Abisko/ Riksgränsen

Starting from Abisko, you can access the large Arctic char lakes in the western mountains. Challenging and rewarding fishing experiences like these are rare in mountain fishing. The waters in the western areas near the Norwegian border are home to Arctic char in most lakes. This region is exposed to harsh weather and strong winds but offers fantastic opportunities for the dedicated angler. Arctic char rising in clear bays and streams can provide world-class fishing—if the fishing gods are on your side.

As you approach the area by helicopter, you’ll see a chain of lakes and streams sparkling in this high alpine landscape, with towering mountain massifs welcoming you. The rugged terrain is relatively easy to traverse, allowing you to quickly reach new lakes in search of rising char.

Salvelinus alpinus (Arctic char), this legendary fish often called the “Greta Garbo of the mountains,” is a fantastic sport fish that can give you memorable moments with its unpredictable behavior. One moment you see it swimming in schools, feeding eagerly on an abundance of emerging insects in shallow bays and coves. Willingly, it rises to take your large, highly floating mayfly imitation and bursts into a wild rush. Just as quickly as the feeding begins, a cold west wind can suddenly cut the dry fly fishing short in an instant. Those who continue fishing in tougher weather conditions should remember that char (like most fish) feed about 80% of the time below the surface.

Summer passes quickly in these areas, where snow and ice cover the lakes for up to nine months of the year. The best time for successful fishing under normal conditions is roughly from July 10th to mid-August. Treat the fish as a friend and only take what you can eat at the moment.

A strong recommendation if you’re coming here is to thoroughly check your equipment. Strong winds and temperatures that can drop close to freezing—even during mid-summer—mean you need storm-proof tents and warm clothing. We recommend a lightweight down jacket, a warm hat, and gloves as absolute essentials. If you’re lucky enough to hit a high-pressure weather system during your trip, consider yourself fortunate—you’ve won the jackpot.

Hiring a guide who knows the fishing spots in these areas significantly increases your chances of success. Experienced guides familiar with the region and most of the waters will save you valuable time in your search for big Arctic char. Contact us for more information.