Frostastaðavatn is situated in Landmannaafrétt, the central highlands, and stands as the largest lake in the region known for its lakes south of Tungnaá river.
Drive onto Landveg (Road 26) from the national highway 1 at Landvegamót, following the marked Dómadalsleið (Landmannaleið). The journey takes you to Landmannahellir, where anglers must register before proceeding to the lake, a 15-minute drive away. The drive from Reykjavík to Frostastaðavatn takes around 2 hours and 40 minutes.
Frostastaðavatn, situated at an elevation of about 570 meters above sea level, covers an area of approximately 2.5 km2. With a maximum depth of over 2 meters and an average depth of about 1 meter, this lake is accessible only by four-wheel-drive vehicles. Crossing rivers is necessary along the route.
Purchase day licenses for Frostastaðavatn to enjoy unrestricted access to the entire lake.
The entire lake is open for fishing, with the best catches often found in the lava fields. While the lakeshore near the parking area is popular, exploring multiple spots can yield varied results due to the abundance of fish.
Landmannahellir offers travel services through Hellismenn (landmannhellir.is), providing accommodation and organized campsites with sanitation facilities. Additionally, accommodations can be arranged at Áfangagil (afangagil.is) or Landmannalaugar.
Frostastaðavatn is primarily inhabited by char, with significant numbers of small char present. It is considered an excellent fishing location for younger generations seeking a guaranteed catch. Silverside fish are also occasionally found in the lake. For detailed fishing statistics, visit www.veidivotn.is.
Anglers can use both live and dead bait that the fish naturally prey on. Only one bait is allowed per fishing rod, and the use of lures that may attach to the fish without them pursuing it is strictly prohibited. Small pupae and streamer flies consistently yield good results. Anglers using spinning rods are advised to employ a float and fly for optimal success.
With an abundance of fish, Frostastaðavatn appears to offer consistent fishing regardless of the time of day. However, mornings and evenings generally provide the best results.
Anglers must register at Landmannahellir to obtain fishing permits and receive a fishing log for documentation. The completed log should be returned to Landmannahellir or placed in the designated mailbox at the intersection of Dómadalsleið and Hrauneyjaleið near Tjörfafell. Alternatively, anglers can take a photo of the log and send it to info@landmannahellir.is.
Fishing must be conducted from the shore, and islands are protected. Children under 14 years of age can fish for free with a cardholder. Violating fishing regulations may result in the forfeiture of fishing gear and catch, as per the laws on salmon and char fishing. Firearms are strictly prohibited in the area, and birds are protected. Off-road driving is forbidden, and within the Highland Protected Area, camping is only allowed at designated campsites. Fishing statistics are available at www.veidivotn.is.
For ongoing research in the area, anglers are requested to check if caught fish are marked with plastic tags. In such cases, anglers should measure the length and weight, record the tag number, specify the fishing location, and report the information to the fishing warden at Landmannahellir.
While Frostastaðavatn is just one of many lakes south of Tungnaár, the fishing card is valid for Frostastaðavatn only. Permits for access to additional lakes can be purchased at Landmannahellir for 5,000 ISK (2023) per rod per day. It's essential to respect the entire Highland Protected Area and act responsibly when exploring the region.
The hospitable team at Landmannahellir manages the fishing service, providing information and assistance as needed.
photo: locationscout.net