Planning a fishing trip to Iceland? Whether you’re casting dry flies to char in the Highlands, swinging streamers for sea trout on the South Coast, or drifting for salmon in the Northwest, packing the right gear is essential for both comfort and success on the water.
In this guide, we’ll break down what you need to bring and what you can leave at home on your fly fishing in Iceland trip.
Essential Fishing Gear
Rods & Reels
- Trout & Char: 3–5 weight rods
Ideal for technical river fishing and lake fishing in calmer conditions. #5 is a typical all-around Trout & Char rod for Iceland - Sea Trout: 6–8 weight rods(single or double-handed)
Heavier rods help cast large streamers and handle strong fish. Both double and single-handed rods are used for sea trout, depending on the fishery. - Salmon: 7–9 weight rods (single or double-handed)
Two-handed (spey) rods are especially useful for bigger rivers like Blanda or Laxá í Aðaldal.
Tip: Many anglers bring a 5 wt for dry fly/nymph work and a heavier rod for streamers and salmon.
Lines, Leaders & Flies
- Lines: Bring a mix of floating, intermediate, and sink-tip lines to match conditions.
- Leaders/Tippet: 9–15 ft leaders, 4–25 lb tippet depending on species and water clarity.
- Flies:
- For trout/char: nymphs, streamers and dry flies. Caddis, midges, and sticklebacks make up a good chunk of their diet. See more trout/char flies
- For sea trout: zonkers, sculpins, nymphs, surface tubes. See more seatrout flies
- For salmon: traditional Icelandic salmon flies like Collie Dog, Sunray Shadow, Frances, Hitch tubes. See more salmon flies
Note: Icelandic fish aren’t always leader-shy, but clear water and slow pools can demand finesse.
Waders & Boots
- Breathable chest waders are a must, even in summer.
- Wading boots
- Bring a drying bag or mesh sack for travel between locations.
Clothing & Personal Gear
Layering Is Key
Icelandic weather is famously unpredictable and ever-changing. You can experience sun, wind, rain, and even snow in a single day, even in July.
- Base Layer: Moisture-wicking merino or synthetic
- Mid Layer: Insulated fleece or synthetic jacket
- Outer Layer: Waterproof wading jacket
- Hat & Gloves: Wool or fleece gloves and a warm beanie
- Buff or neck gaiter: Great for wind and sun protection
Note: Even on warm(for Iceland standards) days, water temperatures are usually low, so thick wool socks are recommended
Accessories
- Polarized sunglasses are non-negotiable. They cut glare and help spot fish in clear rivers. Bring two pairs in case one gets lost or broken.
- Tippet holder, fly patch, hemostats, and a quality net are also handy
- A waterproof daypack or hip pack.
- Waterbottle: One of the simplest and best things you can pack for Iceland is a reusable water bottle. Tap water here is among the cleanest and purest in the world, straight from natural springs and glaciers. There’s no need to buy bottled water; just fill up anywhere you go and enjoy fresh, cold Icelandic water at no extra cost.
Travel & Logistics
Disinfection Requirements:
- Waders, boots, and all used gear must be disinfected before use in Iceland. This can be done at the following location:
- Local veterinary clinic. You must bring a valid certificate to show at customs
- Gear can also be disinfected upon arrival at Keflavík Airport for a fee.
- Guests coming to one of Fish Partners’ lodges can disinfect at the lodge
Electricity:
- Iceland uses European plugs (Type F) and 220V electricity. Bring an adapter.
Emergency Essentials:
- Compact first aid kit
- Power bank
- GPS or navigation app if DIY
Seasonal Considerations
Spring (April–May):
- Cold water, early sea trout, and resident brown trout fishing.
- Warm base layers and gloves are crucial
Summer (June–August):
- Milder weather, prime salmon, trout, and char fishing
- Midges can hatch in big numbers. Usually non-biting. Headnets can be useful if the hatch is big.
Fall (September–October):
- Sea trout peak season
- Warmer layers and gloves are recommended
What We Provide (When Fishing With Us)
Day tours:
All gear included
Lodge stays:
Your guide will always have terminal tackle(flies, leaders, tippet).
Flies, tippets, leaders, and other items are also available at lodge fly shops.
Waders, rods, reels, and boots are available for rental at lodges.
DIY trips:
We can assist with gear rental and equipment recommendations specific to each river system for DIY trips
Final Thoughts
Packing the right gear is the key to a successful fishing trip in Iceland. Prepare for a wide range of conditions and target species, and you’ll be rewarded with unforgettable fishing in one of the most scenic and remote destinations in the world.