Syltefjordelva is located about 15 km east of Båtsfjord Brygge, only around a 30-minute drive away. The fishable stretch of the river is approximately 35 km long and begins at Lake Ordo, 250 metres above sea level, in the middle of the Varanger Plateau. The river flowing out of Lake Ordo is called Ordojohka (Sámi name) until it meets the Skogåselva River. From this point to the sea, the river is called Vesterelva, but the whole river system is generally known as Syltefjordelva. Salmon fishing in the river has improved considerably in recent years. The last few seasons have been excellent, with annual catches of around 5–6 tonnes, which is very good for such a small river. Most of the salmon caught are small to medium-sized, with a good number of larger salmon as well. The salmon run usually begins in mid-June, but it is not until later in July that there is really a lot of salmon activity in the river.

Syltefjordelva offers what can be described as wilderness fishing, while still being easy to reach by car and via many walking trails. This is a great advantage, as the most attractive salmon pools are found in the upper two-thirds of the river. Here, the riverbed consists mainly of large stones, sand and gravel, creating many varied and exciting fishing spots.