Reykjavik Sea Angling Gourmet

The best part of this Reykjavík outing is simple: you catch fish in Faxaflói Bay, then eat it while the boat is still heading home. The crew cleans and cooks a sample of the catch onboard, often serving cod, haddock, mackerel, pollack, or whiting with potatoes and sauce.

I like the easy, hands-on fishing and the chance to see the bay from a working boat rather than from shore. I also like the way the brothers on the crew, including Jakob and Vigfus, help first-timers without making experienced anglers feel left out.

The main caution is the sea itself. This is a real boat trip in open water, so wind and motion sickness can affect the day. The operator cannot promise a catch, either, even though the success rate is usually high.

Key points to know before you book

• Fresh fish cooked at sea: Your catch can be cleaned, grilled, and served before the boat reaches the harbor.
• No license or experience needed: The crew supplies rods, tackle, and a short lesson in how to fish.
• Three hours on Faxaflói Bay: The boat moves among several fishing areas rather than staying in one spot.
• Good for mixed groups: Children, older adults, beginners, and experienced anglers can all take part.
• Bring sturdy shoes and clothes that can get dirty: Rain jackets are supplied, but footwear is not.
• Weather matters: A rough sea can reduce comfort, and poor weather may lead to cancellation.

Fishing Faxaflói Bay from Reykjavík

This is a compact sea-fishing trip with a pleasingly clear purpose. You meet at Hlésgata 1, near Reykjavík’s harbor, board the boat, learn the basic technique, and spend roughly three hours on Faxaflói Bay. The trip ends where it begins.

The setting gives you a different view of Iceland’s capital. From the water, Reykjavík becomes part of a broad coastal scene, with the bay opening toward the horizon and mountains often visible in the distance when conditions are clear. The crew also keeps an eye out for seabirds. Puffins and fulmars have been seen during outings, and whales are possible, though nobody should book this as a whale-watching trip.

The boat carries up to 20 people, though several outings have had closer to 12 anglers aboard. That difference matters. A full boat may feel more social and energetic, while a smaller group gives you more room around the rail and more direct help from the crew.

You are not left to figure out the tackle alone. The crew gives a quick demonstration, explains how to release the line, and shows you how to work the rod. The supplied setup is designed for easy use by beginners. Experienced anglers may find it heavier and less subtle than their own gear, but that is a sensible trade for a mixed group.

What you actually do during the three hours

The fishing is generally done while the boat drifts over productive water. A drogue can slow the drift, allowing the lines to stay in the fishing zone longer. The crew moves between several areas of Faxaflói Bay, with some trips stopping at three or four locations.

Your main job is to lower the line, feel for the bite, and wind the fish up when you have one. The crew helps remove fish from the hook and keeps the process moving. In good conditions, you may catch several fish, and it is possible to bring up two at once.

The commonly caught species include cod, haddock, mackerel, pollack, coalfish, whiting, and catfish. Halibut and wolffish have also been caught, though they are less predictable. Some fish may be released if they are small or not wanted for the meal.

One useful detail for beginners is that you do not need to understand complicated knots, bait systems, or local fishing rules. The commercial-style lures are built to resist tangles, and the crew supplies the entire fishing setup. You can focus on feeling the rod and enjoying the action.

The catch rate depends on weather, water conditions, and the movements of the fish. On some trips, people have had a fish on within minutes. On others, the action has been slower. The company reports a high success rate but does not guarantee a catch, and that is worth taking seriously.

The fresh-catch barbecue on the ride home

The meal is what gives this excursion its gourmet label. After the fishing, the crew selects part of the catch, cleans and fillets it, and cooks it on the boat while you travel back toward Reykjavík.

The meal is straightforward rather than fancy. Expect fresh fish, often cod or haddock, with potatoes, sauce, or another simple accompaniment. The appeal is not elaborate presentation. It is the short distance between sea and plate. A fish caught during the afternoon can be on your plate before you are back at the dock.

That timing also makes the meal a useful part of the experience for people who are not keen anglers. You might spend much of the trip learning, watching, or helping your family, then share a hot meal at the end. One person can enjoy catching fish while another mainly enjoys the boat ride and lunch.

The crew has also been willing to offer fish to take home when circumstances allow. That is not something to count on, especially if you are leaving Iceland immediately or staying somewhere without a kitchen. The onboard meal is the dependable part.

Why beginners usually fit in well

You do not need a fishing license or previous experience. That makes this one of the easier ways to try sea angling without buying equipment or committing to a longer charter.

The first lesson is brief and practical. You learn how to hold the rod, lower the line, and respond when a fish bites. The crew then stays available to help with tangles, hooks, and the heavier fish.

The setup is intentionally forgiving. The rods and reels are sturdy, and the lures are simple to handle. If you already fish regularly, you may wish for lighter personal equipment and more control, but loan gear must work for people who have never held a rod. For most visitors, that is the right priority.

This is also a good choice for a mixed-age family. An 11-year-old and a 78-year-old have both been able to enjoy the outing, and the crew is accustomed to helping children. A 13-year-old and a parent can fish together without either needing a separate level of instruction.

The experience is not passive. You do the winding and feel the weight of the fish yourself. That makes it more satisfying than simply watching a crew haul in a catch for you.

The crew, boat, and onboard comfort

The crew is one of the strongest parts of the outing. Jakob, Vigfus, and their fellow crew members are described as patient, friendly, and clear in English. They explain the technique, answer questions, and help with fish as they come aboard.

The boat has the basic amenities you need for a three-hour trip, including a bathroom. Coffee and cookies may be offered when you board. Rain jackets are available, and boots may be borrowed if needed, but sturdy footwear is not supplied as standard.

The boat is built for practical fishing rather than luxury cruising. You should expect a clean, well-equipped working boat with space for the group to fish. The crew’s job is to get everyone involved, not to provide a silent, high-end yacht experience.

The fishing rods may feel short and stiff to an experienced angler. That is normal for shared equipment and helps the crew manage a range of skill levels. If you bring your own equipment, use only what is suitable for the conditions and confirm that it is acceptable for the boat.

Weather, seasickness, and what to wear

Icelandic weather can change quickly, and open water can feel very different from Reykjavík’s harbor. The tour requires good weather, so poor conditions may lead to a new date or a full refund.

A calm day can make the trip wonderfully easy. A rough day can be uncomfortable even if the fishing is good. One outing had enough motion to cause seasickness, while other trips had calm water and nearly constant catches.

If you are prone to motion sickness, plan ahead according to your usual needs. The crew has helped sick passengers and has complimentary antiemetic medication available, but you should still bring any medication you normally use if appropriate for you.

Wear layers and choose clothing that can get dirty. Fish slime, water, bait, and barbecue work are part of the day. Good sturdy shoes are important, especially on a wet deck. Rain jackets are supplied, but you should not rely on borrowed boots or expect ordinary city shoes to be ideal.

A sunny day is pleasant, but do not dress only for the forecast at the harbor. The wind on Faxaflói Bay can feel colder than the streets of Reykjavík.

Is $160 a fair price?

At $160 per person, this is not a cheap way to fill an afternoon, but the price includes more than a boat ride. You receive fishing equipment, instruction, crew assistance, rain protection, and a cooked meal from the catch.

Reykjavík food prices can be high, so the onboard barbecue adds real value. It does not replace a full restaurant meal, but it gives you a fresh seafood lunch or early dinner as part of the activity. You are also paying for access to a boat, local fishing grounds, and a crew who handles the practical work.

The three-hour length helps the value. You do not lose an entire day, and you can walk around Reykjavík before the trip and still have the evening free. The afternoon timing works especially well for a short city break or a cruise stop.

Still, the price will feel less worthwhile if you dislike boats, have no interest in fishing, or expect a guaranteed large catch. You are paying for the chance to fish in wild conditions, not for a fixed number of fish.

Who should book this outing

I would choose this for a family, couple, or small group that wants an activity with a clear local connection. It suits people who like doing something physical but do not want a demanding expedition.

It is especially good for:

• First-time anglers who want equipment and instruction included
• Families with older children
• Couples who enjoy food as much as scenery
• Experienced anglers who are happy to use shared tackle
• Visitors with one free afternoon in Reykjavík
• People who want a social activity with a practical result

I would think twice if you are very sensitive to motion, dislike cold or wet weather, or need a guaranteed schedule with no chance of a weather cancellation. You should also avoid your best clothes. The combination of fish, water, and deck work can be messy.

The activity is offered in English, and most people can participate. It is near public transportation, though the supplied information does not include a hotel pickup service, so you should plan to reach Hlésgata 1 on your own.

Booking, cancellation, and timing tips

You can cancel up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Changes or cancellations made inside that 24-hour window are not accepted for a refund.

If bad weather cancels the trip, you will be offered another date or a full refund. This is important if you have only one free day in Iceland. Keep a little flexibility in your schedule if possible.

The experience is often reserved well ahead of time, with bookings averaging about 51 days in advance. You may find space closer to your visit, but I would not treat this as an activity to leave until the last morning, especially during a busy season.

FAQ

Where does the sea angling tour start?

The tour starts at Hlésgata 1, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland, and returns to the same meeting point.

How long is the fishing trip?

The outing lasts approximately three hours, including the fishing and the return to the harbor.

Do I need fishing experience?

No. The crew teaches you the basic technique, and no previous fishing experience or fishing license is required.

Is fishing equipment included?

Yes. Fishing equipment and instruction are included. Rain jackets are also available, and boots may be borrowed if needed.

What fish might I catch?

Common catches include catfish, cod, haddock, mackerel, pollack, coalfish, and whiting. Halibut and wolffish have also been caught, but no particular species is guaranteed.

Is a meal included?

Yes. The crew prepares a barbecue meal from some of the fish caught during the outing. The meal may include fresh fish with potatoes and sauce.

Do I need to bring special clothing?

You should bring sturdy shoes and clothing that can get dirty. Dress appropriately for changing Icelandic weather. Rain jackets are supplied, but footwear is not included.

Can children participate?

Most people can participate, and the crew has helped children on the boat. The tour has a maximum capacity of 20 people.

What happens if the weather is poor?

The tour requires good weather. If it is canceled because of poor conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Should you book the Reykjavík Sea Angling Gourmet tour?

Book it if you want a short, practical Iceland experience that combines outdoor fun with a meal you helped provide. The strongest reasons are the patient English-speaking crew, easy equipment, several fishing areas, and the chance to eat cod or haddock only minutes after it was in the sea.

Skip it if your ideal Reykjavík day means staying dry on land, or if you need a guaranteed catch and calm water. For everyone else, this is a well-priced three-hour outing with enough action for beginners and enough fish to keep experienced anglers interested. The fresh barbecue is the fitting finish: simple, local, and hard to beat for freshness.