Planning to fish Western Norway’s fjords, rivers, and lakes? Here’s the 2025, no-nonsense guide: when you need a licence, what the 100-metre rule actually means, sea-angling rules, and how much fish you can legally take home.
TL;DR checklist
- Sea & fjords (saltwater): No licence is required for rod-and-line, but you must follow national sea-angling rules (handheld tackle only, minimum sizes, protected species, distance from fish farms).
- Rivers & lakes (freshwater): You need a local fiskekort (fishing licence).
- Salmon/sea trout/Arctic char in rivers: If you’re 18+, you must also pay the national fishing fee.
- River mouths (100-metre zone): Special restrictions apply; see details below.
- Export quota (tourists, 2025): Up to 18 kg if you fished with a registered tourist fishing business-keep documentation.
Do I need a licence?
- Sea and fjord fishing with handheld tackle does not require a licence.
- Freshwater (rivers/lakes): Buy a local fiskekort for the specific water/zone.
- Under-16s: May fish free in freshwater for inland species during the open period (with exceptions for salmon/sea-trout/char waters). Always check local rules.
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National fishing fee (for salmonids)
If you’re 18 or older and fish for salmon, sea trout or Arctic char in rivers (or designated anadromous waters), you must pay the national fishing fee in addition to any local licence. Keep the receipt (digital is fine) while fishing.
The 100-metre river-mouth rule
The 100-metre zone runs from the river mouth and 100 m out into the sea. Generally:
- You may fish from land with rod/handline in this zone only when the river itself is open for the species you’re targeting.
- If the river is closed for salmon/char, you cannot target them in the 100-metre zone.
- Local bylaws can be stricter (and sometimes close the zone entirely), so always check the county governor for the area you’re visiting.
Sea-angling rules that matter (fjords & coast)
- Tackle: Handheld tackle only (no nets, traps, longlines, etc.).
- Protected species & sizes: Respect minimum sizes and any closures (e.g., local cod protections).
- Fish farms: Keep >100 m away when fishing; all boat traffic must stay ≥20 m from farms and moorings.
- Selling catch: Illegal for tourists.
- Safety: Everyone in boats under 8 m must wear a suitable lifejacket while the boat is in transit.
How much fish can I take home? (export quota 2025)
Tourists who fish with a registered tourist fishing business may export up to 18 kg of fish or fish products, twice per calendar year. You must document your stay with the registered business.
Note: Freshwater species (e.g., salmon, trout, char) are not subject to this sea-angling export quota.
Where to buy freshwater licences
- inatur.no – nationwide marketplace for freshwater licences and local rules.
- elveguiden.no – widely used for salmon/sea-trout rivers (zones, rules, catch reports).
Western Norway quick tips
- Before a river day: Check if the river is open, buy the correct zone, confirm disinfection rules for gear, and read the daily quotas.
- For fjord sessions: Medium spinning gear, a small selection of jigs/metals, and awareness of tides/weather and fish-farm distances will take you far.
- Family days: Look for piers and marked shore spots with parking and toilets; check species and size limits in advance.
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FAQ
Do I need a licence for fjord fishing?
No-not for rod-and-line-but you must follow national sea-angling rules.
Do I need the national fishing fee?
If you’re 18+ and fish salmon/sea-trout/char in rivers (or designated waters), yes-pay the fee and buy the local licence.
Can kids fish free?
Under-16s can fish free in freshwater for inland species during the open period; rules vary around salmon/sea-trout/char waters.
Can I fish right at a river mouth?
The 100-metre zone is restricted and follows the river’s season (and local bylaws). Check before you cast.
What about exporting fish?
In 2025 you can export 18 kg, twice per year, if you fished with a registered tourist fishing business and have documentation. Freshwater species don’t count towards that sea-angling quota.
