STUENES LODGE
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The Lakselv River has been known as a ‘big salmon river’ for generations but it has only recently come to the forefront when compared with the other rivers in Arctic Norway.
The Lakselv River is particularly well suited for fly-fishing, as it has long stretches of excellent fly water with numerous bends in the broad valley before the river meets the Porsanger fjord. The best part for salmon fishing is from the fjord and upstream for about 40 kilometres (25miles) and with the lower reaches easiest to fish.
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Accomodation
Some 18 kilometres inland, The Stuenes Lodge is located right on the riverbank. It is just 30 metres away from a very good pool – where a few casts will provide a potential 12-15 kilos (30 lb) fresh salmon.
The lodge was finished for the 2003 season and has a prime position, on one of the best fishing stretches of the river. In addition to the private beat just outside the lodge, the owner has organised additional fishing along the entire river to benefit his guests on a rotating basis.
The lodge easily sleeps 6 people, with four sharing two twin-bed rooms. It is equipped with modern toilet and bathroom facilities, a spacious lounge/ dining area and an attractive kitchenette.
One of the main features is the open balcony facing the river – where you can hear the salmon leaping – tempting a few casts! This is a place to relax and settle down to the business in hand. With plenty of space for up to 6 rods on the river, it never feels crowded.
Accommodation is full board and guests enjoy the services of their own chef, who takes great pride in utilising produce from ‘nature’s own larder’. You can be sure the dishes will very much reflect Arctic traditions and recipes.
This is certainly a place to explore the wonders of the Arctic. In the space 24 hours, the constraints and pressures your working life will be just a distant memory!
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Fishing
Stuenes Lodge has its own private beats in addition to fishing on a number of adjoining public beats totalling around 20 kilometres (12 miles). There is a combination of single and double bank fishing. In this part of the river the wading is easy as most riverbanks are gravel and with good space for any casting techniques. On the upper reaches of the river the casting might become more difficult due to more vegetation.
Lakselv is regarded as a ‘late’ river as the main runs of salmon start around mid July and the best fishing is often in August. A special feature of Lakselv is the annual August run of big sea trout, often weighing between 6-8 kilograms (13lb-18lb) up to the largest registered of 12.0 kilos (26lb). In addition to salmon, the river has very good stocks of arctic char, brown trout, grayling and sea trout. The largest arctic char caught is recorded at 2.6 kilograms (5.7lb).
Lakselv River
Watercatchment area: 1533 Km2
Salmonbearing stretch in the main stream; 50 km
Salmonbearing stretch including tributaries; 61 km
Average salmon weight; 4,7 kg
Fishingseason; June 1. till August 31.
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Number of salmon, sea trout and migratory char caught on rod in Lakselv River
(does not include released fish) |
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Year |
Total number of salmon |
Salmon less than 3 kg |
Salmon
3 – 7 kg |
Salmon 7 kg and over |
Sea trout |
Migratory char |
| 2000 |
985 |
544 |
170 |
271 |
751 |
96 |
| 2001 |
1194 |
596 |
274 |
324 |
711 |
75 |
| 2002 |
619 |
333 |
72 |
214 |
466 |
80 |
| 2003 |
985 |
512 |
221 |
252 |
789 |
91 |
| 2004 |
763 |
441 |
155 |
167 |
718 |
100 |
| 2005 |
1181 |
726 |
148 |
307 |
814 |
65 |
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Key Facts
Fishing season: June 1 - August 31
Tackle box:
Fly rods should be 14-16 feet matched to #10, 11 or 12 lines. Bring a selection
of fly lines although intermediate density is the most used. Flies and tubes
should suit individual preference but towards medium and larger sizes.
Normal warm clothing for fishing but bring an extra sweater for a chilly night
Chest high waders with felt soles. Life jackets and wading stick are recommended.
Guides: 1 guide per 2 anglers
Facilities: drying room, tackle shop, freezer, packing of catch for air transport.
For non anglers: travel to North Cape, visit Laps/Sami people culture centre,
Nature Museum, cruise on the fjord.
Nearest airport: Lakselv airport. Transfer time: ten minutes in car from the
airport
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