Fishing at Fish Partner Highlands Lodge
In the heart of Iceland’s highlands, Fish Partners Highlands Lodge offers a truly unique fishing experience and some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world. This remote and pristine fishery offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature while enjoying the thrill of fishing for both Arctic char and brown trout.
As a guide familiar with these waters, I’ve come to appreciate not only the beauty of the environment but also the distinct challenges and rewards that each place offers. My goal in this text is to share as much as possible I believe you need to know to make the most of your visit. From understanding the layout of the waters to mastering techniques suited to specific areas, this article will equip you with valuable insights to enhance your fishing adventure.
From the thrill of pocket fishing in fast-moving water to the patience needed for dry fly casting in still pools, and the technical precision required for narrow canyons, these waters offer something for every fishing enthusiast.
Let’s dive into the specifics of what makes this fishery so special and how you can prepare for a memorable journey.
The Beats
The term "beats" refers to the sections of the rivers and fishing areas available to anglers. Each beat offers unique characteristics, challenges, and opportunities to catch fish. By understanding the specific features of each beat, you can tailor your approach to maximize success and enjoyment. The beats described below cover a variety of landscapes, from slow-moving pools to fast-flowing canyons, and cater to different fishing techniques such as dry fly, nymph, and streamer fishing. Whether you prefer accessible locations or more technical areas, these beats have something to offer every angler. My goal is to help you make the most of your time on the water by sharing detailed insights and practical tips for each beat.
During your visit, you will follow a rotary schedule, fishing two beats per day. This system ensures that all anglers get the opportunity to experience the unique features of the area without overcrowding. It also allows the beats to rest between sessions, improving your chances of success.
Tungnaá River
Upper part
This area offers a diverse fishing experience with slow dry fly pools, a deep pool by a waterfall, incredible shelf drops perfect for nymph fishing, and much more. Many spots are accessible by car, making it an ideal location for anglers of all levels.
*Here is a video that describes what I mean by a shelf.
Tip: Stay mobile in this area. Each pool holds fish, so fish a pool with full focus for 10-15 minutes and then move on. If the new fishing doesn’t deliver, you’ll have time to revisit the best spots after they’ve rested.
Middle part
This is dry fly heaven when the weather cooperates. The slow-moving water here is home to abundant Arctic char. The gravel-bottomed streams change with the seasons and water levels, creating dynamic fishing conditions. The char’s behavior can be unpredictable, so patience is key.
Tip: Pay attention to the still water near the shoreline. Arctic char often stand in slack water, unlike trout that prefer calm pockets in streams.
Lower part (micro canyon)
This technical area is entirely different, featuring a narrow channel of solid rock that prevents wading. Fishing is done from the sides, often from heights of up to 12 feet. Knowing where the fish typically stand is crucial to avoid spooking them.
Tip: Use a large streamer to target the monster trout hiding in this area. Both trout and Arctic char migrate here, creating opportunities to hook a trophy fish.
Kaldakvísl River
Lower part (Ós)
This is a junction area where two streams run into a lake. The flow is slow and in low water levels, you can wade everywhere. It is sand bottom and we stand in 2-3 feet deep water and fish for arctic char with dry fly or nymph. This place perhaps has the most dense population of resident Arctic char on the planet. We catch Arctic char on 3-7 pounds regularly. Make sure to have plenty of backing on your reel because if you hook a big char here it can run far out into the lake. The water is extremely cold and sometimes we stand there for hours so make sure to wear warm clothing.
Tip: The Arctic char standing here are expert nymph eaters. We catch the most fish here on small nymphs in sizes 16-20. When you see a fish rise, try to catch that fish with a dry fly. They can be very selective on nymph but the ones rising use to take almost any dry fly.
Middle part
This is a part of the river that has a big altitude drop. The water is fast and for the one that loves to do pocket fishing behind rocks, there is enough for a lifetime on this part of the river. On this beat, there are 4 distinct pools where the river gets deeper and the water slows down. Here you can catch both Arctic char and Brown trout.
Upper part
It is a memory for a lifetime to experience the waters in upper Kaldakvísl, for me guiding here it feels special every time. The waterfall Fagrifoss is the crown jewel of this river and it is here you find it. The waterfall is wide with several pools with whitewater hitting it making them ideal hiding spots for many trout. On the side of the fall there is a foam patch you often see fish rising and eating dead insects.
Below the fall, the river quickly goes into a narrow canyon with steep walls. Some good places are easy to come down to and cast. Others require creative casting or climbing. This area has exclusively brown trout. Some places we fish in the canyon are so deep you can't see the bottom. It can be very effective fishing sinking lines in those places.
Tip: Look at the water before you start fishing. It is easy to spot the trout here, if you take a moment to look at them, you can get a clear idea of what they are eating.
Trout Fishing in the Dessert
Above Fagrifoss lies the vast volcanic ash desert of Sprengisandur. The river here features long, slow pools for dry fly fishing and deep channels for nymphs or streamers. While less frequently visited due to its remoteness, this area provides a memorable experience.
Relax at the lodge or fish after the guiding?
Just next to the lodge, there is a lake with milky glacial water. The fish in it has a very unique color to blend in. The best places in the lake is where there is a creek with clear water coming in. There are two that I use to walk to from the lodge and if the conditions are right they can be packed with fish. It is always worth trying a few casts if you have the energy for it after a full day out on the rivers.
Tip: Retrieve your flies slowly in the milky water. The fish doesn't see so well so it needs some extra time to be able to take the fly
These tips and insights should help you make the most of your visit to Fish Partners Highlands Lodge. There are more places than these but the ones I mentioned here are the key spots we fish the whole season. The diversity and beauty of this fishery promise an unforgettable adventure for all who visit.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss your trip in more detail, feel free to reach out to me directly. I’m here to help ensure your fishing experience is everything you hope for and more. Let’s make your visit to the highlands an unforgettable one!
