Rivers holding self-sustaining salmon stock here in Iceland are close to one hundred. Approximately 20 of those rivers can be categorized as first class, i.e. rivers with good catch records and first class services and accommodation. Almost all of them market the prime time of the season internationally and see to that there is no fishing but fly-fishing for that time. More and more of the rivers keep to the “fly-only” for the whole season, like the Haffjardará, the Vatnsdalsá and the Grimsá. Most anglers here believe that even more rivers will soon ban all bait but the fly, and “catch and release” is increasing year by year.
Good fishing cannot be guarantied but no river can keep to these high prices without a good catch record. The accommodation is quite comfortable in most of the first class rivers, generally one twin bedded room for every rod. Same goes for the food, almost all of it is good and some superb. All rods can be shared by two persons for a small extra cost, usually 200 up to 300 US $ per day. All guides are supposed to speak good English, know the river and how to fish it. Most of them can also provide flies that have given good results for that particular river and conditions.
Anglers can fish for a lot less money in most of the others and less known rivers, but the general rule is that no services are included in the price, even if self-catering Lodges can be had on most of them. A hotel is often to be found not far from the rivers but they are often fully booked in July and August, so it is prudent to book a room as early as possible. Typical prices for this kind of fishing is from 150- US $ up to 600- dollars per rod/day.
Trout fishing is getting more popular year by year but prices are still low. Often the charge is from 35- US $ up to 130- $ per rod/day. No services included. For more information on trout fishing, please look at the special page on that topic just below this page.
