Think big on your fishing holiday in the north.
If you dream of giant fish, choose your fishing holiday location wisely. In Northern Norway, record catches are the rule rather than the exception.
On a fishing holiday in Northern Norway, you will no doubt hear numerous stories about giant fish. "Fiction and fables", you may mutter to yourself – but soon enough, you will realise that it is not just fairytales.
Thanks to the location just by the Barents Sea and the Norwegian Sea, there are huge amounts of fish along the northern coast. Species like cod, halibut, saithe, redfish, haddock and wolffish often grow unusually large here. In this region you can also go fishing for skrei – extra large cod that gather along the northern coast in the winter to spawn.
Apart from the chance of getting a biggie on the hook, many anglers happily travel north of the Arctic Circle for another reason.
Norway has always been closely associated with fishing, and as a result you will find a number of dream fishing destinations scattered along the coast: The North Cape, the islands of Lofoten and Vesterålen, and the large islands Sørøya and Senja, to mention a few.
Northern Norway is characterized by pristine nature with huge variations in the landscape. The rocky, almost treeless wilderness of the far north is gradually taken over by the lush green fjord and coastal landscape further south.
What's the weather like?
If you think Northern Norway is way too far away and cold for sensible human beings, think again! Thanks to the warm currents of the Gulf Stream, the climate is a lot milder than you might think – decidedly warmer than other destinations on the same latitude.
Just remember that the local weather can vary considerably from day to day. During the summer months, the temperature is often pleasant around 20 degrees Celsius – but then again, don't be surprised if you experience a snow shower too.
When is the best time to go?
The high season runs from May to September. During the summer months, you can fish around the clock thanks to the midnight sun.
Hard-core anglers will also be interested in the winter fishing opportunities, especially the famous skrei (migrating cod) fishing that takes place from January to March.
It will be dark and cold, but you have ample chances of spotting the northern lights dancing across the sky.
Getting to Northern Norway
Most of Northern Norway is located above the Arctic Circle and consists of the counties Nordland, Troms and Finnmark. The quickest and easiest way to get there is by plane.
Safety on your fishing holiday in Norway
Safety tips to leave you high and dry
Keep these rules of thumb in mind whenever you are on or by the water.
Find more information on our page about water safety.
- Think safety at all times. Planning reduces risk and gives you more worry-free fun.
- Bring the necessary equipment. It should be in good condition and easily accessible.
- Respect the sea and the weather. Only cast off when it is safe.
- Follow the rules of the sea, and make sure you know what they are.
- Wear life jackets or other flotation devices.
- Make sure you are rested and sober. Do not drive a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Be considerate, and remember that safety, the environment, and the well-being of everybody is a common responsibility.
Fishing and safety at sea
Get ready for an adventure
Take advantage of top offers
See our selection of trusted companies that work hard to make you happy all through your trip.
SJ NordSJ NORD - the adventure starts on the train
CampcationBook a camping stay in stunning and unique locations all across Norway with Campcation.
Auto EuropeAlways a smooth car rental experience. Search and compare rental rates. Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to pick-up.
Scandic HotelsExperience Nordic hotel hospitality at its finest at more than 90 hotels across Norway. Special offers are available.
Radisson HotelsGreat value offers and comfortable quality stays in Norway´s major cities, airports, and ski resorts.
Thon Hotels ASFantastic breakfast included! Experience true comfort and reasonable rates at our 80 hotels in Norway.
Discover NorwayOffers a range of exciting self-guided hiking, biking, and skiing holidays in Norway. Luggage transfer included.
Booknordics.comUnique holiday packages, adventure hotels, tours, and activities.
Vy TrainGlide through scenery on a train between Oslo and Bergen on the Bergen Railway and explore the greater Oslo region.
Arctic Campers ASDo you want to try van life? Explore Norway in comfort and style with our smart and cosy campervans.
Norrøna AdventureGet ready for expeditions and adventure holidays with Norrøna Adventure. Hiking, skiing, and biking trips.
Up NorwayBespoke luxury hand-picked by local experts. We combine your preferences and our knowledge to make an unforgettable journey.
50 Degrees North NordicChoose between unforgettable tailormade individual trips and small, exclusive group tours of Norway.
Fjord ToursHome of Norway in a Nutshell, Norway's most popular tour. Fjords, mountains, and stunning destinations — all in one trip!
StrawberryA different hotel company! Look out for great weekend deals at more than 100 hotels in Norway.
CityboxModern and affordable hotels in central locations in Oslo, Bergen, and Kristiansand.
HurtigrutenExperience the world's most beautiful sea voyage on an unforgettable cruise along the stunning Norwegian coast.
NorgesbookingBook your perfect cabin stay in the fjords, mountains, and valleys of Norway.
De HistoriskeHave an unforgettable stay at one of Norway's unique, authentic historic hotels. Enjoy first-class dining experiences and a broad range of activities.
Classic Norway HotelsWhen the hotel is the destination. Book a night to remember in one of Norway's most unique and distinctive hotels.
CampioNorway's biggest camping booking site. Find the best camping and motorhome pitches throughout Norway.
Brim ExplorerQuiet fjord tours on award-winning electric catamarans in Oslo, Tromsø, Lofoten, and Svalbard.
Authentic ScandinaviaTravel curated by locals. Our tailormade tours suit every type of traveller and budget.
NorwegianNorwegian offers cheap flights in Norway and direct flights from more than 70 European destinations. Book flights through our low fare calendar to your destinations.
Benzini CampersThe adventure of your life starts here. Book a campervan with Benzini Campers now.
Go FjordsBook fantastic tours and experiences! We offer tours in Oslo, Bergen, Stavanger, Lofoten, the North Cape, and more.
CampanyonUnique camping in nature. Book a stay in a treehouse or glamping tent or rent a motorhome pitch.
Rent-A-Wreck of Scandinavia ASThe smart and affordable car rental alternative.
Norwegian HolidaysLow-price package holidays with Norwegian. Book your flight, hotel, and rental car all in one place.
My Nordic TravelChoose between DIY itineraries and pre-packaged holidays to the very best destinations in Norway.
NOR-WAY BussekspressEnjoy scenic views on comfortable bus trips to the fjords and from city to city with our express buses.
Fjord Travel NorwaySleep in an ice hotel, hunt the northern lights, and discover the magical fjords. Book your tour now!
StrömmaSightseeing by bus and boat in several major tourist spots and cities in Norway.
Vy expressDiscover Norway on comfortable express buses that take you between major cities, mountains, and fjords.
Travel to Northern Norway
Northern Norway has lots to offer, all year around.
