If Atlantic salmon is what you’re after, Iceland is where you need to be.
Experience the magic of its volcanic rivers, crystal-clear water, and unspoiled landscapes. Whether you’re targeting powerful salmon or exploring waters full of char and trout – this is fly fishing at its purest.
We work with fully licensed fly fishing outfitters in Iceland who offer a wide range of high-quality services for anglers from around the world – from guided fly fishing adventures and multi-day fishing vacations to custom trips on some of the country’s most iconic rivers and lakes.
Our portfolio includes one of the widest selections of fishing locations in Iceland. And for those looking to add more to their journey, we also team up with trusted local partners to offer a variety of non-fishing activities for a complete and unforgettable travel experience.
PROFESSIONAL FLY FISHING GUIDES
Our partner team consists of highly experienced, professional fly fishing guides. Just tell us when and where you want to fish, and we’ll find and recommend the perfect guide for you.
If you’re thinking about fly fishing in Iceland – we’re here to make it happen.
Hooking an Atlantic salmon is no small feat. When one finally takes your fly, the thrill is unmatched — and landing such a powerful, majestic fish is deeply rewarding. It’s this addictive rush that draws anglers back to these rivers season after season.
While Atlantic salmon may be the ultimate prize, the trout fishing here is equally captivating and never disappoints.
April & May
The season opens April 1st with limited rods, ensuring a quiet and high-quality fishing experience. Conditions range from wintry landscapes to bright spring days, offering variety and challenge.
Early spring brings active trout feeding, with nymphs, streamers, and dry flies all producing results. As temperatures rise, insect hatches increase, and the fishing picks up fast. Sea trout and Arctic char also begin to move, adding even more variety.
June
June kicks off the heart of the fishing season, with rising temperatures, long daylight hours, and the first solid insect hatches. Trout become highly active, with dry fly fishing reaching its prime and surface takes becoming more frequent.
Multi-winter salmon start to appear in some rivers, offering the first opportunities for salmon anglers. Arctic char and sea trout also become more consistent, especially around estuaries and in clearer waters.
Techniques like streamers, nymphs, soft hackles, skated flies, and dry flies are all in play.
July
July is peak dry fly season in Iceland. With warm weather, long days, and consistent hatches, trout feed aggressively on the surface, offering some of the best dry fly action of the year.
Salmon runs gain momentum, especially in the second half of the month. Multi-winter fish begin arriving in greater numbers, and angler focus often shifts from trout to salmon as prime salmon season kicks off.
Large sea trout and Arctic char remain active, and the fishing continues to be diverse and rewarding. Techniques range from dry flies and nymphs to skated flies, soft hackles, streamers, and traditional salmon flies — everything is in play in July.
September
September brings cooler temperatures and the first signs of autumn, but fishing remains excellent. Trout become more aggressive feeders, responding well to nymphs, streamers, and larger fly patterns like leeches and baitfish imitations. While dry fly activity slows, opportunities persist in the right conditions.
Salmon fishing stays strong throughout the month, with skated flies, weighted patterns, and small salmon flies producing well. Sea trout and Arctic char are also active, offering diverse fishing across rivers and estuaries.
As daylight shortens, September also marks the beginning of Northern Lights season — making for unforgettable days on the water and magical nights under the sky.
Long Valley Lodge
This comfortable, full-service lodge features 12 double en-suite rooms, a spacious deck, hot tub, sauna, and excellent international cuisine. Combined with world-class Atlantic salmon fishing, it makes the Blanda one of Iceland’s premier rivers today.
Across Iceland, you’ll also find a variety of cozy guesthouses perfectly suited for fly fishing enthusiasts. Let us know what you’re looking for, and we’ll craft an itinerary with the best-located accommodation to match your fishing goals.
Float-Trip Add-On
For those looking to add a bit of adventure, we offer a thrilling float trip through the canyon section of Beat 3 on the Blanda River. This unique experience gives anglers access to remote, rarely-fished pools — perfect for those eager to explore pristine, untouched water.
Non-Fishing Activities
While salmon fishing on Beats 1 – 3 is the heart of the Long Valley Lodge experience, the lodge and surrounding area offer plenty more. Guests can enjoy additional trout fishing opportunities, hiking excursions, and a variety of sightseeing options that showcase the beauty of Iceland.
Heli Fishing
Ever dreamed of flying by helicopter to remote, untouched waters? With our Heli Fishing tours, you can experience the ultimate adventure and fish where few have gone before!
Blanda – A Premier Salmon River
The Blanda is one of Iceland’s top Atlantic salmon fisheries, renowned for both its productivity and beauty.
Blanda Beat 4
Many anglers consider Beat 4 to offer some of the most breathtaking scenery they’ve ever experienced while fishing in Iceland. It’s a visually stunning stretch with great potential.
Svartá
This exclusive, crystal-clear river is limited to just four rods, offering a truly intimate fishing experience. Spanning 20 kilometers (13 miles), Svartá is a hidden gem for those seeking serenity and quality fishing.
Big Laxá – Árbót
Laxá in Aðaldal, often referred to as “Big Laxá,” is a legendary fly-only river known for both Atlantic salmon and world-class brown trout. A must-fish for serious anglers.
Þrastalundur – River Sog
Located on the famous River Sog, the Þrastalundur beat is ideal for double-handed salmon fishing. With powerful flows and wide pools, it’s the perfect place to test your technique.
All catch & release fishing!
HIGHLAND GEMS
Kaldakvísl
A true hidden gem. Remote, pristine, and visually stunning, the Kaldakvísl offers exceptional trout and char fishing in dramatic, contrasting landscapes.
Tungnaá
A transformed glacial river, now crystal clear thanks to a hydroelectric plant. This river runs through miniature canyons and pools, home to Ice Age brown trout and large Arctic char — ideal for sight fishing.
Arnarvatnsheiði
An expansive moorland dotted with countless lakes, streams, and rivers — perfect for adventurous anglers seeking solitude and variety in the wild highlands.
Sporðöldulón
A 7 km² highland reservoir with wild, open scenery and excellent trout fishing.
Kvíslaveita
Remote and rugged fishing in the highland desert, ideal for seasoned anglers chasing wild trout.
Þórisvatn
Iceland’s largest lake (86 km²), located between Kaldakvísl and Hraunvatn, offering a unique and scenic trout fishing experience in turquoise waters.
LAKES AND STREAMS
Thingvallavatn – Kárastaðir (Beat 1)
Scenic and powerful. This beat lies at the mouth of Öxará, where spawning brown trout gather — expect memorable encounters with giants.
Villingavatnsárós (Beat 3-A)
One of the best brown trout beats in the world. Fish for Ice Age trout with small nymphs, dries, or streamers. Strictly fly fishing, two rods only, catch & release.
Villingavatn (Beat 3-B)
Adjacent to the famous mouth beat, this section has two productive points — ideal for casting into deep drop-offs.
Villingavatn (Beat 3-D)
A small lake with outsized trout. A hidden gem connected to Thingvallavatn, where big fish move during high water.
Kaldárhöfði (Beat 4)
Located where River Sog flows from Thingvallavatn into Úlfljótsvatn. Excellent Arctic char fishing (June–August) and the only beat allowing spinning — six rods permitted.
NORTHERN WATERS AND WILDERNESS
Svartá Trout Beat
A peaceful and productive fly fishing experience with a mix of wild trout and serene scenery.
Norðlingafljót
A large, remote river stretching 70 km from Langjökull glacier to the Hvítá — untamed and full of opportunity.
The Northern Highlands
Seven rivers, countless creeks, and endless lakes — an off-the-grid fishing frontier for those wanting total wilderness.
Big Laxá – Árbót
Legendary brown trout and salmon stream in Aðaldalur. Fly fishing only. A must for serious anglers.
SEA TROUT PARADISE – THE SOUTH
Geirlandsá
The crown jewel of Icelandic sea trout rivers. Consistently productive and incredibly scenic.
Vatnamót
One of the highest sea trout catch rates in the world — averaging 1,500 sea-run browns annually.
Fossálar
A picturesque river with large sea trout in beautiful surroundings.
Hólaá
Easy access near Reykjavík, offering solid Arctic char and brown trout fishing.
Geldingatjörn
A special trout lake just 25 minutes from Reykjavík city center — ideal for quick yet rewarding sessions.
Iceland is a volcanic island in the North Atlantic, known for its glaciers, hot springs, and pristine rivers — perfect for nature and fishing adventures.
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