River Namsen is regarded one of the most productive salmon river in Norway, with annual catches of 25 to 30 tonnes. These figures include the adjoining rivers of Björa, Söråa and Sandöla. The oldest registered source about salmon fishing in Namsen dates from 1597 – it describes the salmon leaping "18 feet high" at Fiskumfoss. Salmon statistics

Angling as we know it started at Namsen around 1830 when English anglers discovered the virtues of the river. They quickly named the Namsen "Queen of Rivers" and the rumours of record high salmon catches and sizes spread among distinguished fly fishermen and brought an increasing number of English fishermen to Namsen during the summer months.

Namsen is particularly famous for its big salmon. Throughout the season there is always the chance to catch the big one although the biggest salmon start their run in early June. Every year there are a number of fish in the 40–45 pound category. The biggest fish ever caught by rod (1924) measured 55", had a 33" 'waist' and weighed 69lb (31,5kg).

The Seem offers nearly 2 miles single bank on the south side of River Namsen and the beat presents a wide variety of fishing opportunities. A number of pools and streams provide excellent chances for both the experienced and the novice angler. Three types of fishing are available: fly fishing, harling and spinning. The Seem beat lies two miles down river from the confluence of the Namsen and Sandöla rivers giving anglers the benefit of the joint annual salmon run to two rivers. Twelve rods are allowed on the Seem Beat.

Fly fishing is allocated to the Öra pool – a 500–700 yards gravel island (dependent on river levels), which is quite narrow at the top end and gradually widens out, ending in some magnificent rapids. Four rods are allowed on this stretch, day and night.

Harling is the main element of the Seem fishing and starts just below the rapids from Öra pool. Seem has a mile long harling stretch, where the angler and the rower shuttle between the riverbanks, letting the fly, spoon or wobbler from two rods move slowly downstream towards the upstream moving salmon.
Harling has proven an excellent and comfortable method of fishing the long glides at Seem. Two boats are available daily, normally between 8.00 am–7.00 pm with a break at lunch time.

Spinning/harling rods and waders are available for rent. Spoons, wobbler and flies for sale.

If the weather or river conditions should spoil the sport, surrogate fishing will be arranged where possible.

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Foto: Espen Ørud www.fiskersiden.no