The Siikakoski Rapids, famous for their natural trout population, were among President Urho Kekkonen’s (1900–1986) most beloved fishing spots. A commemorative plaque by the riverbank tells the story of his frequent visits, which have become part of both local memory and Finland’s wider angling history.

Kekkonen’s trusted boatman was Paavo Väisänen from Konnevesi, who had an unusual assignment – to appear at the rapids within two hours whenever a call came from Helsinki. Paavo and his wife Kaisa were known for their hospitality and were invited several times to the Independence Day receptions in the 1970s. At the president’s request, rye bread and hand-churned butter were sent from Konnevesi to the Presidential Palace.

In 1978, local councillor Ahti Savolainen presented Kekkonen with the first copy of the book "Konnevesi", edited by Martti Linkola and published in 1976. After fishing at Siikakoski, the president often continued by boat to Kynsivesi Lake, to the villa of his physician and close friend, Rikhard “Rikke” Sotamaa. Other personal physicians included Pentti Halonen and Erkki Kivalo.

During a fishing trip to Iceland in 1981, Kekkonen’s health declined sharply. It was reportedly Sotamaa who suggested that he resign from office, and the following day, on October 27, 1981, Kekkonen stepped down as President of Finland. The memorial stone at Siikakoski stands as a tribute not only to his passion for fishing but also to the quiet bond with nature where, for a while, the statesman could simply be a man with a fishing rod.