Iceland Trout Fishing

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-moving pools hold large Arctic char. The Tungna 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.

The Fishing Program:

Season:  The Fishing Season runs from June through August, 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. You'll fish two anglers per guide. Walk-and-wade fishing each day, so you’ll need to be reasonably fit. No boats are used.
Fishing Equipment:  No equipment is provided. Bring #4-7 single-handed rods, nymphs, dry flies, and streamers. Iceland requires that all anglers disinfect their gear before fishing. The Lodge has a disinfection station. All flies must either be new or unused.
Rental Gear:  Fly fishing gear, waders, and boots are available for $100 per day. A Spey outfit, waders, and boots are available for $120 per day.

Typical Fishing Day:
9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. - After breakfast, your guide will pick you up at 9:00 a.m. for a full day of fishing. Enjoy a streamside lunch before returning to the Lodge for a delicious dinner. After dinner, you can relax or continue fishing the creeks near the Lodge. For an additional fee, you may also take a sightseeing excursion to the Highlands' spectacular waterfalls, canyons, glaciers, and hot springs. Depending on your guide's schedule, you may have the opportunity to drive approximately one hour to the famous thermal hot spring stream at Landmannalaugar, often called the Gateway to the Highlands.

You'll fish with dry flies, nymphs, and streamers for wild brown trout that regularly exceed five pounds, while brilliantly-colored Arctic char provide exciting sight-fishing opportunities. The combination of technical fishing, remote wilderness, and remarkably clear water makes Iceland's Highland Rivers one of Europe's premier fly-fishing destinations.

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 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 - Fish Partner leases their fishing rights, and almost all rivers and some lakes have limited rods per day, ensuring each angler plenty of space.