Laxa I Adaldal – Trout Fishing

The Lower Laxá I Adaldal River in Iceland although famed for its big Atlantic salmon also offers some of the finest wild brown trout fly fishing in Europe. Split into a series of beats, they offer anglers a fantastic combination of fishing options from day trips through to full service stays. They also combine nice with two smaller tributaries, the Myrarkvisl and the Reykjadalsa, or the notable upper beats of Laxardal and Myvatnssveit. Throughout the river system, anglers can fish for large fish with a focus on dry flies and opportunities to use nymphs and streamers.

Large wild brown trout on dry flies

The lower Laxa I Adadal is famed for its run of big Icelandic salmon, but it is certainly not limited to salmon only. Between the uppermost salmon beats and impassable hydroelectric waterfalls lie several trout beats. Until a few years ago, these have operated as standalone beats for a small number of rods each but since 2022 these beats have been combined and serviced by one operator allowing for greater access and interesting combinations along with good guides and lodging.

The beats themselves are hugely varied with large dry fly flats, interesting undercut islands and fast rapids. The variety offers a great chance for avid trout anglers to target the big wild brown trout of the lower Adaldal, a location known to enjoy the same spectacular dry fly action that made the upper river famous amongst trout afficionados. Due to the nature of the fishing, there is always the chance of encountering one of the big salmon too for those who want to try.

The water is filled with midges (of the non-biting variety) and the protein-rich diet allows the trout grow to notable sizes. The dry fly fishing is a combination of midges, bibios and caddisfly. Given its location so far north, weather conditions can be changeable and therefore at times nymphs and streamers can be called upon with great success.

Full & self service lodging

These beats can be accessed on a day-trip basis or from three main lodges; Arnes, Myrarkvisl & Reykjadalsa. Arnes Lodge is the largest of the lodges and was once a very famous salmon lodge, it can house upto 16 guests and can be perfect for larger groups or is the main base for smaller groups who are happy to share lodging. It is provided on a full service basis. The smaller Reykjadalsa & Myrarkvisl lodges are usually provided witht he fishing on their respective rivers or combination options, they have space for up to 8 guest and are perfect for intact groups on full service or self-service basis.

discover miles of fishing

Above the famous salmon beats of the Laxá I Adaldal on the north coast of Iceland. The fishing is situated an hour east of Akureyri and 15 minutes’ drive south of Húsavík.

Day trips are possible to the whale watching town of Húsavík, Lake Myvatn and Godafoss waterfalls.