RIVERS AND STREAMS

Binderup Stream in Himmerland winds its way through an impressively beautiful and varied landscape for 34 km. The stream is one of Denmark’s few “Chalkstreams,” flowing through visible chalk formations with plenty of springs and spawning gravel for sea trout.

From 1950 to 1975, renowned anglers from around the world actually made pilgrimages to Binderup Stream to test their skills against the stream’s large brown trout in the fascinating clear water, teeming with rich insect life.

Today, the focus is on sea trout fishing. In 2002, North Jutland County estimated the sea trout population at 1150 spawning fish. Since then, passages have been created at 2 water mills and 3 fish farms, so the population is expected to reach several thousand spawning fish once the last major barrier at Binderup Mill Fish Farm disappears.

Angling in Binderup Stream

Angling in Binderup Stream usually begins in June and continues through the fall. During the summer, there’s often intense fishing for completely silver-bright sea trout in crystal-clear water. Fish in the 40-65 cm range are common, but larger ones exist—like the 92 cm, 8.5 kg monster caught by Klavs Bavnshøj in 1992.

While day passes are not available, fishing is possible through one of the stream’s three current associations. “Fluen” has fishing rights in the upper parts of the stream, “Salar” in the middle section, and “LBAA” in both the upper and lower parts of Binderup Stream.

Learn more about Binderup Stream and the possibility of becoming a member of the associations:

- Lystfiskeriforeningen Binderup Å (LBAA)

- Sportsfiskeriforeningen Salar

- Fluen - kontact: pkd@fridaforsikring.dk

Bjørnsholm Stream is a 21 km long medium-sized watercourse originating at Sjørup Lake. The stream flows through a predominantly open and flat meadow area before continuing through Vilsted Lake. From Vilsted Lake, the stream runs for 1.8 km before flowing into Bjørnsholm Bay. Despite the stream’s small catchment area, the water flow is good, averaging 1000 l/s, thanks to abundant groundwater inflow.

In 2001, North Jutland County estimated the sea trout population at 320 individuals. Unlike most other Limfjord watercourses, there has been no increase in the sea trout population, despite extensive stream restoration and the removal of a central barrier at Vilsted Fish Farm. In 2006, Vilsted Lake was restored, which impacting the population, in such a way that it today is insignificant. Due to the lake’s establishment, further progress for the sea trout population in the watercourse is not expected.

Sea trout fishing in Bjørnsholm Stream can only be sporadic and uncertain in both the lower and upper parts of the stream. Fishing may intensify during periods of high or low temperatures in the Limfjord, but variations in lake temperature can also pose challenges. After the establishment of Vilsted Lake, the local sports fishing association, “Løgstør Sportsfiskerforening,” withdrew, and there is no longer fishing in the stream. The only fishing in Bjørnsholm Stream occurs in Vilsted Lake and its outlet down to the cycle bridge.

Angling in Bjørnsholm Stream

Most of the fishing takes place in stretches of relatively stagnant water, where anglers fish near hiding spots along the stream banks. The sea trout in Bjørnsholm Stream are relatively small. North Jutland County reported an average length of 42.5 cm during electrofishing in 2001, with only a few trout exceeding 60 cm, and the largest one measuring 76 cm.

After the establishment of Vilsted Lake, the only local sports fishing association, “Løgstør Sportsfiskerforening,” withdrew and no longer fishes in the stream. The sole fishing activity in Bjørnsholm Stream occurs in Vilsted Lake and its outlet down to the cycle bridge.

Day passes are not available, but there is an open section for free fishing in Bjørnsholm Stream, which can be found here.

The watercourse originates from the Himmerland Heath and flows in the Limfjord between Nibe and Løgstør. In recent years, the municipalities have removed several barriers in both the main stream and tributaries, allowing sea trout to migrate freely throughout the watercourse system. The largest and lowest barrier in the main stream was removed in the fall of 2020, and the newly established spawning banks are already being used extensively for spawning. The same applies a bit further upstream in the main stream, where passage conditions were improved a few years ago.

In the small tributary Nymølle Bæk/Lundby Bæk, improved passage conditions have also been created, and stretches have been restored through meandering and enhancement of physical conditions within the last few years. DTU Aqua’s population analyses indicate that a robust self-reproducing trout population has already been established.

We look forward to monitoring the population's development in this watercourse system and have no doubt that it will also positively contribute to the sea trout population in the Limfjord.

Are you inspired to fish in Dybvad Å?

It’s not straightforward, as there is no association with fishing rights, and the size of the watercourse makes it challenging. Instead, you can fish along the Limfjord's coast, where the only requirement is a state fishing license, or you can seek membership in one of the associations in the other Limfjord streams. 

Fiskbæk Stream is a medium-sized watercourse that, after only 19 km from its source near Viborg, flows into Hjarbæk Fjord. The stream runs through extensive meadow areas and is characterized by previous watercourse regulation, giving it a somewhat canal-like appearance with a relatively calm flow. Fiskbæk Stream has an average flow rate of nearly 1600 l/s, and its catchment area has several springs but only a few tributaries. The largest tributaries are Rævind Bæk and Gårdsdal Bæk.

Before Fiskbæk Stream was regulated, there was some fantastic brown trout fishing with fish weighing up to 2 kg. Sea trout fishing had a somewhat overlooked existence, but the sea trout population is making a strong comeback after Viborg Municipality introduced more environmentally friendly watercourse maintenance and removed central barriers in the stream. Add to that significant efforts in stream restoration carried out by the municipality and Viborg Sports Fishing Association.

Angling in Fiskbæk Stream 

The fishing season truly begins in July, where fine, silvery sea trout are often caught. The good fishing continues well into autumn. It’s not uncommon to catch several fine trout in the 40-60 cm size range on the same day. The stream holds surprisingly large sea trout, with some weighing over 10 kg. The largest sea trout in the stream was caught by Peter B. Sørensen, who landed a trout weighing no less than 10.61 kg in 2012.

Fishing primarily takes place along the stream’s vegetated banks, where the trout hide. Steelheads are also occasionally caught.

Access to fishing in Fiskbæk Stream is obtained through membership in the “Viborg Sports Fishing Association,” which covers fishing in most of the stream’s course. Day passes can be purchased through the association’s website or here.

Halkær Å is often referred to as Halkær-Sønderup Å, it consists of two large and very different streams. Sønderup Å is the larger stream at 38 km with an average flow of 1304 liters per second, originating from Rold Skov. Halkær Å originates near Års and is only 20 km long with an average flow of 1077 liters per second. After merging at Halkær, they run 3 km before emptying into Halkær Bredning.

Halkær Å flows through a very wide river valley with a low gradient in a flat meadow area and has a steady, calm flow on a sandy bottom. The stream is characterized by past regulation but now has a slightly meandering course in many places. In the upper course and in the tributaries Fælled Bæk and Års Bæk, the current is stronger, and spawning gravel for trout is also seen.

Sønderup Å has a large drop and runs through meadows and cultivated lands in the upper parts. By Viborgvej, the stream enters the protected and uncultivated river valley, which can be described as wild nature. Here, the stream has a strongly meandering unregulated course through a steep river valley with meadows, thickets, and forests, overgrowths, open areas, and fallen trees. The bottom is predominantly sandy, but large gravel stretches are also seen. Interestingly, the stream lies on a salt dome, which causes the terrain in the river valley to actually rise over time. Important tributaries include Tolvad Bæk, Torsted Bæk, Haverslev Bæk, Tøttrup Bæk.

Fish Stocks and Stream Restoration 

In recent years, fish stocks have been strengthened through many stream restorations by the municipalities in both Halkær and Sønderup Å. In 2002, North Jutland County examined the sea trout population in Sønderup Å and estimated the number of migrating fish to be 2000-3000, excluding angler catches. The most significant environmental improvements are the closure of 6 fish farms in Sønderup Å, which has both improved water quality and created free passage to and from the spawning and nursery grounds for trout. In the spring of 2022, free passage was created at Rebstrup Fisheries, which was the main stream’s last fish barrier!

Sea trout fishing in both streams often begins in June and in some years already in May - depending on rainfall. Thereafter, fishing continues through the summer and autumn, with particularly good catch opportunities after rain, as the streams’ water flow is highly dependent on frequent rain.

Angling in Halkær-Sønderup Å 

Sea trout fishing has been mostly centered around Sønderup Å, where also the majority of the spawning grounds are located. However, fishing has also improved in Halkær Å. In Sønderup Å, the improved passage has meant that sea trout migrate further up and spread more in the stream. Previously, many trout stopped at Højris Mølle Fish Farm, where there was intensive fishing. Moreover, several of the migrating trout even went the wrong way and directly into the fish farm.

In 2002, North Jutland County found an average size for the sea trout of 49 cm, including undersized fish. The normal catch size is 40-65 cm, but larger trout up to 7-8 kg are also seen.

Fishing is easy in the open Halkær Å, whereas dense vegetation along Sønderup Å makes fly fishing difficult in many places.

Access to fishing in Sønderup Å and Halkær Å is obtained through membership in “Halkjær Anglers Association,” which has fishing rights on the lower part of both Halkær Å (4 km) and Sønderup Å (8 km). There is also free fishing on the lower part of Halkær Å on a short stretch owned by the Danish Forest and Nature Agency. Thus, today, it is not possible to fish in most of Halkær Å and also not on the middle and upper stretches of Sønderup Å.

Day passes cannot be purchased, but there is an open section with free fishing in Halkær Å, which can be found here. 

Hasseris Stream is one of the smaller watercourses in Limfjorden, originating from a spring in the village pond near the rectory in Øster Hornum. The stream has no significant tributaries and flows approximately 20 km into Hasseris Bay. The average flow rate is 425 l/s, and the stream is largely groundwater-fed, resulting in very clear water during dry periods.

The upper part of Hasseris Stream, down to Sønderholm Plantation, has a significant drop and runs through meadow areas in a hilly landscape. The stream follows a more or less natural course over long stretches, especially around Tostrup, where it remains unregulated. Water quality is excellent, and the streambed alternates between rocks, gravel, and sand, with fine patches of water crowfoot in many places. In the lower part of Hasseris Stream after Sønderholm Plantation, the stream runs deeply entrenched, regulated, and without significant variation all the way to the outlet. Here, only a few aquatic plants are visible, and the bottom is sandy and muddy.

Hasseris Stream has a long history, and until 1897, it flowed in a man-made channel to Vester Stream in Aalborg. The stream’s significant drop led to the establishment of several water mills along its course, and even a 61-hectare lake existed near St. Restrup Manor. Fish migration in the stream has been significantly challenged. However, the two last essential fish barriers, at Konsulens Bridge and St. Restrup Fish Farm, have now been removed, allowing free passage throughout Hasseris Stream today.

Angling in Hasseris Stream 

There is no specific information about sea trout fishing in Hasseris Stream, but the free passage throughout the stream and optimal spawning and nursery conditions for trout make it a good sea trout watercourse. The stream also contributes to better fishing in Limfjorden.

Given that it is a small stream, precise and short casts are necessary to hit the stream accurately! Fishing at close range requires very cautious movement to avoid startling the fish. Although information on the size of sea trout in the stream is not available, Aalborg Municipality has observed sea trout up to 3 kg during electrofishing.

There are no angling associations specifically tied to the stream, and day passes are not sold. Any fishing would need to be arranged with the landowners. However, there are two shorter stretches in the lower part of the stream where fishing is allowed. You can find an overview of all free fishing spots in Aalborg Municipality here.

Jordbro Stream, also known as Jordbro Mill Stream, is a 25 km medium-sized watercourse. The stream originates near Sjørup and flows through a captivating and varied landscape with ever-changing physical conditions before reaching its outlet in Hjarbæk Fjord.

Jordbro Stream is one of Denmark’s few “Chalk Streams,” characterized by a chalk-rich substrate and abundant springwater. As a result, the water is often crystal clear and cool. Interestingly, the stream also passes by one of Denmark’s few chalk mines, “Daubjerg Kalkgruber.” The main tributary is Mønsted Stream.

Angling in Jordbro Stream 

The first sea trout are typically seen in June, and fishing continues from there into the fall. The stream’s clear water can be challenging at times, so anglers must move cautiously not to startle the fish, which often hide well. During warm periods, sea trout may seek out the stream’s cool water. Sea trout in Jordbro Stream are usually 40-65 cm in size.

Access to fishing in Jordbro Stream is obtained through membership in local sports fishing associations. “Lystfiskerforeningen Skive og Omegn” has fishing rights on a short stretch in the upper part of the stream, while “Omegnens All-Round Klub” also has fishing rights on a short stretch in the lower part. Additionally, “Viborg Sportsfiskerforening” manages fishing on a 20 km long stretch.

Day passes can be purchased for Viborg Sportsfiskerforening’s fishing waters here.

Karup Stream is a legendary, almost mythical sea trout river. For decades, it has had a reputation for harboring Scandinavia’s largest sea trout, and tourists from near and far visit the river for the same reason. The stream is known for its impressive stock of VERY large sea trout. Denmark’s largest, and for many years, the world’s largest sea trout caught by an angler, comes from here. On July 27, 1939, Christian Plejdrup caught a sea trout weighing no less than 14.4 kg—perhaps even heavier? This fish, along with the many other large fish landed each year, has made Karup Stream world-famous.

The stream is located in central Jutland, with its outlet near the city of Skive, right in the heart of the Limfjord. As part of their life cycle, many fish migrate to and from the stream, passing through the fjord—primarily during spring and autumn. Karup Stream itself offers many kilometers of exciting fishing water with significant variation from top to bottom.

Angling in Karup Stream 

Landowners, associations, and consortia hold fishing rights in the stream. Many associations sell day passes, or you can join an association to enjoy free fishing in their waters while also contributing to their work, including water management.

On Skive Municipality’s website, you can find more information about fishing opportunities in Karup Stream, book a local guide, and more.

The fishing season in the stream extends from 1st March to 31st October—both days inclusive.

Photo by Jan Snebjerg Jensen

Lerkenfeld Stream is one of the major watercourses in Himmerland that runs 38 km from its source near Mejlby to its outlet in Lovns Bay within the Limfjord. The stream flows through various landscapes, including hilly areas and low-lying meadows. Many sections of the stream remain unregulated and meandering. Groundwater springs contribute significantly to the stream’s flow.

The stream, which can be up to 10 meters wide, maintains a consistent depth and features both slow-flowing and more rapid stretches, along with deep holes and sharp bends. On shallower sections, you’ll find the characteristic large “cushions” of water crowfoot. The main tributaries include Skelbæk, Odderbæk, and Lille Å.

In the past, there were serious barriers at the three fish farms along the main course of the stream. Currently, only the Lerkenfeld Stream Fish Farm remains operational, and passage has been created past all barriers, allowing sea trout access to crucial spawning grounds throughout the middle and upper parts of the stream. Additionally, the removal of fish farms and improved water treatment has enhanced the stream’s water quality. Vesthimmerland Municipality continues to improve conditions for trout in several upper tributaries to Lerkenfeld Stream.

Angling in Lerkenfeld Stream 

Sea trout fishing in Lerkenfeld Stream takes place in beautiful natural surroundings, and there’s always a chance of catching a large sea trout in this significant watercourse. The first sea trout arrive in June, and the run continues through the fall, peaking around midsummer. The somewhat murky water and considerable depth mean that fish are often caught during the daytime, as they are less easily spooked. Summer fishing typically targets sea trout in the 40-60 cm range. Larger sea trout weighing 5-6 kg are frequently seen in the stream, with some catches even reaching 11 kg—a fish that was released back into the water.

Anglers use traditional methods to catch sea trout, but in recent years, exciting dry fly fishing for surface-feeding sea trout has become very popular and rewarding! During daylight hours, traditional dry flies are effective, while foam flies have proven useful during twilight.

Access to fishing in Lerkenfeld Stream is obtained through membership in the local sports fishing association “Pirken.”

Day passes can be purchased through the association’s website or here.

Lindenborg Stream is known for its abundant and large sea trout, and almost every year, sea trout weighing over 10 kg are caught.

The stream originates near Rold Forest, running north for approximately 47 km before flowing into the easternmost part of the Limfjord. Many abundant springs continuously feed the stream with cold, clean, and oxygen-rich water.

Lindenborg Stream also has several tributaries that serve as spawning and nursery grounds for trout, and some of them are large enough for fishing, including Skibsted-Lyngby Stream.

In the lower parts, the stream can be up to 15 meters wide, and for most of its course, it flows relatively slowly.

Fishing for the large migratory fish typically begins in early June, and throughout the summer, dawn and dusk fishing are very popular.

In addition to being an excellent sea trout watercourse, the stream also hosts a fine population of brown trout, and the mayfly fishing attracts anglers on warm summer evenings. Each year, a few rainbow trout are also caught in the stream.

Angling in Lindenborg Stream 

Fishing in Lindenborg Stream and its tributaries is divided among several associations and consortia.

The North Jutland Anglers Association of 1917 (NL1917) is the largest and holds fishing rights for many kilometers in the lower part of the stream. In the upper end, the Støvring Anglers Association also has fishing rights for a longer stretch.

The fishing season extends from 1st March to 1st November, 16th January to 15th November - alle days included.

For more information about Lindenborg Stream and the opportunity to become a member of the associations or purchase day passes, visit these websites:

- Nordjysk Lystfiskeriforening af 1917

- Støvring Lystfiskerforening: The Facebook page 'Støvring Lystfiskerforening'

Lindholm Stream is a medium-sized 27 km watercourse that originates north of Tylstrup and flows into the Limfjord near Nørresundby. The stream has no significant tributaries, and the average flow rate is 1,500 l/s. The flow is highly influenced by rainfall and can vary from as low as 180 l/s to over 15,000 l/s.

The stream has an extremely low gradient (0.3 ‰) and runs channelized through a completely flat, open landscape with meadows or cultivated areas. In most places, the stream lies deeply entrenched relative to the terrain. The flow is smooth, slow-moving, and there is only minimal variation in the streambed, which consists of sand and mud.

There are no fish barriers in the stream, but suitable spawning areas for trout are also scarce. A spawning area has been established on a 400 m stretch around Tylstrup, where Aalborg Municipality has compensated for the lack of natural gradient by adding spawning gravel. The limited gradient of Lindholm Stream restricts the establishment of new spawning areas, and the stream has only limited potential for developing a larger sea trout population.

The invasive signal crayfish has formed large populations in the stream, but its impact on trout remains uncertain.

Angling in Lindholm Stream 

There are sporadic reports of sea trout catches in Lindholm Stream, and information about brown trout is also scarce. Trout are stocked at the stream’s outlet as compensation for the lack of natural spawning areas. Therefore, there should be a small run of sea trout. The stream’s occasional high water flows should also attract sea trout. However, if the goal is maximum catch, Lindholm Stream is not the primary choice—it’s a stream where anglers can explore new fishing opportunities.

Fishing is relatively straightforward due to the open terrain, but steep banks, especially in the lower part, can be challenging. Most places require short and precise casts. Information about the size of sea trout in the stream is not readily available.

Access to fishing in Lindholm Stream is obtained through membership in the “Brønderslev Anglers Association,” which manages fishing on approximately 2.5 km around Tylstrup. Additionally, there is free fishing on two short stretches in the lower part of the stream owned by Aalborg Municipality.

Day passes are not available, but there is an open section with free fishing in Lindholm Stream, owned by Aalborg Municipality, which can be found here.

For more information about the Brønderslev Anglers Association and the opportunity to become a member of the local association, visit their website. 

The Ry Stream system offers fishing opportunities for sea trout, brown trout, pike, perch, and bream. Additionally, individual salmon have been registered during electrofishing, with the largest measuring a whopping 135 cm.

The outermost long stretch of the stream runs regulated through the landscape and is virtually without gradient. However, the tributaries, including those from the Jutlandic ridges (jyske ås), contribute to the stream’s trout population and overall species diversity due to their significant gradients. In recent years, numerous stream restorations and removal of barriers have been carried out by both municipalities and volunteers, with many more projects underway.

Sea trout and brown trout fishing can be done using spinners, worms, and flies. In recent years, dry fly fishing has gained popularity, especially in early summer.

The Brønderslev Anglers Association (BLF) is the largest association with access to over 40 km of fishing water in the stream, but there are other smaller associations as well.

For more information about Ry Stream and the opportunity to become a member of the Brønderslev Anglers Association or purchase day passes, visit their website.

If you want to try your luck in Ry Stream, you can also buy day passes or become  a member of Sportsfiskersammenslutningen Nedre Ryå - just visit their website. 

Simested Stream is know for its unique clan of very large sea trout and for its beautiful surroundings. 

Many areas feature large stones, gravel patches, and aquatic vegetation. The water is often crystal clear, and the stream yields many large fish each year.

Hundreds of sea trout migrate upstream in Simested Stream annually, and fishing for these silvery runners typically begins around June.

In addition to being an excellent sea trout watercourse, the stream also hosts a fine population of brown trout. The mayfly fishing, especially on warm summer evenings, also attracts many anglers. Each year, a few rainbow trout are also caught in the stream, some of them reaching impressive sizes.

Angling in Simested Stream

Viborg Sports Fishing Association holds fishing rights for the lower approximately 18 km of the stream, while Ålestrup Anglers Association manages fishing on a longer stretch around Ålestrup, from Hannerup Fish Farm to Skinders Bridge—approximately 25 km on each side of the stream.

The fishing season extends from 1st March to 1st November, both days are included.

For more information about Simested Stream and the opportunity to become a member of the associations or purchase day passes:

- Viborg Sportsfiskerforening

- Ålestrup Sportsfiskerforening

Skals Stream is a larger watercourse that runs almost across Jutland, originating near Randers and flowing 46 km to Hjarbæk Fjord. The stream meanders through a picturesque meadow landscape where one can truly feel the “sweep of the wind” and often undisturbed.

The stream features both slowly flowing and more rapid sections. It is deep and somewhat unclear due to algae production from the many lakes in the catchment area. The largest tributaries are Kousted Stream, Vorning Stream, Skravad Brook, and Kåt Brook.

By Danish standards, the stream contains many different fish species, thanks to the many lakes in the catchment area and favorable migration conditions to the stream.

Angling in Skals Stream 

Sea trout fishing in Skals Stream has always been—and still is—overshadowed by fishing in the surrounding streams. However, there is no reason for this! The sea trout population has steadily grown over several years, thanks to massive restoration efforts in the stream’s tributaries carried out by sports fishing associations and municipalities. In the coming years, even more improvements are expected!

The first sea trout are usually seen in June and continue through the summer and autumn. The stream’s unclear water means that fish are often caught midday and close by, as they are not easily spooked. In the summer, there is fine fishing for silvery sea trout, typically ranging from 40-65 cm. The largest recent sea trout was a giant at 12,3 kg.

Access to fishing in Skals Stream is best achieved through membership in local sports fishing associations. “Skalsådalens Sportsfiskerforening” has fishing rights in the upper part of the stream around Onsild and Klejtrup, “Omegnens All Round Klub” has a stretch around Løvel Bridge, while “Viborg Sportsfiskerforening” manages the 10 km long stretch from Løvel Bridge to the outlet.

Day passes can be purchased HERE, or through the associations’ websites:

- Omegnens All Round Klub

- Viborg Sportsfiskerforening

- Skalsådalens Sportsfiskerforening

Storå in Thy, also known as Bromølle Stream, originates in Tved, just 4 km from the North Sea. After an 11 km journey through entirely flat and predominantly cultivated terrain, it flows into Lønnerup Fjord, where a lock connects it to the Limfjord. Among its larger tributaries is Kløv Stream, which also runs through flat terrain.

Storå is a so-called “Chalk stream,” characterized by significant groundwater inflow through limestone fissures, stable temperature, and flow. Despite its short course, the stream boasts an impressive average flow rate of 1750 l/s. The limestone in the substrate is visible in some places due to thorough flushing. Occasionally, on the lower part of the stream, large continuous limestone formations are visible when the water level remains low for an extended period.

There are only a few suitable spawning areas in Storå, both in the smaller tributaries and the main course. Thisted Municipality and Viborg County have laid out spawning gravel. Despite the lack of spawning areas and hiding spots, a high density of fry has been found in certain stretches, attributed to the highly favorable conditions with substantial groundwater inflow. There are no barriers in the main course.

Angling in Storå 

Sea trout fishing in Storå begins as early as May/June and continues throughout the fall. The substantial and stable inflow of cold, oxygen-rich groundwater allows for sea trout runs even during warm periods, even without rainfall. Fishing depends on both weather conditions and whether the lock between Lønnerup Fjord and the Limfjord is open. There are plenty of fish in the 40-65 cm size range, but larger fish weighing 4-5 kg are also present. The stream can be a bit challenging to access due to high vegetation along the banks and steep sides. Anglers primarily fish for sea trout in hiding spots along the stream’s edges.

Access to fishing in Storå is obtained through membership in the local angling association “Thylands Lystfiskerforening,” which manages fishing in the lower 1,5 km of the stream.

Day passes can be purchased for the association’s fishing waters on their website or here.

- Thylands Lystfiskerforening

Trend Stream is a small, clear-water stream located in the scenic Himmerland region. The stream is particularly known for its good and stable sea trout fishing, but it also hosts a fine population of brown trout.

The first sea trout run typically occurs in May, and while the numbers are few, the fish are large. Later in the season, the “main run” brings numerous sea trout, although they tend to be slightly smaller. The run continues until the season ends in November.

What makes Trend Stream special is the opportunity to catch large sea trout on dry flies. The largest rod-caught sea trout dates back to the early 1990s and weighed an impressive 12,4 kg. While such large fish are rarely caught on a rod, their presence embodies many anglers' dreams.

The Trend Stream Anglers Association holds fishing rights for most of the stream, from the bridge at Hornumbro Mill to Løgstørvej in Trend. Over the years, the association has made significant efforts in water management, creating favorable spawning and nursery conditions in the stream, resulting in its self-sustaining status today.

For more information about Trend Stream and the opportunity to become a member of the association or purchase day passes, visit the association’s website.

The fishing season extends from 16th January to 15th November, with detailed rules available on the association’s website.

Vidkær Stream is a small watercourse covering just 14 km, flowing into Halkær Bay. The stream originates in Navn Lake and boasts good water quality with an average flow rate of 243 l/s.

Vidkær Stream meanders through a narrow and distinctive valley, extensive meadows occasionally interspersed with shrubs and forests. The stream features predominantly strong currents, a good gradient, and its bed consists of stones, spawning gravel, and sand in various places. The upper part of the stream shows clear signs of past regulation, while the lower section remains partially regulated, with several meandering stretches. The primary tributary is Ajstrup Brook. Water quality is excellent, and genetic studies reveal that most of the trout in Vidkær Stream are of wild origin.

Significant efforts have improved sea trout passage opportunities. Aalborg Municipality has created free passage at the two central and final barriers—Koppes Mill and Vidkær Fish Farm—located 0,8 km and 5 km from the outlet, respectively. Restoration work at Vidkær Fish Farm also involved meandering the stream over a longer stretch. Despite these substantial improvements, there is still no free passage due to a recent beaver dam established just 4 km from the outlet, blocking both downstream migrating smolt and upstream migrating sea trout.

Angling in Vidkær Stream 

Vidkær Stream’s favorable spawning and nursery conditions for trout provide a good foundation for sea trout fishing, although it faces challenges due to the mentioned beaver dam. Reports of sea trout fishing in Vidkær Stream are sporadic, with sea trout observed up to 1,5 kg, but undoubtedly larger fish exist.

The best sea trout fishing occurs in late summer and fall due to the stream’s low flow. The modest water depth makes fishing most productive in the lower parts of the stream, especially during periods of increased flow from rainfall.

When trying your luck in Vidkær Stream, exercise caution, and precise casting is essential!

No angling associations are directly associated with the stream, and day passes are not available. Any fishing would need to be arranged with the landowners.

Vium Mølleå is one of the smaller but highly significant sea trout streams going into the Limfjord.

The stream is located in Skive Municipality, and there are approximately 24 km of designated watercourses in the small system.

In 2024 Skive Municipality - in collaboration with the Limfjord Council - removed more than 2 km of concrete pipes leading Vium Mølleå beneath the ground. The picture below shows the newly restored stream flowing above ground. 

Both Vium Mølleå itself and its tributaries, such as Bligårds Brook and Kåstrup Brook, have a good gradient and plenty of gravel beds. This means that in large parts of the stream system, there are so many fish that the ecological condition is assessed as high.

No angling associations have fishing rights in the stream, so there is no organized fishing for the stream’s sea trout. If you want to fish in the stream, you’ll need permission from the landowners. Otherwise, take comfort in knowing that along with many other small streams in the Limfjord catchment area, Vium Mølleå supplies the Limfjord’s coasts with plenty of sea trout.

The newly restored upper part of Vium Mølleå

Øster Å, also known as Kærs Mølleå, is a medium-sized stream covering 20 km, with an average flow rate of 1239 l/s at its outlet into the Limfjord. The water system consists of two distinct branches. The “flat” Øster Å originates near Ellidshøj and receives water from the “hilly” Guldbæk, which runs into Øster Å after 9 km. Where Øster Å and Guldbæk merge, each has a flow rate of approximately 415 l/s.

Øster Å flows through low meadow areas in a broad valley that was once part of the fjord. The stream reflects past regulation with a very low gradient, and its bed primarily consists of sand. There are virtually no gravel spawning areas. Numerous springs contribute to the stream, resulting in crystal-clear water during periods of light rainfall. Guldbæk runs through a narrow valley with hills and has, in several places, a partially unregulated course with significant gradient. The substantial gradient means that many stretches have gravel beds suitable for sea trout spawning.

The City of Aalborg originated during the Viking Age at the mouth of Øster Å, supplying the city with water for household use, washing, and energy from water mills, while also serving as a sewer. The stream was covered over between 1872 and 1897. Two barriers still exist in Aalborg at Gabriel, where water was previously used for energy production. Bonderup Fish Farm near Ferslev allows free passage, as it only takes water from wells and springs.

Guldbæk (directly translated to Gold Brook) likely derives its name from the ochre color of its water. The stream’s 36 m drop has led to the construction of several water mills since the 1300s, and later, two fish farms. These mills have hindered sea trout migration to and from essential spawning areas.

Stream Restoration 

Over the years, sea trout migration in both streams has been strengthened through various stream restoration projects carried out by former counties and municipalities. In Øster Å, the 1,4 km-long covered section through Aalborg has been reopened at Karolinelund, with plans to open the Godsbanearealet section in 2025. The barriers at Gabriel are also scheduled for removal in 2025. In Guldbæk, passage has been created past all water mills except the barrier at Hammerværket in Svenstrup, which is considered difficult to pass. Both fish farms in the stream have been closed. These restoration efforts significantly increase the sea trout population.

Angling in Øster Å 

Sea trout fishing is not widely practiced, and there are only sporadic reports of catches. The fishing season begins in July and continues throughout the season. The substantial groundwater inflow allows fishing even in warm and cold conditions. Most sea trout fishing has focused on the lower part of Øster Å, where water volume is crucial for passage and fishing in Guldbæk. In Guldbæk, the best opportunities are in the fall. Fishing is straightforward in the open Øster Å, but the occasionally crystal-clear water makes fish wary. When the water is clear, anglers must maintain distance or fish from hiding spots to avoid startling the fish. Sea trout sizes range from 40-65 cm, but larger trout are also observed.

No angling associations manage fishing, and day passes are not available. Access to fishing is either through agreements with landowners or on stretches owned by Aalborg Municipality. Whether fishing will be allowed in Øster Å on the specific stretch is uncertain. Stretches of Øster Å and Guldbæk with free fishing can be found here.