Trout Fishing in Iceland — Rivers, Lakes & Tips 2026

Trout fishing in Iceland — the most accessible rod fishing

Trout fishing (silungsveiði) is one of the most popular and accessible types of rod fishing in Iceland. Brown trout is found in nearly every river and lake in the country — from small streams in Heiðmörk nature reserve to large highland waters. For many, trout fishing is their first introduction to rod fishing, and for experienced anglers it's often a favorite because of the variety and accessibility.

What is "silungur"?

In Iceland, the word "silungur" generally covers:

• Brown trout (urriði, Salmo trutta) — the main species. Found throughout Iceland in rivers and lakes.
• Sea trout (sjóbirtingur) — a form of brown trout that migrates to sea and returns to rivers. See our dedicated spring fishing post.
• Arctic char (bleikja) — technically a separate species, but sometimes grouped with trout.

This guide focuses on brown trout fishing in rivers and lakes.

When is the trout fishing season?

Some locations stay open longer — especially geothermal-influenced waters like Varmá. On veiðum.is you can see real-time availability for each area.

Best trout rivers in Iceland

Iceland has dozens of excellent trout rivers. Here's an overview by region:

South Iceland

• Brúará — crystal-clear river near Skálholt, excellent brown trout in beautiful surroundings
• Minnivallalækur — private spring creek, known for large trout
• Litlaá — peaceful area with good trout fishing
• Varmá — geothermal river near Hveragerði, fishes year-round

West Iceland and Borgarfjörður

• Fremri Laxá — trout beat in Borgarfjörður with good access
• Hópið — varied area with both trout and Arctic char
• Galtalækur — classic trout water in West Iceland

North Iceland

• Laxá í Aðaldal (upper section) — world-class brown trout fishery above the dam, fish up to 5+ kg
• Víðidalsá (trout section) — excellent brown trout and Arctic char fishing
• Mýrarkvísl — productive tributary of Laxá, trout and salmon

East and Northeast Iceland

• Selá (trout section) — good trout water in a beautiful valley
• Breiðdalsá — trout fishing in an intimate setting

Browse all areas on the map or in the rivers and lakes directory.

Best trout lakes

Lake fishing is more affordable and accessible than river fishing — especially good for beginners:

• Þingvallavatn — Iceland's largest natural lake, brown trout over 10 kg, unique setting
• Elliðavatn — in Heiðmörk, 20 min from Reykjavík. Family-friendly.
• Laugarvatn — geothermal lake on the Golden Circle
• Hlíðarvatn — good brown trout and Arctic char, an hour from the city
• Villingavatn — next to Þingvallavatn, brown trout up to 3.5 kg

Read more in Best Fishing Lakes in Iceland.

What does trout fishing cost?

Trout fishing is the most affordable rod fishing in Iceland:

The Veiðikortið (fishing card) gives access to over 35 lakes for one price — great value for varied lake fishing.

Tips for trout anglers

1. Choose the right fly Classic brown trout flies for Iceland:

• Peter Ross — versatile, works for both trout and Arctic char
• Black Ghost — good in spring and on overcast days
• Woolly Bugger — streamer that triggers brown trout
• Muddler Minnow — works well in running water
• Pheasant Tail Nymph — nymph that works year-round

2. Watch the weather and water levels Brown trout is more active under certain conditions: - After rain when the river colors slightly - Around dawn and dusk - On the surface in calm hot weather (dry flies!) - At depth when it's sunny

3. Try different depths in lakes In lakes, brown trout is at different depths depending on temperature and season. Try: - Surface flies when fish are feeding up - Nymphs at 1–3 m depth - Streamers in deeper areas on hot summer days

4. Be calm and quiet Brown trout is wary. Avoid stomping on the bank, casting shadows on the water, and wear muted colors in sunny weather.

5. Remember the rules Each river and lake has its own rules: - Some areas are fly-only - Others permit bait and spinning - Many rivers require release of large brown trout (catch-and-release)

Disinfection is mandatory

All gear that has been used abroad must be disinfected by an approved provider. This is required by Icelandic law to protect Icelandic waters from diseases like Gyrodactylus salaris.

How do I book a trout fishing permit?

On veiðum.is you'll find all trout fishing areas in one place:

1. Filter by species — select trout 2. Choose region — or browse the map 3. Check real-time availability — calendar with green and red days 4. Book instantly — immediate email confirmation

The biggest advantage: real-time availability and instant booking. You see exactly what's available and book in seconds.

Read more

• Rod Fishing in Iceland — Beginner's Guide — for those just starting out
• Best Fishing Lakes in Iceland — overview of still waters
• Spring Fishing in Iceland — Season Opener — sea trout and trout in spring
• Salmon Fishing in Iceland 2026 — for those wanting to step up
• Fishing Licenses in Iceland — Prices & Booking — complete guide

Ready for trout fishing?

Browse available trout fishing areas on veiðum.is — over 40 rivers and lakes with real-time availability. Find brown trout on the search page or browse rivers and lakes by region.

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Are you a fishing association with trout fishing areas? List your area on veiðum.is and reach more anglers.