Flies for Icelandic Sea Trout - Streamers and Nymphs
- Robert Hansson
- Apr 4
- 2 min read
Fishing for sea trout in Iceland is a thrilling experience. These powerful, migratory fish are known for their aggressive takes and strong fights, making them a favorite target for anglers. The sea trout rivers of Southern Iceland, with their unique blend of clear and colored glacier water , provide the perfect habitat for sea trout to thrive. Success often comes down to the fly you choose, and understanding what works best in these conditions is key.
As a guide at Fish Partner’s Battle Hill Lodge, I’ve had the privilege of fishing some of the absolute best waters for sea trout in Iceland. In this article, I’ll share my go-to flies, including both streamers and nymphs. Whether you're fishing the wide rivers near the sea or a slow-moving pool further upstream, these patterns have proven their effectiveness time and time again.
Streamers for Aggressive Sea Trout
Streamers are a must-have when targeting sea trout. These flies imitate small fish, leeches, or something else they are used to feed in the ocean, triggering the predatory instincts of sea trout. I often use patterns tied with materials that offer plenty of movement, such as marabou or rabbit strips. Weighted streamers with cone heads or tungsten beads are particularly effective for getting down to the fish in deeper runs.
Nymphs for Selective Sea Trout
While streamers are excellent for provoking aggressive strikes, nymphs can be the key to tempting the fish when they are less active. Patterns that imitate worms, amphipods, or aquatic insects are particularly effective in Icelandic rivers. I recommend nymphs tied on strong, sharp hooks in sizes 10-14. Beadheads can help get the fly into the strike zone quickly, especially in faster currents. Natural colors like olive, tan, and brown tend to work best, but don’t be afraid to experiment with a touch of flash for added attraction.
Hope you find this list inspiring and that you will have a great time at the vise.
If you have any questions about flies for sea trout or are thinking about making a trip to fish any of the incredible sea trout rivers in Iceland I am happy to help. Just contact me over email.
Hi Robert, I will be coming to Battle Hill Lodge in April and am looking at this post for your good advice on flies to tie. My question is "How important are tube flies?" since I am not set up to tie them, can I tie a similar pattern on a hook?
How many of each pattern, in what varying sizes do you think I need? I don't know how often flies are lost or destroyed on average in that enviromnent. Hope to fish with you in April! Jill Clark and her 7 friends.