The Mio

A two-rod gem with a beautiful private lodge in north-east Iceland

The Mio is actually called the Midfjardara but it is called Mio to distinguish it from its north-west coast cousin. It is lucky to be one of the ‘Six Rivers’ a relatively new brand under which fall six rivers... the Sela, the Hofsa, its tributary the Sunnudalsa, the Hafralonsa, the Midfjardara and finally the Vesturdalsa. These rivers benefit from the most forward-thinking Atlantic salmon conservation effort in Iceland. The river is best fished with either a single-handed rod all the way up to a 12 or even 13ft rod. Floating line is the normal and the rule so ONLY floating line.

Fishing

Reliable in almost flood conditions and drought, the Mio offers a fine mix of 18 named canyon pools and runs and 11 named pools in the lower section out of the canyon. Except for some pools being a tough climb down and up making the river not for absolutely everyone, we think this is a gem

Accommodation

A spacious, interior designed lodge overlooks the river. Four very spacious rooms, three with large ensuite bathrooms and then the Master suite which is a bigger version of the other rooms. There is a large seating area with open plan dining and bar all overlooking the river. This must be the best!

Gear

We have fished everything from a single-handed 6-weight up to a 12 ft double-handed rod. This will depend on skill level, winds and wind direction etc. Floating line only. Flies - no bigger than Size 12, no weighted flies. No more than two fish from a pool/session - please ask for all fishing rules.

Ask The Expert

Tarquin Millington-Drake

Trip Specifics

Our recommendation is either fly privately into Egilsstadir and then a two-hour drive north to the river, Plan to land at about midday. Or, fly London - Reykjavik - Egilsstadir and overnight and be picked up around 12.30 and drive up to the lodge. In summary, it is not an easy journey. The two rods can be shared and all four people would have single rooms if they wished.

Rates

The price catered in 2024 for the lodge, two rods etc was about €15,000 so €7,500 per rod for three days which is reasonable by Icelandic standards but amazing when you consider the calibre of lodge, the privacy of the river etc.