Fishing in Norway
Powered by Nature
Norway is a fantastic destination for anglers, offering an abundance of fishing opportunities in various waters, ranging from vast freshwater lakes and rivers to beautiful fjords, and the rugged coastline along the North Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. I will provide you with details about the popular fish species in Norway and the best fishing spots you won’t want to miss. Norway’s slogan, “Powered by Nature”, is truly fitting!
I myself have been regularly visiting Norway to camp and fish since my 20s
- 2007 – Hitra > Fishing for Cod, Whiting, and Sea Trout
- 2013 – Farsund > Cod 2016 – Loppa > Halibut
- 2018 – Målselvutløpet > Salmon Fishing
- 2023 – Skogsvåg > Cod
My favourite fishing holiday destinations (besides the Netherlands) are:
- Norway
- Finland
- Denmark
- France
Based on these trips, I have had the opportunity to speak with local fishermen and gather information about the angling world of Norway.
Fishing in Norway, everything you want to know
Popular fish species in Norway
Norway boasts a rich diversity of fish species, making it a true paradise for every fishing enthusiast. Some of the most popular fish species you can catch here include:
Saltwater:
- Cod
- Haddock
- Whiting
- Halibut
- Salmon
- Mackerel
- Skate
- Herring
- Sea Trout
- Pollock
- Coalfish (Saithe)
- Ling
- Conger Eel
- Redfish
- Flatfish such as plaice, turbot, and sole are also abundantly present.
Freshwater:
- Salmon
- Pike
- Rainbow Trout
- Brown Trout
- Grayling
- Perch
- Carp (minimal)
Practical guide to fishing in Norway
I share all the essential information you need for a successful fishing day in Norway, from fishing permits and regulations to fishing gear and supplies.
Fishing methods and their popularity vary by region. Here is my perspective on the most realistic distribution of popularity:
- Oslo and Surroundings – Oslofjord This region is great for sea and shore anglers. You can fish for species like cod, mackerel, and herring. Vertical jigging and trolling are popular techniques.
- Northern Norway – Lofoten and Tromsø This is a top destination for both sea and fjord fishing. Large halibut and big cod are highly sought after. Deep-sea fishing and vertical jigging are popular techniques.
- Western Norway – Bergen and Stavanger This region is known for both sea and fjord fishing. Here, you can catch cod, halibut, and mackerel. Wreck fishing is also popular.
- Central Norway – Hemsedal Hemsedal is a small town and municipality in South Central Norway, with just under 2000 inhabitants. Nearby the town are numerous lakes and rivers, including the Hemsila, where you can catch various salmonids, eels, and brown trout.
- Southern Norway – Lakes Mjøsa and Randsfjorden These lakes are located in the municipalities of Gjøvik, Land, and Toten. Larger cities such as Lillehammer and Hamar are nearby the lakes. Mjøsa is the largest lake in Norway, covering an area of 362 km2 and reaching depths of 444 meters. Randsfjorden, the fourth-largest lake in Norway, spans an area of 139.23 km2 and has a depth of 120 meters. In these waters, you’ll find various fish species, but primarily pike, perch, and trout.
Best fishing spots and locations in Norway
Norway offers an abundance of great fishing spots that will enchant you. Here are some of the most interesting places to fish in Norway:
- Lofoten
- Hitra
- Loppa
- Skogsvåg
- Kristiansand
As you gain more experience in Norway, you’ll discover which places appeal to you the most in terms of fishing and wildlife. This is something I’ve also noticed in myself and fellow anglers. Depending on your type of fishing and interests, your preferences may vary.
Sea fishing in Norway
In Norway, you can catch beautiful species like cod, halibut, mackerel, and pollock. Deep-sea fishing, pelagic jigging, and trolling are the most effective techniques.
Sea fishing in Norway is an unforgettable experience that many anglers look forward to annually. The summer months through September offer ideal conditions to head out from ports like Skogsvåg, Trondheim, Stavanger, or Oslo.
Another beloved destination for sea fishing is Hitra, a fishing mecca where anglers from all over the world flock for a week or two of pure fishing pleasure. The fisheries of Hitra have long been known for their excellent quality. The fishing grounds offer a diverse landscape of deep channels, small islands, and drop-offs.
Here, you can catch impressive coalfish up to 15 kilos and ling that can exceed 35 kilos. Action is definitely present here, even if it’s not a daily occurrence.
For anglers, Dolmøy Gjestebrygge offers everything needed for a successful trip. This fish camp, located on the subsidiary island of Dolmøy of Hitra, is one of the best in the region. It’s known for the quality of accommodations and boats, and its advantageous location. The fjord offers a unique opportunity to catch flatfish with light gear. Heading west, in the shallow waters of Kjerrigsvågtaren, you can always count on catches of cod, coalfish, and pollock due to the currents in this area.
The underwater mountains of Hallar- and Edøyrevet are also popular locations where large coalfish, cod, pollock, and halibut are found. Further west, depths of over 100 meters in channels provide hiding spots for large ling.
In late spring and summer, schools of mackerel and small coalfish gather above these depths, attracting predatory fish for spectacular hunting scenes. Places like Nord-, Med-, and Sørklallen, and the underwater mountain range Tirevet, offer numerous fishing opportunities.
The variety of active fishing with light gear, shads, and spoons for pollock and coalfish near the islands makes Dolmøy Gjestebrygge a location with diverse fishing opportunities.
Fishing in rivers and lakes in Norway
Norway is abundant in rivers and lakes where you can fish for salmon, trout, and other species. Central Norway, with regions like Trondheim, is particularly known for its river and salmon fishing. Various fishing techniques such as fly fishing and spinning can be applied here.
During my trips to Norway, I have had the opportunity to fish in the rivers and lakes of this beautiful country. In various areas, like the lakes Mjøsa and Randsfjorden, I could catch perch, pike, and trout. The Tana river proved to be an excellent spot for salmon fishing, while the Hardangervidda plateau was better for trout. Fishing in the Norwegian rivers and lakes is a unique experience that I won’t forget anytime soon.
Fishing in the fjords of Norway
With no less than 1,190 fjords and the second-longest coastline in the world, Norway offers an unparalleled experience for every fishing enthusiast. The fjords are not only impressive to behold but also rich in fish species and fishing opportunities. Additionally, numerous lakes and rivers contribute enormously to Norway’s fishing offerings. Norway is also an ideal country for going off-road and wild camping.
Pike fishing in Norway
The Steinsfjord, connected to the Tyrifjord, offers excellent fishing opportunities, especially for pike and large trout in the Tyrifjord. The location is not prone to much wind and is suitable for various freshwater fish species. The area has shallows, reed-rich bends, and islands with good fishing spots. The narrowing at Storøysundet is also good for pike. The area is only 35 km from Oslo and offers non-fishing-related activities.
The Dokkadelta in the north of the Randsfjord is great for fishing. Here, you will find a lot of pike and perch, especially around small islands and reed beds. The deeper parts of the fjord are good for trout and grayling. The Randsfjord stretches over 75 km and offers ample fishing opportunities.
Odnes, at the northern end of the Randsfjord. The area is known for pike, perch, and trout.
Ice fishing in Norway
Winter offers a unique fishing experience in Norway: ice fishing. Especially in Northern Norway, you can stand on the ice during the colder months and fish for species such as salmon, trout, and pike. Ensure you have the right ice fishing gear and enjoy this special way of fishing.
Fishing license in Norway
For fishing in Norway, you usually need a fishing license. These licenses can vary by region and type. It’s important to be aware of the fishing regulations and to purchase the right licenses before you go fishing. This not only contributes to sustainable fisheries and preservation of the fish population but also saves you money.
Before I first cast my line, I took the time to read up on the rules that apply. Norway is strict when it comes to adhering to these rules, with fines that can run up to £ 4250 for violating fishing laws. It’s important for sea anglers to know that you cannot sell the caught fish and can only take home no more than 18 kg of fish.
In Norway, you need a fishing license (‘fiskekort’ in Norwegian) to fish in lakes, rivers, and streams. Licenses are available online or at local stores and campsites. They are area-specific, so choose your location before purchasing. There’s an additional charge for salmon and sea trout, not for children under 18 years. Saltwater fishing in fjords and the sea does not require a license. Check www.miljodirektoratet.no for more information.
3 Golden tips for a successful day of fishing in Norway
As an experienced angler in Norway, I’d like to share some useful tips and techniques that have greatly helped me and can contribute to a successful fishing day:
- Local Knowledge: Talk to local fishermen and fishing guides. They know the best spots, techniques, and seasonal patterns.
- Adapt: The weather in Norway can be unpredictable. Ensure suitable clothing and adapt your fishing techniques to the conditions.
- Respect Nature: Norway is blessed with beautiful natural environments. Leave no trash, respect fishing quotas, and practice sustainable fishing. The Ideal Season for Fishing in Norway Norway offers great fishing opportunities all year round, but each season has its own highlights. Discover which fish species you can best catch during the different seasons.
The ideal season for fishing in Norway
Norway offers great fishing opportunities all year round, but each season has its own highlights. Discover which fish species you can best catch during the different seasons.
Spring (March, April, May)
In spring, nature awakens, and the waters come to life. This is the season when many fish species become more active and start feeding. Salmon and trout are abundant in rivers and fjords.
Summer (June, July, August)
Summer is the peak season for fishing in Norway. Warmer weather causes many fish species to move to shallower waters. Sea fishing and fjord fishing are both popular.
Autumn (September, October, November)
Autumn is a beautiful time to fish in Norway. Many fish species are active and preparing for winter. Both sea fishing and fishing in rivers and lakes are popular.
Winter (December, January, February)
Even during the winter, there are fishing opportunities in Norway. Ice fishing in the north is unique and offers the chance to fish for various species.
Fishing in Norway with the family
Norway also offers excellent opportunities for family fishing throughout the year. Even in winter, there are exciting fishing adventures, especially targeting species such as pike and zander. Although these predatory fish may be deeper during the colder months, they remain active and ready to bite. Make sure to use the right techniques and bait to fish successfully during the winter season.
Norway is known as a top destination for anglers of all ages throughout all seasons. Each season offers unique experiences and the chance to catch your favorite fish species.
A family adventure in Norway, where you can enjoy the abundant fishing opportunities together, will undoubtedly create unforgettable memories. So, gather your rods, prepare for fun, and experience fantastic fishing moments with your family in beautiful Norway.
Fishing gear and supplies for fishing in Norway
To fully enjoy your fishing experience in Norway, it’s crucial to bring the right fishing gear and supplies. Here is a list of essential items:
For us, there are two types of fishing equipment ideally suited for fishing in Norway. One is suitable for catching salmon and trout, with a medium/light spinning rod that is also ideal for sea trout.
Another suitable equipment is a sea fishing boat rod. With this, you can catch all sea fish species well, southern Norway suffices up to 30lb, but if you go further north, take a 50lb or heavier boat rod. At sea in Norway, it’s best to fish with a reel, due to the pressure that comes on the shaft.
However, it is recommended to choose a rod that is specifically tailored to the intended fish species. For specialized advice on this, you can always contact experts at BIVoutdoor.
Fishing holiday in Norway
If you really want to enjoy an unforgettable fishing experience in Norway, why not plan a fishing holiday? Here are some great options for a stay by the water:
Top 5 Waterfront Cottages in Norway
- Cottage in Skogsvåg
- Cottage in Hitra
- Cottage in Saltstraumen
- Cottage in Oslo
- Cottage near Forsand
Top 5 Camping Spots by the Water in Norway
- Camping Ekeberg
- Camping Saltstraumen
- Camping Fossumsanden
- Camping Byglandsfjord
- Camping Vennesund
With this comprehensive guide to fishing in Norway, you have everything you need to have a great fishing experience in this beautiful country. Whether you want to trout fish, predator fish, or sea fish, Norway offers an unforgettable time for every angler. Enjoy your fishing holiday in Norway and create memories that last a lifetime!
And, “Powered by Nature”… That’s what I think too, because Norway is beautiful!