Jølster Aurefest is the major fishing competition and local festival held every year in mid-June in Jølster, by the beautiful Lake Jølstravatnet. This large lake area - known as one of Northern Europe’s best trout lakes - sees between 12 and 18 tonnes of Jølster trout caught each year, both during the competition and through local fishing.
The festival in its current form has been held since 2014, but its inspiration and roots go back to the first major fishing competition in 1958, when thousands of participants and spectators gathered in Skei to take part in and follow the spectacular event.
Jølster Aurefest is open to everyone - from experienced anglers to families and beginners - and attracts around 2,000 anglers from across Norway. Participants compete to catch a trout as close as possible to the ideal weight, take part in prize draws, and enjoy the lively atmosphere along the shores of the idyllic Lake Jølstravatnet.
Lake Jølstravatnet and the surrounding area are not only a paradise for fishing, but are also surrounded by high mountains and beautiful scenery, making it ideal for cycling, kayaking, hiking and other outdoor activities before or after the festival.
