Hafralonsa, Iceland
The Hafralonsa is in the north-east corner of Iceland. Further north than the famous Hofsa and Sela, Hafralonsa flows into the sea, close to the small fishing port of Thorshofn.
Hafralonsa covers 28kms of beautiful fishable water. The river rises at its source in the hills and runs through some trout and char fishing water before cascading over the beautiful upper waterfall. Early in the season, salmon run the length of the river as far as the top pool, which has a glassy tail to it. This offers ideal fish-spotting opportunities and testing fishing.
The river runs through an apparently flat landscape in the lower stretches, but visitors should not be deceived. The river runs through a deep gorge that at times can be very sheer-sided and dramatic. The lower river is very approachable and is wider with enticing cut-banks and gravel glides. The top half of the river runs through some impressive scenery and the pools are more intimate to fish.
The pools on Hafralonsa lend themselves well to the fly. In most cases a plan of attack can be made on the high bank before being carried out at the water’s edge, targeting the most likely fish within the crystal-clear pool.
Worming is no longer allowed on the river and as of 2009 the river has seen a move to an enforced catch and release policy, with the exception of taking one cock grilse a day. This development should improve catches in years to come.
To see a video of the Hafralonsa, please click here.
Accommodation
The lodge on the Hafralonsa is small and homely and while not the most luxurious, it does not detract from the river’s appeal. There is one bedroom with an ensuite bathroom and three further bedrooms with two bathrooms. The lodge caters for a total of four rods.
There is a large open-plan living area incorporating the kitchen, dining area and sitting room. It is a cosy base overlooking the river for a private group.
