Lake Tindavatn

Incredible trout fishing in a lava landscape in the south-west

Lake Tindavatn is a newly unearthed gem for trout fishing enthusiasts. It is located 2 1/2 hours from Reykjavik in the Highland's of Iceland in an area that resembles a lunar landscape that was created by volcanic eruptions millennia ago. Volcanic sand and ash and jagged rock outcroppings are the background to your fishing experience. Recently opened to fishing, the lake holds brown trout that average 5lbs in weight - although a 17lb specimen was caught.

The brown trout cruise the lake looking for stickback minnows and midge larvae to eat. The abundance of both account for their healthy appearance. Fishing with streamers and nymphs is effective, but under certain conditions, fishing with dry fly is optimal. This is a fly-fishing only lake and catch and release is mandatory.

Frontiers' Expert View

1

The Fishing

Brown trout cruise this remote lake that has only been recently opened to fly fishermen. Midges and three-spined stickleback minnows are the main food source and the trout here average about 5lbs. Larger trout have been caught here.
2

The Landscape

Although you are in Iceland you might as well be on the moon. The neon green moss-covered mountains that rise above the black volcanic sand landscape are absolutely stunning. It's hard not to be amazed.
3

The Lodge

The Highlands program offers a comfortable lodge that can accommodate up to 10 guests in five bedrooms. The newly renovated building and trained staff will work hard to make your stay memorable off the water.
4

The Water

This lake covers an area of several acres and is accessed by walking the sandy shoreline and wading into the shallows. The hard and unstructured bottom allows for easy wading.
5

Outlook

The journey is part of the experience and the day, and should not be rushed. Do stop and take pictures. The fish are amazing and just the fact they are there is extraordinary. The lake can be moody sometimes with too much food about, strange but true!