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Iceland is a Mecca for salmon fishermen. Every summer the salmon run in huge numbers to spawn in the country's numerous rived. The season is short in these northern climes, but the sport can be fast and furious. There is a wide variety of waters, calling for a range of techniques from the visiting angler, and promising a healthy and vigorous catch as reward. The scenery in Iceland is bleak and often haunting, nearly bereft of trees and littered in parts with volcanic lava. Iceland provides a unique setting for the sportsman. Most overseas fishermen return regularly year after year.
Catch and release is gaining popularity in Iceland, which is the home of salmon conservation. However, as runs of fish are so plentiful, fishermen nay decide for themselves whether to take or release their catch.
The salmon can be stored for return home, or traded for smoked salmon and gravlax which, apart from being delicious, are lighter to carry home.
The weather in Iceland is notoriously unpredictable, as northern climate competes with the warming effects of the Gulf Stream. In the peak summer shirtsleeves may be appropriate by day, but warmer wear will be needed for the evening. Good quality windproof and waterproof clothing is also essential at times.
Disinfection Of Fishing Tackle
Icelandic regulations require all fishing tackle that may have contact with water is certified as having been disinfected. This includes not just rod and line, but also flies and waders. Fishermen may be able to arrange this with a veterinary surgeon before embarking on their trip, but a valid certificate will have to be issued. Disinfection can be done at Keflavik airport, but it is time-consuming, and a charge is levied for every item. The benefit of this policy is that Iceland has not suffered from most of the diseases affecting fish. It is in everyone's interest that it remains that way.