Reykjavik Sea Angling Gourmet

If you’re looking to add a dash of adventure and authentic local flavor to your Reykjavik trip, the Sea Angling Gourmet tour offers a pretty unbeatable combo. For $160 per person and just about 3 hours, you’ll hop aboard a traditional wooden fishing boat, learn the ins and outs of sea angling, and enjoy catching your lunch — all guided by experienced locals. And if that wasn’t enough, the tour often includes a delicious onboard BBQ of your fresh catch, often served with story-filled guides, scenic views, and the chance to spot puffins while heading back to shore.

What we love about this experience are two key points: first, the informative guidance makes it accessible even for beginners, and second, the fishing grounds are some of the best in the area, promising a good chance to reel in something tasty. But it’s not all sunshine; nature being unpredictable means no guaranteed catch, so patience and a sense of humor are your best friends here. Perfectly suited for families, first-time fishers, or anyone wanting a taste of local life at sea, this tour truly immerses you in Iceland’s maritime culture.

Key Points

• Accessible for all levels: No fishing license or experience needed.
• Fresh seafood: Your catch is cooked on board, offering a real farm-to-table feeling.
• Wildlife spotting: Keep your eyes peeled for puffins and other seabirds.
• Scenic views: Sail through breathtaking Faxaflói Bay.
• Expert guidance: Friendly crew teach and help every step.
• Value for money: Combines activity, meal, and scenic tour in one.

How This Tour Stands Out

The Reykjavik Sea Angling Gourmet isn’t just about fishing; it’s about experiencing local Icelandic maritime culture firsthand. You’re on a traditional wooden boat, which adds a touch of old-world charm, and the three-hour duration keeps it manageable — enough time to enjoy the scenery, learn some fishing techniques, and get your hands on fresh fish without feeling like you’ve committed half a day.

Two standout features are the guidance from the crew, who are praised for their friendly and patient approach, and the culinary twist — the onboard BBQ of whatever you catch. Multiple reviews mention how the fish-cooked meal is a “delicious” highlight, with the guides even helping to prepare and serve it during the ride back.

Another appealing aspect is the potential to see wildlife such as puffins, especially during the return journey. The bay’s natural beauty combined with the chance to try your hand at fishing makes this more than just a boat ride — it’s a mini adventure into Iceland’s marine environment.

However, be aware that, as with all outdoor activities in the wild, weather can affect the experience. The tour emphasizes that success isn’t guaranteed, which is fair — but most reviews highlight high catch rates, especially of cod, haddock, and mackerel. If you’re a first-timer or traveling with kids, the guides’ patience and instruction will help you feel comfortable even if you don’t catch the biggest fish.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The package includes all necessary fishing equipment, guidance, a rain jacket (which you can borrow if needed), and the delicious BBQ lunch made from your catch. The tour is limited to 20 travelers, fostering a cozy, friendly atmosphere.

You’ll want to bring sturdy footwear and clothing that can get dirty, as fishing can be a bit messy. Although the guides are helpful and the boat comfortable, preparing for the unpredictable Icelandic weather — wind, rain, or sunshine — is always wise.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Stop 1: Faxaflói Bay

Your adventure begins at Hlésgata 1 in Reykjavik. Once on board, you’ll spend about 3 hours sailing through Faxaflói Bay, a prime fishing ground with an abundance of fish like catfish, cod, haddock, mackerel, and pollack. The crew, consisting of friendly Icelandic brothers, will instruct you on how to operate the fishing gear, making it accessible whether you’ve fished before or are trying it for the first time.

Throughout the trip, the crew will guide you to the best fishing spots in the bay, sharing stories and answering questions. Many reviews mention how helpful and patient the guides are, especially with newcomers or children. The scenic views of Reykjavik’s coastline and the vast horizon are captivating, and the possibility of spotting puffins adds a special touch.

Lunch and Cooking

As the boat drifts, the crew will barbecue the freshly caught fish — a highlight many reviews emphasize. They often cook cod, haddock, and mackerel, turning the catch into a tasty lunch while you relax and enjoy the views. The onboard meal is described as “amazing,” “delicious,” and “perfectly cooked,” turning your fishing effort into a true culinary reward.

Wildlife and Return

On the way back, keep your eyes peeled for puffins and seabirds, which are often seen fluttering around the boat. The scenic cruise wrapped with wildlife sightings makes the experience more engaging. The trip ends back at the original meeting point, with your fish ready to enjoy or take home if you’ve arranged it.

Real Experiences from Travelers

Many visitors mention how accessible and enjoyable this tour is, even for those with no fishing experience. One guest noted, “I am absolutely not a fisherman but my husband is, so I booked this trip for him. Surprisingly I had a wonderful time.” The guides’ patience and kindness shine through, making it a welcoming adventure.

Catches vary from large cod and haddock to smaller mackerel, with some reviews describing monster-sized fish. Several guests appreciated the freshly cooked meal, often calling it “amazing” or “delicious,” and many were thrilled to try their own catch.

The tour’s value stands out considering it combines learning, fishing, scenic cruising, wildlife spotting, and a locally cooked meal — all in just three hours. The small group size and friendly guides contribute greatly to a personalized experience.

Practical Tips for the Trip

• Wear sturdy shoes and clothes that can get dirty or wet.
• Consider bringing anti-motion sickness medication if you’re prone to seasickness — some reviews mention storms affecting their experience.
• Keep your camera handy for photos of puffins, the scenic bay, and your catch.
• Remember, no fishing license is needed; the guides take care of everything.
• While most guests catch fish, it’s not guaranteed — patience and a sense of humor will enhance your trip.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for families, first-time fishers, and wildlife enthusiasts. It caters well to those wanting a hands-on, authentic fishing adventure with a local flavor. It’s also perfect if you prefer a shorter, afternoon activity that combines scenic beauty, wildlife, and good food.

Travelers looking for a relaxed, interactive, and delicious outing will find this tour a rewarding addition to their Reykjavik itinerary. Even seasoned anglers enjoyed the high success rate and the chance to crack open fresh fish in the middle of the Atlantic.

The Sum Up

The Reykjavik Sea Angling Gourmet offers more than just fishing — it’s a taste of Iceland’s maritime heritage, wrapped in scenic views and topped with a delectable onboard lunch. The guides’ friendly expertise combined with the chance to catch and cook your own fish makes this a unique, memorable experience. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned angler, you’ll appreciate the authenticity, value, and fun of the tour.

Perfect for those who want a relaxing afternoon on the water, immersed in local culture and wildlife, this trip guarantees a delicious story to tell. Just pack your sense of adventure, some sturdy shoes, and prepare for a genuine Icelandic maritime adventure.

FAQ

Do I need a fishing license? No, all necessary equipment and guidance are provided, so no license is required.

Can I participate if I have no fishing experience? Absolutely. Many reviews mention how friendly and patient the guides are, and how beginners easily learn the basics.

What should I wear? Sturdy shoes and clothing that can get dirty or wet are recommended. The boat offers rain jackets if needed.

Is seafood included? The crew BBQs a meal from your catch during the cruise, so yes — you get to enjoy freshly cooked fish on board.

What kind of fish might I catch? Common catches include cod, haddock, mackerel, pollack, and catfish.

Can I take my fish home? Yes, if you’re not on a cruise or have arrangements to do so, you can often take some fish home.

What wildlife might I see? Puffins and seabirds are often visible while cruising back to shore.

Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, many reviews mention children catching fish and enjoying the experience, provided they are comfortable on boats.

What if the weather is bad? The tour relies on good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long does the trip last? Approximately 3 hours, making it a perfect afternoon activity without feeling rushed.

Whether you’re craving a culinary adventure, wildlife spotting, or a new skill, the Reykjavik Sea Angling Gourmet offers an authentic and enjoyable way to connect with Iceland’s sea life. It’s a trip that leaves you with fresh fish, great stories, and a genuine taste of Reykjavik’s maritime soul.