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Big salmon caught in the Flåm River, Norway - Photo: Torbjørn Andersson
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Big salmon caught in the Flåm River, Norway

The Flåm River

The Flåm River runs through one of the most scenic regions of Western Norway, in an area with dramatic mountains, waterfalls and steep valleys.

Interest:  Fishing

Please note:
Fishing of salmon in the Flåm River is stopped for a couple of seasons due to low numbers of spawn salmon.
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The river

Flåm River plunges from the mountains, through large number of waterfalls and several salmon ladders. Finally it flows into the Aurlandsfjord at Flåm.

Some 60 per cent of the rainfall feeding the Flåm River occurs at altitudes higher than 1,250 metres. This means that the water is exceptionally clear and pure, teeming with trout - and a substantial share of the country’s largest naturally bred salmon. It was this that first attracted overseas anglers to the area, over 130 years ago.

In the lower four kilometres of the river, the flow is calmer and it is here that the salmon breed – and the best fishing is to be had. Only fly-fishing is allowed and anglers of all levels of ability can look forward to a challenging and rewarding stay.

Because of the high altitude of the water catchment, the water temperature is low throughout the season, it seldom rises higher than 8 - 10 degrees Celsius. The river holds huge salmon over 15 kilos giving good sport in this spectacular river.

The salmon stock is carefully conserved. For this reason, a salmon fishing quota has been set and only fly-fishing is permitted. While you are free to catch and release at any time, you are limited to taking one salmon in any 24-hour period.

The river also holds big sea trout, with an average size of 3.5 kilos. They are normally fished at night with a floating line.

Number of salmon and sea trout caught on rod on the Flåm River
(released fish not included)
Year Total number of salmon Number of salmon under 3 kilos Number of salmon 3-7 kilos Number of salmon over 7 kilos Total number of sea trout
2003 11 7 3 1 46
2004 10 3 5 2 25
2005 46 28 3 15 17
2006 34 0 29 5 15
2007 18 6 6 6 20
2008 34 9 10 15 28


Equipment

Single-handed rods 10 - 11 feet, class 7 - 9 or double handed rod, 12 - 13 feet, class 8 - 10.

Flies: Green Highlander, Rusty Rat, March Brown, Heggeli, Flomflugan (medium and large sizes)

Lines: Sinking and intermediate.

Normal warm clothing for fishing but bring an extra sweater for a chilly night. Chest waders with felt soles are recommended. Lifejackets and wading stick are recommended.

Guides: There will normally be two guides for a group of eight anglers

Nearest airports

  • Bergen Airport Flesland. Transfer time is approximately two and a half hours by car.
Last updated: 2009-08-03
Flam river pool, Norway - Photo: Torbjørn Andersson
Flam river pool, Norway
Two salmon caught in the Flåm River, Norway - Photo: Torbjørn Andersson
Two salmon caught in the Flåm River, Norway

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Related

What to do along the Adventure Road

Cycle Rallarvegen which is one of Norway's most popular cycle routes. You can also go hiking and fishing, and visit bears at Vassfaret Bjørnepark.
Interest: Biking, Hiking, Fishing, Family & Fun, Riding & Sledging, Fjords & Mountains

What to do in the Sognefjord area

Experience the Sognefjord and the Nærøyfjord by boat, hike the Jostedalsbreen Glacier or walk from cabin to cabin in Jotunheimen National Park.
Interest: Hiking, Fishing, Biking, Water activites, Tours & Safaris, Extreme sports, Fjords & Mountains

About Aurland

Key facts about the Sognefjord area

Sognefjord is the area where you find the Flåm Railway, the Nærøyfjord, Jotunheimen, Jostedalsbreen, Urnes Stave Church and Vettisfossen Waterfall.

Key facts about Flåm

The small town of Flåm has 450 inhabitants and is situated in the municipality of Aurland.
Morning
Rain, Moderate breeze
8°C

Related

Aurland

Fishing

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