Trophy Trout Fishing in Iceland

19 September 2025

Iceland offers some of the most remarkable freshwater fishing experiences in the world, particularly for those seeking trophy-sized trout. We asked our friend, blogger Raik, what is the key to landing impressive catches on this Nordic island and now we’re eager to share it with you.

The Perfect Location

When it comes to catching big trout, size matters—not just in your target fish, but in your fishing grounds too. Raik says, “To catch big trout, you need big lakes. In this case, it's Pingvallavatn, Iceland's largest lake. A beautiful lake surrounded by shallow areas or rocky areas with steep coastlines.” This creates perfect hunting grounds for predatory fish.

Essential Tackle

Success in Icelandic waters demands properly matched equipment. Raik's setup included:

A rod exceeding 2.5 meters for achieving substantial casting distances
A 4000-size reel spooled with line rated around 12kg breaking strength
A lengthy fluorocarbon leader measuring approximately 0.4mm—critical for preventing line cuts when fishing around the abundant rocky structures
An assortment of trout spoons in the 20-35g weight range
Red and green lures, which consistently produced the best results

Check the Weather

Iceland is notoriously famous for its weather fluctuations, so you need to choose your gear wisely. Layering is essential, and appropriate attire for rapidly changing conditions is non-negotiable. Waders are particularly valuable in these conditions—they not only allow you to wade deeper to cast further, but also provide necessary mobility when netting those prize catches.

The Best Fishing Conditions

Raik mentions, “The most productive sessions were on days when there were cloudy skies and little wind”. In such conditions, numerous insects gather on the water surface. As smaller fish rise to feed on these insects, they attract the attention of the larger predatory trout—a classic food chain scenario that works to your advantage.

So, no matter if you're a seasoned angler or just beginning your fishing journey, Iceland's crystal-clear waters, breathtaking landscapes, and monster trout create an unforgettable fishing expedition that should be on every serious angler's bucket list.