– WEST RANGA –
RANKED AS THE BEST SALMON RIVER IN THE WHOLE OF ICELAND IN TERMS OF NUMBERS! GREAT LODGE RIGHT ON THE RIVER. BEAUTIFUL, CRYSTAL CLEAR RIVER THAT IS GREAT FOR ALL EXPERIENCE LEVELS.
Factfile
Being just 100km from Reykjavik, the West Ranga, located near the town of Hella in the south of Iceland, is easily reached. Just an hour’s drive from the capital puts you on what is currently ranked the best salmon river in Iceland.Â
The well positioned lodge (overlooking the most productive pool on the whole river) accommodates up to 18 anglers per week, fishing over some 25km of water.Â
Due to the run size and nature of the river, the West Ranga is suitable for anglers of all abilities.Â
Overview
The West Ranga always appears towards the top of the Icelandic salmon river rankings – each season producing around 6,000 Atlantic salmon on rod and line. Not only does it have the numbers, it also has a decent average size, especially when compared to many of the west coast rivers.Â
The West Ranga is very easy to get to, being just an hour or so from Reykjavik, or ninety minutes from Keflavik. This means you can arrive into Iceland the morning of fishing and leave in the afternoon of your final day, making it a great option for those on tight schedules.Â
Due to the nature of the river and its source, the West Ranga rarely fluctuates in height, colour or temperature, making it a very consistent river and a safe bet.
Fishing
The West Ranga is one of the most prolific and consistent rivers in the whole of Iceland, producing on average around 6,000 Atlantic salmon to rod and line annually. It does not suffer from water level, temperature of colour fluctuations, making it a safe bet for those looking for an Icelandic fishing trip.Â
The lodge has around 25km of fishing available over some 9 beats. There are up to 18 rods available at a time, usually fishing two rods per guide. With the healthy run of salmon, the size should be noted too as the river is noted for a larger average size compared to a lot of the west coast rivers in Iceland. Given this healthy run, anglers are permitted to keep a fish or two to take home with them, should they wish – there is a cleaning facility on site. Alternatively, the fresh salmon can be swapped for some locally produced smoked salmon, which is an easier option to travel home with. Â
There is also great sea trout fishing to be had and superb fishing for huge brown trout throughout the season, for those looking for something different.Â
Due to the size of the river, a double hander is the best tool for covering the water. A 12-14ft rod is ideal, complimented with a floating line and then a tip of some description – the knowledgeable guide team will soon put you right on this front and on the fly front. There is a well stocked tackle shop on site that covers all your fly needs.
accommodation and pricing
The lodge is spacious, comfortable, modern and very well appointed – it literally overlooks home-pool, which is the most productive pool on the whole river and accounts for around a thousand salmon season alone!
There are 21 en-suite rooms available, each one being well furnished and spacious. There are also some family rooms available, which are great options for those looking to tag on a few days sightseeing in the area, which is highly recommended. Â
For costs and availability please contact FishTravel, who will gladly assist you and advise you on the best time to visit.Â
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