Reykjadalsá

Reykjadalsá River, nestled in the heart of Northern Iceland, is renowned for its abundant stock of brown trout and increasing runs of salmon during the summer months. Stretching approximately 35 kilometers (22 miles), the river begins its journey through verdant plains for the initial 15 kilometers (10 miles), offering perfect conditions for exhilarating dry fly fishing. As it progresses upstream, the landscape transforms into a faster-flowing waterway, culminating in a breathtaking canyon at its peak.

A tributary of the Laxá in Aðaldal, Reykjadalsá flows through Lake Vestmannsvatn, where it changes its name to Eyvindalækur before merging with Laxá. This river boasts remarkable diversity, ensuring an enriching experience for anglers of all skill levels, whether they prefer fishing the plains with dry flies, employing nymphs, or engaging in sight fishing for salmon and brown trout in the upper canyon pools.

Wading in Reykjadalsá rarely surpasses knee-deep, with grassy banks adorned with lush vegetation, creating an idyllic habitat for both anglers and fish alike. Precision casting and finesse presentation are essential, enticing fish to succumb to the allure of a perfectly presented fly.

Fishing Season Overview:

• April: Brown trout season kicks off with nymph fishing, yielding promising results, especially during warmer temperatures.
• May: Streamer fishing gains momentum, promising exhilarating encounters with aggressive takes and quick runs.
• June: While brown trout remain the primary focus, salmon begin their ascent upriver, marking the start of dry fly season.
• July: Salmon runs intensify, adding excitement to trout fishing, with Arctic char beginning their migration from Lake Vestmannsvatn.
• August: Witness the stunning transformation of salmon and Arctic char as their colors evolve, providing unforgettable angling experiences.
• September: Prime time for targeting massive salmon preparing for spawning, offering thrilling displays of aggression and acrobatics.

The optimal period for brown trout fishing spans from mid-May to August, emphasizing hatch matching tactics, with explosive takes often elicited by big hoppers, beetles, or bee patterns. Arctic char fishing peaks from July 1st to September, predominantly with nymphs but occasionally with dry flies. For Atlantic salmon enthusiasts, the prime fishing season extends from mid-July to September, utilizing small salmon flies or tube flies, although it’s important to note that Atlantic salmon do not feed once they enter the river.

In addition to the river, a permit for Reykjadalsá includes access to Lake Vestmannsvatn, boasting a sizable population of Arctic char and small brown trout, making it an excellent option for families seeking a variety of angling experiences, including fly, spin, or bait fishing.

Vestmannsvatn

In addition to the river, a permit for Reykjadalsá includes access to Lake Vestmannsvatn, boasting a sizable population of Arctic char and small brown trout, making it an excellent option for families seeking a variety of angling experiences, including fly, spin, or bait fishing.