Fishing in Norway: Fishing Guide, Fishing Camps, and Great Fishing Spots
Fishing in Norway: Fishing Guide, Fishing Camps, and Great Fishing Spots
Norway’s extensive coastline, twice as long as the equator, and its rich fishing history dating back to the Stone Age, provide ample opportunities for fishing. With access to the sea, rivers, or freshwater everywhere, a rewarding fishing experience is never far away. Let’s delve into the best fishing spots and camps to ensure a great catch.
Fishing Paradise Finnmark
The Norwegian salmon, recognized internationally, is plentiful in Finnmark, a true Mecca for salmon fishing. The most popular salmon river is the Tana River, but the Alta River, Kongsfjord River, and Komag River also offer great fishing experiences. Fishing licenses are required, but the potential to catch salmon weighing between 10-15 kg makes it worthwhile. Beyond salmon fishing, Finnmark offers ice fishing and king crab fishing, with the best months being from October to December.
Lofoten: World Cod Fishing Championship
Lofoten, known for its dramatic mountains, white beaches, and abundant seafood, hosts the World Cod Fishing Championship every year in March at Svolvær. The event attracts around 600 fishermen with over 80 boats. Cod fishing season lasts from January to April, offering both amateurs and professionals exciting fishing adventures.
Snåsa Mountain Board
A fishing trip to Snåsa provides a close encounter with the wilderness, offering access to over 1500 fishing waters. Dominated by trout, with good amounts of char and salmon, the area spans from the Blåfjella-Skjækerfjella National Park to Lake Snåsa, promising a memorable fishing experience.
Øyeren, Akershus
Øyeren boasts the richest diversity of fish species in Norway, with 26 different types found, including perch, pike, trout, and whitefish. Fishing here does not require a license, offering spots like Mørk Pier and Trøgstad for an unforgettable experience.
Fishing Camps
Norway’s popularity for fishing means numerous fishing camps are available nationwide, providing accommodations, boats, fishing gear, and even lessons in fish cleaning and filleting. Some locations, like the fishing camp along the Rena River and the one near the world’s strongest maelstrom, Saltstraumen, offer unique fishing experiences.
Important: Fishing License and Fishing Fee
Fishing in Norway generally requires a local fishing license, available online, at campgrounds, or local sports stores. For salmon, sea trout, or Arctic char, a fishing fee payable to the Directorate for Environmental Management or at local post offices is necessary. These regulations help preserve the environment and prevent overfishing.
