Introduction:

As winter approaches and the Arctic landscape transforms into a pristine wonderland, there's no better time to embark on an unforgettable fishing adventure in Tromsø, Norway. Nestled within the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is a haven for anglers and nature enthusiasts seeking to explore the icy waters of the North Atlantic. In this guide, we'll take you on a journey through the winter fishing wonders of Tromsø and introduce you to Arctic Cruise in Norway, a premier provider of private safaris, including whale watching and fishing.

Types of Fish in Tromsø:

Tromsø's frigid waters are teeming with an array of fish species, making it a dream destination for anglers. Among the most sought-after catches are the Arctic cod, halibut, and redfish, which are abundant during the winter months. Arctic cod, known locally as "skrei," is a true delicacy and is at its prime in February and March. Halibut, a massive flatfish, is another popular target and can be found year-round, with winter being an excellent time to catch them. Redfish, often called "Sebastes" or "Ocean Perch," are plentiful during the colder months.

Whale Attraction:

Tromsø's rich marine ecosystem not only boasts incredible fishing opportunities but also attracts majestic whales. The abundance of fish in these waters makes it a prime feeding ground for several whale species, including humpback whales, orcas, and the sperm whale, which have the largest brain of any living animal! These giants are drawn by the availability of food, particularly the Arctic cod, and the opportunity to witness them in their natural habitat is a breathtaking experience.

Whale Sounds:

Each whale species has its unique set of vocalizations. Humpback whales, known for their hauntingly beautiful songs, communicate with complex melodies that can be heard underwater. Orcas, or killer whales, communicate through a diverse range of clicks and whistles, and their coordinated hunting strategies are awe-inspiring.

Arctic Queen Yacht:

Arctic Cruise in Norway offers exclusive private safaris aboard the luxurious Arctic Queen yacht. This state-of-the-art vessel is designed for comfort and optimal wildlife viewing. Its spacious decks and panoramic windows ensure that you don't miss a moment of the action. With an experienced crew and top-notch amenities, the Arctic Queen guarantees the best possible experience during whale watching and fishing adventures.

Fish in Norwegian Culture:

Fishing has deep cultural and historical significance in Norway. It's not just a way of life but also a part of the nation's identity. Fish is a staple in Norwegian cuisine, with traditional dishes like "lutefisk" and "gravlaks" celebrated for their unique flavors. Fishing has sustained communities for generations and remains a symbol of resilience and adaptation in Norway's Arctic north.

Catch Your Dinner:

Imagine catching your own dinner in the Arctic wilderness. With Arctic Cruise in Norway, this dream can become a reality. After an exciting day of fishing, you can have your catch prepared on board, creating a culinary experience unlike any other.

Conclusion:

Tromsø offers a winter fishing experience like no other, where you can connect with nature, witness incredible marine life, and savor the fruits of your labor. With Arctic Cruise in Norway's private safaris on the Arctic Queen yacht, you'll have the opportunity to embark on this extraordinary adventure in comfort and style. So, don't wait – book your winter fishing and whale watching safari today and create memories that will last a lifetime. Visit Arctic Cruise in Norway's website to start your Arctic adventure!

For a glimpse of what your adventure can look like, please visit our YouTube channel.

Guidelines for Whale Watching activities

The recent rapid increase in boat numbers, and in-water activities as well as potential further increase next season, has led to many requests for guidelines from both communities and operators. These guidelines are to provide some immediate assistance to operators and boat users, as well as to especially enable effective planning of appropriate activities for the next whale season.

Some of the phenomena accessible for viewing in the fjords are globally unique and of scientific importance. The coexistence of humpbacks, fin whales and orcas in feeding situations is distinct from behaviours seen in other locations in former years. Currently, there may be very few, or no situations to observe on a given day, often confined to small areas of water, and even then only if conditions are such that it is safe and comfortable to do so.

In the current absence of direct government regulations, we encourage both commercial operators and private whale watchers to adhere to the following responsible guidelines that have been developed with the encouragement of local communities, local commercial operators, and the media.

These guidelines are by no means meant to thwart whale-related commercial activities. Rather they are a “best practice” for the long-term sustainability of an industry that is dependent on minimizing anthropic disturbance of a natural system. These can be improved.

*All cetacean species are referred to as “whales” in these guidelines, although some species are called “dolphin” or “porpoise” in English.

Topside whale watching guidelines

We acknowledge the relevance of efforts made elsewhere and specifically for Arctic waters such as those by AECO and the Norwegian Polar Institute. We have deliberately included content from these as well as some suggestions publicised by Ocean Sounds e.V.

- Both commercial and private whale watchers need to have an understanding of the whale behaviours and these guidelines. Understanding whale behaviour in the fjords assists operators in adhering to guidelines and in educating passengers.

- Commercial whale watching operators are encouraged to include educational programs in their tours, highlighting the fragility of the marine environment and inspiring respect and environmental friendly attitudes and behaviours.

- Operators are encouraged to use boats to capacity, as well as the larger of their boats when possible to reduce the overall number of boats observing whales.

- We advise a maximum of 3 boats observing simultaneously each situation, for the sake of whales and also to enhance the “wilderness experience”.

- Boats are encouraged to cooperate so that if there are more boats than limited situations, maximum boat time per situation is 30 minutes. Boats waiting for their turn should remain more than 500m away from whales where possible, or at an appropriately remote distance from the situation depending on the local topography. 

- Successful trips should be capped at 3 hours, given the short winter light, and addressing customers’ exposure to cold.

- Boats should have a skipper as well as a lookout – more eyes at sea for ease of spotting (and keeping a distance from) whales and other small craft, especially in low light.

- Approach whales slowly, at less than 5 knots when within 300m, and at constant speed, from the side and slightly to the rear.

- Move parallel to the direction of moving whales, not directly from behind where whales may feel chased, neither head-on, nor intercepting the path. 

- Minimum speed should be kept from 100m and idle speed from 50m from a situation.

- Keep quiet. Whales may approach the boat, which is fine, but go to engine neutral and only re-engage if the whale has clearly passed. Turn engine off if appropriate.

- Avoid sudden acceleration/change in boat direction. Whales will not always react fast enough if surprised. Sudden gear changes and reversing cause disturbing underwater engine noise.

- Identify resting whales, characterized by regular patterns of surfacing in groups, remaining motionless or moving slowly on the surface, and then diving. Stay well away of resting whales.

- It is easy to disturb feeding whales and chase them away. Avoid getting too close. Turn off sonar/echo-sounder when close to a feeding situation.

- Boats should not encircle whales or block their freedom of movement.

- Under no circumstances should one try to attract or touch the whales (e.g. using food/fish, playing/producing sounds or using light).

- If whales show signs of stress or show avoidance behaviour despite following these guidelines, move on. Signs may include whales constantly changing direction or speed or making long dives to avoid a boat.

- Give research activities space to work. Operators should also encourage customers to share photographs and observations with researchers.

- Fishermen share these fjords and should be respected by the increased boat traffic.

If you want to get "in touch" with this beautiful animals, Arctic Princess is the place.

We ended up in the "orca food" today, while they where feeding. Just stay there, and they was playing arround us. Our guest dont wanted to go home, even the weather was not the best.

Today we get it "all". Pictures here