Angling Norway :: Flam River

FRETHEIM HOTEL

The Flåm River runs through one of the most scenic regions of Western Norway, in an area of dramatic mountains and steep valleys.
It plunges from the mountains, through large number of waterfalls and several salmon ladders. Finally it flows into the Aurland fjord, itself an arm of the 205km long Sognefjord, which has been designated a UNESCO world heritage area.

Some 60% of the rainfall feeding the Flåm River occurs at altitudes higher than 1250 metres. This means that the water is exceptionally clear and pure, teeming with trout - and a substantial share of the country’s largest naturally bred salmon. It was this that first attracted overseas anglers to the area, over 130 years ago.

In the lower 4km of the river, the flow is calmer and it is here that the salmon breed – and the best fishing is to be had. Only fly fishing is allowed and anglers of all levels of ability can look forward to a challenging and rewarding stay

Accomodation
Located at the very head of the fjord, the elegant Fretheim Hotel combines the best of modern and traditional style. Our history of welcoming anglers from abroad stretches back to 1870. Today, the hotel offers 119 bright and comfortable rooms, 7 of which are suites.

Facilities include an excellent restaurant, a bar, coffee shop and pub. We will also be happy to freeze your catch for you. The food we serve is locally sourced, as far as possible and there are plenty of organic options. We have our own smokehouse and smoke and cure our own ham, lamb, salmon, sausages and many other traditional dishes. Even our jam is made with fruit from our own gardens. When you stay with us, you can look forward to enjoying the best of Norwegian fishing and the best of Norwegian cuisine in stunningly beautiful surroundings.

Fishing
The Fretheim Hotel owns and manages 2.5km double bank fishing in the lower part of the Flåm River. This beat is divided into 16 zones/pools each with its own unique character. Most pools are easily fished with any kind of casting technique, but some pools should be tackled with rollcast/speycast Due to a rota system, each angler will fish all pools during the stay. The fishing season runs from 1st July to 31st August. Prime time will be the first 3 weeks in July.

Because of the high altitude of the water catchment, the water temperature is low throughout the season, and seldom rises higher than 8-10 degrees Celcius. The river holds huge salmon over 15 kilos giving good sport in this spectacular river.

The salmon stock is carefully conserved. For this reason, a salmon fishing quota has been set and only fly fishing is permitted. While you are free to catch and release at any time, you are limited to taking one salmon in any 24-hour period. The river also holds big seatrout, average size 3.5kgs which are normally fished at night with a floating line.

There is no quota for trout, which may be fished any time between 1st July and 15th September. The beat is normally fished by 8 anglers accompanied by 2 guides. The number of anglers can be adjusted to the wishes of each group. The guides are expert flyfishers and can provide instruction covering most casting techniques.

Number of salmon and sea trout caught on rod on the Flåm River (Does not include released fish)
Year	Total number of salmon	Number of salmon under 3 kilos	Number of salmon 3-7 kilos	Number of salmon over 7 kilos	Total number of sea trout
2003	11	7	3	1	46
2004	10	3	5	2	25
2005	46	28	3	15	17

Key Facts
Fishing season: July 1 - August 31 (Salmon), July 1 - September 15 (Sea trout)

Tackle box:
Single-handed rods 10-11 feet, class 7-9 or double handed rod, 12-13 feet, class 8-10. Flies: Green Highlander, Rusty Rat, March Brown, Heggeli, Flomflugan Medium and Large sizes.

Lines: sinking and intermediate. Normal warm clothing for fishing but bring an extra sweater for a chilly night. Chest waders with felt soles are recommended. Lifejackets and wading stick should be considered.

Guides: There will normally be 2 guides for the group of 8 anglers

Facilities:
Drying room, freezer, smoking, packing of Salmon for air freight, rental of waders, rods, tackle. Pickup service. For Non anglers: a special atmosphere, tasty food and spectacular surroundings. Fretheim Hotel is especially attractive to anglers who want bring along their spouses / friends. Activities: Flåm scenic railway, wine tasting courses, kayaking on the fjord, hiking and walking trails. Or simply relax and enjoy life.

Nearest Airport:
Bergen Airport Transfer time: 2 hours 30 mins


Click an image below for a closer view...
1	FLAAM - UNRIVALLED SCENERY
FLAAM RIVER - STRETCH 5	FLAAM RIVER - STRETCH 14
FLAAM RIVER - JULY SALMON	FRETHEIM HOTEL - RECEPTION
FRETHEIM HOTEL

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