From coastal and fjord fishing to salmon fishing and fly fishing in the large mountain lakes — Norway offers a cornucopia of unique fishing experiences. (And, not least, the chance to hook the catch of your life!)
In this guide you will get tips and information on the most popular types of fishing in Norway, making it easy for you to plan your next fishing holiday.
Coastal fishing in Norway
Coastal fishing in Norway is an experience in itself. The country has a long and varied coastline, where you can cast your line for a wide variety of fish species, e.g. cod, pollock, mackerel and catfish. The most popular coastal fishing destinations include Lofoten, Tromsø and Nordkapp, but with a coastline 2.5 times the length of the Equator, you'll easily find a small fishing village to spend your fishing holiday in, no matter what part of the country you want to visit.
3 tips for coastal fishing:
Choose the right time: Early mornings and evenings are often the best times for coastal fishing.
Use the right fishing gear: A solid rod and wheels as well as heavy-duty liner and hooks are essential. Also remember to bring warm and waterproof clothing and footwear.
Take advantage of local expertise: Talk to local fishermen or visit fish shops for the best advice on fishing spots and bait.
Fishing in the fjords of Norway
Fjord fishing in Norway is one of the most spectacular fishing experiences you can have. The deep, clear waters of the fjords house many species of fish, including cod, salmon and trout. The fjords around Bergen, Geiranger and Hardanger are particularly popular with anglers.
3 tips for fjord fishing:
Boat or land?: Consider renting a boat to access the best fishing spots. Many places offer guided fishing trips so you can get insider tips for finding the best spots and the biggest catches.
Use suitable fishing gear: Use a heavy-duty fishing rod and deep-sea rollers, as some of the most coveted fish species are found in deeper water.
Pay attention to the weather: Keep an eye on the weather forecast as the weather in the fjords can change quickly.
Salmon fishing in Norway
Norway is famous for its salmon fishing, and in fact salmon tourism in the 1800s was the basis for many of the big, beautiful hotels found all around the Norwegian mountains. Norwegian rivers, especially in the regions of Trøndelag and Western Norway, offer some of the best salmon fishing experiences in the world — both because of the opportunity for good catches, and because of the many safe and easily accessible fishing spots along the country's thousands of kilometers of rivers.
3 tips for salmon fishing:
Use the right techniques: Fly fishing and spin fishing are the most popular techniques for salmon fishing. Choose the method that best suits your skills and preferences.
Use a local guide: Consider hiring a local guide who can help you find the best places and give you insider tips for the area.
Consider your fishing season: The salmon fishing season varies from river to river, but generally it runs from June to September.
Please note that the Norwegian environmental authorities have suspended salmon fishing in 33 Norwegian rivers in 2024 due to low fish numbers. Read up carefully on the current conditions in the areas you want to fish in before planning your trip.
Freshwater fishing in Norwegian rivers and lakes
In addition to salmon fishing in the Norwegian rivers, Norway also offers a wide range of other opportunities for freshwater and fly fishing. The miles of rivers and thousands of mountain lakes teem with popular fish species such as trout, perch, pike, grayling, common whitefish and Arctic char. Try a fishing trip under the midnight sun in Northern Norway — or enjoy one of Southern Norway's fantastic fishing spots close to Kristiansand.
3 tips for freshwater fishing
Bring the right fishing gear: You can either bring your own fishing equipment to Norway or rent equipment at one of the local fishing resorts.
Pay attention to safety: If you rent a boat to sail out on a lake to throw out your line, always be mindful of safety — weather conditions and current patterns can be very different from those you are used to.
Ask the locals for advice: Many Norwegians love to share their local knowledge about good fishing spots and techniques, so ask locals for advice before you start your fishing trip.
Fishing rules in Norway
In order to preserve natural fish habitations, Norway has strict fishing rules that all anglers must abide by. It is important to familiarize yourself with these rules before you begin your fishing holiday. Some of the rules may vary depending on your fishing holiday destination, so be sure to research the local conditions thoroughly.
Important rules:
Fishing permit/fishing license: You are required to have a fishing permit for salmon fishing and fishing in fresh water. The license can be purchased online or at local tourist offices.
Catch quotas: There are restrictions on how many fish you are allowed to catch and take home. These quotas vary by fish species and region.
Fishing seasons: Some fish species have specific fishing seasons and it is illegal to catch them outside these periods.
Your Norwegian fishing adventure awaits
Norway is a dream destination for every angler — and with the right equipment, knowledge of local fishing rules and the best fishing spots in mind, you are well on your way to an unforgettable fishing holiday.
Start your journey with Fjord Line, which sails to Kristiansand, Stavanger and Bergen from Hirtshals, and experience all that Norway has to offer of fishing adventures and scenic experiences.
