Cod fishing on real Iceland waters.

This 3-hour Reykjavik sea fishing trip is a hands-on way to catch and eat fresh fish, without bringing a thing. I love that all the gear and bait are provided, and you get the on-board grilling option (or they can prep it for you to take back). You’ll head out from Geirsgata 11 into Faxaflói Bay, dress in warm coveralls, and fish alongside a crew that helps first-timers get results.

One possible drawback: because the tour caps at up to 65 people, the boat can feel crowded at the fishing stations, and you may have less personal space than you’d get on a private charter. Also, you’re on the ocean, so if rough conditions bother you, plan to dress for cold wind and waves.

Key things that make this Reykjavik fishing trip work

• Gear and bait included, so you do not need to pack rods, tackle, or fishing supplies
• Warm protective clothing, helping you stay comfortable in the cold sea air
• A strong crew focus on getting bites and helping you handle fish, including first-timers and families
• Multiple fish species possible, with cod as the headline catch in most outings
• Summer wildlife route: in May to August, the boat passes Akurey and Lundey, known for seabirds and puffins
• Cook-and-eat payoff: grill on board or have your catch prepared to take back to your accommodation

Geirsgata 11 meet-up: getting deck-ready fast

You’ll start at Geirsgata 11, 101 Reykjavík. The departure time is 5:00 pm, and the tour ends back at the same meeting point, so you do not need to plan a second leg of transportation. Expect a straightforward, no-drama check-in, then a quick shift from city clothes to fishing gear.

The trip includes protective clothing, which is a big deal in Reykjavik. Even if the day looks calm from shore, sea spray and wind can make you feel colder fast. I’d treat this as an outdoor winter activity, not a casual stroll. Wear warm layers under the coveralls, and choose footwear with grip so you can stand and move around safely on a moving deck.

If you’re bringing a camera, bring a strap. If you’re bringing gloves, good call. The whole point of this tour is to spend your energy fishing, not fighting cold hands or slippery footing.

Faxaflói Bay boat ride: views, wind, and the chance of wildlife

Once you’re aboard, the boat heads out into Faxaflói Bay. You’re not staying tied to a pier. You’ll cut through the waves, and you’ll feel that classic Reykjavik contrast: busy harbor life at the start, icy open water once you’re out there.

This is also where the trip can turn into more than just fishing. Several reviews mention seeing marine wildlife on the return, including whales and dolphins. You should not count on it every time, but it’s a real possibility on calm-to-moderate days, and it adds a fun layer for anyone traveling with non-anglers.

If you’re going in May to August, there’s a seasonal bonus. The boat passes Akurey and Lundey, islands famous for seabirds and summertime puffin colonies. Puffins can be a quick sighting rather than a long wildlife safari, but those islands are well known for the seabird show, so keep your eyes up when you’re heading past.

Casting lines with real instruction, even if you’ve never fished before

Here’s why this tour is so popular with first-timers: you get expert guides and you do not have to figure out the gear on your own. The tour includes all the necessary angling equipment, including fishing rods and bait. You also get on-the-spot coaching, which helps you learn the basics quickly and get your line working in the right way.

On top of that, the crew actively helps people during the fishing period. Reviews mention deckhands tackling the annoying parts of fishing, like untangling lines and helping guests land or manage fish safely. If you’ve never dealt with sea fishing tackle before, that kind of support can be the difference between a frustrating hour and a genuinely fun one.

Crew names that show up in feedback include captains and mates like Stefan, and friendly helpers such as Vera, Kiljan, Samuel, and Otsgir (names appear as written in reviews, so spellings may vary). Even if you do not meet the exact same people, you can expect a similar service style: teach fast, help constantly, keep the vibe upbeat.

One more practical note: reviews mention the boat fishing can be shoulder-to-shoulder. That’s not unusual on a larger charter boat. If you’re sensitive about personal space, go in with the mindset that this is a shared experience, not a quiet private session.

What you can catch around Reykjavik: cod focus plus variety

The most common headline here is cod, and it’s why so many people leave with a grin and a cooler-level dinner plan. But this is not a single-species trip. The tour lists possible catches including:

• Cod
• Haddock
• Pollock
• Halibut
• Rockfish

In reviews, groups mention lots of cod and also catches like haddock and pollock, with many people reporting multiple fish. Kids are often called out too, which makes sense, because having a crew that can teach, troubleshoot, and help with lines increases your odds of success.

Still, sea fishing has real variability. One review describes a session where drifting over a rocky bottom led to snags, and after the captain adjusted the drift, bites slowed. That’s a reminder to expect a mix of moments: sometimes lines hum with action, sometimes you work for it. The crew’s job is to keep you fishing and make sure you have every reasonable chance.

Also, if you catch a fish, this tour leans hard into the experience payoff: you’re not just practicing a hobby, you’re building a meal.

Grilling on board, or take-your-catch home for later cooking

This is the part most people remember. The tour includes a grill on board, and you have a choice: they can cook/grill your catch during the trip, or prepare it so you can take it back to your hotel or apartment for later.

Even better, reviews mention sides like potatoes being cooked along with the fish, and that some crews will fillet and cook for you. The tour details confirm the grilling, and the feedback fills in the real-world “what does it taste like” picture: fresh, salty, and simple, the way fish should be when you catch it yourself.

For your planning, here’s the practical angle:

• If you want the full Iceland-in-a-boat feeling, choose on-board grilling.
• If you prefer to control the rest of the evening, choose the take-back option.

Either way, you’re getting a built-in food moment that avoids the usual trip math of trying to source fresh fish later, after you’ve already had a long day exploring.

One more detail: the tour’s included items mention drinks are not guaranteed, so if you like having water or something warm, plan to check what’s available during your specific booking. Some boats have drinks on board, and some experiences include them, but the safest approach is to not assume.

Price and value: $147.54 for a 3-hour Reykjavik catch-and-cook

At about $147.54 per person for roughly 3 hours, this trip isn’t the cheapest thing you can do in Reykjavik. But it’s also not overpriced in the way many “activity” tours can be, because you’re paying for more than time on a boat.

You’re getting:

• Expert guides
• Protective clothing
• All necessary equipment, including rod and bait
• Cooking on board via grill
• A built-in experience payoff, fresh fish handled for you

If you tried to DIY this, you’d quickly run into gear rental, bait sourcing, boat planning, and time pressure. For first-timers, that makes the package value obvious. For families, it’s also a time saver, because the crew handles the “how do we do this” parts, and kids often get the most help.

The one thing to keep in mind is that food and drinks are listed as not included unless specified. The catch-and-cook part is included, but do not assume you’ll get a full restaurant-style meal plus beverages. If you want a bigger meal or specific drinks, verify your exact inclusions when you book.

Who this fishing trip suits best (and who might not love it)

This is best for people who want an authentic Iceland activity with a clear outcome: catch fish, then eat the result. It’s also great for:

• Fishing enthusiasts, especially those who want a guided shot at offshore species
• First-timers, since the crew teaches and helps
• Families, because multiple reviews highlight kids successfully catching fish and enjoying the on-board meal
• Food travelers, since the tour connects the act of catching to actually eating your catch

You might want to think twice if you:

• Get seasick easily and dislike being in rough water
• Want lots of personal space on the deck
• Prefer a quieter, less crowded group atmosphere

Also, note the trip is weather-dependent. Good conditions matter for where the boat can fish. If weather shuts things down, the operator will typically offer a different date or a refund, and the trip uses a minimum number of travelers to run.

The in-the-moment comfort details that matter in Iceland

Iceland ocean time can be cold, rainy, and windy. Reviews include memories of rough seas and weather that turned miserable on paper, then fun in real life once everyone was suited up. This is where the included protective clothing pays off.

A few practical tips I’d follow:

• Dress in layers you can remove if you get warm, because boats can warm you up quickly once you’re working at the rail.
• Bring a hat that covers your ears and a pair of gloves if you tend to get cold hands.
• Expect wet conditions. Even if it is not raining, sea spray happens.
• Plan for success variability. Fishing can be fast or slow, and your best strategy is to stay engaged and keep your line active.

The tour includes a Special Tours App, available in multiple languages (English, German, French, Spanish, Chinese). That’s handy for understanding what’s happening and getting tips in your own language once you’re on board.

Should you book this Reykjavik sea fishing tour?

Yes, if you want a guided Reykjavik fishing + eat-your-catch experience where the work and the reward are tightly connected. The strongest reasons to book are the practical package setup: equipment and bait provided, hands-on crew help, and the grill payoff that turns your catch into dinner.

I would not book it expecting a private, uncrowded, ultra-flexible experience. With up to 65 people, you’re sharing space, and fishing results can vary with sea conditions. If you’re the type who gets frustrated by weather or crowded decks, consider a smaller charter instead.

But if you like hands-on fun, fresh fish, and a crew that keeps everyone fishing, this one is a solid bet.

FAQ

What time does the Reykjavik sea fishing tour start?

The tour starts at 5:00 pm.

Where is the meeting point?

The meeting point is Geirsgata 11, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland.

How long is the fishing experience?

It runs for about 3 hours.

Is fishing equipment provided?

Yes. The tour includes all necessary equipment, including fishing rods and bait.

Do I need to bring warm clothing?

You do not need to bring your own protective clothing, since it’s included. You should still dress in warm layers for cold sea air.

What fish can I catch on this tour?

Species you may catch include cod, haddock, pollock, halibut, and rockfish.

Will my catch be cooked?

Yes. The tour includes grilling your catch on board, or you can have it prepared to take back to your accommodation for later.

Is food and drinks included?

Food and drinks are not included unless specified. The tour does include grilling your catch on board.

What if the weather is poor?

This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What is the cancellation refund window?

You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance of the experience start time.