Guide to fishing in Iceland – questions and answers. – Are you planning a fishing trip next season? And Iceland is on your short list. We can help you make a decision and hopefully come to Iceland. Here below you can find answers to some of the most important and asked questions, from those who are thinking about fishing in Iceland.
If you have any more questions, please contact us and we will get back to you.
Fishing Season in Iceland
First Rivers and lakes open on April 1st. Last rivers close around middle of October.
Spring Fishing, April and May: Mostly about Brown Trout and Arctic char. Fishing is often great, especially when it warms up and fish start to feed aggressively.
Early Summer, Late May to middle of June: Often one of the best times for Arctic Char and Brown Trout. Here you can expect and hope for numbers.
Summer, middle of June to Late August: Main season and prime time for Arctic Char and Brown Trout. Atlantic Salmon Season starts in June, with middle of July to Late August being the prime time.
Late Summer and Fall, late August and into October: Late Summer is a great time to come for the Grand Slam of Fishing in Iceland, to catch Arctic Char, Brown Trout, Salmon and Sea Trout. September is the prime time for Sea Trout.
Do I need a fishing license to fish in Iceland?
All River and all lakes are privately owned in Iceland. There is no public water. You do need a license or fishing permit to fish lake and rivers in Iceland. For most rivers you can buy a day ticket, that is valid for a certain day. At some rivers you would need to buy 2-3 days in a package.
How is the fishing pressure in rivers in Iceland?
We sell limited nr of licenses for each day. That way we limit the fishing pressure. At many rivers there is a pre-organized system on how you rotate from one area to another on the river, partly to make sure every angler get the same chance to fish the best pools.
What is the price for daily fishing licenses/permits in Iceland?
Price for fishing licenses are different from one river to the next in Iceland. Price for fishing a Brown Trout and Arctic char river can range between EUR 50 and 400, per angler per day. Price for salmon licenses range between approx. EUR 350 and 2000, per angler per day.
Where can I buy a fishing license in Iceland?
Our company is one of the biggest independent seller of fishing licenses in Iceland. We can help you get a license for certain rivers and lakes for a day and also set up a longer fishing trip for you.
Is spin and bait fishing allowed in Iceland?
Many rivers in Iceland are fly fishing only. Only handful of good rivers allow spin or bait fishing. Spin and worm fishing is allowed in most lakes, but not all.
What freshwater species can be found in Iceland?
In Iceland you can find four freshwater species. Atlantic Salmon, Brown Trout, Arctic char and Sea Trout.
Arctic char can be found in nearly all River and lakes. Size from approx. 1 – 10 pounds. Standard size is 1.5 – 2.5 pounds. We have both resident Char and sea run char.
Brown Trout can also be found in most Rivers and lakes. We have all sizes; from standard 1 – 3 pound fish up to fish around 20 pounds.
Atlantic Salmon can be found in nearly 100 rivers in Iceland. Iceland is one of the last countries where you have realistic chances to catch Atlantic Salmon.
Is it hard or complicated to bring my own fishing gear to Iceland?
All fishing gear must be disinfected before or when you come to Iceland. You cannot use your own gear, unless you have certificate that proves you have disinfected your gear. Veterinaries can clean you gear before you leave your country, but it is also possible to do so at the custom when you arrive in Iceland. Everything that touches water must be disinfected.
Is it possible to rent fishing gear in Iceland?
We offer rental gear in all our guided trips. If you plan to fish self guided, you can rent gear in fishing stores in Reykjavik. Check out www.veidihornid.is
What should I pack for my fishing trip in Iceland?
Layers are important. Weather is unpredictable and you can expect some wind or breeze, and even some showers, most days.
Breathable waders – waterproof jacket – polarized glasses – warm sweater – hat – gloves and more layers.
Can I fish without a guide in Iceland?
Yes, fishing without a guide is possible in most rivers and nearly all lakes. We would nevertheless recommend a guide for at least one day.
Where are the best places to fish in Iceland?
Arctic char Rivers: Rivers like Holaa, River Sog and river Bruara in the south. River Brunna in the north.
Brown Trout fishing: In north Iceland we have some of the best brown trout rivers you can find in Iceland. Lake Thingvallavatn in the south hold big Ice age brown trout.
Atlantic Salmon Fishing: In south and west Iceland, we have very good salmon Rivers. Both self guided and full catering rivers. Contact us for more information.
What do I need to do to book a fishing trip in Iceland?
To start with, contact us and let us know what kind of program you are looking for. Whether you are thinking about a single days, full week, self-guided or fully guided, contact us and we will help you book a dream trip.
Iceland is for sure, one of the best countries in the world for fly fishing for Brown trout, Arctic char and Atlantic Salmon. A Grand Slam fishing trip in Iceland is something that many anglers are looking for. We can make it happened.
