Kolka (Hjaltadalsá og Kolbeinsdalsá)

The Kolka river system in Skagafjörður is made up of the rivers Hjaltadalsá and Kolbeinsdalsá, along with the Kolka itself. The river only takes the name Kolka after these two rivers meet, approximately six kilometers from the sea.

Both rivers are glacially fed and can rise quickly during periods of heavy rain or warm weather. Despite this, water clarity is rarely affected to a degree that significantly impacts fishing conditions.

Typical summer flow in Hjaltadalsá ranges between 10–15 cubic meters per second. Each season sees strong runs of sea run Arctic char. In addition, Atlantic salmon and sea trout are also a regular part of the fishery.

Fishing is spread throughout the system, from the upper stretches of Hjaltadalur down to the dam in Kolbeinsdalsá. The dam, built in 1985 as part of the Sleitustaðir hydropower development, marks the upper limit of fish migration.

A few kilometers from the sea, Hjaltadalsá and Kolbeinsdalsá merge to form the Kolka, which then flows into the ocean at Kolkuós. This historically significant site was once a trading post, and five named fishing pools are located in this lower section.

Lodge

A comfortable self catering fishing lodge is located at Efri-Ás and is included with fishing permits. The lodge accommodates up to eight guests, featuring two bedrooms as well as a sleeping loft.

Location & Access

Hjaltadalsá and Kolka are located approximately 300 km from Reykjavík.

• From Reykjavík: Drive north past Varmahlíð in Skagafjörður toward Akureyri. Shortly after crossing the bridges over the Héraðsvötn rivers, turn left (north) following signs to Hofsós and Siglufjörður.
• From Akureyri: The drive is approximately 120 km. Head west over Öxnadalsheiði toward Varmahlíð, then turn right toward Hofsós–Siglufjörður just before reaching the Héraðsvötn bridge.
• From Siglufjörður: The distance is  75 km. Drive through the Strákagöng tunnels, continue west through Fljót and south past Hofsós. Follow Road 76 until you reach the sign “Heim að Hólum,” then turn into Hjaltadalur and continue to the bridge over Hjaltadalsá. The lodge is located at Efri-Ás.