Last autumn, I decided to embark on a solo night fishing adventure- trip to the mountains near Hovden. Renting a small cabin for the weekend, I was eager to immerse myself in nature, far from the bustle of daily life. My wife, Sara, stayed back, busy with her home office tasks.
The Journey Begins
On a crisp Friday evening, I packed my gear, started the car, and began the scenic drive uphill. The setting sun painted the landscape in hues of gold and crimson, creating a mesmerizing backdrop on both sides of the winding road. Accompanied by my favorite playlist, I barely noticed the two-and-a-half-hour drive before arriving at my cozy mountain retreat i in Hovden.
The cabin, with its wood-paneled walls and a welcoming fireplace, became my sanctuary. After a quick call to Sara to assure her of my safe arrival, I succumbed to the exhaustion of the week and fell into a deep sleep, ready for the adventures to come- night fishing
The Morning Hunt for the Perfect Spot
A Tale of Two Lakes: Trials and Determination
A Quiet Start at Langeidvatn
My alarm blared at 5 AM, pulling me from my slumber. Armed with a cup of strong coffee and a hearty breakfast, I set out to explore the mountain lakes.
A Quiet Start at Langeidvatn
The first lake I chose to explore was Langeidvatn. Vast and expansive, its calm surface mirrored the surrounding peaks, promising a serene yet challenging fishing experience. I started my journey along the right-hand shore, carefully scanning the rocky bottom for any signs of activity. I was particularly vigilant for small streams feeding into the lake, as they often create favorable spots for fish to gather.
After a short hike, I came across an area with a stony bottom that looked promising. Excited, I cast my line equipped with a spinner and began reeling it in at a steady pace, hopeful for a bite. After a few attempts, my patience was rewarded—though only modestly—with a small fish that I released back into the water.
Disappointment and Persistence
Undeterred, I moved further along the shoreline, trying my luck at every accessible spot. Each cast held the thrill of possibility, but the results were disappointing. The only bites came from small, insignificant fish. Two hours passed in this fashion, and I suddenly realized I had wandered quite far from my starting point. Frustration crept in as my efforts yielded little of substance. With a heavy heart, I made my way back to the car, feeling a bit disheartened but determined to try elsewhere.
A New Challenge at Lislevatn
My next destination was Lislevatn, an artificial lake created by a small dam. Here, the scene was entirely different. Below the dam, the river transformed into a lively, rushing current, offering an exciting new challenge. I decided to divide my efforts between the still waters of the reservoir and the turbulent stream below.
First, I focused on the reservoir, casting my line near the dam wall. Despite spending nearly an hour testing various spots, the only reward was a single trout, measuring about 15 cm—not quite the trophy I had hoped for.
Shifting my attention to the river, I opted for baited hooks with worms, hoping the natural flow would lure larger fish. I searched for small waterfalls and shallow transitions where fish often gather, but my efforts remained fruitless. By the time noon approached, my stomach reminded me that it was time for a break. Slightly worn out but still optimistic, I decided to return to the cabin, rest, and regroup for an evening attempt.
An Evening of Redemption
Refreshed after a nap, I ventured out again as the sun dipped below the horizon. This time, my destination was Hartevatn. Just before the river’s mouth where it merged with the lake, I found my luck turning. My trusty lightweight lure—a favorite for swift currents—proved its worth.
On my first cast, I landed a beautiful one-kilogram trout. Elated, I continued down the shore, reeling in several more impressive catches. But as the stars blanketed the sky, the fish seemed to vanish, leaving me with only the quiet lapping of water against the rocks.
Night Fishing Adventure
Not one to give up, I switched to worms and heavier weights, targeting deeper waters in a small cove. After a few bites, I finally hooked an 1800-gram beauty. By now, it was past 10 PM, and the wind began to howl. Waves crashed against the rocky shore, and a steady drizzle turned the terrain slippery and treacherous.
Though my determination kept me casting until midnight, the worsening weather signaled it was time to head back. The hike to my car, a two-kilometer trek through darkness and storm, was both eerie and exhilarating. This night fishing adventure had proven challenging, but the experience of being out there, alone with the elements, made it unforgettable.
Reflections by the Fire
Back at the cabin, drenched and cold, I lit the fireplace and let its warmth envelop me. While my total haul of five fish might seem modest, the experience of fishing under the stars, battling the elements, and reveling in the solitude of nature was priceless. Night fishing adventure is epic!
Sometimes, it’s not about the catch but the journey, the moments of stillness, and the stories you gather along the way.
Would I do it again? In a heartbeat.
Thank you for visiting Norway fishing & nature!
We hope to see you again soon!
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