Qussuk River
Venture deep into Greenland’s wilderness for a fly fishing adventure on the Qussuk River. Here, Arctic char thrive in pristine waters, and nature reigns supreme.
A primitive fly fishing expedition in Qussuk
Qussuk River is Nuuk’s rugged fly fishing destination—an unspoiled Arctic escape where nature rules. Unlike polished lodges or glamping camps, Qussuk embraces simplicity. This is a true back-to-basics adventure, where you sleep under canvas, cook by the fire, and immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of the land.
At Raw Arctic, we believe in authentic experiences. With only a handful of guests allowed per season, you’ll experience a fishing trip that strips away the unnecessary, leaving only the thrill of the catch and the raw serenity of the Greenlandic wilderness.
The Qussuk River: A true test for the adventurous angler
The Qussuk River offers a wild and challenging fishing experience. Whether you are an experienced angler looking for a raw, physical challenge or a nature lover wanting to disconnect from modern life, Qussuk delivers.
A true wilderness escape – Experience fly fishing in one of Greenland’s most remote and untouched landscapes, where nature reigns supreme.
Exclusive & off-the-grid – With only a handful of guests per season, this expedition strips away distractions, leaving only the raw beauty of the Arctic.
World-class arctic char fishing – Fish in silty, unspoiled waters where Arctic Char strike aggressively at topwater flies, making every cast an adrenaline rush.
A true backcountry experience
Your adventure begins with a boat journey from Nuuk to the mouth of the Qussuk River. As you navigate the fjords, the last signs of civilization fade away, replaced by towering cliffs, untouched tundras, and Arctic silence. Upon arrival, you’ll transfer into a rugged rubber boat that will carry you upriver, weaving through breathtaking Arctic scenery. The farther you go, the more you feel the rawness of the land settling in—a world where the only sounds are the wind, the flowing water, and the occasional call of a passing caribou.
Picture vast tundras stretching toward the horizon, where herds of caribou roam freely, their antlers rising above the Arctic bushes. At times, they run alongside you, moving effortlessly through the landscape, a reminder of the deep wilderness you are stepping into. The journey upriver is more than a transfer; it’s an introduction to the untouched majesty of Greenland.
As you make your way up the Qussuk River, you’ll experience three kilometers of pristine fishing grounds. The river’s journey ends at a waterfall—an impassable barrier for most fish, meaning every stretch of water below is teeming with Arctic Char preparing for their spawning journey.
Unlike many other rivers, Qussuk’s waters have a silty quality, a result of the massive sand dunes that surround it. These dunes, favored by the caribou, create a landscape that is both unique and ever-changing. The silty water doesn’t hinder the fishing—it enhances it. It creates ideal conditions for foam fly fishing, where Arctic Char strike aggressively at topwater flies. Watching vibrant orange and red flashes move beneath the surface before a sudden take is a sight that never gets old. The sheer abundance of fish makes every cast an exciting prospect.
This is fly fishing at its purest. No luxurious lodges, no unnecessary comforts—just a remote base camp with essential gear, hearty meals, and the great outdoors as your living room. Evenings are spent together in camp with the group, swapping stories under the Arctic sky. Mornings bring crisp air, unfiltered silence, and an untouched river waiting for your first cast.
At Raw Arctic, we believe in treading lightly. This is a sustainable expedition where nature remains as pristine as we found it. You’ll leave with nothing but unforgettable memories and a deep respect for Greenland’s raw beauty.
A stripped-down adventure, fully guided
Picture this—five days in Greenland’s wildest terrain, where rugged beauty and untamed rivers set the stage for an off-the-grid escape. Spend your nights in minimalist tented camps, falling asleep to the sounds of the running river and the distant sounds of the Arctic wilderness.
For five full days, you’ll fish in remote, unspoiled waters, guided by local experts who understand the land and its ever-changing conditions. Enclosed boat transfers take you to and from Qussuk, ensuring safe passage through the fjords, while each day on the river is an opportunity to connect with nature in its rawest form.
From the moment you arrive, every essential detail is taken care of—logistics, meals, and expert guidance—so you can focus on the experience. There are no distractions here, just the rhythm of the water, the thrill of the catch, and the unfiltered beauty of Greenland.
This isn’t just a fishing trip—it’s an invitation to unplug, embrace the elements, and experience the Arctic as it was meant to be: wild, pure, and unforgettable.
Itinerary for Qussuk river fly fishing adventure
Settle in and prepare for the wild
Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by our team and transferred to a local hotel for a relaxing overnight stay. That evening, enjoy an optional dinner at A Hereford Beefstouw, where you’ll meet your guides and prepare for the remote days ahead.
Boat ride to the edge of civilization
After breakfast, embark on a 2 hour boat ride through the vast fjords of Greenland. As we reach the remote Qussuk region, the last signs of civilization disappear. Upon arrival, we set up camp and prepare for the days ahead—where nature sets the pace and survival instincts come alive.
The ultimate backcountry fishing challenge
Spend the next five days fishing in the raw and rugged Qussuk River, where Arctic Char are wild and plentiful. Your expert guides will adapt each day’s strategy based on conditions, helping you master techniques and navigate the river’s unpredictable nature.
Each day includes:
- Fishing in untouched waters where Arctic Char thrive.
- Learning about the wildlife in Greenland and the location of the arctic char in the Qussuk river.
- Simple but nourishing meals
Back to modern comforts
On the eighth day, we begin the return journey to Nuuk. Enjoy a final morning by the river before boarding the boat. Upon arrival in Nuuk, return to Hotel Aurora, where a hot shower and warm bed await after your days in the wilderness.
A farewell to the wild
After breakfast, transfer to Nuuk Airport for your return flight. You’ll leave with sore muscles, a clear mind, and the deep satisfaction of having truly disconnected and conquered one of Greenland’s last wild frontiers.
Back to modern comforts
On the eighth day, we begin the return journey to Nuuk. Enjoy a final morning by the river before boarding the boat. Upon arrival in Nuuk, return to Hotel Aurora, where a hot shower and warm bed await after your days in the wilderness.
A farewell to the wild
After breakfast, transfer to Nuuk Airport for your return flight. You’ll leave with sore muscles, a clear mind, and the deep satisfaction of having truly disconnected and conquered one of Greenland’s last wild frontiers.
Itinerary for Qussuk river fly fishing adventure
Settle in and prepare for the wild
Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by our team and transferred to a local hotel for a relaxing overnight stay. That evening, enjoy an optional dinner at A Hereford Beefstouw, where you’ll meet your guides and prepare for the remote days ahead.
Boat ride to the edge of civilization
After breakfast, embark on a 2 hour boat ride through the vast fjords of Greenland. As we reach the remote Qussuk region, the last signs of civilization disappear. Upon arrival, we set up camp and prepare for the days ahead—where nature sets the pace and survival instincts come alive.
The ultimate backcountry fishing challenge
Spend the next five days fishing in the raw and rugged Qussuk River, where Arctic Char are wild and plentiful. Your expert guides will adapt each day’s strategy based on conditions, helping you master techniques and navigate the river’s unpredictable nature.
Each day includes:
- Fishing in untouched waters where Arctic Char thrive.
- Learning about the wildlife in Greenland and the location of the arctic char in the Qussuk river.
- Simple but nourishing meals
Itinerary for Qussuk river fly fishing adventure
Explore the daily schedule of your 5-day off-grid fly fishing expedition in Greenland’s most rugged river.
Settle in and prepare for the wild
Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by our team and transferred to a local hotel for a relaxing overnight stay. That evening, enjoy an optional dinner at A Hereford Beefstouw, where you’ll meet your guides and prepare for the remote days ahead.
Boat ride to the edge of civilization
After breakfast, embark on a 2 hour boat ride through the vast fjords of Greenland. As we reach the remote Qussuk region, the last signs of civilization disappear. Upon arrival, we set up camp and prepare for the days ahead—where nature sets the pace and survival instincts come alive.
The ultimate backcountry fishing challenge
Spend the next five days fishing in the raw and rugged Qussuk River, where Arctic Char are wild and plentiful. Your expert guides will adapt each day’s strategy based on conditions, helping you master techniques and navigate the river’s unpredictable nature.
Each day includes:
- Fishing in untouched waters where Arctic Char thrive.
- Learning about the wildlife in Greenland and the location of the arctic char in the Qussuk river.
- Simple but nourishing meals
Back to modern comforts
On the eighth day, we begin the return journey to Nuuk. Enjoy a final morning by the river before boarding the boat. Upon arrival in Nuuk, return to Hotel Aurora, where a hot shower and warm bed await after your days in the wilderness.
A farewell to the wild
After breakfast, transfer to Nuuk Airport for your return flight. You’ll leave with sore muscles, a clear mind, and the deep satisfaction of having truly disconnected and conquered one of Greenland’s last wild frontiers.
Let's answer all your questions!
Everything you need to know for your fly fishing adventure in Greenland – from gear tips to what you can expect to catch. If you can’t find your answer here, feel free to reach out to us anytime!
What makes the Qussuk River such a special place for fly fishing?
Qussuk is raw, remote, and untouched—one of Greenland’s last true wilderness fly fishing destinations. The river flows through an uninhabited landscape, where massive sand dunes shape the banks, caribou roam freely, and the only sounds are the wind and rushing water. Unlike more accessible fishing spots, Qussuk sees very few local anglers each year, meaning you’ll have stretches of the river entirely to yourself.
Adding to its exclusivity, Qussuk is a concessioned river, which means no other companies are allowed to operate commercial fishing trips in the area. This ensures that the waters remain pristine, the fish population stays healthy, and the experience remains truly wild.
How big does the char get in this river?
Arctic char in the Qussuk River typically range from 2 to 3 kilos, but larger fish over 4 kilos are not uncommon. You might even be lucky enough to catch the true prize of a 5 kilo beast. These char are aggressive feeders, making for exciting fights, especially when they take topwater flies.
Will I have access to any modern facilities at the campsite?
There are no modern facilities at the Qussuk campsite. We drink fresh, clean meltwater directly from the nearby streams—just as nature intended. While this is a true wilderness experience, you won’t be fending for yourself. Our guide will prepare all meals, so you can focus on fishing and enjoying the remote surroundings.
This is still an authentic backcountry expedition, where you’ll be immersed in Greenland’s raw, untouched nature. If you’re looking for luxury, this isn’t the trip—but if you want a pure, off-the-grid fishing adventure, you’re in the right place.
If you prefer a more comfortable fishing experience with added amenities, check out our Three River Program, which offers a higher level of comfort while still delivering incredible Arctic char fishing.
Do I get more than five fishing days in Qussuk?
Yes! The expedition includes five full days and nights of fishing, but thanks to Greenland’s long summer days, you’ll have plenty of extra time on the water. The midnight sun keeps the river well-lit late into the evening, meaning you can fish long after dinner if you still have the energy.
Additionally, Qussuk can only be reached when the tides are at their highest, so every trip is meticulously planned around tidal movements. On departure days from Qussuk, most pickups happen at noon or in the evening, giving you even more fishing time before heading back to Nuuk. So while the trip is designed as five days of fishing, in reality, you’ll have additional hours to make the most of this untouched Arctic river.
Is this trip physically demanding?
Not at all. The terrain at Qussuk is surprisingly easy to navigate, making it accessible for anglers of all ages and fitness levels. Unlike other rugged Arctic destinations, Qussuk features mostly flat ground, with no challenging hikes or rough conditions. The walk from camp to the center of the river takes about 20-30 minutes at a relaxed pace.
If you can handle a full day of fishing, you can handle this adventure.
How does the boat transfer to Qussuk work?
The journey begins with a two-hour boat ride from Nuuk deep into the fjords, where the last traces of civilization disappear. Once we reach the Qussuk River, we switch to a rugged rubber boat, navigating upstream through winding channels and past the large sand dunes.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter during the trip?
Qussuk is as much about the wilderness as it is about the fishing. Along the river, you might spot:
- Reindeer moving through the tundra, their silhouettes blending into the landscape
- Arctic foxes weaving through the low vegetation, always alert and on the move
- White tailed eagles gliding overhead, scanning the river for fish just like you
- Ptarmigans camouflaged in the rocks, suddenly bursting into flight when disturbed
What gear should I bring to Qussuk?
Since Qussuk is a remote, off-the-grid expedition, having the right gear is essential for both fishing and being comfortable in the Arctic wilderness. Here’s some of the important gear that we recommend:
Fishing gear:
- 9 to 10-foot, 5-7 weight fly rod (sturdy enough for Arctic char in strong currents)
- Floating and sink-tip fly lines to adapt to different water conditions
- Selection of flies, especially foam flies, streamers, and nymphs
- Quality waders and wading boots
- Polarized sunglasses for eye protection and better visibility in silty waters
Camping and clothing:
- A high-quality sleeping bag with a comfort temperature down to -5°C
- An insulated sleeping mat to ensure warmth and comfort at night
- Waterproof and windproof outer layers (the Arctic weather can shift quickly)
- Warm, moisture-wicking base layers (wool or synthetic)
- Gloves, a hat, and extra socks to stay warm during long fishing sessions
- A comfortable backpack for carrying gear while hiking between fishing spots
- Mosquito net and repellent (essential in summer)
- Warm, insulated jacket
Extras for comfort and safety:
- A headlamp with extra batteries for late-night tasks around camp
While we provide tents, food, guiding, and logistics, Qussuk is a true backcountry experience. Being well-prepared will make your adventure even better. Let us know if you need advice on specific gear before your trip.
Additionally, we will send you a complete list of what you need to bring when you book the tour.
