVOF area.↗
- The access road is a forest track and can be icy and steep, especially in winter. Drive carefully and consider studded tyres during the cold season.↗
- There are no facilities at the lake. Bring your own provisions, warm layers and any equipment you need for a day on the water or ice.
About this guide
Compiled with AI assistance from the sources below; this is not a first-hand visit. Place details collected October 5, 2026. Hours, access and ratings can change; confirm with the venue before visiting.
