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Best fishing destinations in Europe

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Norway
Land of the long cloud
9.0
Red king crabs near Kirkenes can weigh up to 8 kilograms. They were introduced to Norwegian waters in the 1960s. Salmon rivers in Trøndelag and Finnmark are fished from early June to the end of August. Cod fishing near Lofoten and Vesterålen runs from January to March.
Highlights:
  • 🌌 Chase the Northern Lights in Tromsø during winter
  • ⛰️ Hike to the breathtaking Trolltunga cliff viewpoint
  • 🛳️ Cruise through the stunning fjords of western Norway
Bergen
The gateway to the fjords
8.0
Between January and March migrating skrei cod gather along the coast to spawn. That gives anglers a strong chance of a large catch. Saltwater fishing needs no license in Norway. Fjord catches include cod, haddock, pollack and mackerel. Boat hire includes MK Erkna, a veteran vessel built in 1907.
Highlights:
  • 🐟 Visit the lively Fish Market and taste local seafood
  • 🏘️ Stroll through Bryggen’s colorful wooden Hanseatic Wharf
  • 🚡 Ride the Fløibanen funicular for stunning views over Bergen
Iceland
Land of fire and ice
9.7
Rod fishing season runs from 1 June to 30 September. Rivers hold Atlantic salmon, brown trout, Arctic char and sea trout. Popular salmon rivers include the Grímsá, the Langá and the Laxá in Kjós. Arctic char favour slower stretches of the Vatnsdalsá and Víðidalsá rivers. July temperatures average about 10 degrees Celsius.
Highlights:
  • 🚗 Drive the full Ring Road and explore Iceland’s natural wonders
  • 💦 Soak in the milky-blue waters of the Blue Lagoon
  • 🌌 Marvel at the dancing Northern Lights in winter
Madeira
Dramatic Cliffs and Eternal Spring
8.0
The sea floor drops to about 2,700 metres within a few miles of the dock. Anglers chase giant blue marlin from late May to early July. Six Blue Marlin World Cup winners have been weighed in Madeira. The third largest fish at the 2022 event weighed 624 pounds.
Highlights:
  • 🏖️ Swim in the volcanic natural pools of Porto Moniz
  • 🌊 Drive along the dramatic coastal roads of Madeira’s north coast
  • 🥾 Hike the stunning Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo trail above the clouds
Scotland
Mystic Highlands and Historic Castles
7.7
Georgina Ballantyne landed a 64 pound salmon on the River Tay in 1922. It is the UK record. The Tweed season runs from 1 February to 30 November. The Spey and Dee both open in February and close on 30 September. Together they are known as the big four Scottish salmon rivers.
Highlights:
  • 🏚️ Walk through the mysterious Real Mary King's Close
  • ⛰️ Hike up to panoramic views from Arthur’s Seat
  • 🏰 Explore the historic Edinburgh Castle in Old Town
Ireland
Emerald Isle of timeless charm
7.9
Mayfly time on Lough Corrib runs from 16 to 30 May. Lough Mask follows from about 20 May to early June. Brown trout season opens 15 February on both loughs. Trolling on Lough Mask can turn up ferox trout up to 18 pounds. August and September are normally excellent there.
Highlights:
  • 🌊 Marvel at the basalt columns of the Giant’s Causeway
  • 🚗 Drive the scenic Wild Atlantic Way from Cork to Donegal
  • 💋 Kiss the legendary Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle
Azores
Volcanic Isles of Atlantic Wonders
8.5
Charter boats from Horta on Faial reach Condor Bank and other grounds within about 20 miles. July to September is the prime season for blue marlin. The average blue runs about 500 pounds. At least six fish over 1,000 pounds have been weighed since 2016. The islands lie roughly 850 miles off Portugal.
Highlights:
  • 🍵 Visit Europe’s oldest tea plantation at Gorreana
  • ♨️ Relax in the thermal waters of Caldeira Velha
  • 🥾 Hike through the volcanic landscapes of Sete Cidades
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