I N T E R N AT I O N A L F LY F I S H I N G S P E C I A L I S T S
Iceland Over the past 15 years we have strived to bring the very best that Iceland has to offer to our clients. We have learned to navigate the ever changing landscape of Iceland’s salmon and trout fishing, constantly evolving our knowledge through personal experience. River leases change hands often, river statistics fluctuate, but the people behind the companies that operate them remain the same. These are the relationships that we concentrate on, many of whom we are lucky enough to call friends. Iceland is a remarkably unique country to fish. For a salmon or trout angler there are never ending opportunities for new experiences. We deem the portfolio we present to you to be the very best of what Iceland has to offer for both salmon and trout fishing. Matched with our expert knowledge and discussions we can tailor the perfect trip to suit you. We have no financial investment in any operation and are therefore giving you a totally unbiased view. Unless stated otherwise all operations in Iceland are sold in three day slots which can easily be bolted together and are based on a single room with twin beds in case you wish to rod share. We hope that you will be as inspired by Iceland as we are.
SALMON FISHING
When talking of global salmon fishing many ask why we have such a passion for Iceland. There are greater numbers to be found on Russia’s Kola Peninsula, and certainly larger salmon in northern Norway. We think the answer lies in the method. The experience is visual, the tackle used is very light and the rivers of Iceland not only offer consistency, ease of travel and huge variety, but also that it is often uniquely possible to watch as a salmon rises in the water column and hits a fly off the surface. Many salmon anglers over the years have found this experience to be the thrill they have been searching for. To begin with we just want to catch one. Then we want to catch a lot of them. The next challenge is to then catch a really large fish. Finally the true essence of salmon fishing emerges which is the “take”. This becomes the all-encompassing experience that drives us to make that pilgrimage every year. Iceland is the land of the “take”. We have grown a portfolio of Icelandic salmon rivers that are all very different, but offer the opportunity to experience that enchanting mystery. There are rivers to suit all preferences. It may be using a single handed 7# and casting out a size 16 hitched Red Frances to a pod of silver fish or using a two hander to deliver a two inch Sunray Shadow to a multi-sea wintered fish. You will find that all these rivers have something in common: as the water is so clear it is often possible to see the fish in the river, see their behaviour towards the fly, and often the moment that the fish commits to taking it. The next few pages will take you through some of the finest salmon rivers from around Iceland and what they have to offer each angler, both in terms of fishing and also lodging.
WHEN
Season: 22nd June to 24th September Prime time: mid-July to early August.
LANGร LODGE The lodge, Langรกrbyrgi is built on a cliff 6 km from the ocean overlooking the river and recently had an extension added to provide single occupancy ensuite rooms. Although not fancy it is functional with drying room, sauna, Wi-Fi and excellent food.
PERFECT FOR
Single handed fishing, good vehicle access to most pools, easy wading and consistent catch returns.
LANGÁ The Langá is 36 km long with 93 named pools. Located in the same area as Nordurá, it is a typical Icelandic salmon river offering technical fishing with small flies. This river has been fished by the British since the early 1900’s, and has had a huge amount of work done to it in terms of fish ladders and other devices to improve its course for salmon to run.
To make all the pools accessible roads have been built so that anglers can drive to within 50 yards of every pool. Therefore allowing young and old anglers to safely, and with ease, enjoy fishing the whole river. The Langá represents classic Icelandic salmon fishing as the hard laval rock bands have created fantastic pools and runs. The river originates in Lake Langavatn, this offers a more dependable flow of water. If you are looking for clear water, good salmon runs and easy wading then this river is for you.
COST FROM £2,500 per person
LAXÁ Í KJÓS LODGE The lodge is comfortable with single occupancy ensuite rooms. The dining room overlooks the river with top quality chefs from Reykjavik preparing fantastic food. There is a drying room, tackle shop and Wi-Fi.
WHEN Season: 20th June to 30th September Prime time: mid-July to early August.
PERFECT FOR Single handed fishing, easy access to most pools, excellent sea trout fishing, Bugda as a separate river, outstanding lodge.
LAXÁ Í KJÓS
Laxá I Kjos has always been fished by the international elite, and very quickly built a fantastic reputation as one of the world’s best small salmon rivers. It is considered to be one of the more technical salmon rivers in Iceland and if you have a passion for fishing small flies and hitching, then the Laxá I Kjos will become your playground. Despite its size, every year a number of large salmon are landed complimenting the healthy season-long grilse runs. Through the season between six and eight rods are permitted on the river and its 100 marked pools. The river is blessed with gorgeous falls, currents, rapids and chasms. The middle section is the most unusual as often it is possible to see incredible numbers of fish layered in pools which, in the right circumstances, makes for COST FROM amazing fishing. The river has a reputation for £2,500 per person large sea trout up to 15 lbs that start to run in July, along with the Bugda tributary for variety.
GRÍMSÁ LODGE The famous lodge is full of character overlooking Laxfoss. It is spacious and comfortable with single occupancy ensuite rooms, drying room, hot tub, Wi-Fi and great views.
WHEN Season: 16th June to 21st September Prime time: mid-July to mid-August.
GRÍMSÁ
The Grímsá is one of Iceland’s most beautiful fly fishing rivers and is one of a few in Iceland that has tradition stamped all over it. It was frequented by British lords and generals as early as the late nineteenth century and whilst, as with most of Iceland’s rivers today, it is primarily a grilse river, during those early days the Grímsá was famous for its monsters. The medium sized river is easily fished with single handed rods, although given that Iceland is often windy, a small double hander should be available as well. The river is fly only with a voluntary and widely practiced catch and release system. The average catch for the season is more than 1,000 salmon to just eight rods. Due to the cascading waterfalls and large pools the grilse tend to be slightly larger and more powerful COST FROM than in neighbouring rivers. The Grímsá also has a £3,000 per person substantial run of sea trout that can be caught both early and late in the season.
PERFECT FOR Single handed and switch rods, fine food, easy access to pools and good sea trout later in the season.
WHEN
MIĐFJARĐARÁ LODGE
PERFECT FOR
Season: 20th June to 28th September Prime time: Mid-July to mid-August.
Modern lodge, ensuite single rooms. There is a large dining area, sitting rooms, bar, drying room, tackle shop, Hot tub and Wi-Fi. The lodge has excellent chefs ensuring the food compliments the fishing.
Clear water hitching in stunning surroundings, single handed rods, strong catch returns and opportunities for larger salmon.
MIÐFJARÐARÁ Located on the north west coast of Iceland, the Miðfjarðará is the perfect choice for those who like to use floating lines and single handed rods. The water is gin clear offers amazing clarity that allows salmon to be spotted lurking in the depths or coming to intercept your fly. The majority of the salmon run would be between 4 – 8 lbs, but the Miðfjarðará does produce a good head of double figure salmon in the 18 lbs+ range throughout the season. The river has 220 named pools spread across four rivers; the main Miðfjarðará, Austurá, Vesturá and the little Núpsá, making up 115 km of fishable water. It is fished by a maximum of just ten rods, rotated over five beats along with an enviable international guide team. It is a true Icelandic gem that keeps producing the goods and offers fantastic hitched fly fishing with visual fishing being the Miðfjarðará’s forte.
COST FROM £3,000 per person
NORĐURÁ LODGE The lodge can accommodate twelve fishermen in single occupancy rooms with ensuite facilities. It has a sauna, hot tub, drying room, Wi-Fi and a cooling area for the fish.
WHEN Season: 5th June to 5th September Prime time: end of June to the beginning of August.
PERFECT FOR Small two handed rods, larger parties, high catch returns, fine food, spectacular scenery, one hour from Reykjavik.
NORÐURÁ
As one of Iceland’s top producing natural rivers, Nordurá averages over 1,600 salmon a season to its 12 rods. There are over 100 named fishing pools along 65 km of fishable water. The river offers an incredibly diverse fly fishing experience along with some of the most dramatic scenery Iceland has to offer. The lower river offers a steep canyon with wonderful fly water and salmon lies but some troublesome wading. The middle section features wide Rio Grande-like bends with twisting gravel pools and pleasant wading. Fishing the upper section focuses on technical rock pools and runs. Being a wider river than some of its neighbours, it lends itself well to small double handed rods as well as single handers. Early season can see some good runs of multi-sea wintered fish in COST FROM the powerful snowmelt waters. As the season £3,500 per person progresses the water level drops and the grilse runs push into the river in good numbers.
HAUKADALSÁ LODGE The lodge has five single occupancy rooms, each with ensuite facilities and full service with excellent chef. It has a drying room, Wi-Fi, hot tub and a sauna.
WHEN Season: 10th June to 15th September Prime time: mid-July to mid-August.
HAUKADALSÁ
The Haukadalsá is an exclusive river for just five rods, located approximately 150 km north of Reykjavík. The river flows into Breiðafjörður and is surrounded by a number of other famous salmon rivers. This small to medium sized river has over 40 named pools covering eight kilometres of exciting water. Both grilse and multi-sea winter salmon enter the river throughout the season. The long pools are interspersed with inviting riffles which encourage salmon to pause on their journey upstream, a perfect time to cast a fly to them. Lake Haukadalsvatn at the headwaters ensures that water levels remain fairly consistent throughout the season. The lodge is family run and offers a comfortable, warm and relaxed COST FROM atmosphere to visiting salmon anglers whilst they £3,000 per person explore this relatively hidden river.
PERFECT FOR Single handed fishing, clear water, hitch fishing, intact groups and good numbers of fish.
WHEN
HAFRALONSĂ LODGE
PERFECT FOR
Season: 23rd June to 30th September Prime time: late July to late August.
Comfortable and cosy lodge, ensuite single rooms. There is an open plan living area incorporating kitchen, dining area and sitting room. The lodge provides excellent chefs or be taken as a self-catered option.
Private groups, multi seawinter fish, fishing with single handed or small two hander rods in spectacular pools.
HAFRALONSÁ Hafralonsá is one of Iceland’s big fish rivers on the East coast. It has long had a reputation of producing big fish in the high teens and low twenties. What makes this rivers so unique as you are fishing for these big salmon in in a similar way to the west coast; rock pools, canyons, crystal clear water and hitched flies. Landing them is not easy and some unbelievable battles have ended in tears on its rocky shores. Hafralonsá is best suited to the more adventurous angler looking for a challenge and the chance of bigger fish. The Hafralonsá requires a certain level of fitness to get the most out of it as some of the upper pools require scrambling down the side of the canyon using a rope for support. It is this combined with the ability to see your quarry from above that can make for some incredibly exciting fishing. There are also some lovely trout and char beats which have great fishing in their own right and can provide some variety for those looking for more than salmon.
COST FROM £3,000 per person
VATNSDALSÁ LODGE The lodge has ten large rooms with ensuite bathrooms a large living area and drying room. It is fully equipped with large living areas, hot tub and Wi-Fi. There is even a small practice golf course.
WHEN Season: 25th June to 30th September Prime time: mid-July to late August.
PERFECT FOR Single handed and switch rod fishing, good vehicle access to most pools, easy wading and consistent catch returns.
VATNSDALSÁ
The Vatnsdalsá River, situated in northern Iceland, has championed catch and release fly fishing since the mid 90s and with this has become a renowned salmon fishery. Anglers began fly fishing the river in 1936 and through much of the 50s and 60s the lease was held by John Ashley Cooper. Even today it is easy to see why these anglers were drawn to the river, the river is split into three rotating beats spanning over 20 kilometres of water. The river is varied with rock pool runs, deep gutters and classic open pools. One of the things that sets Vatnsdalsa apart from others is the fact that 50% of salmon they encounter are in excess of 10 lbs, and fish of between 20—25 lbs are landed each season. COST FROM Anglers can also encounter sea-run Arctic char, sea trout and brown trout.
£3,000 per person
LAXÁ Í ÁSUM LODGE The lodge has six large rooms with ensuite bathrooms a large living area and drying room. It is fully equipped with large living areas, hot tub and Wi-Fi. Excellent food is prepared by the lodge chef.
WHEN Season: 15th June to 15th September Prime time: early July to early August.
LAXÁ Í ÁSUM
Over recent years most seasons have surpassed 1,000 salmon on this remarkable river. When first viewed from the road it has a humble aspect, the 14 km of private fishing from Laxávatn to where it joins the Vatnsdalsá are some of the most productive in the country. The upper section is squeezed through hard rock bands, but it soon opens out and becomes more placid, flowing though fertile pastures. A slight tinge to the water colour hides the salmon well and instils a false sense of security. This could be why the fish on Laxá Í Ásum are so incredibly aggressive and will readily take hitched tubes and micro flies. The lodge now has access to 18 km of fishable water following the decommission of Laxárvatn power plant in 2017, and the addition of the estuary section into the COST FROM salmon rotation. The river has also increased from £4,000 per person two rods to four rods throughout the season.
PERFECT FOR Private river to four rods, high catch statistics, single handed fishing with micro hitch tubes and char fishing.
WHEN
LAXÁ Í DÖLUM LODGE
PERFECT FOR
Season: 20th June to 30th September Prime time: mid-July to mid-August.
Accommodation is in a fully serviced lodge, featuring six single occupancy rooms each with ensuite bathroom, a comfortable dining and sitting area, sauna, Wi-Fi and top chefs from Reykjavik.
Small groups, single handed fishing, easy access to most pools, easy wading, multi sea-winter fish.
LAXÁ Í DÖLUM The Laxá I Dölum is a medium sized river flowing over bands of hard rock creating a wonderful combination of pools and runs. This river is famed for its mix of grilse and multi-sea winter salmon. Like many Icelandic rivers, the Dölum generally runs very clear often allowing anglers to see salmon holding and the chance to target specific fish. All the pools are easily accessible by car and present little difficulty to fish. Some of the best holding pools are formed by bends in the river, fast broken water form at the head, a turbulent middle section then lead into a smooth tail. Throughout the season the river offers a chance to catch salmon from 4 lbs to 30 lbs on both single handed and small double-handed rods. Following the move away from worming the river has seen fantastic improvements, the last five seasons have produced an average of over 1,200 salmon to just four to six rods per season.
COST FROM £3,000 per person
THVERÁ LODGE The lodge has eight twin rooms with ensuite bathrooms a large living area and drying room. It is fully equipped with large living areas, hot tub and Wi-Fi. Excellent food is prepared by the lodge chef.
WHEN Season: 12th June to 30th September Prime time: July.
PERFECT FOR Varied water, high catch statistics, single handed fishing with micro hitch tubes and sea trout fishing.
THVERÁ
Thverá is one of the most prestigious salmon rivers in Iceland and is the lower part of the legendary Thverá-Kjarrá River. It offers 107 diverse salmon pools over its 26 km length. Consistent salmon fishing makes the Thverá one of the most sought after rivers in Iceland. The upper section offers a shallow canyon before opening out across meadows and eventually draining into the glacial waters of the Hvítá River. Access and wading on each pool is relatively easy and the fishing is limited to just seven anglers. Like many Icelandic rivers, the river is crystal clear which makes it perfect for sightfishing with small hitch tubes and micro trebles. In late July the lower sections of the river receive a run of sea trout ranging from 4—6 lbs making a nice addition to the prime salmon runs COST FROM of July. The lodging is comfortable and the £3,000 per person service is first-class providing a great atmosphere after a session out on the water.
KJARRÁ LODGE The lodge has eight twin rooms with ensuite bathrooms a large living area and drying room. It is fully equipped with large living areas, hot tub and Wi-Fi. Excellent food is prepared by the lodge chef.
WHEN Season: 12th June to 30th September Prime time: July.
KJARRÁ
Kjarrá has all the qualities that make Icelandic rivers famous for salmon fishing. With crystal clear water and an endless variety of pools it is one of the top Icelandic rivers. The landscape is strikingly beautiful and you often feel like you are fishing in the middle of nowhere, with only you and nature. The 45 km river is limited to just seven rods that rotate between seven private beats with 91 named pools. The Kjarrá is every serious salmon angler's dream, providing plenty of space when fishing. Kjarrá is perfectly suited to fishing with hitch tubes and small flies with a floating line. Fast runs give way to wide pools which offer the perfect fly swing. It is fly only and most salmon each season are released. The Kjarrá lodge is known for its first COST FROM class meals and service. Chefs from the best £3,000 per person restaurants in Reykjavik are in charge of the lodge during the season.
PERFECT FOR Lightly fished water, single handed fishing with micro hitch tubes and good catch stats.
WHEN Season: 1st July to 20th September Prime time: late-July to mid-August.
LAXÁ Í AĐALDAL LODGE
PERFECT FOR
Steeped in history the comfortable Nes Lodge has eight bedrooms, most with ensuite bathrooms, drying room, Wi-Fi and good food.
Multi sea-winter fish, two handed rods, floating lines, good food, easy access to pools with easy wading.
LAXÁ Í AÐALDAL The Laxá Í Adaldal or “big” Laxá as it is also known has a reputation as being THE big fish river of Iceland. Historically it was one of the first rivers in Iceland ever fished by foreigners and most weeks of the season produce salmon of over 20 lbs. Pools for the most part are grass banked, wide, and with a relatively even bottom. There are the intermittent lava shelves that drop away, hidden from someone reading the surface which in turn create excellent lies. The river is deceptively clear as the bottom in most areas is black laval sand, this gives the impression of depth which is extremely misleading.
Small flies are often extremely effective, and a delicate approach is best. In recent years many of the largest salmon in Iceland have been found in the Laxá Í Adaldal.
COST FROM £2,500 per person
SVALBARĐSÁ LODGE Svalbarðsá Lodge is a traditional small lodge recently built. The rooms are ensuite and it can be taken self-catered or fully serviced.
WHEN Season: 1st July to 20th September. Prime time: late July and August.
PERFECT FOR Private groups, multi seawinter fish, fishing with single handed or small two hander rods in spectacular pools.
SVALBARÐSÁ
Svalbarðsá is one of Iceland’s premier big fish rivers. It is a three rod, catch and release only river that averages 390 salmon per year. The river exhibits classic pools starting with fast runs and opening out into smooth tails. It is one of the secret gems of Iceland, fished year in and year out by a dedicated following. This river is one of only a handful that can be taken privately and that catches large multi-sea winter fish. The prime salmon fly fishing section is approximately 17 km and requires a little walking. It is not advisable for those who are less mobile and unable to cover distance over uneven ground. The river opens in early July and really begins to fish well by the middle of the month when good runs of aggressive fresh salmon enter the river, COST FROM averaging 10 lbs. Although the runs reach their £3,500 per person peak in the first weeks of August but the fishing continues to be good into early September.
HOFSÁ LODGE The Arhvammur lodge is extremely comfortable with seven single occupancy ensuite rooms, drying room, Wi-Fi, excellent service and some of the best food at any lodge in Iceland.
WHEN Season: 25th June to 25th September Prime time: late July and August.
HOFSÁ
Hofsá is one of two major Vopnafjordur rivers, the other being the famous Selá. The river has a long canyon on the top beats, with a dramatic impassable falls and a string of challenging pools as the river thunders down the canyon. Once the canyon ends, the river turns into an almost endless string of long slow flowing pools, each one seemingly more enticing and inviting than the last one. All of the named pools offer multiple taking spots for large salmon as they stop on their journey up river. Hofsá is one of the best multi sea-winter fish rivers in Iceland and the average weight is excellent with good numbers over 20 lbs. Conservation practices have been so well implemented that there is a huge proportion of returning multi seaCOST FROM winter fish. It is one of the Icelandic elite rivers £4,000 per person and so consumes its visitors that they wish to return each year.
PERFECT FOR Single handed and small double handed fishing, clear water, hitch fishing, multi sea winter fish.
WHEN Season: 20th June to 20th September Prime time: mid-July to early August.
STRAUMFJARĐARÁ LODGE
PERFECT FOR
The lodge, overlooking the river, has five bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, drying room, Wi-Fi, sauna. The lodge offers full service stays, excellent food.
Small groups, single handed rods, floating lines, micro hitch fishing and good numbers of fish.
STRAUMFJARĐARÁ A small and exclusive salmon river located on the Snaefellsnes peninsula in the west of Iceland. It is a short river fed by two mountain lakes and several smaller springs which combine to create 12 km of prime salmon holding water, as well as char and sea trout in the lower reaches. There are 27 named pools producing an annual average catch of 400+ salmon to just four rods. All of the pools are easily accessible with four wheel drive vehicles being able to get within 5 minutes' walk of each fishing spot. The salmon average 5-6 lbs but each season good numbers of fish over 12 lbs are landed. Most of the fishing is done with light weight set ups and floating lines throughout the season. The comfortable lodge sits looking over the middle reaches of the river, it is a modern building offering single rooms as standard and all the modern comforts one needs.
COST FROM £3,000 per person
WEST RANGÁ LODGE The lodge has 18 single occupancy rooms with ensuite bathrooms. The main building houses the kitchen and dining area overlooking one of the most productive pools on the river. There is a drying room and Wi-Fi.
WHEN Season: 24th June to 20th October Prime time: early July to late August.
PERFECT FOR High catch statistics, traditional two handed rods, long season, larger groups or single anglers.
WEST RANGÁ
West Rangá, situated 90 km south west of Reykjavik, is one of the best known salmon rivers in Iceland. Known not only for its beauty and great variety of fishing pools, but also for the high volume of salmon caught there every year. West Rangá usually ends in the top two most productive rivers in Iceland each season, the 5 year average is over 5,400 fish to 18 rods. Stability is why West Rangá produces such high numbers of salmon per rod per day. It never has unfishably low water and seldom colours due to flooding and heavy rains. The headwaters of West Rangá are near the foot of the spectacular Mount Hekla. This entirely spring fed source is responsible for both the consistent water temperature and flow. The river is best fished with double handed rods and COST FROM unlike most of Iceland, larger flies and various £3,500 per person sink-tips or full sinking lines are most effective throughout the season.
HITARÁ LODGE The historic lodge at Hítará accommodates six rods in a variety of room types and overlooks "Breidina", one of the river's pools. It has a drying room and can be taken self-catered or fully serviced.
WHEN Season: 20th June to 20th September Prime time: mid-July to mid-August.
HÍTARÁ
The Hítará is another of the country's best-known salmon rivers. Though an average sized river, it has a long and remarkable fishing history, dating back to when British gentry started fishing in Iceland. Hítará is a typical Icelandic river with complex currents, clear pools, small flies and technical fishing over its 29 km. The river accommodates six rods on the main salmon section and is ideal for private parties. The close proximity of the pools to the lodge offers a unique atmosphere for a close knit group. A single handed rod or a really light double handed rod are ideal here, and anglers are rewarded with quite a number of fish over the 7 lbs mark.
COST FROM £4,200 per person
The upper stretch is quite wild, and apart from a good number of salmon caught up here towards the end of July there is excellent Arctic char and brown trout fishing throughout the season.
PERFECT FOR Small groups, single handed fishing, easy access to most pools, easy wading, consistent water flow.
WHEN Season: 20th June to 30th September Prime time: late-July to mid-August.
DEILDARร LODGE
PERFECT FOR
Recently renovated, Deildarรก Lodge has three bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, drying room, Wi-Fi and can be taken on a full service or self-catered basis.
Multi sea-winter fish, single handed rods, floating lines, small groups and mixed species.
DEILDARÁ Deildará is a delightful three rod river situated in the north eastern part of Iceland. Although just 7 km long, the 19 named pools offer the chance to catch large multi-sea winter salmon, brown trout and Arctic char. The river itself meanders through grasslands, tumbling over rocky narrow pool necks before opening out into deeper slow pools. The steady gradient of the river as it makes its way towards the sea creates great fly water. For larger groups, the lodge also offers access to the headwater lake, Deildarvatn. This is home to great populations of Arctic char and brown trout, and is a perfect option if you want to take a brace of fish for dinner.
The Deildará lodge and river are ideal for a small intact party of friends or family. It offers great fishing from a comfortable lodge and is also in a great location to explore northern or eastern Iceland as part of a combination itinerary.
COST FROM £1,200 per person
TUNGUFLJÓT LODGE Accommodation is based in individual summerhouses, two anglers to a house. Each comes with two twin rooms, living room, kitchen and hot tub. It is generally self-catered but full service is available.
WHEN Season: 1st April to 20th October Prime time: September.
PERFECT FOR Private river to three or four rods, big sea trout and single handed fishing. Can also be combined with Tungulækur.
TUNGUFLJÓT
Tungufljót is Iceland’s answer to Argentina’s Rio Grande. Not that it has its length or huge number of fish – the river only has about 5-6 kilometres accessible to sea trout, but the size of the fish is certainly comparable. In size, the river is slightly bigger than the East and West Rangás and is rated as a large river in Icelandic standards. Its gin clear water offers endless pools for fly fishing. The river bed is predominantly gravel with large boulders scattered throughout the pools, this creates the perfect hiding places for sea trout and the occasional salmon. The sea trout fishing can be good in the spring but it is the autumn fishing for the fresh running fish that is truly special. Sea trout between 5—10 lbs on Tungufljót are considered modest fish with fish in excess of 10 lbs being COST FROM caught regularly. Anglers are accommodated in £2,000 per person comfortable self-catering summerhouses near to the river, each one offers the basic requirements.
TUNGULÆKUR LODGE The brand new lodge has seven bedrooms mostly with ensuite bathrooms, a large living area and drying room. It is fully equipped with large living areas and hot tub. Food is prepared by the lodge chef.
WHEN Season: 1st April to 20th October Prime time: September.
TUNGULÆKUR
Tungulækur is a small intricate river that rises up from a spring in Eldhraun, Iceland’s largest lava field. The spring is fed by the Skafta River; a glacial river that disappears into the lava field only to reappear as the crystal clear waters of the Tungulækur. The river then slaloms through the lava field, and over its 3 km of fishable water it provides incredible sea trout fishing, the fish are known to run in their thousands. The fish average 6 – 10 lbs but every year it is common for fish of 12 – 14 lbs to be landed, some fish have even tilted the scales at the 20 lbs mark. Along the short length of river numerous pools provide sea trout with perfect resting spots and these are excellent for fly fishing. With a maximum of only four rods this river remains reasonably under-fished and ideal COST FROM for small groups of anglers. For those looking for £2,000 per person longer trips it is possible to combine with other notable sea trout rivers in Iceland.
PERFECT FOR Private river to three or four rods, big sea trout and single handed fishing. Can also be combined with Tungufljót.
WHEN
Trip Dates: 22nd to 27th August Rods: 10 available
LAXÁ Í KJÓS LODGE
PERFECT FOR
The lodge is comfortable with single occupancy ensuite rooms. The dining room overlooks the river with top quality chefs from Reykjavik preparing fantastic food. There is a drying room, tackle shop and Wi-Fi.
Those looking to target salmon, big sea trout and monster brown trout from a single location.
ICELANDIC GRAND SLAM AUGUST 2020 In 2020 we will be bringing you a salmon, sea trout and brown trout combination unlike any other. Based from the comfortable Laxa I Kjos Lodge, anglers will explore both the Laxa I Kjos and Brynjudalsá in search of salmon and big sea trout. Over the course of five days anglers will also get two sessions on Thingvallavatn to target the lake’s famous monster brown trout.
August has long been known to be a fantastic time to target the sea trout on Laxa I Kjos, and a good reputation has been quietly gaining momentum on the Brynjudalsá. Combined with late season exploratory trips on Thingvallavatn we are confident that this combination will not disappoint. The trip will be hosted by Katka Švagrová, a young female guide who has excelled over the last few years in Iceland. She has a huge amount of knowledge that will ensure all anglers have the best trip possible.
COST £4,000 per person
Trout Fishing Minnivallalækurækur
Salmon Fishing Hafralonsá
Aardvark McLeod’s
Sea Trout Fishing Laxa I Kjös
Trout Fishing West Rangá
Salmon Fishing Langá
How To Set Up the Riffling Hitch
Videos in Iceland
Trout Fishing Laxardal
Salmon Fishing Mýrarkvísl
TROUT FISHING
Although better known for its salmon fishing, Iceland has forged a name for itself as one of the world’s top wild brown trout destinations. There are rivers home to dry fly hungry browns of up to 10 lbs, even 20 lbs in some cases and lakes where fish of 30 lbs are landed each year.
This geographically young and unique landscape is still being carved and shaped year on year by natural forces. One such force are the 100s of streams and rivers that pour over large masses of irregularly shaped igneous rock to find their way up to the waters of the North Atlantic. It is in part thanks to the large amount of volcanic rock that the fish grow so large; the water is filtered to crystal clear purity it picks up plenty of minerals which allows the fish and their food to thrive. The short Icelandic summers see the trout feed hard as they prepare for the next long winter ahead of them. This is the time that we, the trout angler, can capitalise on their voracious appetite. Early season on the rivers and lakes the fish are actively hunting sub-surface for nymphs and baitfish. With the onset of mid-summer and 24 hour daylight the fish soon find their way to the surface and gorge on midge, bibio and caddis fly. It does not take fish long each season to build up a strength and energy unlike trout found anywhere else. Cock fish will leap multiple times and rip 100 yards of line in a single run whilst hen fish dig deep causing your line to sing in the breeze. The next few pages will take you through some of the wonderful trout rivers and streams that we offer. Whether you are looking for big fish or to catch lots of fish there is a trout river for all anglers in Iceland.
MÝVATNSSVEIT LODGE Hof Lodge has 16 rooms, although fairly basic it is right in the midst of the beats providing easy access to the river. The food is simple but wholesome and just what is needed after a long day on the river.
WHEN Season: 1st June to 30th August Prime time: July and early August for dry fly fishing.
MÝVATNSSVEIT
Myvatnssveit is the upper of the two sections on the upper valley of the Laxá Í Adaldal that flows directly out of Lake Myvatn. The section is 12 km and broken into beats that accommodate between two to three rods. These upper beats are wonderfully braided with fast runs, small pockets and crystal clear water. Pools for the most part are grass banked, wide, and with a relatively even bottom. The laval shelves create wonderful lies for large trout to ambush unsuspecting insects as they drift past. The water varies from fast runs to glassy tail-outs, this offers anglers some very interesting fishing, whether that is prospecting with nymphs or casting dries to confidently feeding fish. The wild brown trout average 2-3 lbs with fish of up to 10 lbs encountered every season. As COST FROM these fish live in fast, powerful water they are £1,500 per person extremely strong, and hooking one will test your tackle and skill.
PERFECT FOR Trout anglers hunting large wild brown trout, upstream dry fly and nymph fishing, single fisherman as well as groups.
WHEN
LAXĂ RDAL LODGE
PERFECT FOR
Season: 1st June to 30th August Prime time: July and early August for dry fly fishing.
Laxardal is serviced from Raudholar Lodge which is a modern Scandinavian style lodge looking out over the broad river. The lodge has twelve ensuite bedrooms and provides full board lodging. It has a drying room, sauna, hot tub and Wi-Fi.
Trout aficionados hunting large wild brown trout, upstream dry fly and nymph fishing, single fisherman as well as groups.
LAXÁRDAL Laxárdal is the lower of the two sections on the upper valley of the Laxá Í Adaldal. Spanning 12 ½ km it represents some of the finest wild brown trout fishing in Europe. The river is wide and shallow, and not dissimilar to flats fishing as you wade out and cast at rises. Like the salmon beats below, the river bed is a contrast of black sand punctuated with laval rock creating superb lies for large brown trout. These Ice age fish have a large average size of 4 lbs, but unlike trout in other areas of the world they remain insect feeders. Every year numerous 5-7 lbs trout are caught, with the occasional fish of 8-9 lbs making an appearance. Whilst some Icelanders fish with streamers, but upstream dry fly and nymph tactics are considerably more effective. Although there are none of our normal variety of biting mosquitoes in Iceland they do have a number of other chironomids that the trout feed on readily. COST FROM £1,500 per person
REYKJADALSÁ LODGE The recently built lodge accommodates up to eight people in four double bedrooms, each with ensuite bathroom and shower. It can be taken self-catering or full serviced.
WHEN Season: 15th May to 15th September Prime time: July and early August for dry fly fishing.
PERFECT FOR Trout anglers hunting wild brown trout in small rivers, upstream dry fly and nymph fishing, small groups.
REYKJADALSÁ
The Reykjadalsá is a tributary of the Laxa I Adaldal. A few salmon run it but the trout fishing is the focus. The river flows for 35 km and is serviced by one lodge that offers fishing to just six anglers, this leaves lots of water to explore. In the upper section the river flows relatively fast and anglers will find countless numbers of small pools and deep holes suitable for dry fly fishing or prospecting with a nymph. As it flows downstream the water slows and meanders through meadows, here there are long glides and deep pools where fish feed freely with confidence. Although the brown trout are not as large as some other Icelandic trout and average 1 – 2 lbs there are a few larger specimens lurking to 8 lbs. The river is more akin to a UK chalkstream with crystal clear water and large amounts of weed growth common. The midge, bibio and nymph fishing can be excellent.
COST FROM £1,300 per person
MÝRARKVÍSL LODGE A new lodge was built in 2017 featuring four bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, big living area, kitchen and a wooden deck with hot tub. The lodge can be taken either full service or self-catered.
WHEN Season: 1st June to 20th September Trout prime: late June and July Salmon prime: August.
MÝRARKVÍSL
Mýrarkvísl is the lowest tributary of the Laxa I Adaldal on the north coast of Iceland and offers the perfect opportunity to have a private river system and lake for three to four rods combining brown trout, salmon and arctic char. It is an intimate river that holds a large head of brown trout along with a reasonable run of good sized salmon through the summer. Mýrarkvísl flows across the Reykjaheiði plateau for the first 15 km making it perfect for dry fly fishing for trout. It is not unusual to catch 15-20 browns a day with an average size of 2 lbs. The river has a unique character and the diversity of fishing means there will always be something to entertain, from casting a nymph or a dry fly on the upper section to rising trout, or trying to winkle out a large salmon from one of COST FROM the canyon pools. Fishing on Langavatn lake is £1,300 per person also included, it holds a large stock of small Arctic char along with good sized brown trout.
PERFECT FOR Trout, salmon and char combination, upstream dry fly and nymph fishing, ideal for intact parties and families.
MINNIVALLALÆKUR LODGE The wonderfully placed self-catering lodge overlooks one of the best pools - Húsabreiða. Full service can be arranged upon request. The lodge has four double bedrooms, two bathrooms and a hot tub.
WHEN Season: 1st April to 30th September Prime time: end of June to the beginning of August for dry fly fishing.
PERFECT FOR Trout aficionados hunting large wild brown trout, upstream dry fly and nymph fishing, small groups.
MINNIVALLALÆKUR
This smallish, gin clear Icelandic stream has been hailed as one of the best kept secrets in global angling. It is a technical river where stealth and patience are needed. Wild native brown trout swim its waters, remnants of the Ice age stocks that stayed when the glaciers retreated. Real dinosaurs, relics from times past. They are on average 3-4 lbs, with the monsters ranging to 20 lbs. Every season several trout of 10 lbs + are caught, with many in the 5 to 9 lbs class. The season starts at the beginning of April, often in sub-zero temperatures, and it fishes to the end of September. Spring is most popular with the local anglers, when fishing with streamers and nymphs is most effective. Later, in June, July and August delicate dry fly fishing takes over and is most productive. COST FROM Late in the season there are usually few rods £1,300 per person fishing the river. It is an underrated time of the season as the browns tend to get very aggressive.
WEST RANGÁ LODGE The lodge has 18 single occupancy rooms with ensuite bathrooms. The main building houses the kitchen and dining area overlooking one of the most productive pools on the river. There is a drying room and Wi-Fi.
WHEN Season: 24th June to 20th October Prime time: early July to late August.
WEST RANGÁ
The West Rangá has held a reputation as one of the most prolific Atlantic salmon rivers in Iceland. This is common knowledge, but what is very much less known is there is some 50 km of main river and tributaries above the salmon fishing beats. This whole area is relatively unexplored and has had very little angling pressure. What has been discovered is that this section of river that tumbles through grassy meadows is home to some monster brown trout that have been landed well into double figures. This ancient strain of brown trout were originally sea trout that became landlocked after one of the numerous geological activities that have occurred in and around Mount Hekla. These sea trout reverted to brown trout and they have continued to thrive in these waters. Anglers COST FROM fishing these trout beats can stay at the main £1,500 per person West Rangá Lodge and then venture forth on a daily basis to explore with their guide.
PERFECT FOR Those looking to explore new water with the chance of some monster trout. Dries, nymphs and streamers.
THINGVALLAVATN LODGE There are various lodging options based on group size and personal preference, from small self-catering lodges to full service hotels.
WHEN Season: 20th April to 31st September Prime time: May, early June & late August
PERFECT FOR Small groups and those looking to catch the biggest brown trout.
THINGVALLAVATN
Imagine a lake that regularly produces wild brown trout between 7 & 9 lbs, where fish over 20 lbs are not uncommon. That lake exists and it is less than a three hour flight from London. Lake Thingvellir is Iceland’s largest lake and has a growing reputation as being home to monster brown trout. Due to numerous hot springs around the lake there are certain parts where the water remains a constant 3-4°C. Here life flourishes and the brown trout have a huge quantity of naturally occurring food from midge to stickleback and even Arctic char. Stories of extraordinary battles have gone down in folklore with some of the largest fish in excess of 30 lbs. Fly fishing methods vary due to conditions but fish can be caught on dries, nymphs and streamers. For the largest fish spring COST FROM has proven to be the best time, this is when the £2,000 per person cannibalistic trout follow the Arctic char into the shallower water.
HIGHLANDS LODGE There are two main mountain lodges used on these trips. They are simple buildings with combined bedroom, living space and kitchen. It is possible to arrange more comfortable accommodation.
WHEN Season: 20th June to 20th September Prime time: July and August.
HIGHLANDS
The Highlands are the home of mountain char where endless streams, rivers and lakes provide a hugely varied fishing experience. There are three main rivers, the Vatnsdalsá, Alka and Brikakvisl, that break into many smaller streams as you venture further upstream. This is backpack fishing, where you explore every lie and stretch of river in the hope of finding big Arctic char. Fish average 2 – 3 lbs with many ranging from 5 – 10 lbs. The fishing is predominantly done upstream with nymphs but char also come up to dries in good conditions. This is a great option is for anglers that want to be alone in the wilderness with endless possibilities of untouched waters. The only limit is your own imagination. You can walk up river, down river or fish a lake that you find interesting, fishing in the COST FROM midnight sun in Iceland is an experience not to be £1,500 per person missed. The accommodation is in basic highland cabins and the food is prepared by your guide.
PERFECT FOR Small groups, single handed fishing, those looking for a more rustic wilderness experience in Iceland.
REYKJAVIK LODGE Lodging can be provided if necessary but tours will begin and finish at the relevant hotel or lodge.
WHEN Season runs from 1st April to 20th October Varying prime times depending on species and venue.
PERFECT FOR Those looking for a single fishing day or to extend an existing fishing trip.
REYKJAVIK DAY TRIPS There are numerous fishing options throughout Iceland for salmon, trout and Arctic char, many of which come prepared as three day packages with accommodation and guiding. However, these are not the only options available; maybe three days fishing is not enough or time constraints mean only one day is feasible, rest assured there are plenty of options for you. We can offer various day trips for those looking to be based in the capital, Reykjavik. There are numerous hotels, guesthouses and apartments that can provide any level of accommodation you could hope for. From your base you can be collected after breakfast and in many cases be on the water in under an hour and return to your accommodation in time for dinner. All tackle, waders and lunch can be COST FROM provided if necessary. Fishing day trips can easily be combined with other Icelandic experiences ÂŁ700 per person such as horse riding, hiking, visiting the Blue Lagoon and many more outdoor activities.
I NT E R N AT I O NA L FLY FI S H I NG S PE CI A L I S T S
Aspire Business Centre • Ordnance Road • Tidworth • Hampshire • SP9 7QD • UK Tel: +44 (0)1980 847389 • Fax: +44 (0)1980 849453 mail@aardvarkmcleod.com
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