The Lónsá is a small river in the far north east of Iceland, tumbling over lava boulders at the top before gently weaving through wide grasslands down to the Greenland Sea. Whilst the river on the whole is small the fish found in its water can be much bigger than expected. The river offers great fishing for sea trout, sea run Arctic char and resident brown trout, a handful of salmon enter the river each year but are rarely caught.
The river opens on the 2nd June each year and runs through to October. The fishing in June is primarily focused on the estuary section of the river where Arctic char and sea trout feed freely on baitfish and shrimp, building up their strength before running the river in early to mid-July. The upper sections of the river can also fish well for resident brown trout on nymphs and streamers in June.
When the first runs of arctic char start making their way up river in a feeding frenzy the river suddenly offers a whole new experience. You can often see large shoals of silver char sliding into a pool. The run varies a little every year but usually around the first couple of weeks of July when the temperature of the ocean and weather conditions are just right. Chasing the first runs can be a great thrill as they usually consist of larger fish between 4-6 lbs.
The runs continue to strengthen through the summer, reaching their peak in August. Throughout this time the upper river can also produce some wonderful dry fly and nymph fishing for resident brown trout.
Whilst on the river you will also have access to two main tributaries, three lakes and an expansive lagoon system. The combination of all creates a very interesting three days of fishing that can be combined with other rivers in Iceland.
The accommodation is basic and comes self-catered as standard in the Ytra Lón Guesthouse. The rooms are comfortable and provide a great base during your fishing days. Catering can be arranged if necessary.
2016 Season Availability:
4 nights / 3 days fishing is £1,400 per rod based on shared room, shared guide, transfers to/from Akureyri and self-catered.
15 – 19 June: 4 rods
20 – 24 June: 4 rods
23 – 27 June: 4 rods
2 – 6 July: 4 rods
10 – 14 July: 4 rods
13 – 17 July: 4 rods
16 – 20 July: 4 rods
25 – 29 August: 4 rods
28 August – 1 September: 4 rods
September dates are flexible.
For more information on Lónsá please do not hesitate to contact Alex Jardine or call our office on +44(0)1980 847389.