III) Fishing Rules and River Information

Fishing Rights

The rental includes the Landlord’s fishing rights on the stretch of the River Gaula from the river outlet at Lower Bank to Rekvikfossen as shown on the Map of the River. Tenants must adhere strictly to the indicated boundaries, including the no-fishing zones at Osfossen and Rekvikfossen shown in red on the River map.

Access to the River

The Landlord only owns the river, not the adjacent land. Tenants must consult the Host before gaining access to the River in order to establish where it is permissible to park cars and how to gain access to the river on foot. Tracks allowing farmers access to their fields must not be blocked at any time and driving on farm tracks is not permitted. Cars may only be parked along main roads at locations indicated by the Host and indicated on the Map of the River. When on foot, only farm tracks or the edge of fields may be used to gain access to the River. Any damage to farmers’ fences must be reported to the Host.

Boats

Subject to suitable experience and the agreement of the Host, tenants may make use of the rowing boats. All boats must be tied at their designated location and securely locked after use. Life jackets must be worn at all times while in the boats.

Permitted Fishing

Tenants may fish for salmon or trout.

Bag Limits and Quotas

The daily bag limit per person is one wild salmon. There is no bag limit on trout and farmed fish. There is a quota limit on medium sized wild salmon (i.e. fish longer than 66 cm in length and less than 7 kg in weight), and also a quota limit on large sized wild salmon (i.e. salmon heavier than 7 kg). When the quota for medium and large sized wild salmon is reached, all wild salmon longer than 66 cm must be released. When a rod has bagged his daily fish, the fisherman is to either leave the River until the next day or fish for trout using trout gear. Catch and Release can be practiced until the daily fish has been bagged.

Fish Health and Equipment

Due to the risk of contamination by Gyrodactylus salaris and other diseases, it is compulsory for all fishing equipment to be disinfected prior to fishing. Upon arrival, guests will receive guidance from the host on how to properly disinfect the equipment where necessary.

In order that fish may be released unharmed, fishing is limited to the use of single or double hooks without barbs. Treble hooks may not be used.

Recording of Fish

All fish caught or released over 0.7 kg are to be recorded on the record sheet in Oddvabu (the hut by Muren). For fish that are killed a sample of fish scales is to be taken and placed in the envelopes provided and the details filled in.

Fishing Equipment and Advice

Fly or spoon may be used on the River. Chest waders are recommended for experienced anglers fishing the upper river. Recommended equipment includes a 15 ft double-handed fly rod, a sturdy reel with a robust drag system holding approximately 150 yards of backing, and leaders of 30 lb breaking strain. Sinking tip or intermediate density lines will cover most situations. Fishing rods and lines are available for guests without their own equipment. Guests should bring their own flies and wading sticks. Life jackets are available for tenants to use.

Transport to Fishing

The House is situated approximately 200 metres from the River. All beats are within 40 minutes’ walking distance, although the use of a car is recommended for access to the upper beats.

Norwegian Fishing Permit

All guests must hold a valid National Fishing Permit (Fiskeravgiften). Guests are advised to obtain this prior to arrival. The cost is approximately NOK 350 per person.

Taking Fish Home

Fish intended for consumption may be wrapped and stored in the House freezer. We provide wrapping material and fish can be prepared for transportation at the end of the stay for guests travelling by car or internal flights.

Hire of Guide

A guide can dramatically improve the chances of catching a salmon. Particularly if you are new to the River, it is recommended that you consider employing a guide until you are familiar with the River. Contact details can be given should the services of a guide or tuition be required.

Catch and Release Procedures

If you catch a fish that you intend to release please apply the following procedures to reduce stress and increase survival chances:

• Net or beach the salmon and remove the hook carefully

• Measure its length against your rod, note whether it is male or female, is farmed or has net scars and count the number of lice

• Return the fish to the water by lifting the salmon under the belly and under the tail

• Hold the salmon in the water until it is strong enough to swim away

• If badly injured and unlikely to recover, kill the salmon and inform the Host