Arctic char fishing in Iceland offers one of the most unique and rewarding angling experiences in the North Atlantic. Found in the pristine glacial rivers and crystal-clear spring fed rivers and  lakes of the country, Arctic char (Salvelinus alpinus) thrive in the cold, oxygen-rich waters that define Iceland’s rugged landscape. These fish are members of the salmon family, displaying striking colors that vary from silvery blue in the ocean to deep red and orange hues during spawning.

Best Time to Fish for Arctic Char in Iceland

Anglers can pursue Arctic char across Iceland from May through September, when the fish are most active and accessible.

The Arctic char fishing season in Iceland typically runs from May to September, with the best periods being:

  • May to June: As the waters warm up, Arctic char become more active and feed aggressively.
  • Late June to August: The peak of summer offers excellent fly fishing opportunities with an abundance of insect hatches.
  • September: Cooler temperatures lead to a final feeding frenzy before winter, making it a great time for fishing.

The prime fishing locations include rivers like Sog River, Holaa river, Bruara River and Brunna river. Anglers.is is managing part of river Holaa, river bruara and river Sog. Arctic Char is mostly fished on fly rods and at most rivers arctic char are released back into the river.

Fishing Permits and Regulations

To fish for Arctic char in Iceland, you need a valid fishing permit. All Rivers are private. Most prime fishing spots require day permits, which we can provide. Some key regulations include:

  • Catch-and-Release Encouraged: Many rivers and lakes promote sustainable fishing practices.
  • Barbless Hooks Recommended: This helps reduce injury to the fish and makes release easier.
  • Daily Catch Limits: Certain locations have restrictions on the number of fish you can keep and many are Catch and Release.

Char varies greatly in size—some weigh just 1-2 pounds, while others, especially in River Sog, can exceed eight pounds and display remarkable strength for their size. They feed primarily on insects, crustaceans, and small fish, making imitative fly patterns like nymphs and streamers highly effective.

If you are interested in  fishing for Char in Iceland, please contact us through our contact form or by sending email, and we will help you set up a great trip in Iceland