Pihkassa, or having a crush on Rukajärvi
The seine team of nine female and seven male servants made extra money by catching perch and roach from Lake Rukajärvi. Onions were also cultivated. The 19th century was lived in the forest covered hills of Ruka, which means resin (fin. pihka, pihkassa ´having a crush’), and the top of Rukatunturi was considered a worthless quarry.
Seine fishing is still practiced in the lakes of the large village area of Rukajärvi, but the livelihood comes from the fells. The influence of the Ruka ski centre on the surrounding villages has been and still is strong. Rukajärvi is a vibrant and attractive region, where you can find saunas, reindeer, food, fish, adventures, and peace.
Rukajärvi has a namesake in Russian Karelia, after which the historic military road Rukajärventie got its name.
Location
Rukajärventie 50, 93820 Kuusamo
66°07’45.6″N 29°12’37.9″E
