Cold water fishing beats standing in line.

This Reykjavik trip turns sea angling into a full two-and-a-half hour adventure, and the best part is what happens right after you land fish: they grill it on-board. You’re out of Reykjavik’s Old Harbor heading toward Faxaflói Bay, fishing for species like cod, haddock, halibut, rockfish, and pollock while you soak up the kind of ocean scenery Iceland does best.

What I like most is the mix of real hands-on help and a payoff you can taste. The guides teach you what to do, and the boat crew handles the BBQ once the fishing is done, so you’re not left scrambling for dinner plans. One thing to consider: it’s still open-sea fishing, so choppy weather and motion can be a dealbreaker if you get seasick easily.

Key takeaways before you buy

• You fish, then eat what you catch: grilled on-board with potatoes.
• You’ll get guided help fast, even if it’s your first time casting.
• Faxaflói Bay is the fishing target, with guides positioning you for bites.
• Expect wildlife moments like puffins, and sometimes whales and dolphins during waiting time.
• Sea conditions matter more than people think, especially if you’re prone to motion sickness.

Why this sea fishing + BBQ setup feels so Iceland

This tour nails a simple idea: do something active outdoors, then turn that effort into a hot meal while you’re still on the water. In Reykjavik, where the weather can shift quickly, I like that the format stays fun even when the sea gets a bit rough. You’re not just watching; you’re holding the rod, learning the rhythm, and chasing the next cast.

Two things also make this feel like good value, not just a paid activity. First, you’re included with the gear and protective clothing, so you’re not hunting down cold-weather fishing supplies last minute. Second, the BBQ uses your day’s catch, served right after fishing, so the meal feels connected to the experience instead of tacked on.

The trip isn’t “wild wilderness survival.” It’s structured, guided, and tourist-friendly. That’s not a knock. It means you get traction quickly and spend less time guessing.

Getting ready: Old Harbor departure and what “pickup” really means

Your day starts with timing. Pick-up begins about 60 minutes before departure, so plan to be ready and waiting at your registered pickup location. If your hotel or guesthouse is on their list, the transfer is available for a small extra fee; if not, you’ll likely need to get yourself to the harbor.

Reykjavik’s Old Harbor is a straightforward start point. You’ll gather, get briefed, and settle into the boat before heading out. The practical upside here is that you’re not trying to learn the basics while the boat is already rocking. You get set up first, then you fish.

From there, the tour points you toward Faxaflói Bay. Think of this as your working zone for the fishing session, not a sightseeing cruise where you only “maybe” drop a line.

The fishing part: what you’re doing out in Faxaflói Bay

Once you’re on the water, the goal is clear: catch cold-water fish, then turn your luck into BBQ. The species listed for this trip include cod, halibut, haddock, rockfish, and pollock. In real terms, your guides are doing the heavy lifting of location and technique: they know where bites tend to happen and help you adjust while you’re fishing.

What you can expect, step by step:

• You’ll learn how to cast and how to handle the line when you get a hit.
• When fish are on the deck, the crew helps with the practical details of unhooking and getting ready for the next cast.
• Fishing happens in spots during the trip, and the intensity can vary. Some days have nonstop action, and some sessions can be slower at later points.

A detail worth knowing: the first fishing area often produces more action than later spots. Some people have described an almost immediate flurry of bites around 30–40 minutes in, while others have had a day where fish were less consistent after the initial stop. That’s still part of sea fishing reality. The difference is whether the captain keeps you on the bite.

Also, if you’re imagining you’ll be totally alone with your gear—don’t. This is guided fishing. The crew is hands-on, especially when you’re new or when conditions are rough.

Wildlife breaks: puffins, whales, dolphins, and the “pause that pays”

Even if the weather is the kind that makes you hold onto the rail, the ocean can deliver big moments. The trip is known for chances to spot puffins around what’s described as a puffin island area, plus other wildlife when the crew adjusts the day.

A standout from the experiences people reported: on some departures, the boat passes near whale areas while you’re waiting to eat or between fishing windows. People have mentioned humpbacks, minkes, and dolphins during those moments, and there’s even a mention of jellyfish during one outing.

What I like about this setup is that it doesn’t feel like a “bonus talk.” It’s integrated into the flow of the trip. When fishing slows, the crew may pivot to look for wildlife. You stay engaged instead of watching the horizon in silence like a person waiting for a bus.

The onboard BBQ: potatoes, fresh fish, and small seasoning notes

This is the payoff machine. After fishing, your catch is grilled on-board and served with potatoes. Multiple people have emphasized how fresh the meal tastes, because it’s coming directly from the line and onto the grill soon after.

A few practical notes for your expectations:

• The BBQ happens on the boat, so you’ll eat while still in that Reykjavik harbor-to-sea rhythm.
• The meal is warm and comforting when the wind and spray hit you during fishing.
• Some crews grill right away, while others handle cooking and serving at the end, depending on how the day runs.

Seasoning is one area where experiences can vary. Most people describe the food as excellent or even the best part of their day. One person specifically wished for more seasoning or butter. If you have strong preferences, you might consider bringing simple add-ons like a small packet of seasoning or a travel-friendly condiment—something you can use without creating a mess.

One more thing: some people have chosen to keep fish, while others mention releasing extra fish. The trip tagline says you can keep your catch, but sea days don’t always go “perfectly to plan,” so follow the crew’s guidance on what to keep versus what to release.

Weather and seasickness: the real decision factor

This is a sea fishing tour. That means weather is not optional.

Many reports describe a high-energy day even in rough conditions, with people catching fish despite waves and choppy water. But one clear warning shows up in the feedback: if you’re prone to motion sickness, you should treat that as a serious consideration. One person said it’s not suitable for those who get sick easily, while another suggested ginger pills and noted that staying inside can help.

So here’s your practical move:

• If you know you get seasick, plan ahead. Bring what works for you (like ginger remedies or any medication you’ve used before).
• Use the boat’s sheltered areas when needed. People have described a covered part of the ship for when you need a break from the deck.

The good news: the tour structure helps. You’re not stuck out there for hours without relief. You have fishing windows, a warm meal at the end, and crew support throughout.

Guides and crew: where the experience goes from okay to memorable

The difference between a “tour” and an experience you remember is often the people on the boat. Names that have come up again and again include Oddgeir, Stefan, and Asgeir, along with Samuel and Oscar in other trips, plus Julia in at least one cooking-focused mention. There’s also a George credited for helpful crew support on another outing.

What I take from that pattern: the crew works hard to make sure everyone catches something and feels included. Some days can be action-heavy, but even on slower days, the guides tend to keep you moving and learning. If you’re fishing with kids, this matters a lot. People have mentioned that kids can feel especially proud when the crew helps them get bites and handles details for them.

If you want an “easy mode,” this is it. You still do the casting and reeling, but the crew is actively managing the learning curve and the practical parts.

Price and value: is $141 fair for what you get?

At $141 per person, this isn’t the cheapest thing to do in Reykjavik. It also isn’t priced like a luxury day on a private yacht. It sits in the middle, and the value comes from what’s included.

You get:

• An experienced guide on-board
• Fishing equipment and protective clothing
• On-board BBQ of your catch with potatoes
• An app available in multiple languages (English, German, French, Spanish, Chinese)

For value, the key comparison isn’t just “what it costs.” It’s what you’d otherwise pay to duplicate parts of the day: hiring gear and booking a guided activity, then paying for a full meal after. Here, you’re combining both—plus you’re eating fish that’s tied to your fishing effort.

Where it may feel less fair is on a slower catch day, when you personally don’t land much. But even then, you still get the guided experience and the BBQ component. Based on the way people describe the action—often with lots of fish caught—it seems the tour is built to keep the odds in your favor.

Who should book this (and who should skip it)

This tour fits best if you want a hands-on Reykjavik activity that still feels relaxed and social. It’s a strong choice for:

• Families with kids who want something active but guided
• Couples who want a unique memory and a real meal outcome
• First-timers who don’t want to learn everything alone
• Experienced fishers who still want a fun day on a working boat

You might rethink it if:

• You’re very seasick prone and haven’t found a reliable fix
• You’re only interested in fishing with deep technical theory (this is more practical and guided than academic)
• You want a lot of long, quiet time on land—this is centered on time at sea and on-board cooking

Should you book this Reykjavik fishing tour?

If your ideal Reykjavik day includes real action, cold-water fish, and a hot BBQ that tastes like it came from your own line, I’d book it. The biggest plus is the pairing: guided fishing plus eating right after, on-board, with potatoes and warm comfort waiting.

My main caution is weather and motion sickness. If you’re sensitive, prepare like it’s the most important part of the trip, because it can be. If you’re okay with that—and you want a fun, memorable Reykjavik standout—this is the kind of tour that can anchor your trip in a way sightseeing alone often can’t.

FAQ

How long is the sea fishing boat tour in Reykjavik?

The tour duration is listed as about 2.5 hours, with fishing time described as around 2.5 to 3 hours on the water depending on conditions and timing.

Where does the tour depart from?

The tour sets out from Reykjavik’s Old Harbor and heads toward Faxaflói Bay for fishing.

What fish can you catch on this tour?

The tour describes fishing for cod, halibut, haddock, rockfish, and pollock.

Is BBQ included, and what do you eat on board?

Yes. Your catch is grilled on board and served with potatoes.

Do you provide fishing gear and protective clothing?

Yes. The tour includes the use of fishing equipment and protective clothing.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?

Yes. Guides help you learn the ropes quickly, so it’s described as working well for first-timers and for people with more experience.

What languages are available during the tour?

The live tour guide is listed as English. There is also an app available in English, German, French, Spanish, and Chinese.

Is pickup available from Reykjavik hotels and guesthouses?

Pickup starts about 60 minutes before departure for registered hotels and guesthouses in Reykjavik, and the transfer may include a small extra fee.

What is the cancellation policy?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a reserve and pay later option?

Yes. The tour offers a reserve now & pay later option, letting you book without paying immediately.