West Ranga River

West Ranga river, is one of the best known salmon river in Iceland. It is not only known for its beauty and great variety of fishing pools, but also for the high volume of salmon caught there every year. West Ranga usually ends as the most productive salmon river in Iceland.

West Ranga is known for its stability, high numer of salmon pr rod pr. day, year after year. Water level is more or less the same during the summer time, and the river nearly never get coloured due to flooding in heavy rain.

The headwaters of West Ranga are near the foot of the spectacular Mt. Hekla, one of the country’s active volcanoes. This entirely spring-fed source is responsible for both the consistent water temperature and flow.

Average size of fish: 7 lbs.
Guide: One per two rods
Tackle: Double handed rods 13-15 but single handed rods could also do.

Best flies: Similar to many large rivers, as long as your sink tip is fast sinking enough – there is no need to use too large or too heavy tubes as well. ¼ – 1 inch tubes are enough – with and without cones, regular flies can also do the trick. The best patterns for West Ranga river usually include black and blue colors and silver ribbing.

The best flies for West Ranga river are:

• Black & Blue
• Collie Dog
• German Snaelda
• Black Snaelda
• Blue Snaelda
• Skógá, blue
• SunRay Shadow

Autumn fishing in West Ranga river is the same as anywhere else in Iceland, on cold days the fly/tube needs to practically scrape the bottom. Same fly patterns apply as in summer fishing; just bring a little heavier selection.

The Lodge

At West Ranga river lodge there are 22 comfortable twin rooms. A new 200 sqm dining room, kitchen and reception was opened in 2011. With a wonderful overview of the home pool. The lodge offers comfort in stylish in newly built facilities. Free Wi-Fi, hot tub, restaurant, bar, lounge, waders drying room, there is everything you need. All 22 rooms have private bathroom with shower.