North and South Ófærur fisherman under the gorgeous ófæru waterfalls while another angler fights an arctic char

DIY Fishing in Iceland

Iceland has endless brown trout, char, and salmon rivers and lakes spread all over the island making it a popular destination for anglers from around the globe. In Iceland, all fishing rights are private which means anglers need to arrange for access and licenses where ever they fish. This can make DIY fishing trips a little trickier than your typical fully guided lodge stays but with a little research and preparation DIY trips can be a fantastic way to experience fishing and exploring Iceland.

River Fishing

Most rivers in Iceland will have a limit on how many people can fish it per day meaning that licenses often do sell out well in advance so it’s important to plan well in advance. The advantage of this system is you know that you’re not going to be fighting other anglers for a spot on the river on your day. Most river licenses are sold as either half-day,1day or, 2 day passes with limited rods allowed per day on the river. Many rivers that are sold as multi-day licenses will have a self-catering lodge sold with the licenses.
Examples of popular self-guided river fisheries:
Tungufljót, Norðlingafljót, Northern Highlands

Lake Fishing

Lakes often don’t have limits on rods allowed per day which offers more freedom in regards to not having to book well in advance. Exceptions are for example the many beats on Lake Thingvallavatn. Lake licenses are also usually cheaper and you have the option of buying year passes in many lakes, as well as the year passes to multiple lakes like the Fish Partner Members Club offers.
Example of popular self-guided lake fishing:
Lake Thingvallavatn Self Drive, Members Lakes

If you need help planning your trip or some more information on fishing in Iceland please use the form below to contact us

Further reading

Useful Links

  • Battle Hill Lodge – End of Spring Season Report 2025

    The 2025 spring season at Battle Hill Lodge has come to an end — and what a memorable run it was. From the first cast in mid-April to our final day on the water in mid-May, we saw everything Icelandic fishing can offer: massive sea-run browns, changing river conditions, unpredictable weather, and great camaraderie. Here’s…

  • Iceland’s First Float Trip Program Launches on the Blanda – And It’s Epic!

    We are thrilled to announce that Fish Partner has officially launched Iceland’s very first float trip program, and our inaugural floats down the Blanda River have been nothing short of spectacular. Last weekend, our guides covered some of the most breathtaking stretches of the Blanda by raft, enjoying fantastic fishing, stunning landscapes, and the unique…

  • 2025 Availability

    The 2025 fishing season in Iceland is already shaping up to be an incredible one — and many of our most popular lodges and trips are booking faster than ever.Here’s a look at where availability still remains for next season: Highland Fishing Lodge If you’ve dreamed of fishing the Icelandic Highlands, now is your chance…

Popular Fishing

The Blanda is one of Iceland’s top Atlantic Salmon fisheries.
This exclusive river, limited to four rods, invites anglers to explore its 20-kilometer pristine(13 miles), crystal-clear water.
The Blanda is one of Iceland’s top Atlantic Salmon fisheries.
This exclusive river, limited to four rods, invites anglers to explore its 20-kilometer pristine(13 miles), crystal-clear water.
The expansive and untamed Arnarvatnsheidi region, a vast highland moorland adorned with countless lakes, interconnected rivers, and streams

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.