By Matthías Þór Hákonarson
An exceptional Atlantic salmon caught on the fly in Iceland's stunning Mýrarkvísl River.
As I reflect on the 2024 fishing season, one word comes to mind: exceptional. This year, we landed an incredible 406 salmon on the Mýrarkvísl, making it one of the most successful seasons in the river's history. For those of us who have fished and guided here for years, this was not just a season—it was a celebration of what makes this river so special.
Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of North Iceland, the Mýrarkvísl is a river that tests your skills while rewarding your perseverance. It’s known for its technical challenges, stunning scenery, and the opportunity to catch both salmon and sea trout. This year, it reminded us all why it’s such a treasured destination for anglers worldwide.
Note the kype on this salmon, signifying it’s a male…and a strong one at that!
A Season for the Books
The Mýrarkvísl has always had its ups and downs, with an average annual catch of around 190 salmon since 1985. However, breaking the 300-salmon barrier has only happened a handful of times. This year, the river exceeded all expectations, delivering an unprecedented 406 salmon.
What made this year so remarkable wasn’t just the numbers—it was the consistent quality of the fishing. Whether it was fresh-run salmon in early July or sea trout later in the season, the river delivered unforgettable moments day after day.
Unforgettable Fishing Moments
I vividly remember one particular session in mid-July. The water levels were perfect, and the salmon were holding in a deep pool just below the falls. My client, a seasoned angler from the U.S., hooked into a powerful fish on a small black-and-red tube fly. The salmon fought with ferocity, making run after run downstream. It was a 14-pounder, bright silver and full of energy—a fish that perfectly represented the vitality of this year’s run.
Conservation: The Key to Success
The success of the 2024 season wasn’t just about favorable conditions—it was also the result of dedicated conservation efforts. Strict catch-and-release policies, smolt release, pool resturations and sustainable fishing practices have allowed the river to thrive. This season was a testament to what can be achieved when anglers, river managers and landowners work together to protect a resource as valuable as the Mýrarkvísl.
It’s not just about the fishing. It’s about preserving the delicate balance of the ecosystem and ensuring that future generations will have the opportunity to experience the magic of this river.
An Invitation to Experience the Mýrarkvísl
The brown trout on the Mýrarkvísl River are another excellent species to target. This summer, many were caught on dry flies when taking a “break” from fishing for Atlantic salmon.
If you’ve ever dreamed of fishing in Iceland, the Mýrarkvísl should be at the top of your list. Whether you’re targeting hard-fighting salmon or brown trout, this river offers an experience that’s both challenging and deeply rewarding. Every pool tells a story, and every fish you catch feels like a connection to the river’s rich history.
This year was extraordinary, and I’m optimistic about what the future holds for the Mýrarkvísl. It’s a place that continues to inspire me, and I’m honored to share its waters with anglers from around the world.
Here’s to another incredible season on the Mýrarkvísl. Tight lines, and I hope to see you on the river soon.
Best,
Matthias Thor Hakonarson
Matti, an expert angler for Atlantic salmon and brown trout, is the owner of Iceland Fishing Guide.
Matthías Þór Hákonarson is the owner and operator of Iceland Fishing Guide, a premier guiding service he has dedicated the past 15 years to building. Based in Northern Iceland, Matthías has developed deep understanding of operations of fly fishing business, and guiding, with a special focus on the region’s unique rivers and landscapes. His commitment to river restoration has been particularly impactful, with the Mýrarkvísl river restoration project successfully reviving salmon populations to their former levels, a testament to his passion for sustainable fishing practices.
Outside of his professional work, Matthías is an avid ice hockey player, enjoys snowmobiling, and, naturally, has a deep love for fishing. His work and personal interests reflect a lifelong dedication to Iceland’s outdoor pursuits and a commitment to sharing its natural beauty with others.
Iceland Fishing Guide is the premiere outfitter I use for my trophy fly fishing trip targeting big, spirited brown trout and majestic Atlantic salmon. Learn more about the trip here:
While in Iceland, I sat down with an expert Atlantic salmon guide to uncover the best tips, tactics, and techniques to help you land one of these incredible fish!
This is one of the magical pools on the Mýrarkvísl River. Once the salmon takes the fly, the angler must wait for what seems like an eternity, then slowly lift the rod. This fly fisher did everything perfectly, now the fight is on!