Tungufljót – World-Class Sea Trout Fishing in Iceland

Often described as the “Rio Grande of the North”, Tungufljót is one of Iceland's most exciting sea trout rivers and a very special addition to our Iceland programme.

Located in the spectacular landscape of South Iceland, close to Skaftafell and the vast Vatnajökull glacier, Tungufljót is a powerful spring-fed river with an entirely wild population of sea-run brown trout. The combination of exceptional fish, limited angling pressure and dramatic surroundings makes this a destination for the serious sea trout angler.

The river is fished by just four rods, with exclusive access to the fishing during your stay. All fishing is fly only and catch-and-release.

The Fishing

Tungufljót has an extraordinary reputation for both the size and quality of its sea trout. Fish of 5–10lb are regularly encountered, while trout approaching a metre are typically caught during the season.

The river is home to a completely natural, self-sustaining stock of sea-run brown trout. The sheer size of some of these fish is remarkable, but what makes Tungufljót particularly exciting is the opportunity to encounter them in a relatively intimate river environment.

Fish can often be seen moving or holding in the pools, although spotting a large sea trout is one thing and persuading it to take a fly another. These are powerful, wary fish, and the fishing can be both challenging and immensely rewarding.

The river also holds some Atlantic salmon and resident trout, providing additional variety, but it is the sea trout that are the overwhelming attraction.

When to Fish

Tungufljót has a long fishing season, but for sea trout the prime period is from mid-August through October.

As summer draws to a close, fresh sea trout return from the ocean and begin moving upstream towards their spawning areas. The later-season run can provide exceptional fishing, with the possibility of encountering some of the river's largest fish.

The river can also be fished earlier in the season, including during the spring migration period, but for anglers specifically targeting the largest sea trout, we particularly recommend the second half of August through September and into October.

A Four-Rod Fishery

One of Tungufljót's greatest attractions is its exclusivity.

Only four rods fish each day, meaning the river receives very little angling pressure compared with many of Iceland's better-known fisheries. The fishing is therefore particularly well suited to an intact party of friends looking for a private and independent experience.

The limited availability also means that prime weeks are highly sought after. Through our close relationship with the leaseholder, however, we are sometimes able to secure access and availability that can be difficult to obtain elsewhere.

Tungufljót Lodge

The fishing lodge is a comfortable self-catering property overlooking the river, consisting of two connected cabins linked by a large veranda.

There are four twin/double bedrooms in total, with additional sleeping space, along with bathrooms, showers, a sitting area and a well-equipped kitchen. There is also a barbecue and plenty of room for storing fishing equipment and waders.

The self-catering arrangement works particularly well for an intact group, allowing anglers to enjoy the river at their own pace and keep the overall cost of the trip attractive.

For those who prefer a fully serviced experience, catering and guiding can be arranged, allowing the trip to be tailored around your group's requirements.

The Setting

Tungufljót lies in one of the most spectacular areas of Iceland, surrounded by the volcanic and glacial landscapes of South Iceland.

The river is within reach of some of the country's great natural attractions, including Skaftafell National Park and Vatnajökull, Europe's largest glacier. This makes Tungufljót an excellent choice for anglers who want to combine serious sea trout fishing with a wider Icelandic adventure.

The surrounding landscape is wonderfully wild, and there is a real sense of being away from the more heavily visited parts of the country.

An Ideal Trip for Friends

Tungufljót is particularly well suited to a group of friends who want an exclusive and flexible Icelandic fishing experience.

With only four rods and a private lodge, the group can fish together without the formality of a larger lodge operation. The self-catering format provides freedom and excellent value, while guiding and catering can be added for those wanting a more fully serviced trip.

For the dedicated sea trout angler, however, the real attraction is simple: four rods, a wild river and the chance of encountering one of Iceland's great sea trout.

Suggested Package

A typical Tungufljót trip could include:

Return flights to Iceland

Car hire

Comfortable self-catering accommodation at Tungufljót Lodge

Four days' exclusive fishing

Fishing licences and permits

Catering and guiding can be arranged on request.

We can tailor the length of stay around your group and preferred dates.

Please contact us to discuss a bespoke Tungufljót itinerary and the opportunity to fish one of Iceland's most exciting sea trout rivers.