Call of the Wild – Backcountry Fishing in Norway
As the holiday season peaks in early July, it’s the perfect time to head into the backcountry. Imagine quiet lakes, no cell coverage, and nothing but trout rising and the breeze in the trees.
More and more anglers are seeking solitude, hiking into the mountains or deep forest to escape daily routines. Backcountry fishing isn’t just about the catch – it’s about the experience. Being alone in nature, with a rod in hand and time on your side.
Here are four prime areas for backcountry fishing – ideal for those ready to answer the call of the wild.
Lifjell – High Plateau with a View
Tucked between Seljord, Notodden, and Bø, the Lifjell area is like a miniature Jotunheimen – alpine terrain, panoramic views, and lakes teeming with trout. This is an excellent destination for those who enjoy combining hiking and fishing, and it’s accessible enough for families.
Most lakes hold smaller trout, but some – like Grantjønn and Store Tjorbutjønn – are known for mountain trout in excellent condition, reaching up to a kilo. The hiking is gentle, the views vast, and the water clear.
Skjåk – Pure Mountain Wilderness
If solitude is what you’re after, Skjåk delivers. Bordering Breheimen and Reinheimen National Parks, this is pure backcountry – no roads, just trails, rivers, and untouched lakes. Trout is the only species here, and the quality is top notch.
The Tundra river flows over 20 kilometers from the glacier-fed valleys of Breheimen. Start from Tundradalssætre and hike into Tundradalen. The further you go, the better the fishing gets. Many lakes are stocked due to poor natural reproduction at high altitudes – meaning steady populations of wild-feeling trout.
Femundsmarka – Into the Pines
Known for its ancient pine forest and vast network of lakes and rivers, Femundsmarka is a legendary destination for backcountry anglers. Whether by foot, canoe, or via the historic ferry M/S Femund II, this national park invites exploration.
The waters here hold trout, arctic char, and grayling. Popular rivers like Røa and Grøtåa are well-known among seasoned anglers, but there’s always a hidden gem around the next bend.
Tydal – Mountain Fishing Under the Sylan Peaks
Come and experience fishing for char and trout in the shadows of the iconic Sylan and Skardsfjella mountain ranges, near the Swedish border. This is the “Filet Mignon” of Trøndelag’s mountain wilderness, where steep hills give way to vast wetlands and serene lakes.
Tydal has around 540 lakes of all sizes, many of which are only reachable by multi-day backpacking trips. Most lakes host both trout and char, but in the higher altitudes, it’s the char that dominate. Here, it’s all about hiking, casting, and soaking in the silence.
