Reykjavik Sea Angling Gourmet

If you’re visiting Reykjavik and craving a taste of true Icelandic life, the Reykjavik Sea Angling Gourmet tour might just be the highlight of your trip. This 3-hour adventure combines learning to fish, scoring fresh catch, and indulging in a gourmet lunch onboard a traditional wooden boat. It’s a laid-back yet exhilarating way to connect with Iceland’s marine environment, all while enjoying stunning views of Faxaflói Bay.

What we love most about this tour is the expert guidance and friendly crew that makes even beginners feel like seasoned fishermen. Plus, the fresh seafood lunch cooked right onboard is a genuine treat. On the flip side, the tour’s success depends heavily on the weather, meaning some days might see fewer catches or even cancellations. Still, if you’re someone who loves authentic, hands-on experiences, this trip is a fantastic choice—especially for those who enjoy seafood, wildlife spotting, or just a relaxing day on the water.

Key Points

• All skill levels welcome; no fishing license or experience needed.
• Fresh seafood lunch is included, cooked from your catch.
• Wildlife sightings like puffins are possible on the return journey.
• Expert guides ensure a fun, informative experience.
• The tour lasts around 3 hours, making it perfect for an afternoon activity.
• Small group size (max 20) ensures personalized attention and a cozy atmosphere.

What Makes the Reykjavik Sea Angling Gourmet Tour Stand Out?

This tour strikes a great balance of education, adventure, and culinary delight. It’s perfect for travelers seeking an authentic Icelandic experience that isn’t just about sightseeing but actively engaging with nature and local traditions. From the moment you step aboard a traditional wooden boat, you’re immersed in the real deal—no gimmicks, just good, honest fishing.

The guides’ expertise shines through in their friendly approach and willingness to teach beginners the ropes. You’ll learn the best techniques in sea angling, even if you’ve never held a fishing rod before. The setup is designed so that no previous experience or license is needed, which makes it accessible to almost everyone.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Start at Faxaflói Bay

The adventure begins at the port of Reykjavík, with a meeting point at Hlésgata 1. From there, you’ll hop aboard a sturdy, traditional wooden fishing boat. The crew, which includes brothers Vigfus and his team, are widely praised for their warm, personable approach—they’re known for sharing stories, laughs, and their passion for fishing. Most reviews highlight their patience and helpfulness, especially for first-timers or those a bit wary of the sea.

3 Hours at Sea

Once underway, you’ll cruise the famous Faxaflói Bay, renowned for its rich fishing grounds. The boat has all the essentials—comfortable seating, safety gear, and even rain jackets and boots available if needed, making it easy to focus on fishing rather than weather concerns. The crew will guide you through the techniques of sea angling, offering tips tailored to the current conditions and the type of fish you’re aiming for.

The Catch and the Gourmet Lunch

The most exciting part? When the lines start pulling, and you realize you’re catching fish like cod, haddock, mackerel, pollack, or even rare finds. Many reviewers mention how approachable the guides are, making it easy to learn the tricks of the trade—even if you’ve never fished before. One guest noted how they were shown “how to operate the fishing rod and how to fish,” which transformed a new activity into a fun, confidence-building experience.

The highlight is the onboard BBQ, where the crew cooks your catch into a delicious meal. As one reviewer put it, “they cook a sampling of fish to try and they are delicious,” which is exactly what makes this tour stand out—fresh fish cooked onsite adds a sense of authenticity and reward after the effort.

Wildlife and Scenic Return

On your way back to shore, keep an eye out for seabirds, including puffins, which are often spotted around Faxaflói Bay. Many guests comment on the stunning scenery—calm seas, dramatic coastlines, and sky-high birdlife make the return leg just as memorable as the fishing. The crew often shares stories about local marine life, adding an educational element to the relaxing cruise.

What to Expect: Practical Details and Tips

Duration and Group Size: The tour runs approximately 3 hours, which is ideal if you’re short on time but still want a meaningful experience. With a maximum of 20 travelers, the group remains intimate, ensuring personalized attention from the guides.

What’s Included: Fishing equipment, guidance, rain jackets, and a freshly cooked BBQ of your catch are all included. This means you won’t need to worry about bringing gear or food—just come prepared with sturdy shoes and clothing that can get a bit dirty.

Price and Value: At $160 per person, this experience offers excellent value. What you’re paying for is not just the fishing itself but the expert advice, the fresh seafood meal, and the opportunity to spot wildlife—all set against the stunning backdrop of Iceland’s coast.

Weather Considerations: Since the tour operates in wild conditions, bad weather may lead to cancellations or fewer fish. One review recounted a canceled tour due to weather, emphasizing the importance of flexible expectations. However, the tours are run in good faith, and the company offers full refunds if weather prevents the trip.

Booking in Advance: The tour is popular and tends to book about 51 days in advance on average, so plan ahead, especially if your trip coincides with peak season.

Authentic Experiences as Reported by Guests

Guests frequently mention how helpful and friendly the crew is. One review raved about the guides as “great, very helpful, and willing to share stories and laughs,” which makes a big difference when you’re trying to learn a new skill on a boat. Others appreciated the freshness of the fish—“there’s nothing fresher than fish while still on the ocean,” one guest noted—highlighting the genuine appeal of this excursion.

Many guests, including non-fishermen, end up having a surprisingly enjoyable time, with one stating, “I am absolutely not a fisherman but my time was wonderful,” thanks to the guides’ patience and the warm, relaxed atmosphere.

Food and Drink

While not explicitly listed, the onboard BBQ of caught fish was highlighted by multiple reviewers, describing it as “amazing” and “delicious.” This fresh, simple meal turns a fishing trip into a culinary highlight—particularly appealing for seafood lovers wanting to taste what they’ve caught.

Wildlife and Scenic Beauty

Seabird watching, especially puffins, is a common bonus. The calm waters and scenic coastline provide a peaceful backdrop, making the entire experience more than just fishing—it’s a scenic cruise infused with local flavors.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for families, groups of friends, or even solo travelers who love the idea of learning a skill, cooking fresh seafood, and getting out on the water. It suits beginners and seasoned anglers alike, given the guides’ helpful approach and flexible techniques.

If you’re after an authentic Icelandic adventure where you can see wildlife, enjoy stunning views, and eat fresh fish, this tour checks all boxes. It’s especially appealing for those who want a relaxed, small-group experience with a personal touch.

However, if you’re highly sensitive to rough seas or strictly prefer land-based activities, keep in mind the weather dependency and the possibility of choppy waters.

Reykjavik Sea Angling Gourmet offers a genuine slice of Icelandic coastal life. From the friendly guides to the delicious onboard meal, the experience promises a memorable day that combines learning, adventure, and the simple pleasure of fresh seafood. The small-group setting, expert instruction, and wildlife sightings make it a special outing for those looking to connect with nature while indulging in Iceland’s best culinary delights.

This tour best suits travelers who enjoy hands-on activities, beautiful scenery, and authentic food experiences. It’s a brilliant way to spend half a day, especially if you’re eager to bring home a story—and perhaps some fresh fish—to remember your Iceland trip.

FAQ

Is prior fishing experience necessary?
No, the tour is designed for all skill levels. Guides will teach you everything you need to know, making it easy even for complete beginners.

What should I wear?
Sturdy footwear is recommended, and clothing that can get dirty or wet. Rain jackets and boots are available if needed, so don’t worry about the weather.

How long does the tour last?
The trip lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity.

What fish might I catch?
Common catches include catfish, cod, haddock, mackerel, and pollack. Occasionally, there may be rare or unusual finds, as some guests have caught small halibut or unidentified species.

Is food included?
Yes, your catch will be cooked into a BBQ meal onboard. Many guests find this a highlight—nothing beats eating freshly caught fish, right out of the sea.

Can children join?
Yes, the tour is suitable for most travelers, including families with kids. The guides are known for being patient and kind, especially toward children.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour is weather dependent. If conditions are unsafe or too rough, the trip can be canceled, and a full refund or alternative date will be offered.

For a genuine, engaging, and tasty Icelandic adventure, the Reykjavik Sea Angling Gourmet tour is hard to beat. With knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and the chance to cook your catch, it’s a well-rounded experience for those wanting more than just sightseeing. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a curious first-timer, this trip delivers on fun, flavor, and authentic Icelandic charm.