GRIMSÁ

The Grímsá is a medium-sized river in the midwest region of Borgarfjordur, which is Iceland's most prolific salmon area. Often referred to as “The Queen of Rivers”, it is an important and impressive river.  

Not only is Grímsá one of Iceland's most beautiful fly-fishing rivers, it is also one of a few Icelandic rivers that has tradition stamped all over it. It was frequented by British lords and an assortment of high-ranking military personnel as early as the late nineteenth century. During those days the river was famous for its huge specimen salmon. Today it is primarily a grilse river, though the odd monster is still spotted, giving vivid memory of the golden days of yesteryear. 

The river is easily fished with single-handed rods, with floating lines, small flies, and hitched tubes highly effective. Seeing a salmon rise through gin clear water to take a hitch on the surface is something every salmon angler should experience in their lifetime. The river is fly only water with a voluntary and widely practiced catch and release system. Any given season a normal catch between the eight daily rods is around 1,000 salmon. The Grímsá also has a decent run of sea trout that starts in early July. 

It is best fished with a 9 - 10ft 7 or 8 wt, or if preferred, an 11ft switch rod. Tippet should be 10 - 15lb breaking strains and classic Icelandic fly patterns such as micro hitching tubes, small silver and black trebles in sizes 8-16, black and red Frances tied of small trebles along with sparse Sunray Shadows from 2 to 4” total fly length.  

Grímsá Lodge is known as one of the largest and most dramatic fishing lodges in Iceland. Refurbished in 2023, the comfortable and spacious lodge overlooks the famous Laxfoss pool. Whilst you eat breakfast in the dining room, It is common to see salmon jumping from the water. Excellent chefs are sourced, with the dining experience provided second to none.  

Suggested Package: 1 night in Reykjavik, all transfers, 3 nights on full board, 3 days’ guided fishing.