This unique Fish Partner program combines two of Iceland’s most legendary fisheries into one seamless adventure: the trophy Arctic char waters of the Highlands and the massive brown trout of Lake Thingvallavatn. Over five days, anglers experience a blend of wild landscapes and world-class fishing. From casting to char in remote rivers framed by volcanic terrain to stalking enormous browns in Iceland’s largest natural lake, this trip highlights the very best of the country’s freshwater fishing. Comfortable accommodations, expert guiding, and all transport are included, allowing you to focus entirely on fishing and exploring Iceland’s extraordinary wilderness.
Why A Combo Trip?
Combining the Highlands with Thingvallavatn offers anglers a rare chance to target multiple species in vastly different environments within a single itinerary. Lake Thingvallavatn is famous for producing brown trout that regularly exceed 20 pounds, with some pushing past the 30-pound mark—fish of a lifetime by any measure. The Highlands, by contrast, offer a more intimate fishing experience, where clear spring-fed rivers and rugged canyons hold strong Arctic char and native browns in pristine solitude. Experiencing both destinations means fishing some of Iceland’s most famous waters while also enjoying a balance of dramatic scenery, variety, and technical challenge.
Who Is This Trip For?
This program is designed for anglers who want to maximize their time in Iceland by targeting its most iconic species and fisheries in a single trip. It’s well suited to experienced fly fishers in search of record-class trout, as well as adventurous anglers eager to test their skills against hard-fighting char in remote settings. The combination of world-renowned fish, breathtaking landscapes, and full-service logistics also makes it appealing to those who value both comfort and adventure. With professional guides, top-tier lodging, and all transportation arranged, it is an ideal choice for travelers looking for a smooth and rewarding fishing experience.
Fishing Details
At Lake Thingvallavatn, anglers will fish exclusive beats such as Kárastaðir and Villingavatn. These areas are known for deep crevices and clear shallows where massive browns feed. Few fisheries in the world can match the average size of trout in this lake, making every cast an opportunity for a trophy encounter. In the Highlands, fishing is centered on rivers like Kaldakvísl and Tungnaá. Kaldakvísl is a remote, varied river that flows through canyons, waterfalls, and open stretches, offering anglers both solitude and diversity. Tungnaá, by contrast, is a technical, spring-fed river where precise presentations are often required to tempt Arctic char in the 3- to 7-pound range, with some reaching up to 10 pounds. Accommodations are split between the Grímsborgir Hotel for the lake portion and the Highland Fishing Lodge for the river portion, ensuring both comfort and immersion in the landscapes.
Sample Itinerary:
- Day 1 – Pick-up in Reykjavík or the airport. Transfer to Lake Thingvallavatn for a full day of guided fishing. Dinner and overnight at Grímsborgir Hotel.
- Day 2 – Continue fishing different beats on Thingvallavatn, targeting trophy browns. Overnight at Grímsborgir Hotel.
- Day 3 – Transfer to the Highlands after breakfast. Fish either Kaldakvísl or Tungnaá and check into the Highland Fishing Lodge.
- Day 4 – Full day of guided fishing in the Highlands. Explore canyons, waterfalls, and remote stretches of river. Overnight at the lodge.
- Day 5 – Another full day of guided Highland fishing for char and trout. Overnight at the lodge.
- Day 6 – Breakfast at the lodge followed by transfer back to Reykjavík or the airport.
All packages with Fish Partner are fully customized based on the number of anglers, length of stay, rivers or lakes of interest, and time of the season. All types of itineraries can be arranged based on availability, so please call Yellow Dog for details and custom package pricing.
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