Hooking up with Atlantic salmon
The thrill we get from a screaming reel and a jumping fish is primal, and an anthropologist could probably trace it all back to one fish, the Atlantic salmon. The species is both the foundation and nexus of the modern sport of fly fishing.
“The three greatest gamefish in the world are tarpon, bonefish, and Atlantic salmon, but I’ll take the Atlantic salmon over all of them.” – Ted Williams, “The Splendid Splinter”
The very name, Salmo salar, translates from the Latin to “leaper”, and trying one’s skill and luck against the salmon has been considered the sport of kings by Europeans since the first one picked up a stick, hung some silk off its end and tied chicken feather to bone or steel.
East Rangá River:
The East Rangá River is located in the South of Iceland about a 70 minute drive from Reykjavik and is one of the two most famous Atlantic salmon rivers in Iceland. It is a remarkably consistent fishery, and has been rated first or second in the country for each of the past 10 years (in terms of numbers of fish caught).
The beautiful East Rangá, in the shadow of the legendary volcano, Mount Hekla, is described by natives as “possessing a beauty that gives fishermen energy and feeds their soul.” It’s a spectacular, traditional angling experience, fished with eight beats stretching over a 13-mile stretch of river that each offers a variety of water, lots of space, and is easily waded.
West Rangá River:
The West Rangá is fed by glacial springs, and the flow and temperature of both the sister rivers (East & West Rangá Rivers) are constant and rarely affected by flooding or heavy rains. Creel census and catch records have been kept for more than a century in this part of the world and these rivers rate as Iceland’s two most popular and productive fisheries. Only slightly less arguable is the claim that they are the most beautiful and iconic Atlantic salmon fisheries in Iceland.
Nearby riverside accommodations are picturesque and very comfortable. Anglers begin every day with traditional Nordic breakfasts and end each memorable day with a fine meal. Both operations are licensed to Árni Baldursson, Iceland’s legendary fly fishing pioneer, and one of the most respected outfitters in the sport.
Headed out on your next adventure with us? The Fly ShopⓇ has you covered. As a thank you to our travel guests, enjoy 15% off all retail purchases for a year! — the perfect chance to gear up before your trip.
Whether it’s flies, leaders, apparel or a new rod and reel outfit, we’ve got everything you need to make your journey more comfortable, more successful, and more fun. (some exclusions apply)
