Lake Thingvallavatn (trout)

Some of the prettiest and biggest brown trout in the world

One of Iceland's largest lakes. Once it was open to the sea, but now is home to the ancestors of ocean-going brown trout. The shore varies from firm sandy beaches to rocky boulders. The wading is rather easy with Black Rock beat, for instance, being a firm volcanic ledge where you can cast for trout cruising the shore line in search of small char. Fishing with dry flies, small nymphs and streamer on floating line is the name of the game here. If you are in search of a real monster brown trout look no further than Lake Thingvallavatn.

Fishing

Huge brown trout and char live in this large Icelandic lake. 5lb trout are common but larger brown trout up to 20lbs (or even 30lbs!) are caught every year and big Arctic char become active in July. The fish are stunning like fresh sea-runs.

Accommodation

In the absence of a lodge, the Thingvallavatn programme is hotel based with two options: a very comfortable hotel but slightly further away, or a luxury property with more amenities very close to the fishing and therefore preferable if available.

Gear

We suggest a 7 or 8 weight rod for normal use. We like medium action for better hooking with small hooks. We also like to have a lighter line rod at about a 5 or 6 weight for smaller flies and dry fly or when the wind drops and lighter line presentation is preferable.

Ask The Expert

Ben Hoffman

Tarquin Millington-Drake

Roddy Hall

Trip Specifics

Lake Thingvallavatn lies in a rift valley created by the movement of tectonic plates and volcanic activity. Green rolling hills and farmland surround the lake and the view from high hillsides allow you to get a panoramic view of this beautiful lake. Located in the south-west of Iceland, Lake Thingvallavatn is only 2 hrs from Keflavik airport and close to Selfoss. Alternatively you can fly into Reykjavik airport by private jet, 1 hr 30 mins away.

Rates

Every trip to Iceland is different with a varying number of days fishing, possibly in different areas staying in different lodges and with or without non-fishing extensions. Therefore, every trip is by quotation once planned based on your choices and preferences as well as choice of accommodation.