Sea Fishing in Vesterålen – Complete Guide 2026
Vesterålen lies north of Lofoten and is one of Norway's best-kept secrets for sea fishing. The archipelago offers some of the country's best halibut waters, less tourism than its southern neighbour, and rich marine life including whales and eagles. Deep fjords and open sea provide varied fishing for halibut, cod, saithe, and wolffish.
Key facts
Fishing camps in Vesterålen
| Camp | Type | Boats | Species | Price from |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bleik Sea Cabins (Havhusene Bleik) | Open sea | 1 pcs | Halibut, Cod, Saithe | See camp |
| Andoy Fiske Camp | Open sea | 6 pcs | Cod, Halibut, Saithe | See camp |
| Vesterålen Kysthotell | Archipelago | 2 pcs | Cod, Saithe, Halibut | See camp |
| Lankanholmen Sjøhus | Open sea | 1 pcs | Cod, Halibut, Saithe | See camp |
| Vesterålen Rorbuer | Coastal | 1 pcs | Cod, Saithe, Halibut | See camp |
| Risøyhamn Sjøhus | Fjord | 10 pcs | Cod, Halibut, Haddock | See camp |
| Offersøy Feriesenter | Fjord | 2 pcs | Cod, Saithe, Halibut | See camp |
Seasonal calendar
How to get to Vesterålen
✈
By air
Stokmarknes Skagen (SKN), Harstad/Narvik Evenes (EVE), Andøya Andenes (ANX)
⚓
Ferry
Melbu–Fiskebøl (fra Lofoten), Sortland–Risøyhamn
🚗
Driving from Oslo
ca. 22 hours
Frequently asked questions about sea fishing in Vesterålen
What sets Vesterålen apart from Lofoten for fishing?
Vesterålen has fewer tourists, more accessible fishing spots, and some of Norway's best halibut waters. The archipelago is wider than Lofoten with deeper fjords, and you can combine fishing with whale watching from Andenes.
When is the best halibut season in Vesterålen?
The halibut season in Vesterålen is best from May to September, with peak fishing in June–August. The deep waters between the islands and along the shelf edge give good chances for large halibut over 20 kg.
How do I get to Vesterålen?
Vesterålen is reached by flying to Stokmarknes (SKN), Evenes (EVE), or Andøya (ANX). From Evenes it is about 2 hours' drive. You can also take the ferry from Lofoten via Melbu–Fiskebøl. The Hurtigruten coastal express calls at Sortland, Risøyhamn, and Stokmarknes daily.
Can I see whales while fishing in Vesterålen?
Yes, Vesterålen is one of Norway's best places for whale watching. Sperm whales are regularly seen off Andenes throughout summer. It is not uncommon to spot whales while fishing, especially in deeper waters west of the islands.
Planning a fishing trip to Vesterålen?
Fishing camps in Vesterålen use SafeCamp360 for catch reporting and quota tracking.