The Otra River, stretching 245 km, is Norway’s eighth-longest river. Flowing alongside Southern Norway’s main road, Rv 9, it eventually empties into the sea near Kristiansand, the region’s capital.
Along its course, the Otra offers diverse landscapes, shifting from rushing whitewater to calm, wide stretches and tranquil lakes of varying sizes.
This vibrant river is a haven for anglers. The lower 16 km are home to migratory Atlantic salmon, sea trout, wild brown trout, and European freshwater eel. In 2014, 6,537 kg of fish were caught here, with wild Atlantic salmon accounting for 94% of the haul.
Upstream from Vennesla, where migratory fish are blocked by artificial barriers, the Otra transforms into a network of interconnected lakes and smaller rivers. This area teems with wild brown trout—though typically small in size, their abundance ensures a rewarding fishing experience.
Stunning Scenery & Sustainable Fishing
In June 2023, the Otra Fishing Association (Otra Fiskelag) partnered with Fishby to introduce a "Smart Fishing License", promoting sustainable angling tourism in the Setesdalen Valley. This digital license grants access to the upper 180 km of the Otra system, from Hartevatn at Hovden in the north to Kilefjorden in the south (Note: Migratory species fishing is excluded).
Unique Fish Species
While wild brown trout dominate, anglers may also encounter American brook trout. Most catches weigh around 300g (¾ lb), but trophy fish up to 8 kg (17.5 lbs) lurk beneath the surface.
One of the river’s rarest inhabitants is Byglandsbleka (or simply "bleka"), a dwarf salmon (Salmo salar) found only in Byglandsfjorden. These pale, landlocked salmon rarely exceed 250g but are highly prized.
South of Fennefossen in Evje, perch thrive, while minnows populate the higher reaches.
Fishing Rules & Regulations
- Licenses:
- Physical (paper) licenses available at campsites and tourist centers.
- Digital licenses sold on Fishby.no.
- Youth under 16 fish for free.
- Cost:
- Day: NOK 75
- Week: NOK 200
- Season: NOK 500
- Equipment:
- All hand gear permitted (including otter boards).
- Recommended lines: AFTMA 3–6 (float or intermediate).
- Ethics:
- Bury fish entrails to prevent parasite spread.
- Respect grazing livestock—do not cross inland fields.
- Keep dogs leashed.
- Strict Ban:
- Live bait is prohibited—violations will be reported to authorities.
- Safety:
- During heavy rains, beware of sudden water level rises near dams and power stations.
Two Treasures: Marble Trout & Bleka
The Otra’s upper reaches host two globally unique species:
-
Southern Norway’s Marble Trout
Resembling Italy’s Salmo marmorata, genetic studies reveal it’s a hybrid of brown trout (Salmo trutta) and American brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis). Specimens up to 500g have been caught in Evje.
-
Byglandsbleka
These dwarf salmon, often mistaken for brown trout, became isolated in Byglandsfjord after the last Ice Age. Once a local staple, their population nearly vanished due to a 1905 hydroelectric dam and 1950s acid rain. By the 1970s, only ~200 adults remained.
Today, conservation efforts aim to restore a self-sustaining, harvestable population—reviving bleka’s role in local cuisine and boosting tourism.
Species Spotlight
While other fish may inhabit the area, this guide highlights:
- Atlantic Salmon
- Brown Trout
- Sea Trout
Explore the Otra—where nature, adventure, and rare fish await!
Darren Crawford 
