UPPER NAMSEN FISHING
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The Namsen River runs through the county of Nord- Trøndelag in the northern part of Central Norway.
This is the country’s heartland, where rich agricultural plains contrast with majestic mountains and a rocky coastline. Although the Namsen is not the longest river in Norway, it’s certainly one of the most powerful. Its springs are in the Børgefjell National Park (Nasjonalpark) and its estuary near the town of Namsos. The total salmon running stretch of the Namsen river system is around 175 kilometres, including the main tributaries (Bjøra and Sandøla). The salmon running stretch in the main stream is 74 kilometres.
The upper part of the main river and the Sanddøla River runs through narrow valleys with dramatic waterfalls and magnificent canyons. This has made it attractive for hydroelectric power development – which brings a bonus to anglers: the five hydro-electric stations ensure reasonably stable water levels throughout the season, even through spells of drought and periods of heavy rain.
Angling, as we now know it started on the Namsen during the 1830s when British noblemen discovered the virtues of the river. They quickly named Namsen the ‘Queen of the Rivers’ and rumours of record catches and salmon sizes spread among distinguished fly fishermen, bringing an increasing number of British anglers.
Although the Namsen is particularly famous for its big salmon, it also offers very good runs of medium size salmon and grilse. Throughout the season there is always the chance of catching ‘the big one’. Every year there are a number of fish in the 40 - 45 pound category. The biggest fish ever caught by rod (1924) measured 55" with a 33" 'waist' and weighed 69lb (31,5kg). In 2004, the biggest catch was 24,3 kilos (53 lb)
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Accomodation
Upper Namsen Fishing offers a choice of accommodation, all to a very high standard - all dedicated to the needs of anglers.
Our main facility, Hotel Vertshuset Grong has been run by us for 25 years and has built a reputation for the excellence of its accommodation and catering.
Guests are offered full or half board arrangements and the food is of high standard, based on local produce.
The Mediaa Motel is situated next to the Hotel Vertshuset Grong in the village centre and guests at the motel will have their meals at the hotel. Fossland Lodge is located right on the river bank, some three kilometres from Grong village and serves the fishing on the Fossland beat and the Upper Mediaa beat.
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Fishing
Upper Namsen Fishing offers some 17 kilometres of double bank fishing on the upper reaches of the river (45 kilometres from the sea). In particular, the 1.1 kilometres Fiskumfoss Falls beat is spectacular in terms of annual catches, scenery and river condition. The beat starts just below the 34 metres high Fiskumfoss fall, in a magnificent canyon. The Fiskumfoss beat is normally fished with 6 rods, 3 rods on each bank. Normally, the anglers are served with 2 guides, one guide on each bank. The beat is amongst the most prolific in Norway, The average catch is 1-2 salmon per rod per day.
Primetime for catching the big salmon is from June 1 – June 14. The most prolific period is usually June 20 – July 20. Fishing can be unpredictable depending on rainfall and spate, between August 10 – August 31. The Upper Namsen Fishing’s beats are situated around Grong, a typical Norwegian village with all necessary facilities, including two very good tackle shops. Although the Namsen is famous for its harling (fishing from a boat), the Upper Namsen Fishing’s beats also offer very good flyfishing stretches. Some of our accommodation is in walking distance of beats.
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Number of salmon and sea trout caught on rod in the Namsen River
(Does not include released fish) |
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Year |
Total number of salmon |
Salmon less than 3kg |
Salmon 3 - 7kg |
Salmon 7kg or over |
Sea trout |
| 2000 |
11229 |
6790 |
3410 |
1029 |
5330 |
| 2001 |
9022 |
4648 |
2990 |
1384 |
3476 |
| 2002 |
5502 |
3194 |
1583 |
725 |
2888 |
| 2003 |
8926 |
5734 |
2237 |
955 |
2261 |
| 2004 |
5554 |
2817 |
1930 |
807 |
2006 |
| 2005 |
10715 |
7899 |
1775 |
1041 |
2599 |
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Key Facts
Fishing season in Namsen and Sanddøla: 1st June - 31st August.
Tackle Box:
The Namsen is a powerful river and likewise the salmon!
Fly rods should be 14-16 feet with action to suit 10, 11 or 12 lines. Bring a combination of fly lines although intermediate density is preferable. Flies and tubes should suit individual preference but towards medium and larger sizes. Normal warm clothing for fishing but packan extra sweater for a chilly night Chest high waders with felt soles. Life jackets and wading stick should be considered.
Facilities:
Freezing and packing of fish, equipment rental, drying room, disinfection of equipment.
For non anglers:
Arts & Crafts workshops, shopping in small town, Namsos, superb nature trails, Namsskogan wild animal park. Namsen Salmon aquarium and museum near Fiskumfoss Falls (34.5m)
Nearest airport: Namsos, 30 mins by car. Or, Trondheim, 21/2 hours by car. |
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