While exact records for historical commercial catches or unverified monsters vary, legendary Icelandic rivers like the Vatnsdalsá and the Big Laxá have produced extraordinary trophy specimens over the decades. Notable catches recorded by anglers in river systems often approach or exceed lengths of 110 centimeters, with historic accounts noting exceptional wild Atlantic salmon exceeding 35 pounds caught on traditional fly-fishing gear. Because catch-and-release practices are heavily emphasized across premier Icelandic salmon rivers to protect native gene pools, many of the largest fish hooked by anglers are measured, photographed carefully, and released back into the crystal-clear river currents alive.