Austnes Salmon Lodge
The river Verdal is perhaps not one of the more well known rivers of Trøndelag – especially when compared to Gaula or Orkla. But that should not put you off from considering it.
Location
Østnes waterfall, Norway
Fish
Atlantic salmon
Season
June-August
Information
While the Verdal River may not enjoy the same reputation as the famed Gaula or Orkla, it offers its own unique charm and appeal for anglers and nature lovers alike. Flowing through the scenic Trøndelag region, this lesser-known river provides an excellent opportunity for salmon fishing without the heavy crowds often found on the more popular waters.
Its tranquil setting, combined with stretches of productive fishing spots, makes the Verdal a rewarding alternative for those seeking both peace and the thrill of the catch in one of Norway’s most picturesque landscapes.
If you are looking for self service with fishing at your own pace and easy wading, two- handed fly fishing in a medium sized river, then Austnes Salmon Lodge could well be the place for you.
ACCOMODATION
Austnes farm is idyllically located by the renowned Østnes waterfall on the beautiful Verdal River. The cabins are a stone’s throw from the river, and most of the forest is within walking distance from the cabins. The lodge started up selling fishing opportunities in the 1960s and the first log cabins were built in the 1980s and have been renovated several times since. The lodge can host up to eight rods in shared 2-person cabins all with ensuite bathrooms. Each cabin has have a kitchen/living room, 2 bedrooms, and a bathroom and toilet. There is also a sanitary building with its own kitchen on the site.
Austnes offers a relaxing atmosphere. If desired, it is possible to order homemade food from local ingredients. Although, the cabins are all self service, depending on the group size, Austnes can provide meals offering grilled local mountain trout or game stew of deer/elk that has been shot on the farm’s outback. For the adventurous. it is also possible to rent a log cabin that is located by itself in Blåmelhølen. This cabin is popular and is located in the heart of the forest. Here, many a good story has been told around the campfire late into the evening about the large salmon that was lost. Several shelters have been set up along the riverbank.
You can come here alone or in groups. A stay here will also be great for partners and families with children, as there are many activities and cultural offerings nearby. Grocery store, cafe, fast food and petrol station are all located 200-300m from the campsite, so you don’t have to drive here if you want. When fishing is not rented out exclusively, there are also opportunities to purchase a day pass.
Non-Angling Activities
Although fly fishing for Atlantic salmon is the main activity, the Lodge and camping grounds can help with non-fishing activities for the non-fishing guest. There is everything from hiking, birding and biking and the area is steeped in history. It is highly recommended to hire a car from the airport to give you greater access to the great outdoors that are on your doorstep
Internet / Communications
For your convenience, the Lodge also offers free high-speed wireless access. There is full mobile phone coverage both at the lodge and along the river.
FISHING
The fishing schedule at Austnes is how you would like to make it with the river open all day. The drive from the lodge to the beat you will be fishing is never more than approximately 5 minutes! All fishing is by wading, and the wading on most of the zones is very easy with long gravel banks
With 6 beats or zones, all with no more than a 5-minute drive from the lodge, you will have access to pools on the river for all water conditions. The zones are fished in rotation or if a group, you can determine the rotations as you wish.
Although there are no full-time guides at the lodge, guiding is possible and the owner of the lodge is a dedicated angler and will give you all the tips that you may need. After booking with us and well in advance of your trip, we will give you a detailed account on how fishing has been and which flies and lines to consider.
The river Verdal is not a wide river, a double handed rod in the 12-14 foot range should suffice for most fishing, complemented with a switch rod or a single handed rod of 9’6” – 10” in case the river levels are low. Floating lines are with sink tips suffice for most days on the river.
Do not hesitate to get in touch with us to gain a better understanding of the lodge and the beats.
TRAVEL
Guest fly in to Værnes airport, Trondheim where you we recommend hiring a car to take you the 60 minute drive. Alternatively, we can arrange for you to be collected by the lodge at an additional cost.
When is the best time to visit?
The salmon season starts on the 1st June and ends 31st August with the early runs holding the largest salmon; with fresh fish will enter the river all the way through the season.
Typical Length of Stay
The typical length of stay at Austnes Salmon Lodge is seven (7) nights with six (6) full days of fishing and the possibility to fish home pool on the morning of departure.
Typical Itinerary
Sunday: Depart home
Sunday: Arrive Trondheim airport via Amsterdam, Paris, Copenhagen or London Gatwick. Alternatively flying into Oslo and onwards from there.
Monday – Sunday: Six days of fishing
Sunday: Depart the lodge. Fly from Trondheim and onwards to your home.
Monday: Depart for home
Documents Required
At time of writing a valid passport is required. Citizens of the USA, Australia, New Zealand, , the UK do not need a visa for tourist trips of up to ninety days in a given 180 day period Citizens from South Africa are required to have a valid tourist visa.
Travel Insurance
Prior to booking, please ensure that your travel insurance covers for travelling to remote areas and for the type of activities you are planning. We highly recommend also considering a Global Rescue Membership
