Rarely is a fishing retreat set in a place as meditative and magical as Iceland. There’s fishing, and then there’s casting your line out with volcanic peaks rising in the distance and crystal clear glacial water at your feet.
In Iceland, you can embrace nature’s grandeur, take in spectacular views, and if you’re lucky, catch a fish or two. As luxury travel experts, here’s our guide to all you need to know before setting off on an unforgettable fishing trip to Iceland.
Why Should I Go On A Fishing Retreat In Iceland?
Hidden Iceland guide Fannar Már Andrésson says it best.
“Going fishing in Iceland is a perfect way to enjoy Icelandic nature. For me, there is nothing better than sitting by a lake or a river that you would never go to unless you were going fishing, and just embracing the nature around you. I feel much more connected to everything around me while out on a river or lake…on my last trip with a customer, we caught over a dozen Arctic char and Brown trout between us, which was quite the treat.”
Where Are The Best Fishing Lodges In Iceland?
Whilst there are many Iceland fishing lodges to choose from, our expert guides have handpicked three exceptional options that offer not only a place to rest, but a truly indulgent and luxurious experience. At Hidden Iceland, we can include these exceptional accommodation options as part of a tailor-made luxury Iceland itinerary when booking with us.
- Dalur Fishing Lodge, which in the summer is exclusive to fly-fishing, is a highlight of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. We’ve talked about Dalur Lodges before, and their sophisticated and stylish spaces remain remarkable, combining modern amenities with Icelandic beauty. Panoramic views of the mountains and a hot tub to relax in after a long day’s fishing. What could be better?
- Deplar Farm offers one of the finest fly-fishing experiences in all of Iceland. This remote, luxurious retreat ensures you’ll fish like royalty, with exceptional salmon and Arctic char waiting to be caught. At Deplar, high-end luxury meets world-class fishing in an unforgettable setting.
- Skálakot offers a full day of private fishing, where you’ll be picked up from the luxurious property and taken to the remarkable highlands. Catch brown trout and arctic char in several lakes for hours, with everything provided. If you are unlucky with the fishing, which is very unlikely in this area, you will be immersed in some of Iceland’s most incredible landscapes. And you’ll be back in time for tea.
If you are an avid angler or just want to try it for the first time, at Hidden Iceland, we can also arrange a fishing tour with one of our trusted tour partners. This is part of your adventure-filled trip with us, even if we stay in other locations in the evening. We are always happy to incorporate this into your tailor made travel itinerary with us.
When Can I Go Fishing In Iceland?
Fishing is only available between April and September, during the summer months. Rivers are available for fishing between July and September, whilst the lakes have a slightly longer season—April through to September.
Where Is Best To Fish?
The most popular fishing lake in Iceland is Lake Þingvallavatn, both for its closeness to the capital and for its picturesque beauty. But there are plenty of places to visit on your fishing retreat.
- Lake Laugarvatn is a unique lake found on the Golden Circle route, with arctic char aplenty, along with some enormous Brown Trout.
- Lake Mývatn is another spectacular freshwater fishing space, that’s as beautiful as it is bountiful for fishermen. It’s also a haven for bird watchers.
- Rivers in the west of Iceland are renowned for trout and salmon fishing, think the Snæfellsnes peninsula, and the areas around Borgarfjörður and Kjós.
- For saltwater fishing, it’s best to combine this with a whale watching tour, which can be added to the boat trips from Reykjavík and the north of Iceland.
The fish population of the rivers in Iceland varies season to season. Hidden Iceland’s luxury fishing trips will take you to the best fishing spots, based on when you are travelling.
Can I fish while in Reykjavík?
Although the best way to fish is to get out into the wilderness while staying in luxury lodges and hotels at night, you can still take part in fishing trips from Reykjavík. We can book you onto a short excursion or a full day with some of our favourite partners. On these day trips, everything will be provided: transportation to and from the lakes, a guide, fishing licences, equipment, and lunch. But we would recommend a waterproof jacket.
You can also partake in sea-angling, even combined in with a whale and sea-bird watching, if you’d like a day out on the water!
Iceland’s unique environment provides unrivalled fishing experiences. Whether it’s heli-fishing, which takes you to the most remote waters, fishing among lakes in vast volcanic landscapes of the Icelandic highlands. Or even fishing off the coast in dramatic fjord landscapes, there are fishing trip adventures that can be experienced in a day unlike any other.
What is the best time of year for fishing in Iceland?
Fishing is only available during the summer—the seasons vary depending on the rivers and species being fished. Rivers are available for fishing between late June and mid-September, whilst lake fishing runs slightly longer between April to September.
What fish can I find in Iceland?
| Freshwater Fish | Saltwater Fish |
| Arctic Char
Brown Trout Atlantic Salmon |
Atlantic Cod
Haddock Pollock Mackerel |
Where are the best spots to find these fish?
| Type of Fish | Where To Find |
| Arctic Char | Lake Þingvallavatn, River Holaá, River Sog, Highland Lakes |
| Brown Trout | Lake Thingvallavatn |
| Atlantic Salmon | East Rangá River, Big Laxá River, Laugardalsá River, Straumfjarðará river |
| Atlantic Cod, Haddock & Pollock | All around Iceland |
Can I keep what I catch in Iceland?
This depends on where you are fishing. There are regulations such as seasonal limits, size restrictions and daily catch quotas that vary by location. For example, some areas, such as Þingvallavatn, are catch-and-release to preserve the unique fish like the brown trout.
What permits do I need?
A general fishing licence is required for fishing in freshwater areas, but with Hidden Iceland, we will take care of all this for you.
What local etiquette should I consider?
Fishing has been a cornerstone of Iceland’s history, economy, and culture for a thousand years, and naturally, there are general rules to adhere to. Some lakes and ponds allow fishing in private or park waters, but consent from the landowner is required. It is best to travel with Hidden Iceland, or our partners, where all this is taken care of, in luxury.
If you are dreaming of nights in an Icelandic fishing lodge and days casting your line in stunningly scenic surroundings, then get in touch with Hidden Iceland and book your luxury trip to Iceland today. Call us at +354-770-5733 or email us at info@hiddeniceland.is. Your serene fishing trip awaits.
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