Fly Fishing

• Iceland – The Land of Fire & Ice, and Big Browns

  

  Part III – Fishing the Highlands Near Húsafell

  In July of 2025 I was blessed to be able to take my first fly fishing trip to Iceland. This article is the third in a four part series recounting my experience there, including what went well and what I will do differently when I return. Part One explained the planning and logistics of the trip, while Part Two was about my fly fishing on the northern coast near Akureyri and Húsavík. This article covers my day of fishing in the Highlands region and then Part Four will describe the other non-fishing highlights of the trip.

  The Highlands region of Iceland is the term used for the main interior of the country, as opposed to the valleys and rivers along the coast. To describe fishing in the Highlands would be similar to trying to describe the fishing in the state of Colorado. It’s complex. It’s not just one little area with a few rivers and lakes. It is a large region, with a lot of variety, that would take a lifetime to explore. I was staying with my wife in a hotel in Húsafell, and had just one day to fish while she spent the day getting over her jetlag, having just arrived in Iceland the day before. So I didn’t have a lot of time. I had obtained a one day fishing permit for a day of DIY fishing in an area called the Arnarvatnsheiði region. I obtained the permit through Fish Partner, one of the two primary booking partners and guiding services in Iceland that markets here in the United States. They were extremely helpful and responsive to all my questions as I prepared for the trip. They provided me with maps, instructions where to park, and even recommended certain lakes and rivers. This proved critical because with the countless number of lakes and rivers in the area, I wouldn’t have had any idea where to go without their help. Fish Partner has access to many rivers and lakes in Iceland and I highly recommend them, whether it’s for a fully guided trip or for DIY fishing. Without question I will be enlisting their services in the future.

  The day started with my wife and I driving to Húsafell from the northern coast, so we didn’t arrive at our hotel until about 10:00 AM. It wasn’t exactly the early start that I like while on fishing trips. This trip, however, was now transitioning to a wonderful vacation with my wife. So it was beginning to have a slightly different feel than the locked-in, all day, fishing I had just finished up near Húsavík. After checking-in and unloading all of our suitcases, I was finally able to leave the hotel for fishing around 11:00 AM. The Arnarvatnsheiði region was about an hour’s drive from the hotel by way of one of Iceland’s F-Roads. F-Roads is the term given to the dirt roads in Iceland that require a 4 X 4 vehicle. I rented a Suzuki Jimny, which are allowed on the F-Roads, but may not be used for river crossings. If you are planning on fishing the Highlands of Iceland, be sure to know which F-Roads you’ll be driving on and make sure you have an appropriate vehicle. If there are river crossings, which many of them have, you will need a 4 X 4 that is capable of make those crossings. I knew that where I was going in the Arnarvatnsheiði region that the Jimny would get me there, but I did make sure to first double-check this with Fish Partner, when I made my booking.

  

  You can see from the picture above what the weather was like on the day I fished in the Highlands. It felt like I was in a cloud, with intermittent rain throughout the day. When you come to fish Iceland, you need to be prepared for weather like this because you can count on having at least a few days socked-in with rain. It’s not a problem if you’re prepared. I actually enjoyed it. It made this day a memorable one, and I actually enjoy fishing in the rain. The only drawback regarding the weather was that this region sits at the base of a massive, glacier-capped, mountain that I unfortunately never saw! The roads developed puddles by the end of the day but I was never concerned about getting stuck or stranded.

  The lakes and rivers in the Arnarvatnsheiði region of the Highlands are full of strong, healthy, brown trout and Arctic char. I had shared a lodge the previous week with some anglers who had just finished fishing this exact same area that I was about to fish. They were a group of friends visiting from Germany who I hope to fish with, together, someday. We had a lot of fun sharing stories about trips we’d taken. In regard to their experience fishing this specific region, they circled on a map for me the exact location where they had had great success. It was the outlet stream below one of the many lakes. That spot became my goal, since I only had one afternoon and evening to fish.

  When I arrived at the part of Norðlingafljót I was to focus on, I parked my Jimny, got into my boots and waders, rigged-up my rod, strapped-on my hip pack and net, and set off to fish. What a wonderful feeling! I was parked about a mile downstream of my target destination, with a smaller lake about halfway up the system. The river was a slow, deep channel, that I fished as I worked my way upstream. I didn’t catch any fish. In hindsight, I wish I had taken more time with this section. I fished as I walked, but never really stopped to try different patterns or methods. I’m sure there were fish in that section of the river, and nice fish. It’s one of the many things I will do differently if I’m ever fortunate enough to return to this area. I was using a stimulator pattern to start with, and then I switched to a Chernobyl Ant pattern. That is what my friends on the northern coast had recommended, but like I said, I caught nothing.

  When I arrived at the smaller lake in the system, I didn’t spend time fishing the main body of the lake, but headed straight for the inlet. The lake looked pretty shallow, but I could see there was a good flow coming into it. I thought there might be some fish stacked-up there. I decided to put on one of my favorite combinations that I use here in Colorado. I tied on an Amy’s Ant, then about 3 feet of leader, and then a black Mayer’s Mini Jig Leach. Fish in Iceland are said not to be leader shy, so I was using 3X leader. This was nice because I was never really worried about the fish breaking my line. Almost immediately I had a fish on. It had taken the leach pattern and was screaming out towards the middle of the lake. It’s one of those fish that I’ll never forget. Not because of its size, but because of the setting. Here I was in the middle of the Icelandic Highlands, fishing in a mist as if I was in the clouds themselves. It was quiet, peaceful, with the only sound being the hissing sound of the mist hitting the lake. Then, the silence was broken by the sound that only a Hardy reel can make, as the fish pulled line from my reel. I was careful, not wanting to lose the fish, which eventually came to my net after a good long fight. It was a brown trout of about 19″ with beautiful spots. I continued to work the inlet area for another 30 minutes without success, so I decided to continue working upstream towards my primary destination. Like the section of river below, I wish I had spent more time fishing this inlet. I’ve since learned that this is a great spot to fish, holding both brown trout and Arctic char, some of them growing quite large. I wish I had spent more time there, just like the river section below, trying different methods and different patterns for the nice fish that were undoubtedly there.

  

  Most of the river above the small lake was pocket water that didn’t hold large fish. I caught quite a few, but they were in the 8″ – 10″ range so I moved up this section of the river quickly. As I approached the big lake, the river slowed and deepened into a really nice even channel of water. This was the spot I had targeted, and it looked promising. Right away I caught fish. Nice fish. Browns that once caught, started peeling line out of my reel as they headed straight up-river, trying to get back to the lake above. As in the small lake below, they fell for the black leach pattern. It wasn’t a long stretch of water, so I was only there for about 40 minutes, but it was a lot of fun.

  Unfortunately, this marked the end of the good fishing on this particular day. Having had success in the inlet section of the small lake below, I decided I wanted to try to fish the inlet section of this lake also. The problem was that it was a much larger lake than I anticipated and I underestimated the amount of time that it would take to walk around it in order to get to the inlet. It was a slow walk, over a lot of spongy, soggy, uneven ground. I spent about an hour walking around it to get to the inlet. Then when I got there what I found was an extremely shallow bay with very little current. It didn’t look good at all from a fishing standpoint. Further upstream there was another chain of lakes that I was told was good fishing. I started walking upstream, but wasn’t sure how long it would take. Every step I took meant a longer hike back to my car. I fished the stream as I went, pulling a few small trout out along the way, but wasn’t sure if I should keep going or if I should try to get back to my wife to have dinner with her. We had an understanding that I might fish well into the night, but I also wanted to be with her and not leaver her all alone at the hotel. So when I was about half way to the next chain of lakes I decided to turn back. I knew I could fish that first, smaller, lake on the way back, where I knew there would be fish. It took me about an hour to get back to that spot and I unfortunately didn’t catch any fish. Again, not knowing then what I’ve come to learn later, that is that it actually held a LOT of great fish, I wish I had fished it longer. I was content though. I had caught a lot of wonderful fish and in a setting that I’ll never forget. It’s a place I definitely want to return to someday. I learned a lot and I believe I will fish it even more successfully when I return.

  Takeaways: The Highlands is a massive area with a countless number of lakes and rivers worth exploring. Fishing coastal rivers for Atlantic salmon and sea-run browns will be the priority for most anglers, but don’t forget the Highlands. When planning an Iceland fishing trip, consider combining the two. Fishing both the coastal regions and the Highlands region on the same trip will make for a wonderful experience because of the variety of fishing that anglers will enjoy. In regard to the Highlands region, consult Fish Partner for recommendations where to go. They have several rivers they guide anglers on. They also can recommend places to do some DIY fishing and will assist in obtaining a permit. I’m even considering taking my backpacking gear with me the next time I visit the Highlands. Camping in the Arnarvatnsheiði region of the Highlands is permitted.

  When I go back, I want to be more careful with how I spend my time. During this trip to the Highlands I lost a lot of precious time walking around a large lake that wasn’t producing fish. If I had had several days in that area, losing a few hours wouldn’t have been significant. With only one day available to me, I should have used my time more wisely. I should have spent more time on the quality sections that I had found, working those areas with different methods and different flies to catch the large fish that were there. In order to fish the other chain of lakes that had been recommended to me, it would have been faster to walk back to my car and then drive upstream. I actually could have accomplished both in one day had I not lost all that time circling the large lake on foot. There is so much good water to cover that it’s not wise to spend too much time on water that’s not productive.

  When I go back I’d like to make sure to have three days in the area. There is one major river in Arnarvatnsheiði called the Norðlingafljót River. With one of those days I’d like to spend the entire day fishing the Norðlingafljót for its large brown trout and Arctic char. Then I’d like to spend the other two days exploring several of the other lake chains and their connecting streams, just as I did this last time. With three full days I think I could really start to get to know the area a little better. This last July I was there such a short time that all it really did was wet my appetite to go back. There is so much to explore there. What’s amazing to me is that the Arnarvatnsheiði region is only one of many, many, regions in the Iceland Highlands worth exploring. I never cease to be amazed at the amount of water in Iceland. The sheer number of lightly fished rivers and lakes that have wonderful fishing is staggering.

  Fish Partner has a few rustic cabins in the Arnarvatnsheiði region that can be rented. To save money, as I mentioned earlier, camping is also an option. The drawback of camping is having to deal with the inclement weather that is almost certain to be a factor. If you are considering fishing the Highlands, consult with Fish Partner and let them help you plan your trip. The are experts at it, friendly, and easy to work with.

  Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me if you’re considering taking a trip to Iceland to go fly fishing. My email address is bpflyfishing86@gmail.com. I’d be happy to answer any questions you have about the fishing portion of my trip. Also, please keep a lookout for the final article in this series that I’m planning on writing soon. It will review the second week I spent in Iceland with my wife, touring the country in a campervan. If you click the subscribe button below you will receive an automatic email letting you know when this article is posted to the site. Also, please follow me on Instagram and/or Facebook by clicking those icons below.

  

• Outstanding Fly Fishing and Backpacking Gifts

  

  Top 25 Gifts for Black Friday and the Holiday Season

  The holiday season is upon us! As I write this, Black Friday is only two weeks a way, and Christmas is only 40 days away. What follows is a list of my favorite backpacking and fly fishing gear that I highly recommend. Each of these would make wonderful gifts for your friends or family members that actively enjoy the outdoors. I’ve included the list price of each item, as well as a link to where they can be purchased. Make sure to read all the way to the end where you’ll find a bonus gift idea, a once-in-a-lifetime type of a gift.. Shopping this year doesn’t get any easier than this!

  

  #1 – Best Value

  Katadyn BeFree Water Filter (1.0 L, 2.3 oz)

  List Price: $47.95, but often sold at a discounted price

  I never go fishing without my Katadyn water filter/bottle. In the past, I used to always carry a heavy bottle of water with me while out on the water. Now, I instead carry my lightweight Katadyn in a little pouch on my Fishpond hip pack. It’s collapsible, so it can be rolled-up and stored in a very small space. When I’m thirsty I simply take it out, scoop-up water from the river or lake I’m fishing in, and drink-up as much water as I’d like. When I’m done I dump the remaining water and return the bottle to its pouch. In case you’re interested, I bought a Gossamer Gear Hipbelt Pocket and attached it to my Fishpond hip pack. The Katadyn water bottle fits perfectly in it when rolled-up.

  

  #2 – Essential Apparel

  Outdoor Vitals Ventus Active Hoodie

  List Price: $189, 10% off for members, periodically will go on sale

  Not only do I always take this on my backpacking and fishing trips, but I find myself constantly wearing it during my everyday life. It only weighs 7oz and yet it is very warm. That’s what makes it unique, it’s weight to warmth ratio. It’s also what makes it a perfect item for backpacking where every ounce matters. The Ventus Active Hoodie is often all I need to stay warm and I usually wear it as an outer layer. When temperatures drop significantly it is a very effective mid-layer, with either a rain jacket or an even warmer jacket on top. It’s water and wind resistant, but it’s NOT completely waterproof. The Ventus Active Hoodie is incredibly comfortable because it is so light. I’ve bought 2 of them. If you’d like the same jacket, but with hand pockets and a full-length zipper, try the Outdoor Vitals Vario Jacket. I have one of those jackets as well!

  

  

  #3 – More Essential Apparel

  Outdoor Vitals Tushar Rain Jacket

  List Price: $219, 10% off for members, periodically will go on sale

  I’ve owned a lot of rain jackets through the years. Most of them begin failing after only a year or two. I’ve had my Outdoor Vitals Tushar Rain Jacket for three years now and it still keeps me perfectly dry. As a fisherman, one thing I appreciate about the jacket is that it doesn’t restrict my movements. I can cast a rod all day and it doesn’t bind. It also serves as my rain jacket when I go golfing. I’m able to take full golf swings without a problem. I often wear this as a shell over my Ventus Active Hoodie, a wonderful combination to stay warm and dry when the weather turns bad.

  

  

  #4 – Useful Backpacking Accessory

  Flextail Tiny Pump X (1.7 oz) – Rechargeable Air Pump

  List Price: $22

  The Tiny Pump X is a great backpacking gadget. It weighs very little, but it sure comes in handy on backpacking trips. After a long and tiring hike, it’s nice to have a pump to inflate my air mattress instead of having to blow it up on my own. The Tiny Pump also has a built in light that shines out of the bottom. I hang mine from a loop on the inside/top of my tent at night, allowing me to play cards or read before going to sleep. A fun, inexpensive, little gadget that makes for a perfect stocking-stuffer.

  

  #5 – Moderately Priced Fly Rod

  Fenwick Aetos – 9ft 5wt fly rod (Old Model)

  Fenwick Aetos – 9ft 5wt fly rod (New Model)

  List Price: $269

  There have been two fly rods brands that I’ve used consistently for many years now. I have several Hardy rods that Hardy doesn’t make anymore. I’d recommend them, but as I said, they’re no longer available. The other rod I own, and use frequently, is my Fenwick Aetos. It is a wonderful rod for the price, and a rod I’m very comfortable recommending. The first link above is to their “old model”, which is what I own, and is difficult to find. The second link is for their new model. I always recommend going into a shop to actually cast fly rods before buying them. After all, there are so many choices. However, if you’d like to give a rod as a gift without casting it first, you can be comfortable knowing this is an excellent rod, especially for the price.

  

  #6 – To Help Keep You Warm

  Sea to Summit Thermolite Reactor sleeping bag liner – (9.2 oz)

  List Price: $74

  For many years I didn’t know these even existed. When I first became aware of them I thought the concept of a sleeping bag liner made so much sense! They add extra warmth to a sleeping bag or quilt, which I appreciate because I’m a cold sleeper. They also can be washed, something that can keep your sleeping bag or quilt from smelling bad after a few multi-day backcountry trips. These Sea to Summit sleeping bag liners are not restrictive, they stretch very well when moving inside of them. That makes them perfect to pair with a quilt, which a lot of backpackers have turned to because they don’t want their movement restricted at night. I have found the combination of a sleeping bag liner and a backpack quilt to be far more comfortable than the old mummy bags I grew-up sleeping in.

  

  #7 – My All-Time Favorite Reel

  Hardy Narrow Spool Perfect fly reel

  List Price: $895

  I’ve had my Hardy Narrow Spool Perfect reel for 6 or 7 years now, and I still feel a thrill every time I put it on my rod to begin a day of fly fishing. It’s a work of art, but highly functional as well. This reel is so smooth when the line is reeled-in. “Smooth like butter”, as a friend of mine likes to say. The Narrow Spool Perfect is an expensive reel, probably not for a beginner. Also, it’s a click & pawl reel. I prefer them when fishing for trout, but they are a little different than most fly reels. Click & Pawl essentially means there is no drag. I wrote a complete detailed review of this reel last year – to read more click here. This is a great gift idea for someone who has been fly fishing a long time and who appreciates the nostalgic, artistic, aspects of fly fishing. Of course, it has to fit your budget too. It’s more of a special, once-in-a-lifetime type gift. Like I said though, my all-time favorite reel. It’s not even close.

  

  

  #8 – Chair for Comfort

  Big Agnes Mica Basin backpacking chair (2.6 lbs)

  List Price: $147

  One of the reasons I’ve tried to take advantage of the ultralight trend in backpacking is so that I can pack in a few “extras” and still meet my pack-weight goals. My pack will never be as light as a lot of the through-hikers who go 20+ miles per day, especially with all the fishing gear I pack in. I choose to save weight in other areas so that I can bring this chair in with me. It’s certainly not heavy, but there are chairs that weigh half as much. The difference is, I don’t think they’re nearly as comfortable as the Mica Basin. Part of the problem is that I’m over 6’2″, and the really light camp chairs don’t fit me quite right. The posts on the side dig into my sides a little bit. Not so with the Mica Basin. It’s a big enough backpack chair to fit someone my size comfortably, yet still not weighing too much to pack-in. I’m a big fan of this chair. At the end of a 10-mile hike into an alpine lake, and after setting-up my tent, it’s wonderful to be able to relax in such a comfortable chair.

  

  #9 – Inexpensive Gift Idea

  Flies & Leader packs

  List Price: $2-$4 per fly, or $17 for a variety box, $17 for a leader 3-pack

  I love flies. When my kids were growing-up and they asked me what I wanted for Christmas, I told them they didn’t need to spend a lot. Pick out a few flies, and that would be as good a gift as anything. Sure enough, with all kinds of gifts at my feet, it was the flies that I would sit and look at through the afternoon, appreciating that each one was tied by hand. If you have a fly angler that you’re looking to give a gift to, consider a box of flies and/or a few leader packs. The link above is to Discount Flies. I have no affiliation with them, but it’s who I buy my flies from when I don’t have enough time to tie my own. For a discount fly company, I have found that they sell quality flies. Visiting a local fly shop is also a good idea. They’d be happy to fill a box up with flies for you!

  

  #10 – The Top of My Wish List

  Outdoor Vitals Pursuit Hybrid Fleece

  List Price: $140, 10% off for members, periodically will go on sale

  This is the one of only two items on this list that I don’t actually have myself (the fly tying kit is the other). So to be clear, I’ve never worn this fleece jacket. The reason I list it here is because it’s at the very top of my wish list for the holidays. This is a new item being offered by Outdoor Vitals and I can tell they put a lot of thought into its design. I’ve bought so much clothing from Outdoor Vitals over the past few years. I’m confident this will be another great product. All their apparel is lightweight, comfortable, and functions as designed.

  

  #11 – One of My Favorites!

  Enlightened Equipment Torrid Booties

  List Price: $56

  I can’t even put into words how good it feels to slip my feet into these at night in my tent on our backpacking trips. Certainly not a necessity….these can’t be worn outside the tent unless you wear something to protect the bottom of them. They don’t weigh a lot though, only 1.7 oz., so they’re easy to bring along. They will keep your feet warm at night without them overheating. Truly one of my favorite items I take backpacking!

  

  #12 – Solid, Comfortable, Wading Boots

  Skwala Carbon Wading Boots

  List Price: $289

  While we’re on the subject of boots….This summer I was looking for a quality pair of wading boots for my trip to Iceland. Iceland is primarily a walk and wade fishery, and I needed boots with soles like hiking boots that would protect my feet over many miles of hiking along its rivers. These boots were incredible. They functioned much better than any I’ve ever owned in the past. They are solid, comfortable, and protect my feet. They aren’t cheap, but they will last a long time. I definitely recommend them. These are the first wading boots I’ve had without felt soles. I haven’t had any issues slipping while wading yet, but its something I’m going to be careful of in the future.

  

  #13 – Great Backpacking Food

  Peak Refuel Outdoor Meal Box

  List Price: $99

  Peak Refuel is my favorite brand of backpacking food, but there are many choices. Backpacking food can be an expensive, which makes this a perfect gift for you to give to a friend or family member who likes to go backpacking. Give them one meal, or several, whatever fits your budget. The link above is for a box with 14 total servings, including Chicken Alfredo – my favorite. Backpack meals can be purchased at any outdoor store and are usually offered in single units. Giving even just one or two will make a great gift!

  

  #14 – Remote Wilderness Fly Fishing Book

  Spot Pack Fly Fishing by PJ Emerson

  List Price: $23

  Spot Pack Fly Fishing is a 4-part book discussing how to access outstanding fly fishing destinations deep in the backcountry on horseback.  It’s about the adventure of riding horses, basic strategies on catching fish in the backcountry, the necessary backpacking equipment to bring along, and a timeline of preparation for the trip. Spot Pack Fly Fishing is a wonderful gift idea for any family member or friend that loves fly fishing and backcountry adventures. It is packed full of beautiful photography that is sure to generate excitement for their next fishing adventure.

  

  #15 – Quality Waders, Reasonable Price

  Briver Max Comfort Waders

  List Price: $159

  You don’t have to spend $500-$800 for a quality, reliable, pair of waders. I’ve worn these waders this past summer and was very happy with them. They are comfortable, durable, and keep me dry. That’s what matters to me. I wore them while crashing through beaver ponds in the Colorado high country, crossing the highlands in Iceland in search of large browns, and float-tubing on lakes while trolling for trout. Briver waders are a great value for those who want quality waders without having to spend too much. I wrote a complete review of the Briver Max Comfort Waders, which can be found by clicking here.

  

  #16 – High Quality Hip/Waist Pack

  Fishpond Switchback 2.0

  List Price: $119

  I used to always wear a vest while fly fishing. It was loaded with fly boxes and other items that would give me a sore back by the end of the day. I started looking for a pack system instead, but never could find one I liked. They were either on my chest, or my front hip, and were always getting in the way. Then I discovered the Fishpond’s Switchback 2.0. The pack slides back and forth on a track system. When I need something, it’s right there on my front hip. After I’m done with it, I push it out of the way behind me. The net holder works great too. I still use a vest when I’m on trips where I need to carry a jacket, lunch, and other gear. For simple day trips – you just can’t beat the Switchback system. They also offer a “Pro System” that holds more, but I prefer the smaller version. After all, the reason I’m wearing it is to be more light and nimble, and not feel like I’m hauling too much around. Also pictured, is my Outdoor Vitals Ventus Active Hoodie….I told you I wear it all the time!

  

  #17 – Long & Wide Sleeping Pad

  Big Agnes Rapide SL Insulated 25 x 78 (25 oz, 4.8 R Value)

  List Price: $179

  Big Agnes is one of my favorite manufacturers of backpacking equipment. I have found that you can count on the quality of their products. The Rapide SL pad is a high quality, comfortable, quilted, insulated pad that is perfect for backpacking. Some pads may weigh slightly less, or cost less, but I don’t believe in compromising a good night’s sleep just to save a few dollars. Good rest is important in the backcountry. For that reason, I’ve also made the choice to use long and wide sleeping pads. I’m 6’3″, so I need a pad that I’m not falling off of at night. The Rapide SL is my favorite pad that I’ve ever owned. I did have a leak once, near the valve, and Big Agnes replace the pad with a brand new one. You can count on excellent customer service from them.

  

  #18 – An Ultralight Tent Made for Stargazing

  Six Moon Designs Skyscape Trekker hybrid double wall tent (28 oz, 103” long interior)

  List Price: $285, but periodically will go on sale

  The Skyscape Trekker is a one-person ultralight trekking pole tent that is perfect for tall individuals. A lot of ultralight trekking pole tents are single walled, so condensation can be a problem. That’s not the case with the Skyscape because it’s double-walled. The sides of the Skyscape Trekker can be rolled-back providing a full view of the night sky. If you like looking at stars at night, this is a wonderful tent. I wrote a complete review of the Skyscape Trekker, which can be found by clicking here.

  

  #19 – Stability While Hiking

  Leki ultralight soft antishock (9.1 oz)

  List Price: $103

  I can’t imagine going backpacking without my trekking poles. First of all, my tents are trekking pole tents, so I need them for that purpose alone. More than that, they provide stability while hiking with a heavy pack on. At least once a trip I’ll step on the edge of a rock and feel my ankle beginning to turn. My trekking poles save the day because they stabilize me in those situations and keep me spraining my ankle. They also take a lot of the load off my knees, especially with the added weigh of a pack. Trekking poles are a great gift idea for a family member or friend that enjoys backpacking but doesn’t own a pair yet.

  

  #20 – Create Your Own Flies

  Orvis Premium Fly Tying Kit or Kingfisher Fly Tying Kit

  List Price: $200 (Orvis) or $99 (Kingfisher)

  There is great satisfaction in catching a fish that you have personally tied. If you have a friend or family member that also enjoys crafts, consider giving them a fly tying kit this holiday season. It takes practice to begin making quality flies, but it is a lot of fun. The Orvis link above includes materials as well as the vice and tools. The Kingfisher is just the vice and tools, so the fly tying materials are not included. I have not used either of these kits – the one I have my parents bought me when I was about 10 years old. I recommend stopping by your local fly shop or sporting goods store to ask more about this. Many fly shops offer fly tying classes that would be very helpful in getting started. They can also give advice regarding what kit and what materials to buy.

  

  #21 – For Cold-Weather Backpacking

  CamelBak Crux Insulated Tube

  List Price: $16

  While compiling this list I asked my son, who is also an outdoorsman, if he had any gift idea suggestions. He recommended an insulated water bladder tube. The water in a water bladder stays unfrozen while winter hiking because it’s in the hiker’s pack and is close to the hiker’s body. However, the water in the bladder tube outside the pack will often freeze, clogging the tube so that water can’t pass through it. This insulated tube will keep the water in the tube from freezing. A simple, inexpensive gift idea!

  

  #22 – Effortless Water Filter System

  Katadyn BeFree Gravity Water Filter (6.0 L, 8.9 oz)

  List Price: $115

  The number #1 item on this list was a Katadyn water filter bottle to carry while fishing. This water filtration system is for camp. For those of you who are older, you’ll remember the days of having to walk down to the water source and use a pump-water filter system. Pumping water through a filter was a lot of work. It was slow, and not particularly a lot of fun after a long day hiking. The Katadyn system is much easier. Backpackers simply walk to the water source, scoop water into the bag, then take it back to camp and hang it from a tree limb. Gravity does the rest. As the water passes from the bag to the tube, it goes through a filter that removes 99.9% of the bad things that can contaminate water.

  

  #23 – A VERY Bright light

   Black Diamond Spot 400 Headlamp (2.8 oz)

  List Price: $54

  When I look for headlamps, I look for ones with a high number of lumens of brightness. That’s because if I’m going to wear a headlamp I want it to be really bright, not dim. This Black Diamond headlamp had 400 lumens. It’s bright. I’ve used this now for about 4 years and have been very satisfied with it. Headlamps are great because they leave the user’s hands free for whatever may be necessary. A nice, moderately priced, gift.

  

  #24 – One Stop-Shop Fly Fishing Equipment

  Redington Rod and Reel Combo Kit

  List Price: $269

  This is a great gift for a friend or family member that wants to learn how to fly fish but doesn’t have any of the equipment. It includes a rod, reel, and fly line – the essential components necessary to get started fly fishing. I don’t have a Redington fly rod, but my son does, and it’s his favorite. There are other very trustworthy brands that also offer rod/reel/line combo kits such as TFO, Orvis, Cortland, and Echo. Some are more expensive than others, which is based on the quality of the rod and reel that are included. Check-in with your local fly shop or sporting goods store to ask for advice if you’re not sure which combo kit to purchase. Redington is quality brand you can trust.

  

  #25 – Camp Meals in a Flash!

  Jetboil Flash 1.0 Liter fast boil stove

  List Price: $145, but more typically sold for around $110

  I’ve been using my Jetboil for almost 20 years. They boil water in minutes, perfect for quickly preparing dehydrated meals, oatmeal, or soup. It has a convenient self-ignite button which makes starting the Jetboil easy. There are stoves available that weigh less, but it is difficult to beat the convenience of a Jetboil. I use mine every time I go backpacking.

  

  BONUS GIFT IDEA – Trip of a Lifetime!

  Diamond 4 Ranch pack trip

  List Price: Varies depending on if fully guided or a spot pack trip. My book Spot Pack Fly Fishing goes into great detail how to price-out such a trip.

  This is a very big gift, but also a very creative one to give to a family member who loves the backcountry and who loves to fish. It’s not an every-year type of a gift, rather it’s a special one that they’ll always remember. My buddies and I have hired many different outfitters through the years, and Diamond 4 is my favorite. Diamond 4 is a family business who has been guiding in the Wind River Range for many years now. They know exactly what they’re doing, and they are absolutely wonderful people. They offer all kinds of trips, including spot pack trips a and fully guided trips. I highly recommend them! They offer cabins to stay in the night before heading into the backcountry, and will even provide a nice hot breakfast the morning you leave. The region they take trips into has spectacular scenery and incredible fishing. They are the best!

  ---

  *** This post does contain affiliate links. This means that I may make a small commission if you purchase a product using those links. This in no way affects my opinion of those products and services. There are also products listed here for which I won’t make any commission. These gift ideas are products I use and recommend, regardless of whether I receive a commission or not.

• Iceland – The Land of Fire & Ice, and Big Browns

  

  Part II – Fishing Northern Iceland Near Húsavík

  In July of 2025 I was blessed to be able to take my first fly fishing trip to Iceland. This article is the second in a four part series recounting my experience there, including what went well and what I will do differently when I return. Part One explained the planning and logistics of the trip, this article will cover my fly fishing on the northern coast near Akureyri and Húsavík, Part Three will be about my day of fishing in the Highlands region, and part four will describe the other non-fishing highlights of the trip.

  The booking and guiding partner I used while fishing near Húsavík was Iceland Fishing Guide. My access to fish three different rivers was secured through them as well as my lodging. They also provided a guide for me on the specific days that I requested them. Fishing was either for resident brown trout, Arctic char, or Atlantic salmon depending on the specific river I was on. Fishing days were twelve hours long and broken into two sessions. The morning sessions ran from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Then, after the morning sessions there was a mandatory break – a good time to eat lunch and relax. The evening sessions would begin at 4:00 PM and continue until 10:00 PM. The idea behind the mandatory mid-day break is to give the fish a reprieve from the fishing pressure. I fished in the Húsavík region for 5 straight days. Weather was good the entire week, typically cooler in the morning and then warm and sunny in the afternoons. Of course in Iceland there are never any guarantees regarding the weather. In July it can either be warm and sunny, or it can be windy, rainy and cold. Average highs that time of year are in the 50s, and average lows in the 40s. In Iceland it never gets completely dark at night during this time of year.

  Before fishing on the first day, my guide drove us to one of the Iceland Fishing Guide lodges and we had my boots, waders, rods, and reels disinfected. This is a requirement in Iceland in order to help protect the pristine Icelandic rivers from any potential risk of infection from bacteria or diseases brought by anglers from foreign countries. It was a simple process that didn’t take long. After my gear was disinfected I was ready to fish!

  I began my Iceland fly fishing trip on the River Laxá, which is known for it’s large resident brown trout. I met my guide there at 1:00, and we set-off to fish the evening session together.

  

  Laxá in Aðaldal

  River Description: River Laxá is the largest river in the area and is known for its large brown trout. It is also a very wide river, which makes it wadable in many sections despite the volume of water flowing by. Anglers need to be cautious while wading, however, because the current can be deceptively strong in places and there are also sections that are too deep to wade. It’s a powerful river due to the sheer volume of water passing by with very strong currents. There are not a lot of boulders – this is not pocket water. There is an abundance of food in River Laxá and the fish exhibit incredible strength. The fish are fun to catch! Atlantic salmon are also present in River Laxá.

  Fish Species: Brown trout, Atlantic salmon

  Method of Fishing: River Laxá is a walk-and-wade fishery. In the early part of the season it is most effective to fish with nymphs and streamers. During the summer months fish start to look up and are more willing to take emergers and dries. When fishing streamers, sinking line may be used in the deeper water, but floating line is the norm and is really all that is needed. According to Iceland Fishing Guide, the average size of the brown trout range from 2 to 3 lbs., with some remarkable specimens weighing up to 8 lbs. caught annually. I used my 9′ 6-wt. rod so that I could cast into the wind and fight the larger fish. I used 2X and 3X tippet when fishing streamers. When I was fishing dries I went a little finer and used 4X. Everything I’ve been told by guides and have learned through reading is that Icelandic fish are not leader-shy. So I always used strong tippet.

  My Experience Fishing: My first three sessions fishing in Iceland were on the River Laxá, with each session getting progressively better. I was so excited the first time out on the water because I knew it held trophy browns. There was a very real chance of catching a “fish of a lifetime”. I arranged to have a guide for my first session, because having never fished Iceland before, I didn’t know if there were nuances to the river or if there were any specific flies that I needed to use. We started in a very wide and deep section that was known to hold large fish. I started fishing with dries, but wasn’t able to attract anything to the surface. My guide then had me switch to a streamer to fish the strong currents in that part of the river. I still wasn’t able to draw a strike.

  The wind was fierce, and there was a tremendous amount of vegetation drifting in the water. After each cast and retrieve, I would have to spend time cleaning-off my fly and tippet. I was having fun, but was starting to get a little discouraged because there was so much vegetation being carried along by the river. My guide taught me a trick to help keep the vegetation and weeds off my fly. We connected several sections of tippet with blood knots, but when we clipped the tag ends we left about half an inch sticking out. Then, when weeds would hit my leader and begin to slide down towards the fly, the weeds would catch on the knot tag ends and go no further. That was the theory, and it helped a little. A neat trick that I’m glad to know, but I still felt like I was constantly cleaning off my fly.

  We tried several different streamer patterns and were not having any luck. My guide gave me a salmon tube fly to try. A salmon had been caught in that area of the river a few days ago, and he said trout will also take that type of a fly. So I cast the fly out as far as I could towards the opposite bank and started to strip it in, letting it swing through the current. I had a solid take – a big fish. I worked it in towards me, but before we could get a good look at the fish it took off on a run that went all the way into my backing. The line was zinging out of my reel as the fish made its powerful run. Then it was gone. Just like that. When I reeled-in the line the fly was gone and we could see that the tippet had been cut. My best guess is the fish went around a sharp rock which cut the line. I probably had also accumulated about a pound of weeds on the line as well. So there was a lot of weight I was trying to reel in. My guide and I both wondered if it was an Atlantic salmon or a brown. He thought it was a salmon by the way it fought, but unfortunately we’ll never know.

  We only had an hour left of fishing that first day and I still hadn’t caught a fish. My guide took me to a very small tributary of the Laxá and I caught a lot of small browns. So I did catch fish that first day, but nothing big. It was a lot of work fighting wind and weeds, but it was still a great day. After fishing the tributary my guide drove me to where I’d be fishing the Geitafellsá River a few days later. That day was going to be unguided, and I didn’t have any idea how to get there or where to fish. It was extremely helpful to have my guide take me there, showing me where to go.

  

  The following morning I was assigned to a beat on the Laxá a little bit downstream from where I had been the first evening. This was a scheduled DIY day of fishing which meant that it was completely unguided. The river on this beat was wider and flatter than it was on my first session, making it much easier to wade. Fish were rising sporadically which had me pretty excited. After all, the reason I chose to take my trip in July was to be able to fish with dries. I fished for an hour-plus without any luck. Fish just weren’t feeding consistently enough on top. I couldn’t draw a strike, and was really beginning to get discouraged. I put on a hopper dropper rig with an Amy’s Ant up top and a pheasant tail beneath it. A nice brown took the pheasant tail almost right away. I’d finally caught a fish on the Laxá! The pressure that had been building from not having caught a fish yet out of the Laxá was gone. Then, a few casts later, another nice brown rolled on the surface, inhaling my Amy’s Ant! Things were just starting to get fun. After releasing that fish I continued working my way up the beat. That’s when a noticeably bigger brown fell for the Amy’s Ant. I fought it for a long time, but once again a lot of weeds accumulated on both the fly and the fish. Like the night before, all of a sudden the fish was off. This time the line didn’t break, the fly just came out. Devastating! It was a trophy brown, I’d guess around 25″. I worked the rest of the morning session without another look at my fly, a bitter taste left in my mouth from the lost fish.

  I wasn’t very optimistic when I began fishing the River Laxá for my final session that evening. I’d fished many hours on it with only a few fish caught. They were nice fish, strong 17″-19″ browns, but only a few of them. Those first two sessions had also been a lot of work because of the constant cleaning-off of weeds and vegetation from my fly. Even dry flies that I fished on the surface would pick-up weeds. My third and final session on the Laxá began with little action, just like my previous two sessions. Nor were there any fish rising anywhere. Then I decided to tie on a Slick Willy, a very flashy streamer designed by Kelly Galloup. No sooner had it hit the surface than a nice brown attacked it and I had a fish on. That was the beginning of a very fun night, because the fly consistently drew strikes the rest of the evening. I didn’t always hook the fish because sometimes they just bumped it, but finally there was a lot of action. Unfortunately I didn’t catch that “fish of a lifetime” on the River Laxá, but I felt like I was finally fishing effectively and having a lot of fun. As I wrote earlier, each session got progressively better. That trend would continue the following three days on the Geitafellsá and Reykjadalsá Rivers.

  

  Takeaways: Laxá in Aðaldal is an amazing fishery, there’s no doubt about that. I don’t think I’d go back in late July to fish it because of the amount of weeds carried along in the current. I’m patient, but at times it felt like I was spending more time cleaning-off the fly than actually fishing. I intend to ask Iceland Fishing Guide if the river is always like that, or if it can be avoided by going earlier in the season. I would without question return in May or June if the weeds weren’t present. It would be a lot of fun fishing for those large browns with streamers.

  Looking back on the experience, I wish I’d discovered the effectiveness of the Slick Willy fly earlier. I would love to have been able to swing it through the waters I fished the first night because I think I would have stood a pretty good chance of catching one of the really big browns that were up in that section. The lower section, where I fished the second day, was wider and shallower. That beat would be an amazing stretch if the fish were looking up and consistently feeding on the surface. That’s actually what I was expecting, but it didn’t materialize. I’d like to find out from Iceland Fishing Guide if there ever is a significant hatch on the Laxá. It’s shallow enough that you can attract the browns to the surface, but it would be fun if they were actually feeding on the surface consistently and it became a matter of matching the hatch.

  I was disappointed not to catch a huge, huge brown. Perhaps having a guide an additional session would have been wise. I only had my guide for the first evening, when I was really just getting settled-in. As I wrote earlier, each day on my trip got progressively better. Perhaps I should have saved fishing the Laxá for the end when I had a better feel for the fishing in that valley. I feel like my best chance at catching a trophy brown came and went quickly that first night before I had really begun figuring things out. I want to go back!

  Interestingly, I didn’t feel as remote as I thought I would while fishing the Laxá. There is cell coverage most everywhere so anglers are not forced to “disconnect”. This valley is largely active pastureland that is being operated by local landowners. I didn’t mind this and it was certainly beautiful. All of Iceland feels so much less populated than the United States. It’s a wonderful experience fishing there, but it is not a remote wilderness experience. For example, a fly-in Alaska trip would feel significantly more remote. That said, the beat system ensures that the rivers in the valley will not be crowded. Anglers can expect to have their sections of water all to themselves.

  My last comment for fishing Iceland in general, something I learned the first night on the Laxá tributary, is to bring a mosquito head-net. You won’t always need it. In fact, you might only need it on a couple occasions. However there will likely be a few instances when there will be an incredible number of little black gnats swarming around your head and the net will save the day. That first night I had gnats swarming around me everywhere. I did my best to fight through it and tough-it out, but it was a distraction to say the least. The same thing happened later on the trip and I decided to put the net on and it was an incredible feeling to have them kept off me. I’m telling you, it is worth it. These gnats don’t bite, thankfully, but they can be very distracting.

  Geitafellsá

  River Description: Geitafellsá is the smallest of the rivers I fished during my trip to Iceland. Lake Kringluvatn is where it originates, gently flowing down a long valley until it reaches Lake Langavatn. After passing an old farmhouse, it begins to oxbow, creating one deep bend-pool after another. The oxbows are connected by enticing riffles and runs. Geitafellsá is small water, but is just the kind I like to fish! According to Iceland Fishing Guide, in the summer the estuary of Lake Langavatn will be full of hundreds of Char that are drawn to the cold water entering from Geitafellsá. Good sized brown trout are present in Geitafellsá throughout the summer, with Arctic char migrating into the river in late summer to spawn.

  Fish Species: Brown trout, Arctic char

  Method of Fishing: Geitafellsá is obviously a walk and wade fishery due to its small size. The river is perfect for dry fly fishing and nymph fishing. A floating line is all you will need. I used my 9′ 5-wt. rod which was a little heavy for that sized river, but I wanted it’s strength in the evet I hooked into a large fish. I used 4X tippet, strong enough to handle a large fish but not too thick to scare them away. As I wrote earlier, Icelandic fish are not leader-shy.

  My Experience Fishing: I parked where Geitafellsá flowed under the road, where my guide recommended I park. The water in that spot was shallow and did not look as enticing as the oxbows which were about a mile downstream. I decided to head straight for the oxbows, which turned out to be a little more strenuous of a walk than I was expecting. Walking through Icelandic pastureland is not as easy as it looks because of the thick clusters of tufted grasses, called tussocks. Once I arrived at the oxbows it was clear that the effort was worth it. The depth of the pools were sure to hold better fish than the shallow riffle water I had walked past.

  As I began to scout-out and observe the first nice bend-pool, I almost immediately saw a rise at the tail end of it. Now I was really excited. I circled beneath the pool and tied on an Amy’s Ant with a Pheasant Tail dropper. This is the combination of flies that had caught fish for me on the River Laxá. I began catching fish almost right away, almost exclusively on the the Pheasant Tail. They were all beautifully colored Arctic char, which I’d never caught before. It was a morning I’ll never forget. They weren’t big, only about 12″-14″ but they were extremely strong. Later, my guide told me that Arctic char are the strongest fighting of all salmonoids. I’m not sure if this is really true or not, but I can tell you they fought harder for their size than most trout I’ve caught that were of the same size.

  I began working my way downstream, working closer and closer towards Lake Langavatn. It was good water, but I didn’t have the same success that I’d had in that very first pool. I noticed a nice looking section of riffle water between a couple oxbows and decided to give it a try. On my first cast, as I began mending my line, I saw the Amy’s Ant dart underwater, indicating that something had taken the Pheasant Tail. I immediately set the hook. The fish began pulling line out of my reel as it took-off upstream, making the classic “zing” sound we all love. When I finally brought it to net I was surprised to see that it wasn’t another Arctic char, but rather a powerful 18″ brown trout. It was the only brown I caught that morning. At that point, I didn’t have much time left in the morning session so I began to work my way back to the car. I stopped at the first pool where I’d caught the Arctic char, and caught a couple more. It was a wonderful morning. Not only had I caught my first ever Arctic char, but I got that nice brown trout as well. Even though I still had an evening session to go, my day was already a success.

  

  Takeaways: The Geitafellsá was an absolute joy to fish. As I wrote, it’s smaller water, which I very much enjoy. I’m also much more comfortable and used to fishing water that size. The big-fish potential probably isn’t the same here as with other rivers in the area, although nice fish are certainly possible. After catching the 18″ brown, I can’t help but wonder if there were even larger browns sitting at the bottom of some of the deep, deep, bend-pools in the oxbow section. Therefore, my big takeaway is that if I go back, as much as I enjoyed catching the smaller Arctic char and fishing with dries, I would at least spend part of the time targeting big browns by fishing streamers deep in those pools.

  I truly enjoyed the Geitafellsá, but it may not be for everyone. I love fishing small, meandering, meadow streams which is exactly what this river is. I don’t think this is the best option for those who like bigger water with bigger fish, offering opportunities to catch sea-run browns and Atlantic salmon. For those anglers, fishing a river the size of Geitafellsá may not be the reason they came to Iceland. I think it’s a nice break from the larger water, and something nice to insert into the middle of a trip for a change of pace. I think one session is enough though, and I would not have wanted to fish it again on this specific trip. That said, when I do return to the valley someday, I will definitely try to return to the Geitafellsá.

  Reykjadalsá River

  

  River Description: Reykjadalsá River, a medium sized river, is a tributary of the Laxá in Aðaldal and boasts amazing diversity. It is best known for its abundant brown trout and its increasing runs of Atlantic salmon. It flows through Lake Vestmannsvatn which is also an Arctic char fishery. These Arctic char will move up into the river in late July and August adding to the river’s diversity. Wading in Reykjadalsá rarely surpasses knee-deep, with grassy banks adorned with lush vegetation. It’s a beautiful river that changes character as you move upstream. In its upper reaches it is a fast flowing stream with miles of pocket water in a beautiful canyon. In its lower reaches it’s a slower-moving river and fishing can become a little more difficult, with more delicate presentations being required. Both sections offer excellent dry fly fishing and nymph fishing. Reykjadalsá River is a great river for anglers of all skill levels. It has an endless number of pools that are perfect for sight fishing to salmon once they’ve begun moving upstream beginning in late July.

  Fish Species: Brown trout, Arctic char, Atlantic salmon

  Method of Fishing: The Reykjadalsá River, like the other rivers in the area, is a walk and wade fishery. The method of fishing and the equipment needed varies depending on the species of fish being targeted. A 9′ 5-wt. rod with floating line and 4X tippet is all you will need when going after the brown trout. In some of the slower water in its lower reaches 5X tippet may be necessary. For the Atlantic salmon heavier equipment is required. I used a 7-wt. rod loaded with 15 lb. tippet when fishing for the salmon.

  In April the fishing for brown trout is primarily done with nymphs. In May the streamer fishing picks-up, resulting in aggressive takes and quick runs. June marks the start of the dry fly season for the resident browns.

  Atlantic salmon and Arctic char begin moving into the river in late July. Fishing for salmon is much different than fishing for trout. First of all, salmon flies are used instead of trout flies. Anglers can sight-fish for the salmon in the crystal clear pools of the Reykjadalsá. Flies are swung through deep pools and the long deep runs in the lower section. What my guide taught me was that when the salmon strike the fly, do not set the hook immediately! It has to do with how salmon take flies that are close to the surface. If anglers strike right away they will pull the fly out of the salmon’s mouth. Instead, I was taught to wait several seconds and then to lift my rod slowly and firmly. This is not easy for those of us who have fished for trout all our lives, because the natural reaction for any trout fisherman is to set the hook immediately when the pull of a fish is felt.

  My Experience Fishing: I had four sessions on the Reykjadalsá. It began with an evening session on the lower river fishing for Atlantic salmon with a guide from Iceland Fishing Guide. I’d never fished for Atlantic salmon before so I needed a guide to teach me what to do. As I wrote earlier, when swinging a fly on or near the surface for salmon, when the salmon hits the fly you’re not supposed to set the hook right away. Instead, you’re supposed to wait a few seconds while the salmon begins its descent with the fly in its mouth. That first evening, we began by casting to the far bank and letting the salmon fly swing through the pools. I had two strikes at my fly that we think were salmon, though we’ll never know for sure because we never actually saw the fish. In both cases I felt a pull from the fish and I immediately pulled back, probably yanking the fly out of their mouths. It was the wrong thing to do, but that’s what I’ve done my whole life when fishing for trout. As we moved downstream we did finally spot a few salmon, but weren’t able to get casts to them before they moved upstream and disappeared. I swung my fly through each pool where we saw them, hoping another salmon might be there, but wasn’t able to draw a strike. It’s tough when you get a few takes right away, miss them, and then never get another chance the rest of the entire evening.

  To make maters worse, at one point I accidently flipped my expensive prescription, polarized, sunglasses into the water. It took us about 20 minutes to retrieve them, during which time I had a large dose of cold Icelandic water pour into my waders as I reached down to pull them out. I was cold the rest of the night. Does that sound like a fun outing to you? Soaking wet, cold, and no fish? You know what, it still was. I was having a blast. I was in Iceland fishing for salmon. I had had a great morning where I caught a lot of fish, including beautiful Arctic char which I’d never caught before. I was having a great time. Fishing isn’t only about catching fish. Just pursuing them in a beautiful setting is often enough for me.

  

  My second day on Reykjadalsá was a day I’ll never forget. It was one of the best days fishing I’ve ever had, pursuing its resident brown trout all day. The morning session was on the uppermost beat in what they call the canyon section. It wasn’t a canyon like what we in Colorado would consider a canyon, with sheer rock walls on both sides that are hundreds, if not thousands, of feet tall. They call it a canyon because it wasn’t pastureland anymore and the river was banked by hills on both sides. The water in this upper section was pocket water, which I love to fish. I had a slow start with no strikes and no fish rising. I was using a hopper dropper set up with an Amy’s Ant and a Pheasant Tail, which had become my go-to setup because of the success I’d had with it on the other rivers.

  The fishing picked-up when I was about a half-mile into the canyon. I cast to a nice deep pool formed where the current was broken by a good-sized boulder. A beautiful brown come up to my fly, inspected it, refused it, then returned back to the depths of the pool. The game was on – I knew there was a fish looking up and that it was just a matter of time before I figured out what it would take. I thought perhaps the Amy’s Ant was too large of a fly, so I put on a small #16 caddis pattern. On the first cast the brown came up and took it. That was the start of a wonderful day. I spent the next few hours catching beautiful, strong, hard-fighting browns out of just about every enticing pocket and run. I fished right up to the 1:00 PM cutoff time, which marked the beginning of the mandatory mid-day break. It was the one time all trip that when the fishing session ended I didn’t want to leave. I had to honor it and simply turned and began the 2 mile walk back to my rental car. Thankfully I was back on the same river for the evening session, although on a different beat. My success there continued. I switched back to the hopper dropper rig and had fast action catching fish on both flies. The brown trout that day were all between 16″ and 19″, and were all healthy hard-fighting fish that made long runs. A wonderful day!

  The next day I was down to my final morning on the Reykjadalsá, and my last day in the area. I had caught so many browns the day before that I decided to purposefully target Atlantic salmon. After a few hours into the morning I caught one of the most memorable fish of the entire trip. I was on a bank 10ft above the water and started swinging a salmon fly through a run that looked promising. It was a type of salmon fly that stays right near the surface. On the second swing through, sure enough a fish slashed at the fly. I fought all my instincts and didn’t immediately set the hook, as I’d been taught. I waited a couple seconds then firmly lifted my rod. FISH ON! A few violent splashes on the surface, and the fish raced downstream like it was shot out of a cannon, peeling line out of my reel. I had that nervous anxiety we all feel when playing a special fish we really don’t want to lose. I started chasing it downstream through a field, rod high so the line wouldn’t get caught in the streamside vegetation (I was still 10ft above the river). At one point, I even had to climb over a fence in the field in order to keep up with the fish still racing downstream.

  Eventually the bank I was on lowered to river-level, and I walked out on a sand bar. I saw the fish in the gin-clear water. My first thought was it was a little small for a salmon, but I didn’t care. I just really wanted to catch one regardless of size. Then, my second thought was that the fish sure had a lot of spots on it – it looked much more like a brown trout. It was exciting. A thrill. But as the picture below shows, I didn’t catch my first ever Atlantic Salmon. Just a beautiful 20+ inch brown. That was the only fish I caught that morning because I was specifically targeting the salmon. Still, it was a great morning and the end to a very solid 5 days of fishing the valley.

  

  Takeaways: What I liked most about the Reykjadalsá River is its variety. It has both slow, meandering, water passing through pastureland and it also has tumbling pocket water in its upper section. It offers the opportunity to catch resident brown trout, Atlantic salmon, and Arctic char – though I didn’t personally see any Arctic char. Of the three rivers that I fished in the valley, this was by far my most productive. I caught the most fish, and the biggest fish out of the Reykjadalsá. I’m sure Laxá in Aðaldal has larger resident browns, but I didn’t catch them. The water in Reykjadalsá had none of the weed problems that the Laxá had, making it much more enjoyable to fish. For those who like fishing pocket water with dries, and if catching 16″-19″ fish sounds fun, then I highly recommend getting on beat #4 of the Reykjadalsá. Walk upstream for about a half-mile, and you’ll have all the pocket water you could possibly want.

  I really wish I’d caught an Atlantic salmon. That was one of my goals for the trip. In hindsight, I think I would have been better off having a guide for more than just the first session on this river. There were salmon present, and with a guide I might have caught one. I was there in late July, which was the very beginning of the salmon run. So although they were there, I’m not sure if they were there in great numbers. I was staying in the Reykjadalsá Lodge with a group of fisherman from Germany who were targeting the salmon. They were experts in fishing for salmon, having done so all over the world. It was a lot of fun hearing about the amazing destinations they’d been to and listening to all their stories. As expert as they were, only one person in their group caught a salmon, and that was on the last day. Just one. So even with a guide I still might not have caught one, but I do think I would have stood a better chance.

  Final Thoughts

  Wow! What a wonderful trip, and I can’t wait to go back! Iceland is spectacular. It’s a vast, open land, where you can see for miles and miles in any direction. I feel so blessed to have been able to do what I love so much, in such a vast and unique place. The people are friendly, my guides were friendly, and the fishing was amazing. Fishing in Iceland did make me realize how lucky I am to live in Colorado and to have the fishing we have in the western United States. Fishing in Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, etc. is also world class and this trip made me realize that. The drawback we have fishing in the States is that it is so hard to get away from crowds, and that most of our prominent rivers have been overfished. In Iceland, the rivers are neither overfished or overcrowded. I wish we still had that here in Colorado.

  When I go back I’d like to go during a different season. I went in July because fishing with dry flies is my favorite way to fish, and that’s when I was told Iceland had its best dry fly fishing. I would consider what I did a success from that standpoint, although Iceland does not seem to have hatches of the same magnitude that we do here in the United States. What I didn’t succeed in was catching a trophy-sized fish, meaning either a brown or salmon 25″ or even larger. Although that’s certainly possible on a July fishing trip, I think the chances would be greater going later in the year when sea-run browns are present and the Atlantic salmon runs are in greater numbers. I’d like to go back in late August or September to try and target those species. At that time there would also be a chance of catching a glimpse of the northern lights.

  I really liked the northern coast of Iceland. Having circled the whole country, I can say the northern coast was one of my favorite regions that we visited. The fishing is excellent there, and I will most definitely be returning. I want another shot at the Atlantic salmon and large browns that are there!

  Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me if you’re considering taking a trip to Iceland to go fly fishing. My email address is bpflyfishing86@gmail.com. I’d be happy to answer any questions you have about the fishing portion of my trip. Also, please keep a lookout for two more future articles I’m planning on writing. The next one will talk in more detail about the fishing I did in the Highlands region. My last article will be on the second week I spent in Iceland with my wife, touring the country in a campervan. If you click the subscribe button below you will receive an automatic email letting you know when these articles are posted to the site. Also, please follow me on Instagram and/or Facebook by clicking those icons below.

• Iceland – The Land of Fire & Ice, and Big Browns

  

  Part I: Planning and Logistics

  In July of 2025 I was blessed to be able to take my first fly fishing trip to Iceland. This article is the first of a four part series recounting my experience there, including what went well and what I will do differently when I return. Part One will explain the planning and logistics of the trip, Part Two will cover my fly fishing on the northern coast near Akureyri, Part Three will be about my day of fishing in the Highlands region, and part four will describe the other non-fishing highlights of the trip.

  Planning and Logistics

  Where to begin….where to begin. There is so much to consider when planning a fishing trip to Iceland, especially for somebody visiting for the first time. Admittedly, I am far from being an expert myself, only having ever spent two weeks there this last summer. There are hundreds of rivers in Iceland, which makes it a daunting task to try and figure out how to put a trip like this together – not to mention trying to learn how to navigate a foreign country. It’s a fun task though, and it’s well worth the effort to plan because Iceland is such an amazing place to visit and to fish. This article is about how I made my decisions surrounding my first trip there. I learned quite a bit, and am definitely planning on returning someday. Hopefully soon!

  There are five major decisions that need to be made when planning a fly fishing trip to Iceland; 1) What guide service/booking partner to use, 2) The species of fish to target, 3) What time of year to visit, 4) What region(s) to visit, and 5) The overall cost of the trip. These decisions don’t necessary happen sequentially. Rather they are all researched, thought about, and considered simultaneously, until a trip itinerary comes together and is actually booked. I think the planning of a trip like this is a lot of fun. It’s a time of dreaming about adventure, scenery, big fish, and time spent with friends and family. These types of decisions can be difficult when visiting any new region for the first time. I know that I certainly needed help and advice from the booking partners I utilized. Now that I’ve been there, I have a much better idea how I’ll proceed in the future when I return to Iceland to fish it again.

  My hope is that you will find this helpful in your planning, should you decide to give fly fishing Iceland a try!

  Guide Service/Booking Partner

  I’d been wanting to fly fish Iceland ever since I first starting seeing presentations about it while attending the Denver Fly Fishing Show, which comes through my area each year. There are always two companies that attend the show: Iceland Fishing Guide and Fish Partner. They each have a booth at the show, every year, where you can talk one-on-one with them and learn about fly fishing opportunities in Iceland. They also host seminars, complete with slide shows and videos, that really make participants want to go over there and fish.

  Anglers need to utilize a booking partner to access water in Iceland because they use a beat system there, similar to other European countries. This is different than our fishing in the United States. Here we have public land where individuals can fish virtually anywhere they like so long as they have a fishing license. In Iceland the rivers are broken into “beats”. Anglers gain access to these beats through local fishing companies, at a cost. This isn’t all bad, because it protects fisheries from being overcrowded and overfished. The beat system is part of the reason why Iceland fishing is as good as it is.

  I’m sure there are many other guide and booking partners that you could book trips through, but because the idea of fishing Iceland came to me from them, they are the ones I decided to use. Iceland Fishing Guide had a lot of choices along the northern coast near Husávik which looked appealing, including one river with extremely large resident browns. Fish Partner had access to water in the Highlands region which I also wanted to explore on my trip. They both were extremely helpful in suggesting an itinerary for someone like me, who had never fished Iceland before. I had a lot to learn because I was starting from scratch. I didn’t know the country, the towns, the rivers, or the fishing. I needed help deciding what time of year to go and where to go. Both companies were extremely helpful in this regard. If you’ve never been to Iceland before then I would suggest speaking to a guide service like this as your first step. They will be able to guide you through all your remaining decisions.

  

  Species, Fishing Method, and When to go

  There are several factors that must be considered when deciding what time of year to fish Iceland. The most important factor is the targeted fish species. Many anglers go to Iceland in hopes of catching a sea-run brown trout or an Atlantic salmon. The best time to visit for sea-run brown trout is from April to May, and then again from August through October. Atlantic salmon start running up the rivers in late July, but August and September are probably best. Arctic char start moving up rivers in July, but really start to get colorful in August. The Arctic char can also be found in many lakes throughout the entire fishing season. Lastly, resident brown trout are in most streams and can be targeted anytime from April through the end of the season.

  Another consideration when deciding when to visit Iceland is the angler’s preferred method of fishing. When fishing for the resident browns, April will be primarily nymph fishing. Then in May the streamer fishing for resident browns picks up. July and August is the time to visit for anglers who’s preference is to use dry flies. That is the basic timeline for resident browns. Spring and fall is a great time to visit for anglers who’s preference is to swing large flies and streamers for big fish like the sea-run browns and salmon.

  Iceland is primarily a walk-and-wade fishing experience. A lot of the rivers, at least the ones I fished, were shallow and easy to wade. One river, the Laxá í Aðaldal, got deep in spots, but the rest were relatively shallow. That said, I had to walk many miles and the terrain wasn’t always as easy as it looked. There is a lot of pastoral land with thick clusters of tufted grasses, called tussocks. They were tough to walk on. In the area of the Highlands that I fished, it was spongy, uneven ground that was also a challenge. Walking one mile felt like walking two miles. Right before leaving on my trip I bought a new pair of Skwala Carbon Wading Boots that proved to be critical. They supported my feet and ankles exceptionally well. I can’t even imagine what my feet would have felt like at the end of each day had I not had such a good, solid, pair of wading boots.

  There are likely some float trip options for anglers who prefer floating rivers, but not many that I’m aware of. I know that the guide and booking company Fish Partner offers a float rip option down the Blanda river. It provides access to numerous rarely-fished pools. That’s the one float trip that I’m aware of, but there may be more. If float fishing is your strong preference, ask the various guide services what they offer or what they recommend. An online search may also give you a good lead on a float guide service.

  My favorite type of fly fishing is with dry flies. That became my priority when deciding when to go, and that’s why I chose to take my trip in late July. It’s important for anglers to understand that hatches in Iceland are not like the hatches we’re used to in the United States. In Iceland there are some midge hatches, as well as some caddis hatches, but they are not prolific hatches with great numbers of bugs coming off the water. At least that wasn’t my experience. Here in Colorado, on the Arkansas River, we have what’s called the Mother’s Day Caddis Hatch. There are swarms of cadis in the air and they also blanket the water. When the wind blows, we get pelted by them because of the sheer number of caddis in the air. Don’t expect anything like that in Iceland. In Iceland they just don’t have the same bug life we do here. Attracter patterns will pull fish up, but you won’t see too many rises while fishing in Iceland. One thing that helped on my trip was that most of the streams I fished weren’t very deep. Fish didn’t have to ascend from great depths to take a dry off the surface. Water was relatively shallow, with fish only having to ascend a foot or two, which is why I think attractor patterns worked well. One effective combination was to use an Amy’s Ant pattern, with a pheasant tail dropper. I also had a wonderful day using a basic caddis pattern, fishing miles of pocket water with fish throughout. In summary, if you like fishing dries then July is a great month to go visit Iceland, but don’t expect blanket hatches like we have here. Talk to your booking partner about this if it’s important to you. They know their waters, and will be able to let you know what to expect in terms of fishing with dries, as well as the best time of year to fish them.

  Just a quick side note on bugs. There are thankfully no mosquitos in Iceland. However, there are great swarms of gnats around many of the lakes and streams. I strongly suggest brining a bug net with you to keep them off you. They can become quite a distraction!

  In addition to the dry fly fishing, I also wanted to have the opportunity to catch Arctic char, and to perhaps hook into an Atlantic salmon. Late July was the most likely time of year for me to accomplish all three of these goals. I did catch a lot of resident browns using dry flies and and I also caught my first Arctic char, which were absolutely beautiful fish. So the trip unfolded according to plan with those two species. Unfortunately, I did not achieve my goal of catching my first Atlantic salmon.

  Other factors that will influence the time of year to visit Iceland include weather, northern lights, and river access via the beat system. As you would expect, in the spring and fall there is a greater likelihood of inclement weather. The middle of summer can be quite nice, although storms will be present. September is the best month for those who want a chance of seeing the northern lights. Of course there’s no guarantee of seeing them, but it is possible. What’s not possible is seeing them in July when the sun never sets and it never gets dark. Lastly, as described earlier, Iceland operates on the beat system when it comes to river access. Therefore, availability of certain targeted streams may dictate when you choose to visit. Obviously the earlier anglers get in touch with a guide service or booking partner, the better the chance that desired streams will be available.

  

  Where to go – Regions

  Iceland has one road, called the Ring Road, that circles the country. In most cases the Ring Road is relatively near the coast, or on the coast itself. This road is paved in most places and can be driven in a 2-wheel drive car. A lot of the fishing, especially for salmon and sea-run browns, takes place in rivers that are near the ocean and in the vicinity of the Ring Road. Even though the Ring Road is passible with 2-wheel drive vehicles, I would still recommend renting some form of a 4-wheel drive vehicles because accessing some of the water requires driving on dirt roads. On several occasions we found ourselves driving through fields and pasture land on 2-track roads. The interior of the country, away from the coast, is referred to as the Highlands region. The Highlands also boast excellent fishing, but can be significantly more remote depending on the destination. Accessing the Highlands is most often done via what they refer to as “F-Roads”. These are roads that require 4-wheel drive vehicles. A lot of the F-Roads have river crossings that will require a more beefed-up 4-wheel drive vehicle. If you’re considering fishing the Highlands, make sure to research the roads required to get to your destination and make sure you have an adequate vehicle.

  Iceland has one major city called Reykjavik. Fishing can be found near Reykjavik at a lake called Lake Thingvallavatn, which is about a 40 minute drive from there. It is home to some very large brown trout that they refer to as “Ice Age Browns” as well as Arctic Char. It’s located in beautiful Thingvellir National Park which is on what they call the Golden Circle. It’s a beautiful area of Iceland, but not as remote feeling as other parts of the country. There are also certain parts of the Highlands that can be reached via a relatively short drive from Reykjavik that offer excellent fishing as well. I was not able to fish Lake Thingvallavatn, but would like to when I return. The ice age browns are known to go deep into the middle of Lake Thingvallavatn during the summer months, or I might have spent a day trying to catch one of them.

  Most of my trip was booked through Iceland Fishing Guide, and the water they have access to is on the northern coast. That’s where I spent most of my time fishing. There is a nice sized city on the northern coast called Akureyri. I flew from Reykjavik to Akureyri on a domestic flight, and rented a Suzuki Jimny there. Most of Iceland Fishing Guide’s water was in a valley near the smaller town of Husavik. There I was able to fish for resident browns, Arctic Char, and Atlantic Salmon. Sea-run brown trout can be found in this part of Icleand, but if they are a priority I think the southern coast may be a bit better. At least that’s what my research told me. I also spent one day fishing the Highlands in an area near the town of Husafell. This fishing was for resident browns and Arctic char. A beautiful area, though the day I was there it was socked-in with low clouds and rain. So I didn’t see much of the surrounding mountains. There are many lakes and rivers in this area. I accessed the area by working through Fish Partner guide service.

  There is so much water in Iceland to fish that in some ways it’s indescribable. I know in my one week of fishing that I only scratched the surface of all the wonderful fishing that’s available. Admittedly, I still know very little. Anglers who are considering a trip to Iceland should spend time researching possible destinations. Consider the fish species you most want to chase after and the accessibility of the water. Look at pictures of the rivers to see if you’re perhaps drawn to certain ones. Then, rely on guide services to give you advice as to where to go, especially if it’s your first trip there. Once you’ve been to Iceland once, and especially if you have time to circle the country on the Ring Road, you’ll have certain regions that you’ll be drawn to go back to. That was my approach this past year. It was in a lot of ways a scouting trip for me so that when I do go back I’ll know where I want to go.

  Other Considerations

  An additional element to the trip was that my wife and I wanted to visit Iceland together, and she doesn’t fish. Fishing days with Iceland Fishing Guide are 12 hour days. They start at 7:00 in the morning, include a mid-day break, then conclude at 10:00 at night. I didn’t know what my wife would do all day while I was fishing. I knew my attention would be divided. I’d be concerned for her and not free to fish. After four or five days I knew I’d even start to feel a little guilty, yet the primary reason to go was to fish! After much thought, we came up with the following plan – and it worked really well. I decided to fly out six days earlier than my wife did to focus on fishing. Then she flew out and we spent the following week touring Iceland together in a campervan, exploring the country. The downside of our plan was having to travel alone in a foreign country for the first time, and of course just missing her in general. I was seeing things I really wanted her to see, so I missed her. Despite that, I’d say that overall our plan worked well and I would recommend it. I was able to focus 100% on the fishing while fishing. Then when my wife was there I was able to be 100% focused on spending time with her, enjoying Iceland together. My attention wasn’t divided like it would have been had we traveled there together. Another way to manage a situation like this, if you have a spouse that doesn’t fish, would be to make it a couples trip. Go fishing with a buddy while the spouses spend time together. Then nobody would ever be left alone.

  Cost – Week of Fishing

  The final consideration that I had to manage was the cost of the trip. These trips can be very expensive, and Iceland is not a cheap country to visit. I found two ways to lower costs that you may want to consider if you’re on a tight budget like I was. The first relates to food. Iceland Fishing Guide offered some non-catered food options that were less expensive. There are restaurants in nearby towns that could be an alternative, but to eat out regularly would be even more expensive than the catered options. I decided to treat the food on my trip just as if I were going on one of my backpacking trips, and brought it all with me from home. I packed a Jetboil and had dehydrated backpack meals for dinners. My lunches were premade peanut butter and honey sandwiches, power bars, and Jerky. Breakfasts were a mixture of dehydrated meals (like biscuits and gravy), oatmeal, and power bars. I did go to local restaurants a couple times before my wife arrived for some fish and chips and other local favorites, but I was able to save quite a bit of money by taking my own backpacking food. Local food and local restaurants are a big part of visiting any foreign country in order to really partake in their culture. I probably wouldn’t have taken this approach had I not had a second week planned with my wife where we would be able to experience Icelandic food together.

  

  My second strategy for keeping the overall cost of the fishing within my budget was to only use guides part of the time. This is not something I would recommend for those who are still learning to fly fish. I’ve been fly fishing forty years now and am confident in fishing without a guide, and in many ways prefer it. Still, I certainly didn’t want to travel all that way to Iceland and not catch fish, just for the sake of saving a little money. That would defeat a lot of the purpose for even going. So there was a little balancing act between how much to use guides and how much not to use them. I ended up using a guide about a third of the time, and always the first half-day on a new river. I reasoned that I would benefit from a guide the first time out on a river, to learn any nuances the river might have. Then I would be able to fish the river effectively on my own after that. The other reason I needed a guide was that I’d never fished for Atlantic Salmon before. I had no idea how to fish for them or where to fish for them. I wasn’t sure of the flies or the techniques. I enjoyed the unguided fishing, but I do think I would have benefited from having a guide one additional day. I didn’t catch a salmon on the trip and I believe if I’d had a guide for one more day on a salmon river that I would have stood a much better chance of hooking into one. Guides are fun to get to know and will give you a greater chance of getting that fish-of-a-lifetime. That said, two of my favorite days were unguided. One, was up in the Highlands region – a day I’ll never forget. So having a little DIY fishing can be enjoyable, work well, and save money. I’m not going to recommend one way or the other – the choice is yours. It’s a matter of balancing budget with fishing experience and expectations. I can tell you it is one way to save money and perhaps make the trip something you can afford now as opposed to waiting another few years. That was the case with me this year.

  For perspective, my cost for the fishing portion of this trip was $3,272. That includes access to the water, guides (when I used them), tips for guides, and the lodging arranged through Iceland Fishing Guide. It does not include my airfare or the the hotels I stayed in before and after the fishing portion of my trip. Nor does it include my food costs, car rental, or gas. As I said, my food cost was kept to a minimum because I brought my own. All of that probably added up to an additional $2,200, making the total cost approximately $5,500 for the entire week.

  

  

  Conclusions: What I learned, What I would do differently

  One of my biggest takeaways from my trip to Iceland may surprise you. My first takeaway is that I feel so blessed and so fortunate to live in Colorado and to be able to fish the western United States whenever I want to. We have amazing fishing here at home. The fish in Iceland were big, but I know places out west, many places in fact, where I can catch fish just as big as what I caught there. We have amazing insect hatches that they don’t have in Iceland, which makes for great match-the-hatch fishing, which I love to do. We also have alpine lakes here in the western U.S., which you really don’t find in Iceland. There are great fishing lakes in the Highlands, but it’s not the same as the above timberline fishing that we have here. So before I discuss what I enjoyed, what I learned, and what I’ll do differently next time, I want to be clear that I have a heart of gratitude for the fishing that I do have here at home. It too is world-class!

  Iceland is stunningly beautiful. It’s different than anywhere I’ve ever been. There are not many trees there. It’s a vast and majestic land where you can always see great distances in whatever direction you look. The waterfalls there are spectacular! It’s not a secret anymore, there are many tourists circling the Ring Road, but it’s still much, much, less crowded than the United States. The beat system on the rivers ensures that you won’t be crowded while fishing there. You’ll have your own section of water all to yourself, which is a really nice way to fish. The rivers are unpressured, with strong and healthy fish. There is also the opportunity to catch fish species that we don’t have here in the United States, such as Arctic char, Atlantic salmon, and sea-run brown trout.

  My first trip to Iceland is one I’ll never forget. I caught my first Arctic char ever, which are extremely strong and beautiful fish. I also caught a lot of resident brown trout. One day I spent an entire morning fishing mile after mile of pocket water. It was full of strong, hard-fighting, browns that averaged 15-19 inches that were seemingly in every pocket and run. Regretfully, I did not catch an Atlantic salmon on the trip, which was one of my goals. As a result, when I return to Iceland, I think I will try to go in early September. When I return I’d like there to be the possibility of seeing the northern lights, as well as the opportunity for pursuing sea-run browns and salmon. July was great. It was a great time to visit, but when I return I’d like to see a different season there. One of my goals was to catch a “fish of a lifetime”, one that was 28″ or bigger. Though I caught a few and lost a few that were over 20″, I never really landed the big one. I do think that if I’d used a guide a little more often, that may have helped. This leads me to my next takeaway.

  I was very happy with having a mix of guided and unguided fishing. Not only for the sake of saving money, but I also like exploring new water by myself and trying to figure out on my own how to catch the fish there. Next time I go, however, I think I might use a guide a little bit more often. Perhaps about half the time instead of only one third of the time. Especially when in pursuit of Atlantic salmon. Fishing for salmon is different than fishing for trout, and I think part of the reason I didn’t catch one was because I only had a guide for half a day in pursuit of one. When I return, catching one will be a priority and using a guide for several days will give me a better chance at one. I don’t think I need the help of a guide for the brown trout fishing because I can get by just fine on my own. I know how to catch brown trout. Now, should I decide to target sea-run browns, that will be a different story. I’d like a guide for that as well.

  Bringing my own food worked extremely well. As I said, I treated it like a backpacking trip in terms of the food I brought. When I got back to my lodge after a full day of fishing, I was eating a warm meal within a matter of minutes. Now if your budget allows to pay for catered food, that would be a great option as well. A third option would be to hit a grocery store upon arrival and put together your own meals.

  Next time I visit Iceland I want to really explore more of the Highlands. Now, the Highlands isn’t just one little area, it’s really the entire interior of the country. So there are actually many different regions that comprise the Highlands that are filled with beautiful valleys, lakes, and river systems. It would take a lifetime to learn all there is to fish there. That sounds good to me. I’d like to start exploring different regions now so that over time I will get to know the Highlands better. Of the two guiding and booking companies I used, only Fish Partner had access to fishing in the Highlands. Iceland Fishing Guide did not. I’m sure there are other companies in Iceland that will guide you into the Highlands that can be found by a simple online search.

  As we circled Iceland on the Ring Road I saw so many different rivers that looked fishable. Some where I actually saw fisherman out on the water. So there must be many opportunities other than through the two guide companies I’ve mentioned. I plan on doing a lot more research to find out how to access specific rivers that I took note of, because they looked so good. So I have a long way to go myself in terms of learning how best to fish Iceland.

  I am definitely planning on returning to Iceland. It’s so beautiful, the fishing is outstanding, and I have so much more to learn. I know I’ve just tapped the surface of all that it has to offer. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me if you’re considering taking a trip to Iceland to go fly fishing. My email address is bpflyfishing86@gmail.com. I’d be happy to answer any questions you have about my planning and all that I learned while fishing there this past summer. Also, please keep a lookout for three future articles I’m planning on writing. The next one will talk in more detail about the fishing I did in a few of the rivers along the northern coast. It will be followed by an article on the one day I spent fishing in the Highlands. My last article will be on the second week I spent in Iceland with my wife, touring the country in a campervan. If you click the subscribe button below you will receive an automatic email letting you know when these articles are posted to my site.

  Until then, all I can tell you is…..if you’re trying to decide whether or not to go fish Iceland, the answer is most definitely – “yes!”

  

• Briver Max Comfort Waders

  

  Quality Waders – Reasonable Price!

  For many years now I’ve almost exclusively wet-waded while fishing. There’s actually a little bit of a joke when I say that, because sometimes it’s by choice and at other times it’s the last thing I want. In the heat of the summer I enjoy wearing quick dry pants and either my Salomon or Simms wet wading shoes. It feels wonderful to step into a cool, clear mountain creek when the sun is out and temperatures are in the 70s, 80’s and 90’s. During shoulder seasons when the weather is cooler and mountain storms are spitting rain or even snow, it’s nice to be dry. Unfortunately the waders I’ve been using the past decade leak. I’ve tried to fix them, but the leaks are on some of the seams and I just haven’t been able to keep the water out. Without fail, especially in deeper water, at the end of the day my legs would be soaked when I would take my waders off. I would have to literally pour water out of the foot section of my waders.

  The obvious question that I’m sure you’re asking is why didn’t I just by a pair of new ones. The reason is because waders have gotten really expensive. Combine that with the fact that I spend most of the summer wet-wading anyway, it just never seemed worth it. A choice between other gear, or possibly even another trip somewhere, versus a new pair of waders was never much of a choice. After all, I was used to being a little wet, cringing as the cold water started leaking in. I didn’t like it, but I always would tough-it-out and then would later decided to purchase other gear instead.

  Last December Briver Sports reached out to me and asked if I’d be willing to give their waders a try. I said I’d be happy to, so they sent me out a pair. I tried them on and was immediately impressed with their quality. They are very sturdy, comfortable, and obviously well made waders. Still, I did not want to write a review based upon how they felt when I put them on in my living room. In order to write an honest review with legitimate feedback, it was clear to me that I would first have to take them out fishing many times. Only then could I offer my real opinion of them.

  I just returned from a week of fishing in Iceland where I wore my Skwala Carbon wading boots and Briver waders for six straight days. They were twelve hour fishing days with a lot of walking and wading. I spent a lot of time walking through the Iceland Highlands as well as through coastal pasturelands fishing for brown trout, arctic char, and Atlantic salmon. There was a lot of scrambling up and down banks to access rivers. Durability, mobility, and comfort were all critical requirements for both my boots and my waders. I’ve also used my Briver waders this summer fishing high-mountain creeks in Colorado, pushing through willows and getting poked by branches while fishing beaver ponds. After all this time on the water, I now feel qualified to write a review of the pros and cons of these waders.

  

  The specific waders I have are the Briver Max Comfort Waders, size XL. They are stocking-foot waders made with 4-layer breathable, waterproof, fabric. They have a very large chest pocket for storage that closes with a quality YKK zipper. Briver waders have an ergonomic design that is reinforced in all of the high stress areas. The stocking feet are neoprene anatomical, with a distinguishable left and right fit. Some other minor, yet very nice features, include loops to hang the waders for drying them, solid buckles on the suspender straps, and gravel guards with lace hooks. The waders are currently priced on the Briver Sports site and on Amazon.com at $159.

  Of course you can learn all of this just going to their website. What I’d like to share are my impressions after extensively using these waders. First of all, they are comfortable and fit well. They are sturdy, but not too heavy. I think they look good with the two-tone grey and black combination. Most importantly – they do not leak! That’s a pretty basic comment, but it’s what really matters. Especially when you consider what I wrote earlier, how I’ve been living with leaky waders for the past 10+ years. After much use they are still doing their job. My Briver waders are not baggy, they are comfortably close-fitting and are easy to move in. They don’t ever bind on me or restrict my movement. All of that is probably because of their ergonomic design. Lastly, and my favorite feature of these waders, is that they have a fleece-lined hand warmer pocket. My last pair of waders also had a fleece-lined pocket. I love them. In fact, I wouldn’t buy any pair of waders that doesn’t have one of these pockets. I’ve been fishing in cold weather too often not to want the nice warm feeling I get when I stick my hands into a fleece-lined pocket when they’re wet and cold.

  Briver Max Comfort waders are an excellent value for the money. There is no question you can get a few additional features in other waders, such as a zipper front for ease of getting in-and-out. To get waders like that however, you’re most likely going to have to spend $500 or more. For me personally that’s a hard expense to justify. I would rather put my money into other things than a $500-$800 pair of waders, but of course that’s all a matter of personal preference. Briver waders are a great choice when considering both their quality and their price point. They are made with the same quality as more expensive waders, but are priced in a range that is more in line with what value-seeking anglers are looking for.

  We all have different body types and shapes. My first caution, and really my only caution with buying these waders, is that if you’re over 6’2″, you may run into a little trouble finding a size that fits. I’m 6’2″ and have the suspenders on their longest setting. They fit me well, but just barely. If I was any taller, I’d need to go up a size from the XL’s I have. If I were to do that then the length would be right but the waist and foot size would likely be too large. If you’re taller than 6’2″, perhaps order what you believe is the best size and try them on, but just realize that you may be sending them back. Other than this one very specific scenario, I can not think of a negative thing to say about them.

  Conclusion:

  I highly recommend the Briver Max Comfort waders, especially for those who are looking for a quality wader in the price range of around $150. They are comfortable, well made, waders that you should be able to wear for many years. I have been completely satisfied with my pair and am thankful to know that I will stay dry and that they fit me well. They are proof that you don’t need to spend $500 or more to own a great pair of waders.

  To purchase a pair of Briver Max Comfort waders from Amazon, click on the link below.

  Click Here

• Spot Pack Flyfishing
  

  SPOT PACK FLY FISHING: RIDING HORSES

  An excerpt from the book Spot Pack Fly fishing

  

  Horses add a whole new dimension to the backcountry experience making it feel like a true adventure.  Riding allows you to look around and soak in the beauty on your way to your destination while the horse does all the work.

  Imagine yourself putting one foot into a stirrup, pushing on that leg while swinging your other over the back of a horse.  Your horse starts to shift around while you settle in and try to get comfortable.  The wrangler is the real deal, with a cowboy hat, flannel shirt, blue jeans, chaps, boots, and perhaps even a revolver.  He or she is helping you, making sure the horse you’re riding for the next four or five hours will be a good match for you.  The wrangler will make sure your stirrups are set at the correct length and the cinch is tightened properly.  Next, he or she will show you how to hold the reigns and to direct the horse if you’re not familiar with riding.  As your horse continues to shift around and chew on its bit, you realize you’re now sitting on a living, breathing, animal that’s about to carry you deep into the wilderness. Now that you’re on your horse, you watch as all the other members of your party get onto theirs.  You’re all in this together and you realize this is something special. There is a sense of thrill and anticipation of what will follow and the country you’re about to see.

  The wrangler leads off, followed by a couple of packhorses trailing on a lead rope.  Finally, it’s your close friends, or perhaps your father, son, or daughter, trailing behind in single file.  The wrangler leads the group through a shallow stream, then begins to switchback up a mountain on the other side.  You begin to thank the Good Lord that you have a horse carrying you up the trail instead of trudging up the mountain yourself.  The trail is like this for quite a while as you gain about 2,500 feet in elevation.  Finally, you break out of the trees as you ascend above timberline.  The scene is classic, like something out of Hollywood western, as you see the wrangler leading the group in single file over the tundra with a backdrop of vertical mountains pocketed with glaciers.  It’s an image you’ll never forget.  You may even begin to daydream a little, having fun imagining that you’re Clint Eastwood, wearing a poncho, squinting, with a cigar in your mouth, as you take in the classic western scene.  Those of you over the age of forty know what I’m talking about.

  

  All right, back to reality.  The horses are breathing heavily, so the wrangler advises the group to hop down and walk for a few minutes.  This gives the members of your party the chance to stretch their legs, which will help to not be too sore later.  The horses also have a chance to catch their breath from the climb.  The top of the pass is near, and you can feel the wind picking up as you get closer and closer to the top.  Once there, your group comes to a halt, and you stop for a photo.  In the distance, on the other side of the pass, you can see a valley still five or six miles away holding a string of glacier-fed lakes.  You realize that’s your destination, the goal of all your planning.  The excitement is building, but it’s a time to be quiet and to take in the scenery.  It’s humbling as you realize how small you actually are in comparison to the vast wilderness that is spread out before you.

  After a quick lunch you and your group hop back on the horses and begin your descent down the other side of the pass.  The trail gets steep as you re-enter the trees and the wrangler tells the group to lean back and stand up in the stirrups.  Meanwhile, you’re thinking to yourself that in five days you’ll be hiking up and over this on your way out.  Maybe even questioning if you made the right choice to hike out on your own rather than having the outfitter pack you out.  The group will be able to do it though, after the hard work and training that they put in over the last six months.  It will be a great challenge and a physical test.

  After another hour you enter the drainage where you’ll be camping and fishing for the next four days.  The stream emptying the higher alpine lakes is now running alongside the trail and you begin to scout it.  Now the excitement really begins to build as you see pocket after pocket, run after run, that you know will hold fish.  This deep into the backcountry fish are, in general, everywhere they’re supposed to be.  One last climb and you top out into a basin with the lake you’ll be camping on.  As it comes into view, you’re tired from the ride but ready to walk and stretch your legs.  You’re also overflowing with excitement because you’ve finally arrived.  You realize with clarity that the horses were worth it because you’re physically still fresh.  A little sore, but not ready to drop like you would have been if you hiked up and over the pass carrying your own pack.  You’re ready to get your fly rod out and fish!

  The wrangler begins to take your gear off the packhorses and your group begins to scout for where to set up tents.  After firmly shaking the wrangler’s hand you nonchalantly give the wrangler his tip, and part ways with a friendly wave.  The riding part of the trip is now complete.

  

  Spot Pack Fly Fishing is made up of four parts, its Table of Contents listed below:

  Part I

  Adventure Awaits in the Backcountry

  Chapter 1: What is Spot Pack Fly Fishing                                                        

  Chapter 2: The Appeal

  Chapter 3: Riding Horses

  Chapter 4: Outfitters and Cost

  Chapter 5: Wilderness Adventure and Risks

  Part II

  Fly Fishing the Remote Backcountry

  Chapter 6: Go Far Away

  Chapter 7: Multiple Options

  Chapter 8: Fly Fishing Equipment List

  Chapter 9: Fly Fishing High Mountain Lakes

  Chapter 10: High Mountain Lake Techniques and Strategies

  Chapter 11: Fly Fishing Headwater Streams

  Chapter 12: Recommended Fly Patterns

  Part III

  Strategically Ultralight Backpacking

  Chapter 13: Strategically Ultralight

  Chapter 14: Backpack Equipment List

  Chapter 15: Food Ideas and Recommendations

  Chapter 16: Backcountry Safety

  Chapter 17: Etiquette and Leave No Trace

  Part IV

  Step-by-Step Timeline of Preparation

  Chapter 18: 9-12 Months Out

  Chapter 19: 6-9 Months Out

  Chapter 20: 1 Month Out

  Chapter 21: 1-2 Weeks Out

  Chapter 22: 1-2 Days Out

• The Two Best Wet Wading Shoes

  

  These Shoes Keep the Gravel Out!

  About ten years ago I was fishing the Railroad Ranch section of the Henry’s Fork. I was on a trip covering some of the most famous fly fishing water in the west, including such places as the Madison, Nelson Spring Creek, and Yellowstone National Park. I was wet wading the Ranch because it was mid-summer, and it was HOT! I had caught a couple fish earlier in the day a little lower down on the river where the water was broken and it was a little easier fishing. We were now in the smooth water and the fish were rising everywhere. As those of you know who have fished there before, these fish are extremely selective and difficult to catch. Downstream drifts are required or the line/leader will without doubt spook the fish. All my attention should have been on figuring out how to fool those big, beautiful, rising fish. Unfortunately my attention was only half on the fish. The other half was on my feet which were in pain. Real pain. As I said before I was wet wading. My customary apparel while wet wading was REI brand “quick-dry” pants, and Keen sandals. The problem I was facing was that the Henry’s Fork gravel was getting into my Keens between my feet and the soles of the shoes. When I emptied the gravel, which was not easy while standing thigh-deep in the river, it would return within seconds. Gravel would flow in, but it did not flow out. The arches of my feet were in great pain and there was nothing that I could do about it. After hours of frustration and discomfort I eventually left the river.

  My wet wading shoes also frequently caused problems for me when I would go on backpacking trips. Often these trips involved walking from camp to an alpine lake several miles away. I almost always leave my boots and waders at home on such trips because of their weight. Instead, I take wet wading shoes on my backpacking trips. In the past I would take my Keen sandals because they are are relatively light, durable, and solid enough to hike in. They did well in almost every aspect except that I’d inevitably end up getting pine needles in the sandals while hiking. Like my Henry’s Fork experience described earlier, this would hurt my feet considerably.

  Keen makes great, high quality sandals. The front of the sandals have thick rubber that protects toes extremely well in rivers and on trails when banged against rocks. They are solid, durable, and last a long time. Despite their high quality construction, the fact that gravel and pine needles consistently get into them eventually became a deal-breaker for me in terms of using them for wet wading. This happened about 6 or 7 years ago. It was at that time that my quest to find a better wet wading shoe began.

  I first looked to see what other products Keen offered, to see if they had a water shoe with mesh sides to keep gravel out. They had previously offered a version with mesh sides, but for some reason had just discontinued them. The only pair I could find online were ones that were a size to small. I decided to give them a try anyway, but just as you would suspect, they functioned well but my feet hurt because they were too small. Next I settled on a pair of Body Glove water shoes I thought might work. They were light, which appealed to me from a backpacking standpoint. I used them for a couple summers, but in the end they weren’t solid enough. My feet would get sore if there was any hiking involved. That’s not a knock on their quality because I really wasn’t using them as they were intended to be used. Last summer (2023) I went back to the Keen sandals because I still hadn’t found anything better.

  This year I finally had a breakthrough. Not only did I find one great solution for wet wading shoes, I found two! They are quite different from each other, but are both far better than the Keen sandals I’ve used in the past. I used them both extensively throughout this last summer. What follows is a quick review of both of them.

  Simms Pursuit Shoe

  

  

  What I really like about the Simms Pursuit is that they are specifically designed for fisherman, and you can tell. They are lightweight shoes (24 oz. per pair) that keep the gravel out. They are very comfortable to wear, much more so than any other wading shoe or boot I’ve ever worn. They are solid shoes, not like some of the water shoes on the market that are really designed for the deck of a boat. These are designed for fisherman, to be used wading rivers. They are breathable and quick-draining. At times this summer I wore them barefoot. At other times, if the water was colder or if I had to do a little hiking, I wore ultra-thin neoprene socks with them. The attribute of Simms Pursuit shoes that I’d like to emphasize the most is that they are very comfortable wet wading shoes.

  My only concern when I first bought the Pursuit shoes was the tread on the bottom. Would they slip on wet rocks, and would they hold up while hiking in them. I understand wet wading shoes aren’t necessarily designed to also be hiking shoes, but I sometimes need them to function that way. The answer to the first question above is that the Simms Pursuit shoes function well on wet rocks in rivers and in lakes. They have a better grip than all the wet wading shoes I’ve used in the past. Now, no shoe is perfect, and a slippery rock is a slippery rock. You have to be careful no matter what wading boot or shoe you end up with. That said, they performed well for me while wading. The answer to the second question above, their use while hiking, is that they were not as sturdy as I’d hoped, and that they can slip on rock and gravel when scrambling around alpine lakes. In fairness, they’re not hiking boots! However, if that is something that you sometimes may require, there may be a better solution that I’ll discuss in the next section below.

  In summary, I highly recommend the Simms Pursuit wading shoes. I believe you will really like these shoes if most of your time will be spent in the water or on a drift boat, as opposed to hiking or scrambling around high mountain terrain. They look great, they are extremely comfortable, they keep the gravel out, and they function as they should. Simms Pursuit shoes typically retail for around $140 and can be found at many retail outlets. They really are a high-quality wet wading shoe!

  Salomon Techamphibian 5 Water Shoe

  

  

  The other wet wading shoes I used extensively this last summer were the Salomon Techamphibian 5. I gave them a try because I’ve used Salomon hiking boots for years and I believe in the quality of Salomon products. Also, the Techamphibians have a sole that is essentially the sole of a hiking boot. That stood out to me when I was doing my research. A typical scenario for me is to begin wet wading near where I park my truck, but then to finish the day several miles away. It is very common for me to have a long hike back that requires sturdy shoes. Another common scenario for me where my selection of shoes is important is on our backpacking trips. The high mountain lakes we fish are often several miles from our camp. In situations like that I either need to wear my hiking boots and carry my wet wading shoes with me, or I need water shoes that can also function as hiking boots. Salomon Techamphibian water shoes work perfectly in both of the situations I just described.

  Salomon Techamphibians are relatively light (21 oz. per pair). The outsoles are solid, durable, and have excellent grip on slippery terrain. The upper section is made of a mesh that dries quickly and keeps the gravel and pine needles out. The heel is collapsible for versatility and ease of getting in and out of them. As with any Salomon product, these are high quality shoes. They typically retail for around $110 which is not terribly expensive.

  One comment that I frequently read while researching these shoes was that they are quite narrow and that they are not as comfortable as other shoes. I agree with this comment. When I first tried them on I felt they were too uncomfortable to keep, but here’s what happened. Some of you may know that my “day job” is working for the Colorado Rockies baseball team. When I placed my order for these shoes I used my Rockies email address. That fact did not go unnoticed by the person filling my order. Whoever filled it, their child wrote Go Rockies and drew the Rockies logo all over the shipping box. They were so excited to send it to me that I didn’t have the heart to send the shoes back. I kept them, and I’m thankful that I did! I’ve been able to adjust the straps, and break in the shoes to the point that they are no longer uncomfortable to wear. Still not as comfortable as my Simms Pursuit shoes are, but they do just fine. Especially if I’m wearing thin socks or neoprene socks while hiking. The key though, as I’ve said, is the treads on them. I went on quite a few trips last summer where I hiked many miles in them to high mountain lakes. They did a wonderful job on steep, slippery, slopes where it was absolutely critical that my shoes did not slide. They functioned extremely well on rough terrain and over many miles of trails. However, if you have wide feet these may not be the shoes for you.

  Conclusion

  I recommend both the Simms Pursuit and the Salomon Techamphibian 5 water shoes for wet wading. The best solution is to have both available so that you can pick which shoes make the most sense for the specific trip you’re taking them on. That’s pretty expensive though. If I had to choose only one pair, I’d probably give the nod to the Simms Pursuit shoes because of their comfort. On hiking trips to alpine lakes I’d wear hiking boots and pack the Simms Pursuits to the lake if I felt I needed wading shoes. What I recommend is to find a store that sells both, or order both of them and have them sent to your house. See which ones you prefer and that fit best, and return the other pair. That is how you will really know which ones to buy.

  Simms Pursuit and Salomon Techamphibians are both high quality shoes, so you really can’t go wrong. They’ll both do the job. Still, make sure whichever ones you choose are comfortable and won’t hurt your feet. You will enjoy not having gravel and pine needles constantly in between your feet and the soles of your shoes. It has made a huge difference for me.

  Simms Pursuit

  Salomon Techamphibian

• Is Czech Nymphing With Mono Fly Fishing?

  

  Its Effectiveness Can’t Be Denied!

  The question of whether or not Czech nymphing is really fly fishing is an incredibly hot topic right now. The August/September 2024 issue of Fly Fisherman magazine features an article on monofilament rigs, and their divisiveness within the fly fishing community. I just read today that April Vokey is going to host a podcast on the topic of Czech nymphing this weekend with some very celebrated expert guests, including Kelly Galloup. I’m looking forward to listening to this one and expect it to be a lot of fun! Her podcasts are always interesting and informative, focusing on current and relevant topics. I highly recommend all of April Vokey’s podcasts. Wherever anglers today turn for information today, whether to magazines or podcasts, the topic of Czech nymphing is sure to come up eventually.

  The goal of Czech nymphing, also called Euro nymphing, is to get the fly down to the stream bottom as quickly as possible because that is where most of the fish are. What is different about Czech nymphing is that fly line is often not used, rather a long section of monofilament takes its place. If fly line is on the reel, it rarely extends past the tip of the rod. The fly is cast towards the upper end of a run and is led through the hole by the angler, always keeping the line tight, but without pulling the fly unnaturally through the run. There is no debate about the effectiveness of Czech nymphing. In fact, It is the clear method of choice for catching fish in international fishing competitions today.

  The first and most obvious question that needs to be asked is, “what is fly fishing”. Once that is defined it becomes quite easy to either include or exclude various methods of fishing into the fly fishing category. The trouble is that there is no universally accepted, clear and absolute, definition of what constitutes fly fishing. Therefore, there’s not a clear answer on what fishing methods should or shouldn’t be included. In other words, there is no correct or final answer to the debate, only opinions.

  With that in mind, I thought that I might as well throw my hat in the ring and have some fun with this topic. What follows now is my own personal definition of what fly fishing is. Once defined, you’ll see whether or not I consider Czech nymphing to be fly fishing.

  Using Flies

  A method of fishing should not be considered fly fishing simply because a fly is used. Let’s consider this example. When I was a little kid my dad often set me up with a spinning rod rigged with a fly and bubble. To this day I enjoy fishing like this, thought I don’t do it often. I like filling the bubble up with water and seeing how far I can launch the fly and bubble rig out into a lake. After casting, I’ll either let the fly set there until I get a strike or I’ll slowly retrieve the fly giving it movement. It’s a fun way to fish. If the bubble is filled completely it will sink, which brings fishing wooly buggers and other sub-surface patterns into play. Fishing with a fly and bubble can become complex as anglers learn to control the depth of the bubble by adding water or draining water out of it.

  Is spin fishing with a fly and bubble considered fly fishing simply because a fly is at the end of the line? I don’t think so. Let me give you an analogy. Say I’m in a game of dodge ball, and there are all kinds of balls being tossed around. Nerf balls, wiffle balls, those red kickballs we used to play with, etc. If one of the balls out there happens to be a baseball, and I pick it up and throw it at the competition, am I all of a sudden playing baseball not dodgeball? Of course not. I’d simply be playing dodgeball, with a baseball. In the same way, if someone is spin fishing with a spinning rod and they decided to put a fly on instead of a lure, they aren’t all of a sudden fly fishing. They’re simply spin fishing with a fly.

  Here’s another more extreme example. An angler is out on a deep lake. He or she sets the rod in a rod holder. Next, a down-rigger is used to drop the line to the bottom of the lake, and then the rig is trolled slowly out in the middle of the lake waiting for a fish to bite. Towards the end of the line cowbells are attached to attract fish. At the end of the line is a baitfish fly pattern. Would you consider that type of fishing to be fly fishing on the basis of a fly being used? I don’t think so.

  I use both of these examples to illustrate that fly fishing can’t simply be defined as any method of fishing that employs a fly to attract and catch fish. There has to be more to it than that.

  

  Fly Rod

  Now let’s take a look at fishing equipment to see if that will help add clarity to the discussion. Does the use of certain equipment define what fly fishing is? Conventional and traditional thought would be that an angler is fly fishing if he or she is using a fly rod and reel, with fly line, to cast a fly. Let’s look at each piece of equipment individually.

  Does the use of a fly rod constitute fly fishing? To answer that question let’s consider a few more scenarios. If I put a spinning reel onto a fly rod, string the mono through the eyelets, and attach a heavy lure to the line such as a spoon or spinner, and cast it out – is that fly fishing? Or, if instead of a lure I attach a fly and bubble – is that fly fishing? I don’t think so because the reel and cast is that of a spinning rig, even though a fly rod is being used instead of a spinning rod. The casting motion is still that of spin fishing and so is the lure. What propels the cast is the weight of the lure itself.

  Once again, here’s a more extreme scenario to help us look at this from a different perspective, perhaps beginning to shed light on what fly fishing actually is. Say I find an eight foot branch or stick that can hardly flex at all. To the end of it I attach a section of fly line, tippet, and a fly. Next I start waiving the stick back and forth, using the weight of the fly line to propel the fly out into a body of water in search of fish. Is that fly fishing? I would say that even though a fly rod is not being used, it’s starting to look and feel a lot more like fly fishing.

  All this to say, I don’t think the type of rod necessarily defines something as either fly fishing or not fly fishing

  

  Fly Reel

  If it’s not the rod that defines a particular fishing method as fly fishing, is it the use of a fly reel? I think we’re getting closer, but we’re not there yet. A fly reel is about the most simple type of reel there is. Some fly reels have nice disc drags. Others, such as click and pawl reels, have almost no drag at all. Click and pawl reels have a mechanism to keep the reel from back-spooling, but that’s about it. When it comes right down to it, a fly reel is really not much more than a spool attached to the rod with the purpose of holding the line. I don’t mean to put down fly reels. In fact, the fly reel is my absolute favorite piece of fly fishing equipment because of their wonderful beauty and craftmanship!

  So, is the use of a fly reel what constitutes fly fishing? To answer that question, let me give you yet another illustration. What if I didn’t have a reel at all! What if I took fly line & tippet and strung it through the eyelets of a fly rod, and took the other end of the fly line and tied it to the butt section of the rod. A reel is not even present. All the excess fly line is coiled up by my feet. Then, if I cast the fly out with the rod, letting line out by hand and stripping the line in by hand, would that be considered fly fishing? I would answer that question “yes”. I’d just be doing it without the help of a reel.

  That’s about the most simple way I can think of to illustrate that the fly reel is not what defines a method of fishing as fly fishing. Now, as I mentioned a few paragraphs earlier, I think we’re getting closer……

  Fly Line

  Fly line is weighted, as we all know. It is the weight of the line, not the fly, that allows a fly cast to work and propel the fly out into a lake or stream. This is different than casting a lure, or bubble, or bait with monofilament line. When monofilament is used it is the weight of the lure combined with the flex of the rod that propels it out into a lake or stream.

  The weight of the line is what makes the physics of a fly cast work. It’s also at the heart of what makes fly casting artistic and beautiful. Loops are created during the cast that unfold as the line extends out towards the target. It is the fly line, and the fly cast that is unique to fly fishing when compared to other methods of fishing. This is the key!

  The Cast

  After considering all of the various types of fly fishing equipment, and the flies themselves, I believe that it is the fly cast that really defines what fly fishing is. It is what sets it apart and differentiates it from other methods of fishing. Of course the fly cast works best using a fly rod and reel, but it certainly cannot work without weighted fly line. It is the weigh of the line, combined with the flex of the rod, that makes the physics of fly casting work. There are multiple ways of casting a fly. In addition to the traditional one-handed cast, there’s spay casting, roll casting, backhand casting, just to name a few. What they all have in common is the use of weighted line.

  Now it’s time to come full circle and answer the question, what is fly fishing? How is it defined? I would define fly fishing as the casting of a fly using the weight of the line, not the weight of the fly, to propel the fly towards its target. It’s all about the cast – that’s what makes fly fishing what it is. Without weighted fly line you simply can’t have a fly cast.

  

  The Verdict

  Back to the original question: Is Czech nymphing with mono really fly fishing? My answer to that question is “no”, based on how I have defined fly fishing. Even though a type of fly rod is utilized, even though a type of fly is put before the fish, the use of monofilament in Czech nymphing disqualifies it as fly fishing. By my definition, weighted line must be used.

  Let me conclude by giving you another analogy. Now remember, no analogy is perfect. They are only given to help illustrate a point. I grew up playing a lot of baseball. In fact, my career has been spent working for a Major League baseball team, the Colorado Rockies. After I was done playing baseball I played a lot of softball. Like baseball, softball is played with bats and balls. In both sports the pitcher tries to throw the ball past the batter, who is trying to get a hit. The object of both sports is to score as many runs as possible by running around the bases and making it all the way to home plate. The two sports are obviously very closely related, yet to those who have played both it is clear they are not the same. Softball is not baseball. There are more runs scored in softball because a softball is easier to hit. It is pitched underhand and the ball is twice as big. Similarly, in Czech nymphing more fish are caught as the weighted fly is led across the river bottom where most of the fish are.

  Now, as someone who has played a lot of baseball, I can tell you that hitting a softball is not the same as hitting a baseball – it just feels different. In the same way, to those of us who have been fly fishing all our lives, pulling a Czech nymph through a hole with mono is not the same as fly fishing – it just feels different.

  That’s my take on the debate surrounding Czech fishing with monofilament. This is all fun conversation, but really the question should be what type of fishing do you enjoy most. Then go do that! As long as it’s done in a way that is not harmful to the environment, one method of fishing isn’t any better or worse than another.

• 10 Ideas for Fly Fishing Solitude
  

  How to Avoid the Crowds!

  We’ve probably all had this experience at one time or another. We’re wade-fishing a beautiful river, greatly enjoying the sights and sounds of the outdoors as we work a promising hole. We’ve also been looking upstream as we plot our future course, looking forward to the fishing to come. Then, all of a sudden, a group comes in and sets-up fishing in the very next hole above you, the prime spot you’d been so much looking forward to. Then, before you know it, another group slots-in right behind you. Now you’re pinned-in and future movement on the water will be very limited. This is a common scenario on many popular waters as the sport of fly fishing has become more and more popular.

  Contrast that scenario with the other extreme. You and your buddies have just reached a remote lake, deep in the wilderness. You had an outfitter take you in on horseback 10 miles from the trailhead, which was itself quite remote. Then your group backpacked an additional 10 miles the next day to a remote chain of alpine lakes and headwater steams. The lakes and streams are yours alone, as is the opportunity to catch unpressured trout that have likely never seen a fly before! You’re 20 miles from the nearest trailhead, and there likely are only a few people within many miles of you. Check out my books on Spot Pack Flyfishing if this type of extreme sounds appealing to you.

  Those are two extreme scenarios. There are some practical ways by which fly anglers can find fishing opportunities that lie somewhere between the two. They are planned and intentional steps that anglers can take to find great fishing and avoid water that is overcrowded. One piece of fishing etiquette that I’d like to offer, before listing my 10 ideas for fly fishing solitude, is that if you arrive at a lake or stream and see other anglers, try to give them space if at all possible. That doesn’t mean to give them room in the hole they’re in and to jump in the one right above them. It means giving them several holes, room to advance up the stream, if possible.

  Here are my top 10 ideas!

  1 – Distance yourself from the parking lot: Obvious, right? This means to hike, or better yet backpack, a minimum half-mile away from where everyone else is parked. Often, the further you get from the parking lot or trailhead the better the fishing will be. A great example of this is in a place like Yellowstone National Park. It’s a place I try to go every year, if possible. There are millions of people in the park every summer. Yet, those who are willing to walk a mile from the parking lot will leave 95% of the crowds behind. Of those 5%, probably only 1% (or less) are dedicated fly anglers. This also works on popular rivers. Plan on walking at least a half mile, even committing to bypassing holes that look good, because you know the area close to the parking lot will fill up with anglers. Backpacking, obviously, will further remove you from the crowds. Be careful though, if you pack to a well known destination you still might be surprised to find a lot of people there as well.

  

  2 – 4-Wheel drive and disburse camp: First of all, the further you can drive or fly away from a major population center the better. Next you’ll want to make sure you get off from any major interstates and explore. Now, let’s take it even a step further. Go to water only accessible by dirt roads. If you have a 4-wheel drive vehicle, using high clearance only roads will even further remove you from crowded fishing areas. For years our family has planned trips using the DeLorme Colorado Atlas & Gazetteer which has very detailed maps, clearly showing roads that are 4-wheel drive and high clearance only. A similar gazetteer is available for most states. Be prepared to camp when you get there. Such a long drive to such an area will likely require overnight stays. Besides, once there you won’t want to come out right away anyway.

  

  3 – Fish on weekdays: Not much description is required for this suggestion, other than to say there are far many more people camping, backpacking, and fishing on the weekends. National Parks may not be impacted in quite the same way because visitors to the parks are often there for extended stays. National Parks can be busy seven days a week.

  4 – Access private water: Here are five ways to gain access to private water; 1) rent a cabin where access to private water is included, 2) hire a fishing guide that can take you to water that is private, 3) join a fly fishing club that has leases on private water, 4) gain access from a friend owns or has access to private water, or 5) buy your own riverfront or lakefront property.

  The points above I’d like to highlight are the first and the fourth ones. Regarding cabin rentals, often when planning an overnight trip anglers either camp in the national forest or book a hotel room in a town close to the water they want to fish. Consider taking the time to look online for rental cabins on property that includes private water access. My friends and I have done just that each of the last two years. We booked a cabin, on one of the most famous rivers in the state, that granted us access to over a mile of the river. It cost us a little more than a hotel would have cost, but it has been well worth it.

  Regarding joining a fishing club, for a long time I told myself I would never pay to fish. After all, there is so much publicly accessible land with fishable water on it. The problem for me is that so many people have moved to Colorado that the public access points on our good rivers almost always draw a crowd. I told my wife one time that I was thinking of joining one of these fly fishing clubs when I retired. After all, it’s not that different from joining a golf club or something like that. To my complete surprise, she said I ought to do it now! Her argument was that now is when I need it. I almost always go fishing on weekends, like everybody else, because I’m working from Monday through Friday. Once retired, I’ll be able to go during the week when there aren’t as many people. It made perfect sense, so I accepted an offer from a friend to join a club with him. I discovered that it’s wonderful to fish private water. There’s a whole different mentality, that’s more relaxed, never having to worry if the good holes are already taken or will soon be taken. Another advantage is that good sections aren’t fished every day. Instead they are often given rest between bookings.

  5 – Buy or borrow some kind of boat or watercraft for lakes: There are all kinds of shapes, sizes, and costs of lake watercraft. Options include nice boats with motors, kayaks, canoes, pontoon boats, and float tubes. The key here is to get off crowded shorelines and gain access to the entire lake. My family grew up with a canoe that we would take turns in on various lakes. While others appeared to be relegated to spots on shore we always had freedom of movement to go up and down shorelines, varying our distance from shore, to find where the fishing was best.

  Buying some form of watercraft doesn’t have to be an expensive option. Float tubes, for example, can be very inexpensive. I used a float tube for years, kicking around many lakes. The advantage of a float tube is that your rod is always in your hand to set the hook on strikes. The disadvantage is the work of having to kick around lakes. My father bought himself a single person pontoon boat when they first became available. Rowing across a lake appeared so much easier than kicking my way across, so I followed his lead and bought my own. I decided upon the Skykomish Sunrise made be Dave Scadden. I love that boat, and highly recommend it. I’ve had wonderful days with my dog sitting on the platform behind me while I fished. I have a lot of stories about that, but will have to save them for another day. Lastly, fishing kayaks have become very popular. I can’t really speak to them because I’ve never been in one, but they’re most definitely an option to consider.

  

  6 – Float a river: Floating a river can be another way to leave the crowds behind. Be careful though, because on certain rivers, like the Green and the Madison, river traffic can be significant and you might still feel quite crowded. Floating a river is a lot of fun. I grew up walk-and-wade fishing and am just now learning to float and fish rivers effectively. I have a Dave Scadden Dragonfly XT2 that has been an excellent boat. It has many positive traits, but also some limitations as well. Whether or not it’s the right boat for you depends entirely on how it’s intended to be used, and in what situations.

  

  7- Fish smaller tributaries: Another suggestion for avoiding crowds is to fish tributaries and smaller headwater streams as opposed to prominent rivers. The fish will likely be smaller on average, thought that’s not always the case. Fish can grow to respectable sizes even in small streams as long as there are pools deep enough for them to live in year-round and if there is plentiful food. Headwater streams in close proximity to lakes may also hold nice migratory fish. However, even though nice sized fish are possible, it’s still much more likely you’ll be fishing for smaller fish when fishing smaller water. The choice then becomes, what do you prefer? Would you rather catch a 12″ cutthroat in a small headwater stream you have all to yourself or an 18″ rainbow out of a more crowded river. There is no right or wrong answer because both are fun.

  

  8 – Giving others space will by definition give you yourself space: At the beginning of this article I mentioned the etiquette of giving others space when you first arrive at your fishing destination. There will be a benefit for you when following this practice. It may give you additional elbow-room as well.

  9 – Seek advice of fly shops and friends with experience fly fishing: Local fly shop’s are used to giving out information on the famous waters in their areas, but don’t be afraid to specifically ask them about water in their areas that are more off the beaten path. Good fly shops will have this local knowledge. It will help them if you tell them what you’re looking for. If it’s less crowded water, let them point you in the right direction. If you have friends who have been fishing a long time you might want to ask them as well.

  10 – Trout Routs App: A couple years ago I bought the TroutRoutes app at the Denver Fly Fishing Show. There is a cost, but it is extremely helpful in terms of identifying what sections of a river are private, and what sections have public access. When planning a trip to a specific destination, check out the app. There may be a little section where you’re going that is public that not many people know about. Give it a try. You might stumble upon a great piece of uncrowded water because people simply don’t know they’re allowed to fish it.

• Fly Fishing Gear Checklist
  

  Thorough, Detailed, Prepared!

  The question of what fly fishing equipment to take on a backpacking trip is an interesting one.  For us serious fly fisherman, the last thing we want is to be caught without a crucial piece of equipment.  On the other hand, taking unnecessary equipment is to be avoided because of its weight and having to pack it around with you throughout the trip.  Somehow as fly anglers we need to strike the correct balance between the two.

  I choose to error on the side of making sure I’ll have all the equipment I’ll need. After all, for me, fly fishing is the primary activity. I try to think through each scenario. For example, will I be fishing stillwaters or streams? Will I need sinking line as well as floating? Do I have a backup plan if a rod breaks? Will I be away from camp all day and need to carry additional gear? What flies will I need? How can I save weight by condensing flies, which weigh next to nothing, into only a few fly boxes. I save a few pounds by using DIY fly rod cases instead of manufacturer cases.

  Below is a list of the specific fly fishing equipment I’ve settled on in over forty years of wilderness fishing trips.  Look for future posts reviewing each of these items. I’ll discuss what I like and what I don’t like about each of them, as well as which other manufacturers I considered. As I mentioned in my backpacking gear checklist post, I save weight with other equipment choices so that I can take all the fly fishing gear I may need.

  Fly Rods – I always take two rods with me on backcountry fishing trips.  The type of rods that I take depends on the trip destination.  When packing into alpine lakes I take a heavier 6-weight rod that is more effective on lakes as well as a lighter 3- or 4-weight rod for smaller headwater streams.  High lakes are known for their wind and having a rod that can push through wind is helpful.  They are also more effective casting weighted lines and heavy streamers.  On backcountry river trips a 3- or 4-weight as well as a 5-weight rod is a good combination, depending on the size of the river and the expected size of the fish.

  3 wt. – Sage VT2

  4 wt. – Hardy Shadow

  5 wt. – Hardy Zephrus

  6 wt. – Fenwick Aetos

  Fly Rod Case (Backpacking) – DIY rod case using fluorescent tube guard T12 (4 oz)

  Fly Rod Case (Truck Camping) – Manufacturer provided rod case (15-19 oz depending on case)

  Reels – As you can see, I prefer click & pawl reels.

  3 wt. – Hardy Marquis 5

  4 wt. – Hardy Narrow Spool Perfect

  5 wt. – Hardy 1939 Bougle

  6 wt. – Hardy 100^th Anniversary Flyweight

  Line – Picking fly lines has gotten complicated, to say the least.  I prefer Triangle Taper for casting dry flies, which I usually am with lighter rods.  As the rods get heavier, and I begin casting more streamers and weighted flies, with wind, I prefer a more all-purpose line.

  3 wt. – Royal Wulff Triangle Taper

  4 wt. – Royal Wulff Triangle Taper

  5 wt. – Airflo Super Dry River & Stream

  6 wt. – Scientific Angler MPX

  6 wt. Sinking Line (If backpacking to alpine lakes) – Rio Avid Trout

  Wet Wading Pants – REI Sahara Convertible Pants

  Wet Wading Shoes (If day hiking expected) – Salomon Techamphibian 5

  Wet Wading Shoes (If minimal day hiking expected) – Simms Pursuit Shoe

  Waders and Boots (Rarely taken backpacking) – BRiver Max Comfort waders, Skwala Carbon boots

  Vest (Alpine Lake Trips) – Master Sportsman

  Hip/Waist Pack (Backcountry River Trips) – Fishpond Switchback 2.0

  Net – Wooden Signature Concepts catch & release or Aventik Carbon fiber Fishing Net

  Water Filter Bottle –Katadyn  BeFree

  Polarized Glasses – Oakley prescription

  Hat – Various baseball hats

  Flies – Various

  Ancillary Items – Nippers, floatant, leader packs, tippet, indicators, split shot, forceps

• Hardy Narrow Spool Perfect
  

  The Best Fly Reel Money Can Buy!

  The Hardy Narrow Spool Perfect is my favorite reel that I’ve ever fished with.  It’s not even close.

  About 7 years ago I was hiking off-trail to a secret lake in Colorado where my friends and I fish together.  Somewhere along the way I lost the tip to my Sage rod.  I tried retracing my steps, but there was no chance of finding it in all that forest.  Simply no chance at all.  Oh well, time to buy a new fly rod!  After a lot of research, I settled on a Hardy Zephrus.  That’s when I discovered Hardy products for myself and dove headfirst into the Hardy “rabbit hole”.  Now, many Hardy rods and reels later, I wouldn’t fish with anything else.

  Of course I’d heard of Hardy reels growing up.  They were always known as the best when it came to upper-end reels, along with Abel reels.  For quite some time now there have been many manufacturers that make wonderful, beautiful, and high quality reels.  In many ways it’s hard to make a bad choice when buying a reel today.  Most are made with such fine precision and functionality.

  This article is about the Hardy Narrow Spool Perfect reel.  The Narrow Spool Perfect was not the first Hardy reel I’ve owned, but it is now definitely my favorite.  I own most of their classic throwback reels like most anglers do who go down this path.  Hardy reels are somehow different in this way. You won’t find people collecting all the offerings of other brands.  With Hardy reels people do.  There’s just something about them.  Though I collect them, let’s make something clear.  I don’t buy them to put them into a case or display on a wall, even though they’re beautiful enough to do so.  They fish!

  Fishing a Hardy Narrow Spool Perfect is like driving a classic Ferrari.  It’s vintage and it’s luxury.  Sure you can find quality reels for $100 that function well enough to catch fish.  So also will a Kia get you from point A to point B.  The question is what would you rather drive?  What would you enjoy more?  Which one gives you a thrill every time you get behind the wheel.  I’ve never actually driven a Ferrari, but I have fished a Narrow Spool Perfect!

  

  Positives

  To this day, every time I put on my Narrow Spool Perfect I get excited.  The longer I fish, and I’ve fished a long time, the more I realize it’s not about a fish count.  It’s about the people & places.  I also realize that fly fishing is an art.  It’s classic.  It’s beautiful.  This reel fits that picture.  It has a classic, vintage, and nostalgic look.  It is the perfect reel that completes the picture when fishing a place like Yellowstone’s Slough Creek for cutthroat trout with a close friend.

  The Narrow Spool Perfect is a beautiful and traditional reel, but also has been crafted for modern day high performance.  It is manufactured in Alnwick England with titanium materials and stainless steel ball bearings.  The result is an incredibly smooth reel.  As a friend of mine likes to say, “smooth like butter.”  It is precision forged from bar stock aluminum and has a hand polished, deep anodized finish.  This makes it lightweight and durable.  In summary, it’s a beautiful, high performing, smooth reel that’s lightweight and durable.

  The Narrow Spool Perfect has, as the name implies, a narrow spool.  This is as compared to the Hardy Perfect reel.  For trout fishing, and specifically dry fly fishing, this has advantages.  The narrow spool means that although it’s not a large arbor reel it still picks up line quickly.

  Lastly, I’m thrilled by the sound the reel makes every time a fish makes a run and the line zings out.  One of the great thrills of fly fishing is the sound of a reel when a fish makes a run.  This reel accentuates that.  The sound of the reel is due to it’s “Click & Pawl” design, which brings me to my next section…

  Click and Pawl Reel

  

  The Hardy Narrow Spool reel is a click and pawl reel.  That’s important to know!  Technically it does have a drag system, but one only strong enough to keep the reel from “back-spooling”.  From a practical standpoint it functions as if there isn’t one.  A fly fisher wanting to slow down the run of a trout will need to use his or her hand and “palm” the reel.

  I like this.  In fact, I’d argue that for trout fishing you don’t really need a drag.  I’ve lost fish in the past using reels with drags that were either too strong or weren’t smooth.  In all my years fishing click pawl reels I’ve never lost a fish because it didn’t have a drag.  If anything, it means the fish will run a little longer and a little more often.  I like that!  A fish pulling out line is one of the most exciting sounds in fly fishing.  The largest fish I’ve ever caught was a 27” rainbow caught on a Hardy Perfect reel, without a strong drag.

  Back to the car analogy.  Fishing a click and pawl reel is like driving a manual instead of an automatic.  At first it takes a little more thought.  It’s a little more to “manage” when beginning.  Once used to it, it’s not any more difficult and the driver/fisherman actually feels more engaged in the process.

  I read a comment while doing some research for this article that I agree with.  A guide out of Montana made it very clear he wouldn’t suggest a click pawl reel for someone who’s learning how to fly fish. His reasoning was that beginners do not know how much pressure to put on the line.  They either tighten up and break the fish off, or they go too light and they play the fish too long.  I agree, and especially if they’re on big water with big fish.

  The Hardy Narrow Spool Perfect isn’t a reel for a first-time fly fisherman anyway.  For the reasons just mentioned above, but also simply because of the price point.  These are expensive reels.  No, this reel is for a more experienced angler who knows how to play a fish and is more interested in the craft and the art of fly fishing.  For someone who’s never fly fished I’d recommend a reel more like a Lamson Liquid S.  I would recommend a Hardy Marquis, Ross Colorado, Abel TR, Orvis C.F.O, or Orvis Battenkill to someone wanting a click and pawl who’s never fished one before just because of the price point.

  Negatives

  The Hardy Narrow Spool Perfect is an expensive reel.  You certainly don’t need to spend this much money on a reel to get the job done.  My counterpoint to this is that it will last a long, long time because it’s so well made.  At least that’s the best rationale I could come up with when explaining to my wife I had just bought another reel.  But seriously, ten years after purchasing it you’re not going to even think about what the reel cost but you’ll still love using it.

  It’s a click and pawl reel.  For some, that’s a positive.  For others, it’s a negative.  A click and pawl reel is not for you if you like a silent reel.  These make some noise.  Personally, I think it’s a beautiful sound, but it’s certainly not silent.  Click and pawl also means there is very little drag as discussed previously.  Don’t buy this reel if you want a disc drag system that can crank down on the fish.  Consider the Hardy Sovereign if you’d like a vintage style Hardy reel that incorporates a disc drag.  Hardy has just reintroduced them, though I haven’t used one yet.

  You can find lighter reels than the Narrow Spool perfect.  In fact, Hardy offers some that feel almost weightless.  I enjoy ultralight backpacking, but I laugh at the push for ultralight gear in fly fishing.  Personally, I think it’s a gimmick by manufacturers to justify their newest rods and reels.  Some of you may recall the old, yellow, Eagle Claw rods that could be either a spinning rod or fly rod depending on how you attached the butt section.  As a kid my arm was exhausted at the end of the day when I used that rod fly fishing.  That’s not the case with recent fly rods and reels.  How often have you finished the day on a river and said to your fishing partner, “Wow-my arm is tired!  I sure with I had a rod that was 1 ounce lighter!”  There are lighter reels available than the Narrow Spool Perfect, but this reel is certainly not too heavy.

  Lastly, the Narrow Spool Perfect is a traditional arbor reel.  It’s not a large arbor reel.  That means it will not pick up line as quickly, though its narrow spool design helps with this.  Also, its retrieve is not interchangeable between right and left hand.  Fly fishers who are right-handed (meaning they cast with their right and reel with their left) need to order a left-hand retrieve.

  

  Conclusion

  I’m not picking a reel just to get compliments from other fly fisherman, though people do notice this one.  What matters to me is what I feel when I rig up and fish it.  How does it function and do I enjoy using it.  The Hardy Narrow Spool Perfect is the smoothest reel I’ve ever owned.  The craftmanship is exceptional.  The click and pawl design has me thoroughly engaged with each fish I hook into, especially the big ones.  The sound it makes when a fish makes a run is music to my ears, something I think about during those cold winter months.  In summary, the Hardy Narrow Spool Perfect reel is a thrill to fish – like driving a Ferrari.

  Author’s Note: Hardy has discontinued offering this specific Narrow Spool Perfect Reel. In its place, they are offering the Hardy 1912 Perfect Fly Reel. It has the same narrow spool design but also incorporates a red agate color line guard. Hardy’s throwback reels are offered for a limited time so this is not uncommon. It also means you should buy one of these while it’s still availabe!

  

  To find out pricing and to order a Hardy 1912 Perfect Fly Reel, or any of the other reels mentioned in this article (Hardy Marquis, Hardy Sovereign, Ross Colorado, Abel TR, Orvis C.F.O. III, Orvis Battenkill, Lamson Liquid S), click the Trident Fly Fishing link below.

  Trident Fly Fishing – Hardy 1912 Perfect Fly Reel
• Hardy Marquis
  

  High Quality, Moderately Priced!

  The first fly reel I ever purchased on my own was a Scientific Angler, System One.  I used it almost exclusively during the first 20 years of my fly-fishing career.  It was basic, reliable, durable, and caught many fish.  I loved that reel!  I wasn’t the only one.  The System One was one of the most popular reels of the time.  Finally, a gromet holding one of the “pawls” in place loosened and the reel stopped working.  I still have my beloved reel and intend to someday find somebody, a jeweler perhaps, who can fix it.

  About 5 years ago I was shopping for a new reel for a new Hardy Zephrus fly rod I had just bought.  That’s when I saw the Hardy Marquis for the first time.  I had to do a double take because it looked so much like my good old Scientific Angler System One.  After doing a little research I found it wasn’t a coincidence.  I discovered that Hardy had involvement in the making of the Scientific Angler reel.  It’s no wonder they’re so much alike.  Of course I had to buy the Marquis to try it out.  I had to replace the one I had grown up with for sentimental reasons, if for nothing else.

  

  

  

  

  The Hardy Marquis is in fact very much like my old Scientific Angler System One fly reel.  The only significant difference being that it’s more modern and therefore made with lighter, higher quality, materials.  It’s also a little narrower, which I like.  It has a slightly different dial to control the “drag”, but in appearance only.  It works the same way.  In fact, the inside of each reel looks almost identical.

  

  

  I recommend going up a size or two for the rod/line you’re matching.  For example, I use a Marquis 6 for my 5-wt Zephrus rod that I mentioned earlier.  I use a Marquis 5 for my 3-wt. Sage rod. The larger Marquis will feel more natural in your hand while reeling in line. I never buy a reel less than 3 inches in diameter. I have big hands, so a reel that small just doesn’t feel right. You’ll need a little more than the recommended length of backing so that by the time the fly line is added it will properly reach the edge of the reel.

  Don’t laugh, but there’s something quirky I sometimes do when I buy new fishing equipment that I’m especially excited about.  I won’t always use the equipment right away. I’ll often wait to break it in on a big trip that I’ve been looking forward to or at a place that is special to me. After all, I wouldn’t want to use a special, brand new Hardy Zephrus rod and Hardy Marquis reel on my little hometown creek and have its first fish be a little 6” brown, right?  I first used my Zephrus and Marquis on a favorite lake high-up in the Wind River mountains.  I still remember…..my first cast caught a beautiful 16” cutthroat in a spectacular setting, at sunset, surrounded by my closest friends.  I was absolutely beaming on the inside from the whole experience. I still remember the moment and will never forget it!

  

  Click and Pawl Reel

  It’s important to know before buying a Hardy Marquis that it’s a click and pawl reel.  Click pawl reels get their name from the metal tooth, or “pawl”, that is attached to the spool.  The pawl “clicks” against a gear that is also attached to the spool as it rotates.  To some, the click sound of a click pawl reel when a fish runs is one of the sweetest sounds in fly fishing.

  There is almost no drag, or stopping power, with a Hardy Marquis because it is a click pawl reel.  A fly angler wanting to slow down the run of a trout will need to use his or her hand and “palm” the reel.  As a result, there’s another level of engagement for anglers playing a fish with a Marquis fly reel.  It’s a throwback to fishing in the past where it was simply man vs. fish.  Ok, that may be a little overdramatic, but you get the idea.

  The Hardy Marquis is the least expensive of Hardy’s click pawl reels.  That makes it a good “starter” reel in this category.  It was for me.  Now I have seven different types of Hardy click pawl reels, with my Hardy Narrow Spool Perfect being my absolute favorite.  There are other high quality click pawl reels on the market you may want to consider as well, including the Ross Colorado, Abel TR, Sage Click, Orvis C.F.O III, and the Orvis Battenkill.  All of these manufacturers are known for their quality, just like Hardy is.

  Positives

  Hardy is famous for their craftmanship and the quality of their reels.  The Marquis has a classic, nostalgic, fly-fishing appearance and is the least expensive of the Hardy traditional click and pawl reel offerings.  Hardy Marquis reels are manufactured in Alnwick England and are precision forged from bar stock aluminum and utilize titanium materials in the click pawl system.  They have a deep anodized finish.  All of this makes them both lightweight and durable.  The Marquis is a beautiful and simple reel made by a company known for its quality.

  The Hardy Marquis has a sweet “click” sound when fish go on their runs and while you’re reeling them in.  It is a great entry level click pawl reel due to the combination of its quality and its price point.  I’ll warn you though, when it comes to Hardy reels a lot of people end up with a whole collection of them.  This may be your first Hardy reel but you’ll likely end up with more than just one.  They’re fun to collect if you enjoy reels like I do.

  The Marquis is a narrow fly reel as I mentioned earlier.  I like this from an aesthetics point of view, but there’s also a functional reason for this.  The narrow spool allows the angler to pick up line more quickly.  The Marquis has a traditional arbor size as opposed to a large arbor.  Large arbors are currently a popular choice because they pick up line more quickly, but the narrowness of the spool helps the Marquis in this regard.  Never once have I thought to myself that my Marquis was taking too much time as I reeled in a fish, though I wouldn’t go smaller than a 3” diameter Marquis as mentioned previously.

  Negatives

  The Marquis is not a quiet reel.  They make some noise.  For some, that’s a positive.  For others, it’s a negative.  In general, a click pawl reel is not for you if you like a silent reel.  Personally, I think it’s a beautiful sound, but it’s certainly not quiet and that can be a negative for some.

  Click pawl also means there is very little drag as discussed previously.  Don’t buy this reel if you want a reel with a strong disc drag system.  The Marquis drag, even at full strength, is still extremely light.  Only enough to keep the reel from “back-spooling” when line is pulled out quickly. When it comes to trout fishing, especially smaller water, I don’t believe drag is necessary.  Still, some fly fisherman can’t imagine not having it.  Consider the Hardy Sovereign if you’d like a vintage style Hardy reel that incorporates a disc drag.  Hardy has just reintroduced them, though I haven’t used one yet.

  

  Conclusion

  The Hardy Marquis was a main stay for Hardy reels for a long time.  It is a simple, vintage style click and pawl reel that is made with modern quality.  It is the reel I use every time I cast my 3-weight fly rod.  For many years I enjoyed great and successful fishing using it with my 5-weight.  I’ve since upgraded to a Hardy Narrow Spool Perfect for my 5-weight, which is my absolute favorite reel.  Even with having the Narrow Spool Perfect, I still break out my larger Marquis once in a while in certain situations.  It’s a reel I don’t mind lending to other people because of its durability.  I don’t mind if it gets dinged-up a bit.

  You’re sure to remember the Scientific Angler System One reels if you’re as old as I am.  You might even have had one yourself.  If so, and if you enjoyed it as much as I did mine, give the Hardy Marquis a try – for old times’ sake.

  To find out pricing and to order a Hardy Marquis, or any of the other reels mentioned in this article (Hardy Narrow Spool Perfect, Hardy Sovereign, Ross Colorado, Abel TR, Sage Click, Orvis C.F.O. III, Orvis Battenkill), click the Trident Fly Fishing link below. 

  Trident Fly Fishing – Hardy Marquis Fly Reel

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