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Overview
A stunning, 90km long river that flows from Lake Grænavatn down to the glacial river of Hvítá, Stóra Laxá is famed for its combination of incredible runs of multi sea winter fish and spectacular Icelandic scenery.
Located only 90 minutes from Keflavik Airport and divided into distinctive Upper and Lower sections across 4 beats, the river boasts over 110 fantastic pools ranging from rocky, fast flowing canyons to calm and meandering plains of gin clear water.
Capable of hosting 10 rods at a time in two modern lodges (one fully catered, one self-catered), anglers can expect a true test of skill against big, hard fighting and acrobatic Atlantic salmon across the 3 month season – as well as plenty of opportunities to go after sizeable brown trout and Arctic char.
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Fishing
Lower Stóra Laxá offers over 60 marked pools for 6 rods across this medium sized river – all with a fantastic variety to them.
From fast rocky pools and canyons at the top end, the river then opens up on to gorgeous meadows with slower, cutback pools full of big multi sea winter fish. This section is the most easily accessible and accommodates all levels of angler. It also boasts the most famous and productive pools on the river, featuring some of the largest salmon you’ll come across in Iceland.
Upper Stóra Laxá offers around 50 various pools for 4 rods, and also covers everything from short fast runs to big slow pools, though the terrain in places can be tougher. It also features without doubt one of the most stunning salmon beats in the world – Canyon beat – both in terms of the fishing available and the majestic views of gin clear water running through a variety of stunning canyons.
Both the Upper and Lower Stóra Laxá provide anglers plenty of fantastic opportunities to catch trophy Atlantic salmon, sea run brown trout and Arctic char on both single and double-handers, with 11 hours of fishing dedicated to each rod every day.
Rod sharing is available, while guides are also provided between 2 anglers on the Lower section.
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Accommodation
Both the Lower and Upper Stóra Laxá have beautiful accommodation available for visiting anglers, whether they’re on their own or sharing a rod with a friend.
Lower Stóra Laxá Lodge is the primary operation, and offers a fully catered lodge located on the farm Skarð, right next to the river. The combination of traditional Icelandic farmhouse and rustic sleeping huts makes this a superb place for anglers to base themselves for their trip, with the lodge featuring 3 twin bedrooms, living and dining area and a hot tub. There are also two newly refurbished sleeping huts close to the main lodge, each featuring an en suite and veranda.
Upper Stóra Laxá Lodge is a self catering lodge and has sleeping accommodation for 9 people in 5 double bedrooms. It comes with all needed appliances, a hot tub and bbq on the veranda. Catering service can also be arranged upon request.
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Food & Cuisine
Lower Stóra Laxá Lodge comes fully catered, with an in-house chef cooking a variety of local and international cuisine.
Upper Stóra Laxá Lodge is self-catering, however catering can be arranged on requested.
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Example itinerary
DAY 1 – HOME CITY TO REYKJAVIK
- Fly from home city to Keflavik International Airport
- Transfer from Keflavik International to Lower Stóra Laxá Lodge. Approx 1.5hrs
DAYs 2 to 4 – CONTINUED FISHING
- Continued fishing and overnight stay at the lodge and river
DAY 5 – HOME
- The transfer will take you directly to Keflavik International Airport
- Fly to home city
- Continue with your own arrangements
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Specifics
INCLUDED:
- Full board accommodation at Lower Stóra Laxá Lodge
- 1 Guide between 2 fisherman
- Fishing for three days (includes two half days)
EXCLUDED:
- Transfers from airport to lodge
- Gratuities
- Flights
- Any extra hotel in Iceland outside of the Lodge
- Items of a personal nature
Lodge
Stóra Laxá
Location
Suitable gear
The weather in Iceland can be very temperamental – especially in the early season – so having the appropriate layers is essential. The summer months (June/July) generally bring warmer weather, but we’d advise that you always have a rain jacket at the ready. Iceland does however have very little insect life, so you don’t need to worry about midges.
We’d recommend taking 9-10ft 6-8wt rods and 12-13ft 8wt rods, supported by strong, multi-purpose reels.
Integrated lines are also a must for Iceland as you will often be stripping flies. The LOOP Synchro Tactical Salmon line is a firm favourite, and will cover you for all eventualities.
Please feel free to call one of our team for advise on tackle and equipment.