FISHING & ANGLING IN THE FAROE ISLANDS

Important information: The fish disease Infectious Hematopoietic Necrosis (IHN) was very recently detected in Denmark, Finland and elsewhere. On 2 June 2021, Denmark’s IHN-free status was temporarily suspended. The disease has not been detected in the Faroe Islands. The greatest risk of IHN transmission to the Faroe Islands is posed by gear, which can easily be transported between countries through, but not limited to, fishing rods, rubber boots, etc. We, therefore, urge anyone intending to fish in the Faroe Islands to wash and disinfect their fishing rods and any other gear or equipment before travelling to the Faroe Islands. 

“While the soul of some countries lies in the mountains or in the food, or in the culture, in the Faroe Islands, it lies in the ocean”

Monica Fuentes, Lonely Planet by Sebastian Modak, 2022

FISHING IN THE FAROE ISLANDS

The Faroe Islands are synonymous with fish. Without this natural resource, one could argue that the first settlers would have found it incredibly difficult to settle on these remote North Atlantic islands. Faroe Islanders have fished for centuries, and fishing still plays an essential role in the community. You could say that fishing is what we do best, and we’re happy to have you join in!

Whether by boat or from shore, there are plenty of opportunities to fish in the Faroe Islands. With the ocean never further than 5 km away – no matter where you’re located – it is effortless to grab a rod and go fishing whenever you want.

The Faroe Islands have good fishing areas and sheltered fishing grounds away from strong winds, making it possible to fish most days regardless of wind direction. The two main types of fishing in the Faroe Islands are deep-sea fishing and fly fishing.

Fishing and angling in the Faroe Islands is unlike anything you have experienced before; the beautiful scenery and splendid tranquillity makes fishing a truly extraordinary experience.

FISHING & ANGLING – PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Anglers travelling to the Faroe Islands do not need a veterinary certificate on the cleaning and disinfection of their fishing equipment. But prior to arrival in the Faroe Islands, all equipment, including rods, reels, rubber waders, or lures, must be disinfec­ted in order to kill any fish-pathogens.

For further information please read Disinfection of Fishing Equipment.

Fishing permits are required and can be purchased at most Regional Information Centres. Regulations for fishing in the lochs are printed on the permit. Coastal fishing is gene­rally permitted, but please en­quire about local excep­tions.

FISHING TIP

Make sure to check the Faroese weather forecast so you are able to choose the best fishing locations.

TYPES OF FISH TO CATCH

Cod, Haddock, Flounder, Shark, Ling, Colefish, Halibut, Plaice, Catfish, Maceral, Monkfish, Whiting, Squid, Redfish, Herring, Pollock, among many others.

WHERE TO BUY FISHING GEAR?

We have created a list with places in the Faroes where you can buy fishing gear.

RENT A BOAT WITH FISHING GEAR

Explore the fiords of the Faroe Islands with a traditional Faroese boat from boat.fo. or go fishing in modern boats with Tórshavn Sea Adventures. Whether you enjoy fishing or just sailing along the seashore, this is a unique experience for a family or a group of friends. The boats are suitable for 2-6 persons and are fitted extensive safety equipment.

DID YOU KNOW?

The money generated from fish farming and the exportation of fish accounts for approximately 20% of GDP in the Faroe Islands. The export of fish in general accounts for approximately 95%.

photo by: video by Felms


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