fishing trip iceland

THE 5 BEST Iceland Fishing Charters & Tours

Fishing charters & tours in iceland.

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1. Reykjavik's Finest Catch: Guided Sea Angling Tour

2. Private Fishing Tour from Reykjavik - Arctic Char and Brown Trout

3. Private Lake and River Fishing Tour from Reykjavik

4. Kayak Fishing Adventure by Mt. Kirkjufell

5. Private Trout and Char Fishing in Icelandic Serenity Experience

What travelers are saying.

• The Mýrarkvísl Lodge
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Fishing day tour from Akureyri.

Full day fishing tour from akureyri., fishing day tour from húsavík, fishing day tour from lake mývatn., fishing day tour from reykjavík..

• Ice fishing tours
• Mýrarkvísl in Reykjahverfi (Trout fishing).
• Reykjadalsa (Trout Fishing).
• Lónsá on Langanes (Trout & Char fishing).
• Eyjafjarðará in the Akureyri area (Sea Trout & Char fishing).
• Litlaá in Kelduhverfi (Brown trout & char fishing).
• Laxá in Aðaldal (Trout fishing).
• Laxá in Mývatnssveit (Trout fishing).
• Brunná in Öxafjörður (Trout & Char fishing).
• Lake Langavatn (Trout & Char fishing).
• Lake Hraunsvatn (Char fishing).
• Lake Thingvallavatn (Trout & Char fishing).
• Mýrarkvísl in Reykjahverfi (Salmon fishing)
• Reykjadalsa (Salmon Fishing).
• Jökla & Fögruhlíðará (Salmon fishing).
• Laxá in Aðaldal (Salmon fishing)
• Fnjóská (Salmon fishing)
• Hofsá in Vopnafjörður (Salmon fishing).
• West Rangá (Salmon fishing).
• Hölkná in Þistilfjörður (Salmon fishing).
• Hunting information
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Iceland Fishing Day Tours

Ice fishing day tour from akureyri., iceland winter ice fishing, rivers & lakes in iceland, arctic char & brown trout, atlantic salmon., iceland hunting guide, the myrarkvisl fishing lodge, news from the fishing in iceland, great news for our vaccinated friends., updates for travelers 2021, what to expect in 2021, about iceland fishing guide, the company, what our clients say.

I highly recommend Matti! Great waters and great fishing with a great guide!! Many good memories from an excellent trip to Mattis Iceland in june-15 Patrik

I absolutely recommend Matthias as a guide, we experienced the best fishing trip ever (June 2015). We caught a lot of brown trout and arctic char, it was great!

Matthias Hákonarson is a great guide who take you to some of Iceland’s best fishing waters. We got a very nice fishing trip june- 2015 🙂

Everything about Matti’s service is top notch. From the amazing waters he guides on the the beautifully renovated lodge (the goat house). He literally will make your trip go off without a hitch and top it off by putting you on monster fish. The thing that I liked best was his ability to totally customize a trip based on what fits your goals and schedule. Matti stands above all other guides in Iceland. He will even act as a makeshift doctor when you stick yourself in the ear with a huge fly!!!

Our travel agency and tour oporation

Fishing trips, hunting trips, adventure tours.

• Iceland Fishing Guide

Icelandic Adventures

• +354-4499905 [email protected]

Iceland Fishing Guide was formed in 2009 in the purpose of inviting anglers from around the world to come to Iceland and make use of the experienced we have gained through an endless urge to explore new water and get to know them well enough to be able to offer the same experience to others. The company has grown a lot over these years and we are now proud lease holders on various rivers and beats in Northern Iceland and is Mýrarkvísl at the top of our list.

Iceland Fishing Guide is a licensed travel agency by the Icelandic tourist board.

Fly fishingTravel 

• River Miðfjarðará
• River Nordura
• River West Ranga
• River Haukadalsá
• River Fossá
• River Laugardalsá
• River Sog, Sydri Bru
• Lake Thingvellir
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Fishing adventure

Join us now

Fishing Iceland offers you exclusive access to some of the best quality fishing for Salmon & Trout that Iceland has to offer today. We have a solid group of professional fly fishing guides with decades of experience fishing in Iceland

Trouts view.

Fishing Iceland offers you to join us for trips for salmon or trout.

The salmon fishing in full board Lodges is from 3 to 6 days.

The self-catering for salmon or trout is easy to customize to fit your needs.

If you have any specific requests, like a different number of fishing days, Fishing day tours, combos for salmon and trout, or anything else to do with the fishing can we manage that for you.

Fishing for salmon in the gin-clear Rivers of Iceland with riffling hitch or small salmon flies is a unique experience.

Fishing for Brown Trout isn’t any less of quality for fishing in Iceland. The biggest trouts landed each year are over 10 kg, that’s a fish to go for.

The Atlantic salmon lodges in Iceland has a world-class standard with full services. You can also fish for salmon in a self-catering lodge.

Joining Fishing Iceland for Trout trips you can enjoy full board accommodation or self catering.

You don’t need years of fishing experience to join us, we have great team of guides who are by your side the whole time and make sure you get the most from the trip.

You can see on our website many different options for  Salmon  and  Trout  fishing and we will do our best to fulfill your dreams.

Traveling to Iceland is easy and there are a lot of things to do besides fishing. The Icelandic culture is great, take a look  here…

Check out our fishing destinations and offers. 

We look forward to hearing from you

Brown trout

First  class salmon fishing, fishing day tours , trout bum’s wet dream.

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Iceland Fly-Fishing Trips

Fly Fish With Orvis in Iceland

Experience the stunning natural beauty of Iceland via a guided fly-fishing trip with Fish Partner. Let Orvis-endorsed guides lead you through this Arctic paradise known for its pristine lakes and rivers boasting an abundance of big fish. Choose a week-long small group adventure guided by the team at Fish Partner, and explore Iceland’s renowned Highland rivers and Lake Thingvallavatn, where they have exclusive rights to fish for Arctic char and native brown trout. Or let them take you on a personal fishing excursion in pursuit of Atlantic salmon, char, and browns in some of the best streams in the world. If you want an exclusive, immersive experience fly-fishing in Iceland, Orvis partners will make it happen.

• Sela - Salmon fishing

Fishing Unspoiled Nature

Trout fishing tours.

Ever wanted to fish for trout in the midnight sun or fishing for trout in the middle of a lava that was formed in an eruption only hundred of years ago? And maybe after a day of fishing to relax in some of the Iceland exceptional hot springs end enjoying our colorful landscape We can help you organzie your trip even if its only for a day or if its for a group of friends who need someone to take care of the full package for them.

• General Information
• What's included
• Tackle and booking

The trout fishing trip will offer you and your friends the opportunity to fish lakes and streams located close to Reykjavik or for more experience we can help you to find fishing in the highlands of Iceland, all depending on availability of licenses. Fishing in the lava is an experience you will never forget. Either casting a dry fly, fishing upstream with a nymph or casting a streamer and catch some of the world's biggest trout and arctic char. You will also experience hot springs and have a bath in Landmannalaugar. This is the perfect trip for every avid angler who wants something different and not a type of fishing that you will find anywhere else in the world. Standing on black sands, lava covered with green, blue or grey moss while casting your fly in gin-clear lakes and streams interspersed with reddish-brown lakes coming from the glaciers. Standing in the highland grabs a hold of angler's souls, bringing them back time and they completely disconnect from everyday life.

Below are things we will include in the trip

• Pick up and drop off - appr. 1-3 hour drive to the fishing location
• Professional tour and fishing guide
• Fishing various lakes and/or streams in the highlands
• Fishing permits - Only included for lakes close to Reykjavik

Extras that can be added for an extra cost

• Thermal swim in the warm hot spring 
• Fishing gear
• Dinner - BBQ or restaurant 

Below are information regarding the tackle 

• Single hand rod - 9ft - 10ft
• Line weight #6 - #9
• Tippet 3x - .013
• Waders are not mandatory but are usually used
• Dry flies, nymphs and bead heads and streamers

Before you book!

• 1 - 3 anglers per guide
• The trip duration is appr. 8 - 10 hours
• The trip is only available between April to September
• Brown trout and arctic chan ar with average size around 2 kg but can reach 6 kg

Do you need a quotation for your fishing trip? Send us a Request for Quotation and we will help you plan your fishing here in Iceland

We offer to help you to organize a tour of various rivers and lakes for a group of anglers. This kind of tours need detailed organization and we have contacts with many of the best spots on the island.

Out tour operators will put together the perfect tour for you and your friends for different locations here in Iceland.   

This is the perfect trip for every avid angler who wants to combine sightseeing with fishing in a day.  

• Pick up and drop off
• Professional fishing guide
• Fishing various lakes and/or streams - depending on time and schedule
• Fishing permits - Included in the price
• For some location - accommodation is included in the price

Extras that can be added for extra cost

Below are information regarding the tackle that is normally used on our Golden Circle trip

• Single hand rod - 9ft recommended
• Waders are mandatory
• Trip duration is appr. 8 hours
• Trip is only available from April to September
• Brown trout and arctic char with average size around 1 kg but can reach 6 kg +

Salmon Fishing Tours

Salmon fishing in Iceland is unique and there are not many places available where you can fish salmon in unspoiled nature in gin-clear rivers. We have connections with some of the best operators for salmon fishing here in Iceland and we have been guiding for salmon for few decades. We have guided some of the best anglers around and also some celebrities who come here to fish like Eric Clapton, Elon Musk, Ross Brawn and many more...

With over years of experience in guiding and planning salmon trips here in Iceland, we make sure you don't get poor licenses.  Keep in mind that salmon fishing in Iceland is expensive and really popular so many of the best licenses are sold out years in advance.  

Below are things we will include in the tour

• Organized salmon licenses and accomodation ( if available )
• Schedule regarding the tour
• Full service (if available)

Below are information regarding the tackle used for salmon fishing in Iceland

• Double hand rod - 12ft - 14ft
• Line weight #7 - #9
• Tippet 0x - 20lbs +
• Double and trebles flies
• Tubes - hitch, brass and micro
• Trip is only available from June to October

Fly Fishing Iceland Tours

Let's plan your dream fishing trip..., about fly fishing iceland.

Brekkutangi 29, 270 Mosfellsbær, ICELAND

• Email:  [email protected]
• Phone: +354 787 4746

From our Blog

Small Group 3-Hour Sea Fishing Tour from Reykjavik | Eat Your Catch!

Description

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with this 3-hour sea fishing tour from Reykjavik. Ideal for both seasoned fishermen and beginners, this tour offers an authentic Icelandic fishing experience you won't want to miss.

Your journey begins at the Old Harbour. You'll step aboard the Saga, a charming Icelandic fishing boat that has been equipped for your comfort and safety. 

With its oak-built charm and modern amenities, Saga offers an intimate setting for your fishing excursion. The boat's small size ensures that you and your fellow passengers, a maximum of 12, enjoy the best seats, service, and viewpoints.

Your friendly and experienced captain and guide will be your companions throughout the journey, making sure you get the most out of your fishing adventure. No prior fishing experience is required, as they will reveal time-tested techniques and provide all the necessary fishing equipment. From protective clothing to boots, they've got you covered, ensuring you're fully prepared for the experience.

Leaving the Old Harbour behind, you'll sail into Faxafloi Bay, known for its fertile fishing grounds. The bay is home to a thriving colony of nesting Puffins, one of the largest in Iceland. You'll have the chance to see these colorful birds, along with other species like Guillemots and Skuas, as you explore the bay.

As you cast your lines into the waters of Faxafloi Bay, the excitement of the catch of the day becomes real. The catching rate is an impressive 99.9%, giving you an excellent chance to reel in cod, haddock, pollock, and more. 

Once you've secured your catch, the crew will prepare it for you, turning it into a delicious and authentic seafood dish. It's an opportunity to savor the freshest fish you've ever tasted, the true taste of Iceland.

In just three hours, this tour offers a perfect blend of fishing, birdwatching, and boating in the picturesque Faxafloi Bay. Whether you're a fishing enthusiast or simply seeking an authentic Icelandic experience, this sea fishing tour from Reykjavik promises memories to last a lifetime.

But that's not all – with the breathtaking backdrop of the Icelandic coastline and the soothing sounds of the waves, this tour is not just a fishing trip but a chance to connect with nature in its purest form, creating moments that will stay with you forever.

Don't miss out on this unique adventure. Get ready to cast your line into the beautiful waters of Faxafloi Bay.

Check availability now by choosing a date.

Attractions

What to bring

Good to know.

Check in at the Elding's ticket office on the Old Harbor. Please arrive at least 15 minutes before departure and dress appropriately due to weather conditions.

If cancelled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund.

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Explore an Ice Cave

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Fish Partner - About us

Fish Partner is a fly fishing outfitter, fully licensed travel agency and tour operator that offers a wide range of high-quality services for angling travelers from all over the globe. We organize various scheduled tours: professional angling tours, fishing vacation packages, combinations of day tours and fishing adventures, multiple fishing activities, and lastly, we tailor tours in many of the greatest rivers and lakes of Iceland. Not only do we offer one of the largest selections in fishing spots in Iceland, but we also offer our customers to combine their trips with other activities from our trusted tour and travel operator partners in Iceland.  From DIY trout fishing to high end luxury fishing, we have it all. If your interested in fly fishing in Iceland we are here to help.

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Accessability

• Easy – Very little hiking required, easy for every one.
• Modrate – Some hiking required.
• Hard – Strenuous hiking require, good physical conditions required.
• Mixed – Some easy access areas and others that require hiking.

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Iceland Fly Fishing Lodges

Fly Fishing in the Land of Fire and Ice

With a population of less than 350,000 and more miles of pristine water than could realistically be fished in a lifetime, Iceland offers some of the best and most legitimate fly fishing opportunities for trophy brown trout, Arctic char, and Atlantic salmon found anywhere in the world. For anglers looking for an incredibly unique fishing experience offering intimate waters, great wading, seclusion, and world-class service, fly fishing in Iceland definitely needs to be on the top of the list. With fishing scenarios focused on conservation and low angling pressure through the utilization of the classical European style “beat” system, many of the rivers in Iceland see very few anglers throughout the entire season, something that guarantees lots of action, large and healthy fish, and private, secluded fishing. Anglers can expect to have sections of the river totally to themselves each day, with some of the most scenic backdrops and landscapes found anywhere in the world of freshwater fishing.

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Fishing in Iceland | Your Ultimate Iceland Fishing Guide

Iceland is a magical land that embraces the best of nature with gigantic mountains , mysterious lava caves , aggressive volcanoes , cozy natural geothermal spas , freezing glacier lagoons , eye-captivating Northern lights , and adventurous hiking trails . It is a place that is known for its magical sites, hospitable people, and rich Vikings history . You can enjoy every bit of this wonderful place by visiting all these amazing locations.

Iceland is best known for various adventurous and exciting sports and activities like river rafting , dog sledding , snowmobiling , and fishing . Fishing is among one of the most surreal experiences one can have while in Iceland. Many adventure enthusiasts recommended enjoying fishing in Iceland as you get to witness some rare fishes, including Haddock, Mackerel, Halibut, Pollock, Saltwater fishes, Atlantic Cod, and Catfish.

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Fishing Tour from Reykjavik

From 60,000 isk.

When in Iceland, Do Follow the Rules

While fishing in Iceland, do remember to go through all the rules and regulations established by the Fishery Associations in the country. These official regulations aim to maintain and control the fishing stress on the natural water bodies and fish stocks. When using the fishing card or Veidikortid always remember that it only permits you to fish in the lakes listed on the card, and not in rivers. Similarly, there are several other regulations, including the use of hook for unaware fishes. You can use any kind of bait for fishing but be cautious around the water bodies.

 As per the regulations and legal permit, fishing, fly fishing, and spinning are allowed only on lakes. Remember that spinning is not permitted on the trout and salmon rivers. You can do rod fishing in Iceland for up to 12 hours a day, starting from 7’o clock in the morning till sunset. Always check on the updates from the Fishery Associations and officials regarding any new rules and regulations to come prepared for fishing in Iceland. Follow them religiously to contribute to the betterment of the natural surrounding and the biggest commercial industry.

You can look for a brief guide of the fishing rules and regulations on the official website . Some of the general rules listed by the Fisheries Association include; salmon net fishing is only allowed and legal on specific days – Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. You can only fish salmon from June to September , that too in freshwater only. Another important rule says that you cannot transfer or move salmon from one river to another. It is important to clean and sterilize your fishing equipment before using them in the Icelandic water. The one significant rule of fishing is that you can only perform fishing in the rivers, ponds, and lakes where it is permitted, and when fishing in private locations consent of the park ranger or landowner is mandatory.

The Eye-Captivating Kinds of Fish Species

Iceland is a heavenly place for fishing enthusiasts as it is home to some of the best and rare kinds of fish species. The magical sight is worth experiencing when in Iceland. While fishing in the freshwater you can get your hands on some of the interesting fishes available in Iceland. You can majorly find five different species of freshwater fish, including the Atlantic salmon, the Arctic char, the eel, and stickleback. It will be a thrilling experience to witness the rare and exciting marine creatures in Iceland. Other than these, you can also catch glimpse of some of the most colorful, beautiful, and unique kinds of fishes, like:

• Haddock or as Icelandic calls them ‘ Ysa’ is a vulnerable species of fish globally. In recent years, the number of haddock is increasing in Iceland due to thriving breeding grounds. Haddocks are among many tasty dishes in the country, that’s why they are part of every celebration and part of the Icelandic household.
• Like haddock, Atlantic Cod is also a vulnerable species of fish in most parts of the Atlantic. But it is available in abundance in Iceland. You can easily find these fishes in various lakes and unlike many parts of the world, catching and purchasing Atlantic cod is not an ethical or legal issue in Iceland. If you’re lucky enough, then you might be able to catch about a meter or more longer cod in several lakes in Iceland.
• The endangered Halibut are the only fish you can catch on sea-angling tours in Iceland. As they are already an over-exploited species of fish, it is requested by the Icelandic authorities to catch and release them as they are rare and have a slow reproductive cycle. You can ethically and legally buy them in the markets as they are raised on fish-farms to protect and maintain their populations.
• Available in abundance in Icelandic rivers and lakes, the Pollock or Ufsi is around one meter long and saves a special place in every foodie’s palate. They are popular for their unique and mild taste, making them a staple in frozen junk-food dishes/meals.
• Catching a trout in Iceland is no less than a rare achievement, these unconventional fish species are available majorly in the largest natural lake of Iceland, Pingvallavatn. You can catch over 15 kgs of trout fish, but you need to release them in the water as at Pingvallavatn, the trout fishes are protected by law. You can eat and legally catch a Sea Brown Trout which can be found throughout September.
• The Icelandic Makrill or the Mackerel is used majorly for global commercial purposes as they are available in abundance in Iceland. They are smaller than the size of the haddock but tastes great as they are mainly found in freshwater bodies. You can eat Mackerel routine as they embrace a high-level nutrition value with great taste.

Different Types of Fishing in Iceland

This enchanting country offers you many ways for fishing and that too in different locations and water bodies. You can enjoy a fun and extremely adventurous time with your family and friends while catching some great fishes in different water bodies in Iceland.

River Fishing

Many rivers in Iceland are originated at the glaciers and give birth to some breath-taking waterfalls. Iceland is considered to be one of the best locations in the world for river fishing. Four major rivers are best known for salmon fishing but you need to follow certain regulations while fishing in those rivers. This includes the Laugardalsa river , Fossa river, Miofjaroara river , and the West Ranga river . If you’re interested in net-fishing you should visit the Þjórsá river , which is best known for catching freshwater salmons. The best rivers are very expensive to fish in, but you can also find some other rivers that will not cost as much. Many people on a luxurious river fishing trip, while staying in cabins close to the rivers with chefs and delicious meals in between the fishing. 

Lake Fishing

As mentioned above, you can get a licensed fishing card that gives you access to unlimited fishing on more than 35 lakes around Iceland. The significant lake for fishing in Iceland is Lake Þingvallavatn , which is close to the capital city, Reykjavik . The beautiful and enriching surrounding makes your fishing a surreal experience. If you love fly-fishing, you can visit Lake Myvatn which is a popular geothermal area with freshwater systems. If you’re finding a great option for net fishing, the Lake Logurinn needs to be on your priority list as the glacier water is foggy which makes the lures ineffective to catch the fishes.

Sea Angling

Visit Reykjavik’s Old Harbour to enjoy a great sea-angling experience; you can rent a rod and begin angling from the pier’s end. You can remain in the city to enjoy a natural site with fishing that offers a much more relaxing experience than hiking or trekking in the valley. You can also book boat tours to dive deep into some thrilling fishing spots to catch some exciting fish species. This can actually be done in most villages across the country. Almost all villages in Iceland are located by the sea, and the locals love to sit at the harbor and try to catch some fishes. 

Saltwater Fishing

Saltwater or Ocean fishing is a popular traditional type of fishing done by Icelandic natives. It is not the popular and favored type of fishing by tourists and travelers but offers an exciting opportunity for whale watching. Many coastal communities offer some boats that can take you to these saltwater bodies. The main catches in this area include some of the rare fishes, including the haddock, halibut, cod, and catfish. Even in saltwater fishing the catch and release apply to protect and maintain the population of some of these endangered species.

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Fly Fishing in Iceland

– experience makes a difference!

Laugardalsá -the best salmon river in the West Fjords

Salmon fishing in Laugardalsa river not only offers a fantastic fly fishing adventure in a breath taking environment. It also provides the angler with high quality private salmon fishing experience using small micro and hitch flies to catch Atlantic salmon in Iceland.

Laugardalsa is know as the best salmon river in the West fjords and one of the best 2-3 rod river in Iceland with the average catch close to 400 salmon in a year. The river offers a fantastic isolated and remote fly fishing experience and is an excellent choice for small groups looking for exclusive fishing in an personalised river setting.

River Fossá – tree stunning waterfalls

River Fossá is medium size salmon river in the South of Iceland. Foss is the Icelandic word for waterfall and you will see Tree stunning waterfalls where you can fish in.

Háifoss at the top of the trout beat is the second highest waterfall in Iceland 122 m.

Fossá river system is fly only, catch and release. The salmon beat is below the waterfall Hjálparfoss. There are 2 km of private fishing for 2 rods.

Arnavatnsheidi

Thingvellir

Fly fishing Big Trout

Monster Trout in Iceland

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Spring trolling can be a blast, even for ‘snobby’ fly fishers

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This story was originally published in April 2021.

I did not grow up fishing. My first serious introduction to fishing was fly fishing in my 20s, and I was hooked (pun intended).

I’ve since fly fished for salmon in Alaska, sea-run brown trout in Iceland, brook trout at Libby Camps, salmon at Grand Lake Stream and striped bass at York Beach. I now consider myself a bonafide snobby fly fisherman. So, when my better half, Travis, suggested we go trolling, I looked down my nose in disgust and replied, “Isn’t trolling for people who can’t fish? You just sit there and don’t really do anything, right?”

“It’s relaxing. Trust me, just try it,” he responded.

“Ok fine, but I’m using my fly rod,” I said.

Truth was, I didn’t own anything other than fly rods. I grabbed my 6-weight rod with a sinking line from L.L. Bean, and tied on a black ghost. Travis grabbed his lead core rod and we climbed into our 16-foot aluminum boat. Argos, our dog, jumped gracefully and enthusiastically into the bow. We recently purchased a home on Crystal Lake in Gray, and it was our first-time open water fishing it. It was April 5 and the ice had only recently melted. The water was as flat and smooth as a mirror.

Travis put the motor in gear but did not give it any throttle. We putted along at about 2 mph. I let some line off my reel and held the rod in my hands. Travis turned on the fish finder — a large number 12 lit up on the screen indicating we were only in 12 feet of water. We were so close to shore that I could see people watching tv inside their homes.

Fifteen minutes into our troll, I heard the clicking of my reel and felt the familiar tug on my line. The tip of the rod bent over and bounced. I started striping in line and Travis put the boat in neutral. The fish came in easily.

“It’s a brown,” Travis said as he scooped the fish into the net. The silvery fish was long and slender and speckled with large black spots.

“Our first open water fish from the lake! Let’s keep it for dinner. We can call this cove, ‘Brown Town,'” I said. Argos licked the fish in approval, and we continued our evening troll along shore.

As I let the line back out into the water, I noticed a juvenile eagle take flight from a nearby pine tree. A half dozen mallards also took flight, undoubtedly nervous about the presence of the eagle. A week prior, I had seen an eagle half-heartedly try to catch a duck. The mallard dove for long periods of time before finally flying off, away from the eagle.

“I’m on!” I shrieked as my rod bounced up and down.

Fifty feet behind the boat a fish leapt into the air. “Get the net!” I squealed.

“It’s not even close to the boat, calm down,” Travis replied, chuckling.

“It just leapt again! Feels decent sized!” I said excitedly. When the fish was close to the boat, Travis slipped her into the net. It was a healthy rainbow trout. I admired the iridescent rainbow strip down her otherwise silver side. After a quick photo and with a strong kick, she swam off with purpose into the icy water.

A neighbor on his lawn gave a thumbs up. His two pugs yapped incessantly at us.

“Let’s call that spot, ‘Pug House.'”Travis suggested. “Now do you like trolling?” He asked with a smirk.

“You’re right, it’s a good mix of relaxation and excitement and I still get to fight the fish on my fly rod,” I replied as I studied the sky, now shades of cherry and plum as the sun began to set. The cry of a distant loon reverberated over the low hum of the motor.

I began making a mental list of things to bring for our next evening troll: a more comfortable chair, rod holders, a speaker for music and snacks.

“I could get used to this, ‘not doing anything’ fishing,” I thought, as we putted our way home with fresh dinner.

More articles from the BDN

Christi holmes elliott, outdoors contributor.

Christi Holmes Elliott is a Registered Maine Guide and Appalachian Trail thru hiker. Christi is the founder of Maine Women Hunters and works as a design engineer. She lives in Gray. Follow her @christiholmes... More by Christi Holmes Elliott, Outdoors contributor

Lonely Plan-it: A fishing trip to Alaska

Apr 24, 2024 • 7 min read

Bird Creek in the shadow of the Chugach Mountains is lined with fisherman hoping to catch silver salmon © Karen Timmons / Getty Images

For many Alaska visitors, the chance to drop a line in the briny depths of the ocean, or cast a fly rod upon a rushing river, is the reason they’ve traveled north – and for good reason. There is nothing quite like fresh fish – caught amid the stunning scenery of Alaska – consumed over a dinner table filled with tales of the day itself.

Alaska’s commercial fishing industry is its second-largest economic generator, with a wide variety of species found across the state. From mid-April to August, saltwater fishing vessels of varying sizes and shapes take to the sea and net or line-catch salmon, halibut, cod and other species for markets around the world. Sport fishing is also a huge business in Alaska, including the Arctic and Northwest regions, where species like Arctic char are considered a fly-fisher’s dream for their fight on a line. 

For these reasons, you’ll need to consider the seasons, types of fishing and the most accessible locations for your fishing holiday. In a state with 3,000 rivers, three million lakes, and over 6,000 miles of coastline, the toughest part is deciding where to go. 

What are the regulations for fishing in Alaska?

The Alaska Department of Fish and Game is the state’s overseeing agency for all things sport fishing, and it tightly controls where, when, and what species you can catch. Dividing the state into three regions (Southcentral, Interior, and Southeastern) the agency provides up-to-date listings of open and closed areas, and forecasts for salmon runs each spring, when many anglers are making  plans for fishing trips. 

All nonresidents aged 16 and older must purchase and carry a current fishing license , available either online or at retail outlets in just about every city. Additionally, those wanting to fish for king salmon must secure a stamp indicating this intention, which is added to your license. It must be noted here that the ADF&G does not take fishing without a license lightly: officers are constantly patrolling shorelines and salt waterways – and fines for non-licensed fishers are hefty.

Know your halibut from chinook

It behooves the fishing visitor to have an idea of what type of fish they’d like to catch while in Alaska. Those looking for salmon have the choice to fish in either saltwater near Whittier, Seward, Valdez or Homer and nearby environs; or in the rivers and streams flowing near these communities, but also in Anchorage and along the Southwest regional areas like Dillingham and Katmai National Park. 

Know that the farther away from the road system one goes, the more expensive fishing will get, especially if you need a float plane to reach a river. Alaska's waters house five species of salmon: chum, sockeye, pink, chinook and coho. Each spawn at different times of year, beginning with chinook (also known as king salmon) in late spring.

Other freshwater fish include Arctic char, grayling and trout – the latter usually fished in September and October. 

Saltwater species are abundant and accessible in any harbor community, but halibut are predominant in the community of Homer at the tip of the Kenai Peninsula . In fact it is known as the “halibut capital of the world” with fish hauled in here reaching 200 pounds in weight. 

Best destinations for a DIY fishing trip

• Cast a line into the river for world-class salmon fishing on the Kenai River near Cooper Landing .
• Head out to deeper waters of Cook Inlet from Homer to fish for halibut. 
• Show up to Ship Creek in Anchorage and rent the entire kit to fish like a local. 
• Fly-fish the sparkling waters of the Little Tok River near the community of Tok, in the Yukon-Charley Rivers Preserve.
• Try the family-friendly Bering Sea Crab Fisherman's Tour in Ketchikan for a look at the dangerous deep-sea crab industry.  

Top tips for fishing in Juneau

Located along Alaska’s Inside Passage, Juneau is a great landing spot for Southeast fishers wanting to haul in a halibut or salmon. Charters depart from both downtown docks and Auke Bay about 15 miles from the city center. 

Where to stay: Spend the night downtown at the Silverbow Inn and take in the charm of Alaska’s capital city. 

Where to eat: For fresh seafood and local atmosphere, dine at the Hangar on the Wharf and watch floatplanes and ships come in and out. 

What to expect in Seward 

A popular destination for both cruise ship and independent travelers, Seward is also a hotspot for Anchorage residents looking for a weekend getaway. The calm waters of Resurrection Bay glean salmon, halibut, rockfish and cod and are great places for youngsters to learn the art of saltwater fishing. 

Where to stay: Harbor 360 hotel sits right at the small boat harbor and offers a complimentary breakfast and access to downtown Seward activities, including fishing charters.

Where to eat: The Cookery in downtown Seward is small but its menu of fresh seafood and produce packs a delicious punch. 

Visiting Valdez

This scenic Prince William Sound community lives hard by the sea, with daily salmon, halibut, and rockfish charters departing from its small boat harbor. Visit during the pink salmon run in early July and see the commercial purse seiners hauling up enormous nets of delicious fish.

Where to stay: Totem Hotel and Suites is a good option and a short distance from the downtown docks. 

Where to eat: Try The Fat Mermaid for locally-sourced seafood right along the main street of Valdez and within walking distance to activities.

Remote fishing experiences in Alaska

If a remote fishing experience is on your bucket list and within budget, these lodges provide a truly immersive once-in-a-lifetime Alaska fishing trip. 

Waterfall Resort

Located on scenic Prince of Wales Island in Southeast Alaska, this homey lodge is reached via a 45-minute floatplane ride from Ketchikan and offers pristine scenery while fishing for salmon in the calm waterways around the island. This former salmon cannery-turned fishing lodge is a wonderful choice for groups and families. 

Alaska Sportsman’s Lodge

A luxury resort located near one of the most productive sockeye salmon waterways in Alaska, the Kvichak River, this lodge is for serious fishers, with daily guided forays into the wilderness to cast a line. Want to fly fish for trout? This is the place for that as well, with large fish regularly caught and released. 

Tordrillo Lodge

Want to throw in some other adventures while still finding time to fish? This hidden lodge deep in the Tordrillo Mountains just an hour floatplane ride from Anchorage is pretty much perfect, with salmon and trout fishing intermingled with heli-skiing, hiking, and rafting. 

Be bear aware

Alaska’s bears frequent the same fishing rivers and streams as humans, and they always have the right of way. If you are fishing without a guide, review the Alaska Department of Fish and Game rules and guidelines for fishers , and always keep an eye out for bears, especially if fishing in the long, dusky Alaska evening hours. 

What to pack for your fishing trip to Alaska

If taking a charter vessel, dress for inclement weather and a near-constant day of wetness and fish scales. Wear rubber boots, or non-slip, close-toed shoes – and bring rain gear, a warm hat and gloves. 

For those heading out into the open waters of Prince William Sound or the Gulf of Alaska, consider pre-dosing with an anti-seasickness medication or wearing a behind-the-ear patch to prevent nausea during the trip. Even the most ardent sailors sometimes feel the rolling ocean swells to be too much to manage without medicine. 

For river fishers, waders are a must, and non-felt wading shoes. 

Don’t have gear? There’s no need to worry: most guiding outfits provide everything you need for a comfortable experience. 

Here is more expert advice to help you plan your trip to Alaska:

The best time to go to Alaska? Save this guide on when to visit .  Get around in Alaska with these  transport tips .  Be sure to add these top experiences to your Alaska itinerary. And make time for some epic road trips  to the highlights in Alaska.

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