Arctic char fishing in Greenland: Camp Isua or Camp Qussuk?

Every summer, sea-run Arctic char migrate upstream from the sea into Greenland's rivers. They are strong, strike hard and are often clearly visible in clear water. We have been arranging fishing trips to Greenland since 2016, and today we have two camps for Arctic char fishing in southwest Greenland: Camp Isua and Camp Qussuk. They are located in the same landscape but suit different types of travellers.

Camp Isua: three rivers and full service

Camp Isua is a glamping camp with real beds, heating, hot showers and a sauna. Chefs prepare all the food on site, and you have a tour leader and guides around you throughout the week. From here, you fish three rivers:

• Isua, approximately 10 kilometres long, deep inside Kangerluarsussuaq Fjord. Varied currents, deep pools and technical fishing.
• Eqaluit, approximately 45 minutes from the camp near the mouth of the fjord. The name simply means "Arctic char". The river is about 3 kilometres long, easy to fish and flows into a clear lake where you can often see the fish from shore.
• Ilivertallip Kuua, the Southern River, approximately 40 minutes from the camp.

With 6.5 fishing days and three rivers to choose from, you can always fish wherever the conditions are best for the day.

Camp Qussuk: simple and close to nature

Camp Qussuk is located in a secluded area that only a few anglers have access to each summer. The journey there takes 2–3 hours by boat from Nuuk, often with whales and seals along the way. The final stretch through the Qussuk Channel is made in smaller boats.

Here you stay in your own tent, while the heart of the camp is a lavvu with room for 12–14 people. You shop for and prepare your own food, which for many is a major part of the experience. Internet is available via Starlink. If you are looking for greater comfort and your own chef, Camp Isua is a better fit.

When is the best time to go?

The season runs from mid-July to early September. The first schools arrive in July and early August, and the fish are often silver-bright, strong and aggressive. August is considered by many to be the best month, with plenty of fish in the rivers and stable weather. In early September, there may be fewer fish, but often larger individuals in the quieter sections.

Temperatures are usually between 5 and 15 degrees, with long, bright days. Wind can affect both boat trips and fishing, so the guides plan each day according to the weather.

Flies and equipment

A 9-foot rod in weight 5–7 with a relatively fast action and a reel with a reliable drag is a good choice. Floating lines are used in flowing sections, while sink tips or sinking lines are used in deeper pools.

Nymphs in sizes 4–10 and streamers in sizes 4–8 in pink, purple, red, orange and chartreuse are classic choices. Heavy nymphs with tungsten beads are fished deep in the current, while foam flies on the surface are often the highlight of the week. Barbless single hooks are required for all fishing, and at both camps we primarily practice catch and release.

Greenland also offers sea fishing, which we describe in the article about sea fishing at Camp Nataarnaq.

Interested in Greenland?

Would you prefer full service or simple camp life? We can help you choose a camp and week. Oskar from Outside Travels has personally visited both Camp Isua and Camp Qussuk and will be happy to answer your questions.

View Camp Isua

View Camp Qussuk

Frequently asked questions about Arctic char fishing in Greenland