Autumn is one of the better periods for sea fishing in Norway. The water starts to get cold, the fish are active, and tourist pressure has decreased compared to summer. For those who want to fish for halibut, cod, and ling, autumn is a great option.
Here we'll go through what you can expect from a Norwegian sea fishing trip in autumn and which destinations we recommend.
What to fish for in Norway in autumn?
Autumn can offer really good sea fishing in Norway, with halibut being one of the main targets. September and October are particularly interesting months for those who enjoy fishing for halibut in shallow water.
When the water temperature drops to around 7–8 degrees Celsius, shallow water fishing can be really interesting. We then like to focus extra on sand and gravel bottoms, sounds, and shallower flats where halibut go to hunt.
Besides halibut, there are great opportunities for cod, pollock, and ling, among others. Which species you target depends on the area, weather, and daily conditions.
How to fish for halibut in autumn?
During autumn, we prefer to spend extra time in shallow water. Halibut can go into very shallow sand and gravel bottoms to hunt, and fishing at depths of about 5–35 meters can be very effective when conditions are right.
Here, we mainly fish with jigs, natural bait, and spinning gear. When the fish are in shallow water, it opens up for a much lighter and more active type of fishing than traditional sea fishing.
Spin fishing for halibut
Spin fishing for halibut in shallow water is incredibly fun. With lighter spinning gear and jigs resembling sandeels, you can cast over shallow sand flats, edges, and sounds, actively searching for fish.
When a halibut bites in shallow water, there's often a lot of action. The fish has plenty of power and can make long runs, which makes this one of our favorite ways to fish for halibut.
Jigging and natural bait
With traditional jigging, you start at the bottom and then work the jig up through the water column, all the way into the pelagic zone. Halibut can follow for a long way up before biting, so fish all the way and be prepared even after the bait has left the bottom.
Fishing with pollock as bait is also a classic and effective method. The bait is drifted over the shallow areas and presented a bit above the bottom.
During September and especially October, the days get shorter and the weather becomes more changeable in Northern Norway. It is therefore important to take advantage of weather windows and adapt your fishing to the conditions of the day.
Our destinations for sea fishing in Norway
We organize fishing trips to several destinations along the Norwegian coast where halibut and sea fishing are the focus.
Frovåg
Frovåg is one of our most popular Norwegian destinations. Here we fish for halibut, cod, and ling in areas with varying depths and good conditions during autumn.
Read more about fishing trips to Frovåg – sea fishing in Norway →
Loppa
Loppa in Finnmark is known for its deep waters and good chances for large halibut. A destination for those who want to focus on sea fishing and are prepared for long days at sea.
Read more about fishing trips to Loppa – sea fishing in Norway →
Offersøy
Offersøy in Nordland is another option for sea fishing along the Norwegian coast with good opportunities for halibut and other bottom-dwelling fish.
Read more about fishing trips to Offersøy – sea fishing in Norway →
Camp Halibut
Camp Halibut is our most targeted option for those who want to fish for halibut. The focus is exclusively on halibut – with a local guide and a setup created specifically for this type of fishing. An excellent option even in autumn when the fish are active in shallower waters.
Read more about Camp Halibut – targeted halibut fishing in Norway →
What do I need to consider before a Norwegian sea fishing trip in autumn?
Clothing is more important than many realize. Northern Norwegian autumn weather can change quickly, and the temperature at sea is lower than on land. Waterproof outerwear, warm layers, and good gloves are almost a must.
For equipment, heavy rods with high lifting capacity, large reels, and jigs or deadbait rigs adapted for deep-sea fishing are required. Always check what applies to extra baggage and rod tubes with your airline well in advance.
Are you unsure which Norwegian destination suits you best? Contact us and we will help you compare the arrangements and find the right trip for autumn 2026 or winter 2027.
See all our fishing trips in Norway →
Frequently asked questions about sea fishing in Norway in autumn
What do you fish for in Norway in autumn? +
Halibut, cod, and ling are the most common target species during autumn fishing in Norway. Halibut often move into shallower waters during autumn, and the fishing can be really good, especially when the water temperature drops in September and October.
When should I book a Norwegian sea fishing trip for autumn? +
Our trips are in small groups, and spaces are limited. It's a good idea to contact us well in advance to get an overview of available dates.
What equipment is needed for sea fishing in Norway in autumn? +
Heavy rods, sturdy reels, and jigs or rigs for natural bait are essential. If you're fishing for halibut in shallow water, lighter spinning gear is also a fun complement. Waterproof clothing and warm layers are just as important as fishing gear when autumn weather changes.
Is a Norwegian sea fishing trip suitable for beginners? +
Yes, the basics are easy to learn. With dead bait on the bottom, even an inexperienced angler can have a good day. Jigging and spin fishing are more technically and physically demanding but offer a truly active fishing experience.
Which Norwegian destination suits me best? +
It depends on what you want to fish for and how far you want to travel. Frovåg and Offersøy are popular all-around options, Loppa is for those who want to focus on large halibut in deep water, and Camp Halibut is the right choice for those who want to target halibut exclusively with a local guide.