What flies do we recommend for Geitafellsá?

Geitafellsá is a small, clear river in North Iceland, known for technical fishing for brown trout and Arctic char. Because the river is sensitive and gin clear, fly size and presentation are more important than exact patterns. Below is a simple overview of the flies we reccomend for Geitafellsá and how to use them through the season.

Recommended Nymphs (Sizes #12–20)

Nymphing is the primary technique on Geitafellsá.

• Pheasant Tail (#12–18)

• Perdigons (olive, brown, black) (#12–16)

• Zebra Midge (#16–22)

• Blowtorch (#12–16)

• Hares Ear (#12–18)

• Krókurinn (#12–16)

• Micro Mop (#14)

Tip:
Early in the season, trout may take slightly larger nymphs. As water warms, smaller and more natural patterns work best.

Recommended Dry Flies (Sizes #12–20)

Dry fly fishing becomes more effective during warmer periods.

• F-Fly (#16–20)

• Griffiths Gnat (#18–22)

• Parachute Adams (#16–18)

• Klinkhammer (#14–18)

• Black Gnat (#16–20)

• Galdra löpp (#12 - 14)

Recommended Streamers (Sizes #8–12)

Streamers are not the main method but can be effective for brown trout.

• Black Ghost (#10–8)

• Small Wooly Buggers (#10–6)

• Natural Zonkers (#10–6)

Seasonal Guidelines

April – May

• Fewer fish in the river, mostly brown trout

• Fish are large, strong, and aggressive

• Nymphing with #12–14 flies works best

June – July

• Water warms and Arctic char begin entering the river

• Nymphing remains key; dry flies become more effective

• Sight fishing opportunities increase

Late July – Early August

• Strong char migration

• Small dries and nymphs for char

• Streamers can work for trout

Starter Fly Box for Geitafellsá

• Nymphs: PTs, Perdigons, Zebra Midges (#12–20)

• Dries: F-Fly, Adams, Griffiths Gnat (#14–20)

• Streamers: Black Ghost, Wooly Bugger (#8–12)

More Details

For full fly lists, photos, and detailed tactics, see the complete blog article here