A Deep Dive into Kangerluarsussuaq: A Fisherman’s Paradise
In recent months, the tranquil waters of Kangerluarsussuaq—known in Danish as Grædefjorden—have proven to be a thriving haven for anglers. Located just 100 kilometers south of Nuuk, this picturesque region has seen fishermen arriving from across the globe to reel in an impressive catch of mountain trout during August and September.
Three enterprising young men from Nuuk—Isak Brandt Hansen, Rasmus Brandt, and Casper Frank Møller—have tapped into this enthusiasm by founding Raw Arctic Aps in the spring of 2024. Their goal? To craft unforgettable travel experiences that encompass not only fly fishing but also whale watching, hunting excursions, northern lights viewings, wilderness camping, and personalized tours tailored to individual tastes.
“We’ve already welcomed numerous anglers to Kangerluarsussuaq in our inaugural season,” shares Casper Frank Møller, 28, in a recent conversation with Sermitsiaq. “This year alone, around 25 to 30 enthusiasts from Europe, Canada, the USA, Australia, and New Zealand have fished from our camp.”
Raw Arctic offers an immersive 10-day experience during a fleeting yet vibrant season that spans from July to September. Upon arrival in Nuuk, participants spend six exhilarating days in Kangerluarsussuaq, where they fish across three renowned rivers: Isua, Eqaluit, and Ilivertallip Kuua. This thoughtful rotation not only enriches the angler’s experience amid the stunning scenery but also helps alleviate pressure on the fish populations in each river.
To maintain an optimal experience, Raw Arctic limits its capacity to just eight anglers at any one time. This summer, the company established a well-equipped camp in Isua, complete with a support tent and six smaller accommodations that are dismantled after the season concludes. The camp’s dedicated staff—comprising a camp manager, two guides, a cook, and a kitchen assistant—ensures that guests enjoy a memorable stay. Moreover, a rotating crew of employees from Nuuk has been engaged throughout the fishing season, thereby contributing to the local economy.
A Glimpse into the Past: The Historic Waters of Kangerluarsussuaq
The excellent fishing conditions of Kangerluarsussuaq are steeped in history. Generations of fishermen have celebrated its rich waters, and remnants of a boiling factory established by KGH in 1913 linger at the mouth of the fjord, a testament to the area’s bustling fishing past. The factory was designed with modern principles in mind, featuring a cooking plant powered by a steam engine, a storage facility, and living quarters for workers.
Historical records reveal that this facility, under the management of a trained Danish overseer, operated from mid-July to mid-August during the peak fishing season. By 1918, the factory procured an astonishing 8,380 kilos of trout, canned for consumption. Though eventual declines in production prompted the factory’s relocation to Sisimiut in 1924, Kangerluarsussuaq remains a cherished destination for fishing enthusiasts.
The Future of Fishing in Kangerluarsussuaq
As it develops Camp Isua into an angler’s paradise, Raw Arctic is also in pursuit of a concession for paid rod fishing in the region’s rivers. The Department of Trade and Industry oversees the concession approvals, while Kommuneqarfik Sermersooq ensures alignment with municipal planning. Currently, the municipality is seeking public input on a proposal for three concession areas in Kangerluarsussuaq, open for consultation until November 5.
It is a common misconception that such concessions privatize local waters; rather, they simply regulate paid fishing activities. This means that other fishermen—both private and commercial—can continue to fish in these waters. Simultaneously, other forms of tourism such as trophy hunting and hiking, as well as public recreational activities, remain permitted.
Kommuneqarfik Sermersooq’s support for the concession scheme is rooted in its potential to distribute tourist traffic more evenly across the region. Presently, the municipality oversees two active concessions: one for trout fishing in the Nuuk Fjord and another for heli-skiing in Tasiilaq.
A Promising Future for Responsible Tourism
Despite being in its infancy, Raw Arctic is making waves in the tourism scene, gaining recognition for its dedication to sustainability and cultural authenticity. Recently, the company earned the prestigious Greenland Tourism Award 2025, a reflection of its commitment to responsible travel practices.
For those considering a fishing adventure in this stunning part of the world, a ten-day program in Nuuk and Kangerluarsussuaq comes at a cost of DKK 50,000, exclusive of international airfare.
With its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant wildlife, Kangerluarsussuaq continues to beckon adventurers, promising experiences that are as unforgettable as the catch itself.