U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service · Public Domain · Image source

Quick facts

Size50–100 cm
Weight2–12 kg
LifespanUp to 13 years
DepthUp to 210 m
Water typeAnadromous
Best timeSummer and autumn in rivers.

About Atlantic Salmon

Atlantic salmon spend part of their lives in freshwater and part at sea. They hatch in Icelandic rivers, migrate to the ocean and later return to freshwater to spawn.

Characteristics

  • Common in Iceland
  • Native species
  • Game fish

Habitat

Rivers, estuaries and the North Atlantic.

Diet

Aquatic insects and small animals as juveniles; fish and other marine prey after migration to sea.

Spawning and reproduction

Period

Autumn

Reproduction

Rivers and streams.

Distribution around Iceland

Accessible rivers around Iceland and the North Atlantic.
SourceLast verified: 09/09/2026