Iceland Trout Fishing
World-Class Arctic Char and Brown Trout
Fly Fishing the Highland Rivers
The Highlands, known as the true heart of Iceland, showcase the powerful forces of fire and ice that have shaped this volcanic island's landscape over the centuries. Amidst the epic beauty, trout and arctic char peacefully cruise the clear streams as they have since the Ice Age.
River Kaldakvisl - Arctic Char and Browns
Our outfitter has exclusive leases on these rivers for excellent Arctic char and brown trout fishing.
River Kaldakvisl is a hidden gem. On the 16-mile stretch, you’ll find beautiful waterfalls, canyons, slow and fast-moving water, rocks, sand, and more. The Kaldakvisl is full of Arctic char, averaging 3 to 4 pounds, some up to seven. The river has a five-rod limit, and fishing here is exclusive to our outfitter's guests.
River Tungnaa - Native Browns and Char
River Tungnaa, a small Highland stream, is probably one of the best-kept trout secrets in the angling world. Formerly a milky glacial river, the Tungnaa became gin-clear in 2013 due to a newly opened hydroelectric power plant. Micro canyons and fast and slow running pools filled with big Arctic char. The Tungaa is a technical river, with upstream nymphing being the most productive method. Stealth is required. Native browns and char average 2-5 pounds, with up to 10-pound monsters.
Typical Fishing Day:
After breakfast, your guide will pick you up at 9:00 a.m.
You’ll fish between 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. You’ll have lunch streamside and a delicious dinner at the Lodge. After dinner, you can relax, fish the creeks near the Lodge, or take a sightseeing trip to the Highland's numerous waterfalls, canyons, and glaciers. For a small gratuity, your guide will drive you, a one-hour drive, from the Lodge to an unforgettable thermal hot spring stream in Landmannalaugar—also known as the Gateway to the Highlands.
The Fishing Program:
Season: The Highland Rivers season runs May through September 15, with peak fishing from June 20 through July 20.
Travel Time: Guides will drive you in 4x4 vehicles from the Lodge to the beat of the day. Travel time varies from 5 to 30 minutes.
Guides: Knowledgeable English-speaking guides. Two anglers per guide.
Fishing Equipment: No equipment is provided. Bring #4-7 single-handed rods, nymphs, dry flies, and streamers. A comprehensive gear and tackle list is included in our confirmation packet.
Rental Equipment: For a $80.00 per day rental fee, you get the use of a rod, reel, line, waders, and boots.
Fishing License: A fishing license is included in the package.
Kaldakvisl Native Brown
Tungnaa River Canyons
Kaldakvisl River Canyon
Tungnaa Trophy Brown
Kaldakvísl Waterfall
Tungnaa Trophy Brown
Highland Fishing Lodge
You’ll stay at the Highland Fishing Lodge. The Lodge, formerly a shepherd’s house, was renovated by our outfitter in 2019. The Lodge is in the remote Highlands, only five minutes from the Tungnaa and the Kaldakvisl Rivers. The Lodge has a small living and dining room overlooking the Spordoldulon Reservoir.
Meals and Beverages
Meals: Continental breakfast at the Lodge, a packed sandwich lunch from the chef, and delicious homestyle dinners at the Lodge. The Lodge chef is an Argentinian, so there's an Argentine influence with fresh Icelandic ingredients. Grilled lamb, fresh Arctic char, and so forth.
Alcohol: You will need to bring your own alcohol if desired. Iceland has specialty liquor stores such as Vinbud or the duty-free store at the Keflavik Airport. Wine, beer, flies, and other items are available for purchase at the Lodge's shop.
Six Bedrooms with Twin Beds and Two Shared Bathrooms
Six bedrooms have two twin beds and a sink. There are two shared bathrooms (two toilets/three showers). The Lodge hosts ten anglers per week.
Nefji Waterfall - The Highlands
River Kaldakvísl - The outfitter leases their fishing rights, and almost all rivers and some lakes have limited rods per day, ensuring each angler plenty of space.