Angling IQ data reveals which flies actually catch the most salmon in Iceland.
The ten most effective flies accounted for 34.1% of all recorded salmon catches in the Angling IQ database for 2025. The data represents 35.33% of the total salmon catch in Iceland, based on figures from Angling IQ.
It is important to note that not all rivers in Iceland are included in the database. Among those missing are rivers such as Vatnsdalsá, Laxá í Ásum, the East and West Rangá rivers, and Stóra-Laxá.
The total salmon catch in Iceland for 2025 was approximately 33,000 fish, according to preliminary data from the Marine and Freshwater Research Institute.
In the data processing, no distinction was made between different variations of the same fly. For example, Red Frances and Red Frances conehead were grouped together. The same applies to Black Frances and different versions of Sun Ray Shadow (such as SRS and conehead versions).
Top Salmon Flies in Iceland (2025)
| Fly | Catch | % |
|---|---|---|
| Sun Ray Shadow | 975 | 8.4% |
| Red Frances | 688 | 5.9% |
| Collie Dog | 548 | 4.7% |
| Haugur | 539 | 4.6% |
| Hitch | 389 | 3.3% |
| Black Frances | 246 | 2.1% |
| Klaki | 159 | 1.4% |
| Green Butt | 158 | 1.4% |
| Valbein | 156 | 1.3% |
| Halli | 118 | 1.0% |
| Total | 3976 | 34.1% |
Data sourced from Angling IQ fishing log database
According to the data, choosing flies for the upcoming season does not need to be complicated. The list is based on reliable data and real fishing records. These are flies that anglers have trusted and used for years—some for decades. Of course, we all have our personal favorites, often tied to great memories on the riverbank.
Top Salmon Flies in Iceland by Region
Explore the most effective salmon flies across different regions of Iceland. These lists are based on real catch data and highlight how fly performance varies between rivers and locations.
Top Salmon Flies in Iceland by Region
Explore the most effective salmon flies across different regions of Iceland. These lists are based on real catch data and show how fly performance varies between rivers and locations.
Southwest Iceland
Regional article covering the strongest salmon flies in Southwest Iceland.
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Read article →Northwest Iceland
Top regional flies from Northwest Iceland, including the Dölum area.
Read article →North & Northeast Iceland
Regional rankings and fly performance across North and Northeast Iceland.
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