11/13/2023

LAXA I KJOS

LAXA i KJOS

less than an hour FROM REYKJAVIK. ATLANTIC SALMON and sea trout FISHING IN A BEAUTIFUL, CRYSTAL CLEAR RIVER. FANTASTIC MODERN LODGE overlooking the river.

Factfile

Being just 30km from Reykjavik, the Laxa i Kjos River is easily reached. Less than an hour’s drive from the capital along the west coast brings you to one of the prettiest and most prolific rivers in Iceland. A truly special place and a hitch angler’s dream!

Whilst Atlantic salmon are the main attraction, the Laxa i Kjos also has a great run of sea trout, many reaching into double figures. These can be targeted in the meadows during your stay, if you wish.

Overview

The Laxa in Kjos is one of the most stunning glacially-forged valleys in Iceland. A narrow upper canyon splays into a gentle, peaceful, arable valley (aka the meadows) before cascading down the final falls and pools into the sea close to the lodge.

This exceptional river (currently ranked #17 of all salmon rivers in Iceland, producing 603 salmon in 2023 and 1,017 in 2022) can be reached within an hour’s drive from Reykjavik and one-and-a half hour’s drive from Keflavik International Airport. Between the main Laxa i Kjos river and its beautiful tributary (Bugda River), there are around 80 pools in total to fish – meaning a huge amount of water to the 8 rods per week.

Fishing

The Laxa i Kjos river is a great all-rounder, producing a good grilse run, but also a healthy percentage of larger salmon too. In addition, there is a good sea trout run, with fish up to 20 lbs being recorded over recent years – these can be targeted on dry fly and nymph in the meadows section.

You may fish the Laxa i Kjos with a switch rod if you prefer. However, the river is medium sized and best fished with a single hander – a 10ft for a #7 or #8 single hander is perfect, especially when fishing the hitch etc. which many choose the Laxa i Kjos for especially. This single hander will also cover you well for the Bugda, which is the main tributary of the Kjos, and a joy to fish and explore during your stay.

You only need to bring a floating line to cover all fishing eventualities.

accommodation and pricing

The lodge, overlooking Pollabreida pool, is one of the nicest in Iceland – more akin to a boutique hotel than a fishing lodge, full of creature comforts to call home before and after your time on the river. The large, wooden dormer opens out on to a veranda that allows a view straight down the river – looking towards Laxfoss, which is recognised as one of the best and most scenic salmon pools in Iceland.

Guests are accommodated in their own rooms with en-suite bathrooms. The rooms are spacious, quiet and well-appointed en-suite bedroom with a river view and a second bed should they choose to rod-share, as is often common in Iceland.

There is a large drying room available for making for making the start and end of your fishing day warm and comfortable. The lodge is able to provide rods, reels, and other loan equipment if needed.

For costs and availability please contact FishTravel, who will gladly assist you and advise you on the best time to visit.