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Fishing in Kristiansund, Norway Photo: Terje Rakke/Nordic Life AS/Fjord Norway

Coast and deep-sea fishing in Norway

Coast and deep sea fishing is good all along the Norwegian coast. Lofoten is one of the best places to go.

Local fisherwoman Regine, was happy to take us out on Lofoten's deep waters where the big fish run.

Many other locals do the same, and you will not have a problem with arranging a fishing trip.

- It is not really a big one, says Regine. Seconds later we have a 10-kilo cod on board.

Catching a fish this size is not unusual in these waters. Using echo sound you can see the fish on a monitor in the boat and prepare your hunt for the really big ones.

If you do not like boats and deep waters, just rent a rod, and find a good spot on shore. At the best spots in Northern Norway it is not uncommon to get a nibble on every third or fourth throw. However, chances are bigger to get the really big ones out at deep-sea.

Cod, mackerel and coalfish are the most common kinds, but if you are lucky, the more exotic wolffish and halibut will find your bait.

Rules and regulations

Coast and deep sea fishing is free of charge. However, no more than 15 kilos of fish filets or fish products can be exported from Norway per person.    

Minimum sizes

Please note that you are not allowed keep fish smaller than the following sizes:

Species Area Minimum
Halibut The whole country 60 centimetres
Cod South of 64°N 40 centimetres
North of 64°N 47 centimetres
Haddock South of 64°N 31 centimetres
North of 64°N 44 centimetres
Pollack 32 centimetres
Plaice West of Lindesnes 29 centimetres
East of Lindesnes 27 centimetres
Crab North of Rogaland 13 centimetres
Rogaland and to the Swedish border 11 centimetres
Lobster The whole country 25 centimetres
Large scallop The whole country 10 centimetres
Norway lobster The whole country 13 centimetres

 

Safe fishing

Even if the weather is fine in the morning it does not mean that it will stay that way all day. Check the weather forecast or ask a local before you leave. If the clouds darken and start to gather, it is a good idea to head back. It is smart to tell someone where you are going.

Remember lifejackets if you are going out in a boat.

For more information, see Guidelines for recreational sea fishing in Norway.

Last updated:  31 March 2011
Norwegian haddock - Photo: Terje Rakke/Nordic life/Innovation Norway
Norwegian haddock

Interest:  Fishing, Coast and coastal culture

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Fishing in Kristiansund, Norway - Photo: Terje Rakke/Nordic Life AS/Fjord Norway

Coast and deep-sea fishing in Norway

Coast and deep sea fishing is good all along the Norwegian coast. Lofoten is one of the best places to go.

Coast and deep-sea fishing in Norway

Source: Visit Norway

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