Gilbert Johnsson

Gilbert Johnsson is an Icelandic fishing guide, taking clients to the Myrarkvisl, Reykjadalsá, Laxá in Adaldal, Lónsá. Gilbert is on his fourth guiding season, taking clients wade fishing for Brown trout, sea run brown trout, Arctic Char, and Atlantic Salmon. 
The Fly Fishing Journeys team has been lucky enough to fish with Gilbert, and have his expertise as we take a hosted trip to Iceland in 2023. Gilbert loves sharing the fishing experience with others, finding a thrill in landing fish in the beautiful lands of Iceland.

Where are your home waters? / Is this different from where you guide now?

Myrarkvisl, Reykjadalsá and Laxá in Adaldal.

Where do you fish/guide?

Myrarkvisl, Reykjadalsá, Laxá in Adaldal, Lónsá.

What species of fish do you guide for?

Brown trout, sea run brown, arctic char and atlantic salmon.

When guiding clients, are you walk-in fishing, fishing shorelines, fishing from a drift boat/jet boat/prop boat? What is your specific style?

Wading only.

photo 2 1

How long have you been professionally guiding?

I’m on my 4th season now.

Who is your biggest inspiration or mentor?

My uncle!

What is your favorite part about guiding and the thing that keeps you coming back every day?

Sharing the experience with people. The excitement and being out in nature.

What was your first fishing experience? / When did you begin fly fishing?

Pike fishing with lures. I was 18 years old when I first started with fly fishing.

Most embarrassing thing to happen while guiding a trip? (For you or a guest)

When I forgot my net at the lodge and I told my clients my stomach was upset and I left them on the river to drive back to the lodge to get the net.

Best day on the water with clients, tell us about it.

When the conditions are just perfect. When something extraordinary happens. Everyone is catching fish and having a good time.

photo 3 1

Dream fishing trip?

A trip to Bolivia to catch Golden Dorado or somewhere in the world where it’s possible to get a grand slam.

Do you think that conservation plays a role in guiding? Why or why not.

Conversation plays a huge role. We need to have it to keep our fisheries around the world sustainable. If not, our next generations will not have the same possibilities in the future. I want my grandkids to be able to experience and enjoy the same fishing that I’ve had too.

What is it that draws you to fly fishing?

It’s the challenge, the thrill, the connection between the rod and the fly. It’s not always easy and that’s what keeps me going.

Best and worst places you have guided clients?

Best place is definitely my homeriver Myrarkvisl. There are no bad places in Iceland.

What is a trick that you teach guests often?

Putting the rod butt inside the sleeve to make a better cast. Making or undoing knots.

What is one tip you would give someone when they are trying to find a fishing guide for a trip?

All fishing guides have their own special qualities but my best tip would probably be to find a guide that is calm and easy going.

photo 4 1

What advice would you give to someone who wants to become a fishing guide?

Like I often tell my clients… There are three jobs in the world where you have to pretend like you know what you’re doing. That is a surrender, pilot and a fishing guide.

What is your favorite fly to use on the water, not necessarily the best, but your favorite? Also, what is your go-to guide fly?

Black Ghost Streamer, Griffiths Gnat, Guides Choice and Laxá Blue.

Favorite piece of gear you could not live without, and why?

My Simms G4 zip waders. I’ve had mine for two seasons in a rough environment and still not leaking. Plus, I love them for giving me easy access to pee.

Let’s talk about tippet: Fluoro or Mono? Why?

Potato-potato, I don’t really care. Most of the time I use mono. In some situations I think the flouro leaders make the fly turnover better than mono.

Do you prefer a specific rod manufacturer over others? Why?

I use Hardy and Guideline rods and I really like them. I don’t care too much about the manufacturer, as long as the rod is rather light and has a medium-fast action.

What about waders… What brand are you rocking, and why?

Simms G4 zip. Because I think simms is the only option for a fishing guide in Iceland. I’ve had Orvis, Scierra, Guideline, Hodgeman. But those will give up before the end of the season.

What are you listening to on the way to the river?

Pop/rock/indie/folk/country.

How can people connect with you? (Retail store, online store, social media handles, etc)

Instagram: @Gilbertththeguide
Or by email at Gilbert@icelandfishingguide.com

Previous articleEric Booton
Next articleThe #NoFishDryJuly Prize Giveaway
The Fly Fishing Journeys staff members have a culmination of passion and knowledge about the sport. They bring ability and know how, as well as experience on the water and working in the fly fishing industry. Their goal is to raise awareness and help educate anglers of any level about the sport, the industry, and how to best enjoy yourselves on and off the water. The mission at Fly Fishing Journeys is to be your go-to resource for all things fly fishing. The staff does this by connecting the fly fishing community with worldwide media content, sharing experiences, education, and stories.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here