"Norway’s Hidden Gem: World-Class Saltwater Fly Fishing in the Stunning Southern Archipelago"
Darren Crawford Often called the "Norwegian Riviera," this breathtaking coastline offers exceptional fly-fishing opportunities. With healthy wild fish stocks, uncrowded waters, and jaw-dropping scenery, it’s the perfect destination for saltwater fly fishing in idyllic surroundings.
Depending on the season, the crystal-clear waters of this region provide thrilling angling experiences. You can fish from the coast, a belly-boat, a kayak, or a traditional boat. Thanks to the sheltered fjords and islands, there’s always calm water to explore, even when winds pick up.
Sea-Run Brown Trout
A prized target for Scandinavian fly anglers, the sea-run brown trout is a hard-fighting, stunning fish. As waters warm in late March, these trout become more active, feeding aggressively at dawn, dusk, or in low light. They hunt shallow—often within the top 2 meters—so stealth matters more than long casts. A well-presented shrimp or baitfish fly along a beach or over "leopard" bottom can tempt them, though getting a bite isn’t always easy!
Hard-Fighting Sea Bass
When summer brings warmer waters, sea bass, mackerel, and garfish become highly active. Bass can be elusive, but once found, they strike explosively and fight fiercely. Mackerel and garfish, on the other hand, are abundant and provide non-stop action. Like sea trout, they respond well to similar tactics, though bass prefer baitfish patterns.
(Image: A sea bass caught on the fly)
Aggressive Pollack
Pollack are an underrated sportfish—aggressive, plentiful, and lightning-fast when hooked. In early summer, they stay deep due to colder temperatures, requiring heavy flies and fast-sinking lines. As waters warm, they move shallower, offering thrilling battles.
(Image: Fly fishing for pollack in Norway)
Stubborn Atlantic Cod
A cold-water species, cod swim shallow in winter but retreat to deeper waters as temperatures rise. They’re opportunistic feeders, attacking almost any fly that resembles prey. Don’t expect blistering runs—their fight is more about brute strength than speed.
(Image: Cod might not be your first fly-fishing target, but this photo could change your mind!)
Other Species
While this guide highlights key targets, the region also holds:
- Atlantic Halibut
- Haddock
- Brook Trout
Explore Norway’s southern archipelago for unforgettable saltwater fly fishing in a pristine, uncrowded paradise.
