Fishing in Reykjavik tastes better than it sounds. This 3 to 3.5 hour sea angling trip takes you across the Faxaflói fishing grounds and turns your catch into a hot onboard BBQ meal. I especially like the hands-on way the crew, including the brothers Jakob and Vigfoss (and sometimes guide Megan on certain departures), helps you get your line working fast. I also love the food part, because you are not waiting around for dinner, you are eating what you just reeled in.

One thing to think about first: if you get motion sick easily, the open water may be a challenge. The boat ride is part of the deal, and while help like ginger candy and peppermint tea has been mentioned, seasickness is still possible.

Key things to know before you go

• You fish, you keep it: what you catch is yours to take care of and eat onboard.
• Multiple species in Faxaflói: cod, haddock, mackerel, pollack, plus catfish depending on the day.
• BBQ right after the catch: fish is cooked on board with homemade-style sauce and potatoes, plus side dishes like coleslaw and potato salad on some trips.
• Small-boat setup: one review notes a max around 12 passengers, which helps with real-time guidance.
• Wildlife sightings happen when conditions allow: puffins show up, and whales have been spotted too.
• Rain jackets are provided: you do not have to gamble on bringing the right gear for wet Iceland weather.

Reykjavik sea angling on the Faxaflói fishing grounds: the real hook

This is not a “watch someone else do it” tour. You sail out from Reykjavik, fish in the Faxaflói area, and then eat. That combo is the point.

The boat leaves from Hlésgata harbour, and you board the crew’s vessel Jóhanna, right by the dry dock. The whole flow is built around short action windows: get set up, head to the fishing spots the captain knows, fish, reel in, then settle in for the BBQ on the way back.

Why it works so well for value is simple. You are paying for the sea time, the instruction, the fishing gear, and the cooking of your catch. In a country where seafood is a big part of the food culture, this feels like the most direct way to turn Iceland’s ocean vibe into a meal.

The 3-hour rhythm: what happens from start to finish

1) Boarding the Jóhanna at Hlésgata harbour

You meet the crew onboard Jóhanna at Hlésgata harbour, next to the dry dock. Plan to arrive a bit early so you are not rushed. A common small hiccup is simply finding the exact spot, and showing up early fixes that.

Once you are aboard, the crew hands you the fishing equipment. Rain jackets are also included, which matters because Reykjavik weather can swing fast, even when the sky looks decent.

Practical tip: wear comfortable shoes. You will be on a moving deck, and you want traction and support.

2) Sailing out and setting up: learning beats guessing

After departure, you get to the heart of the experience: fishing instruction. If you have never fished before, this is one of the biggest strengths of the tour. The captains and guides teach the best moves, so you are not standing there clueless with a rod you barely understand.

One review also points out that the style of fishing feels different, with fish responding quickly, even described as fish jumping on the line. That is not something you can count on every trip, but it captures the energy of the moment: once you get the technique right, it can turn into rapid, satisfying action.

3) Fishing in Faxaflói: cod, haddock, mackerel, pollack, and more

The fishing grounds of Faxaflói are the reason this works. You are fishing in the waters that have pulled Icelandic fishermen for centuries, and the crew know the area well.

What you can catch includes:

• cod
• haddock
• mackerel
• pollack
• catfish (depending on conditions)

You also keep what you catch. That matters because it turns the tour into a tangible souvenir, not just a photo moment. Several reviews mention catching lots of fish across multiple spots during the 3 to 3.5 hour window, which suggests the crew does not waste time when a spot is quiet. In other words, if the bite is off, you are likely heading elsewhere.

4) The BBQ payoff: your catch cooked onboard

Now for the part that makes this a “gourmet” angling experience instead of just an activity.

The crew cooks the fish you catch on the boat’s BBQ. The tour description mentions homemade sauce and potatoes. Reviews add details like fish cooked and served immediately, plus sides such as potato salad, coleslaw, and different sauces.

This is the best time to slow down. You are already wet, salty, and happy from the fishing. Then you get warm food that tastes like it came from the ocean to your plate in one step.

If you are wondering what the meal is like, the pattern in the reviews is clear: fresh grilled fish, straight from the day’s catch, with simple sides that keep you fueled for the ride back.

5) Optional wildlife moments: puffins, and sometimes whales

On some departures, you also spot wildlife. Reviews include puffins and even whales.

This is one of those Iceland things: you cannot guarantee it, and the sightings depend on timing and weather. But the fact that it comes up repeatedly means it is worth keeping your eyes peeled. It adds variety to an otherwise very fishing-focused experience.

How the “gourmet fishing” part stays practical

A lot of fishing tours promise big meals, then deliver something that feels like a snack. Here, the meal is built around the catch.

You get:

• Fish you caught
• BBQ cooking onboard
• Potatoes and sauce
• Side dishes mentioned in reviews like coleslaw and potato salad

So you are not just paying for the thrill of catching fish. You are paying for the full cycle, from line to dinner. And the freshness is real, because the cooking is happening right there while you are still on the water and your catch is still part of the day’s action.

If you are the type who normally spends on seafood when you travel, this is a strong “eat what you do” trade. It can feel like the most Iceland-specific meal you will have in Reykjavik.

Who this tour is best for (and who should think twice)

Great fit

• First-time fishers: the guides teach you the fishing moves and help you succeed.
• Anglers who want variety: you target multiple species, not just one.
• Food lovers: the BBQ meal is a central part, not an afterthought.
• Families with older kids: reviews include a father and son experience, and at least one mention that families enjoyed the day.

Considerations

• Motion sickness risk: one review directly warns that if you are worried about sea sickness, this may not be for you. Another notes the crew helped with ginger candy and peppermint tea, but you should still plan like seasickness is possible.
• Weather dependence: open water means the experience stays “real.” If it is rough, the ride will feel longer and more physical.
• Bringing lots of stuff: luggage or large bags are not allowed, so travel light.

The crew and boat size: why guidance feels personal

One review highlights a key detail: the boat feels appropriately sized, with a max around 12 passengers. Smaller groups usually mean you can actually get help when you need it, and you are not waiting your turn while your line stays dead.

It also explains why people keep praising the same thing over and over:

• helpful, cheerful guidance
• individual attention
• quick action when fish are biting
• fish cleaning and cooking support

The names that come up in reviews include Jakob and Vigfoss, with Megan also mentioned. Even if you do not meet those exact crew members on your departure, the pattern is consistent: the staff is there to make sure you are fishing, not just holding a rod.

Price and value: is $176 per person fair?

At $176 per person for about 3 hours, this is not a cheap Reykjavik add-on. It is also not a “pay for a view” tour.

You are paying for:

• a guided sea angling cruise on the Faxaflói fishing grounds
• provided fishing equipment
• rain jackets on board
• on-board BBQ cooking
• the fish you catch (you keep it)

So the value depends on your priorities. If you only want the scenery, you might find other lower-cost Reykjavik activities. If you want something hands-on, food-forward, and Iceland-specific, the included BBQ plus the catch can make the cost feel more reasonable, especially if you would otherwise buy a pricey seafood meal.

A practical way to think about it: this is a paid fishing lesson and seafood dinner in one, with a strong “did it myself” payoff.

What to pack and wear so you enjoy the trip more

You do not need special fishing clothes. But you do need to dress for wet, salty, and slightly muddy conditions.

Bring:

• comfortable shoes

Wear:

• clothing you do not mind getting dirty, since you are on a working deck and everything happens close to the water.

The tour includes:

• rain jackets on board

Not allowed:

• pets
• luggage or large bags

Seasickness and comfort: the smart prep

Even on calm days, you are on the sea. If you are sensitive, plan ahead.

Based on the tour feedback:

• seasickness is a real concern for some people
• on at least one departure, the crew offered ginger candy and peppermint tea

That tells you they respond to discomfort, but it does not remove the risk. So if you know you get sick on boats, bring your own seasickness solution and consider choosing a time when the forecast looks gentler.

Also, choose your position well once onboard. If you can, pick a spot that feels stable and avoids the edges where motion can feel stronger.

Quick notes on sustainability and responsible fishing

The tour is described as a responsible, sustainable way to enjoy the Icelandic tradition of sea angling. I like that framing because it matches what you actually do: you go out with local expertise, fish in established grounds, and the experience stays tied to the ocean food chain, not to wildlife harassment or random souvenirs.

Just keep expectations grounded. You cannot control what the water gives you each day. What you can control is showing up prepared, listening to the crew, and fishing with patience.

Should you book this Reykjavik cod fishing and BBQ tour?

Book it if you want a Reykjavik activity that is hands-on, short, and food-centered. This is especially worth it for first-timers who want real instruction and for people who love the idea of eating the catch immediately.

Skip or reconsider if:

• you get motion sick easily and you know you struggle on boats
• you are not interested in fishing at all, because the BBQ is built around the fishing, not separate from it

If you are on the fence, think about your ideal day: salty air, lines in the water, and then a hot BBQ meal served as the boat heads back. If that sounds like your kind of Iceland memory, this tour is a strong choice.

FAQ

Where do I meet the tour crew in Reykjavik?

You meet the crew onboard the boat Jóhanna by the Hlésgata harbour, right next to the dry dock.

How long is the Reykjavik sea angling tour?

The duration is about 3 hours (3 to 3.5 hours).

What fish can I catch on this cruise?

You may catch catfish, cod, haddock, mackerel, and pollack, depending on conditions.

What’s included in the price?

The tour includes rain jackets on board, all fishing equipment, crew BBQ cooking of your fresh catch, excellent guidance, and you keep what you catch.

Do I need fishing experience?

No. The captain and guide teach you the best fishing moves if you don’t know them already.

What should I wear or bring?

Wear comfortable shoes, and bring clothing you do not mind getting dirty. Rain jackets are provided.

Is this tour suitable for children?

It is not suitable for children under 2 years old. (No other child age guidance is provided.)

Are pets allowed?

No, pets are not allowed on this tour.

What languages are spoken by the host or greeter?

The host or greeter speaks English and Icelandic.