Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Autumn & Winter Experiences in Norway
Exciting Lofoten fishing at its very best – in the winter Offersøy is a fishing holiday resort, beautifully situated on the southern tip of Norway’s largest island, Hinnøy. This is the gateway to the mountainous Lofoten Islands and an ideal setting for a memorable fishing holiday. Offersøy offers accommodation in motel rooms, cabins and the traditional ‘rorbu’ (fishermen’s shanties), and activities include deep sea fishing, bike and boat rental, diving and hiking.
during the winter months include moose and eagle safaris nearby.
By Stian Sangvig | Photos: Gunnar Fenes
A popular tourist destination in the summer, when tourists enjoy the midnight sun and fishing, Offersøy’s owner is keen to attract more visitors during the winter. “The fishing season peaks from February to April, as cod come from the cold Barents Sea further north, to the warmer waters around Lofoten, to spawn,” general manager Arnfinn Fenes explains. Stocks of cod are, thus, significantly larger at this time than during the summer. “The weather conditions in the mild and humid coastal climate are also ideal during March and April, with the sun bringing temperatures during the day up to about eight degrees. On a lucky night with clear skies, the Northern Lights might be spotted, too,” Fenes continues.
Another advantage is that spawning fish carry roe, offering visitors the opportunity to enjoy the classic local dish, ‘lofotmolja’. This traditional dish consists of boiled cod, potatoes, liver and roe, and is prepared by Offersøy’s chef in the on-site restaurant. How to get there
Experienced visitors may prefer to hire their own boat. Others can join the deep sea fishing tours, where a professional guide or retired fishermen ride the boats and provide guidance for cod fishing. During these peak months, quality, quantity and size are at their very best. Multiple hooks, Fenes boasts, tend to catch multiple fish of average individual weight from six to 10 kilograms! Additional activities
From Europe, fly with Norwegian or SAS via Oslo to Harstad / Narvik Airport, Evenes, which is a 90-minute drive away. Visitors can be picked up by minibus or hire a car at the airport.
For more information, please visit: www.offersoy.no
Issue 68 | September 2014 | 61