Fly fishing is a method of angling that dates as far back as 200 CE. Devotees of this sport claim that it’s the most challenging and fulfilling model of fishing. If it isn’t this, it is at least the type of fishing that has inspired the most literature.
So what’s the big deal? If you’re a fan of this sport, you probably know what makes this sport so special. If you haven’t fly-fished before, you may be curious to find out.
No matter your beliefs, you’re welcome to come fly fish in Norway. This beautiful Scandinavian country is an excellent place for a fly fishing adventure. Read on to learn why.
What Is Fly Fishing?
The main difference between fly fishing and bait or spin fishing is the weight of the line. The fishing line used in fly fishing is heavier. This heavy weight allows the angler to propel his or her artificial lure forward.
To throw the lure, fishers will whip their long fishing rods back and forth. The lure can then land right on top of a school of fish.
Fishing Rods Used
Fishing rods used by fly fishers range from 7 to 11 feet in length. The body of the rod is typically made of bamboo, fiberglass, or carbon fiber. Manufacturers often wrap these materials in plastic.
Artificial Lures Used
The artificial lures or flies that fishers use often imitate some form of animal a fish would like to eat. These include fish, insects, and crustaceans. Others are simply made of materials that can attract fish.
Two other categories of flies include wet and dry flies. A dry fly floats on top of the water and hardly gets wet. Flies that don’t do this are wet flies.
How to Fly Fish
Is all this information new or fairly new to you? If so, you may want to learn a bit more about fly fishing before you head to Norway. You may find the trip more enjoyable if you go there well-prepared and manage to catch something.
Why Fly Fish in Norway
Norway is a Scandinavian country in Northern Europe. In addition to its 19 counties, it also has over a thousand rivers and several hundred thousand lakes. Almost all of these are full of fish.
But the sizable fish population isn’t the only reason Norway is an excellent fishing destination. Norway flyfishers have many more features that they can enjoy while they fish.
Beautiful Scenery
A fishing adventure in Norway should also end up becoming a sightseeing adventure. Along with bright blue glacial rivers and crystal-clear small waters, the country is filled with gorgeous forests and mountains. Make sure to bring a camera!
Longest Coastline in Europe
If you’re interested in saltwater fly fishing, you’ll have numerous places you can do it. The Norwegian coastline is the longest of all European countries.
“Every Man’s Right” Law
In the United States, the government limits when and where you can camp. This isn’t the case in Norway.
The country’s “Allmennsretten” (“every man’s right” in English) law allows you to roam almost anywhere your heart desires. You can also find any one spot in nature to camp and stay there for three days.
Easy Public Access
Unfortunately, you will need a fishing license to go fishing in many public spots. However, the fish licensing system in Norway is much smoother than the one in the United States. Most regions will let you access their rivers if you pay a small fee.
In addition, the coast of Norway is 100% publicly accessible. You don’t need a license to fish in it. Just make sure that you stay in the tidal zone while wading.
Where to Go Fly Fishing in Norway
As watery as Norway is, some fly fishing spots are better than others. Here are some places that are excellent for fly fishing:
Tromsø
Tromsø is a city located on the island of Tromsøya. The fact that it’s surrounded by water alone proves that it’s a good fishing spot. The city also offers snowshoeing, whale-watching, and more (click here to learn more: www.acinorway.com).
FermundEndergal
Boasting nearly one thousand lakes, this city is only close to 200 miles from Norway’s capital, Oslo. In these many lakes, you can find fish species like pike, perch, trout, grayling, and more.
Trøndelag
Trøndelag is a city that sits right in the heart of Norway. It has yummy food, beautiful buildings, and perhaps some of the best salmon rivers. Other fish the region boasts include cod, haddock, and halibut.
Tips for Fly Fishing in Norway
As great as fly fishing is in Norway, it isn’t as easy as it may seem. Consider using the following tips for a better overall experience:
Fishing Seasons
The best season for freshwater fish in Norway starts in May and runs for the rest of the summer. However, if you’re interested in grayling fish, try searching in the mountain streams in September and October.
Fishing License Limits
Most fishing licenses have time and fish quantity limits. In addition, fish licenses are usually only valid for specific areas. Make sure you know where you’re going and which license applies before you buy a license.
Extra Fishing Fees
If you want to catch certain types of fish, you’ll need to pay a small fishing fee on top of a license fee. This fee applies to sea trout, salmon, and Arctic char.
Learn More About Fishing Now
Now you know a fair amount about how to fly fish in Norway. This puts you well on your way to starting your Norwegian fly fishing adventure.
Do you want to learn more about fishing? If so, our sports section likely has what you need. We also have plenty of articles on health, beauty, travel, and more.
Go read them now to get some excellent advice.
