Ice Fishing Tour

If you’re considering trying something different during your winter trip to Rovaniemi, an Ice Fishing Tour might just be the adventure you’re looking for. It’s a chance to step away from the usual tourist spots and get a real taste of Arctic life — minus the hassle, with everything organized for you. This tour, rated 5.0 out of 5 with glowing reviews, offers a peaceful, authentic experience that many travelers find memorable.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it combines learning with nature and culinary fun. You’ll get tips from an experienced guide on how to drill into the ice and fish, all set against the backdrop of a stunning frozen lake. Plus, the highlight of cooking up your catch over an open fire adds a cozy, hands-on touch that feels genuinely rewarding. On the flip side, some might find the duration a bit short — about three hours — especially if you’re hoping to fish extensively.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, intimate excursion into Arctic wilderness, especially those interested in learning a traditional activity like ice fishing. It’s not a high-energy adventure, but it’s perfect for anyone eager to witness the tranquility of Lapland’s winter landscape and to try their luck at fishing in a truly unique setting.

Key Points

• Authentic Arctic Activity: A genuine opportunity to try ice fishing with expert guidance.
• Small Group: Max of 8 travelers, ensuring a personal experience and plenty of interaction.
• Beautiful Scenery: The tour takes you to peaceful, scenic locations away from crowds.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Winter clothing, gear, snacks, and hot drinks are provided.
• Flexible and Convenient: Hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics effortless.
• Good for Beginners: Clear instructions and guidance mean even novices can join in.

What to Expect from the Ice Fishing Tour

This tour starts with a convenient hotel pickup if you’re staying outside the Rovaniemi city center. Once you’re on your way, your guide will steer you towards the perfect spot for ice fishing — typically in a quiet, scenic part of the frozen lake. The drive and short walk through Arctic woods give you a taste of Lapland’s wilderness before arriving at your fishing location.

The Journey to the Ice

Once at the site, your guide will show you how to drill a hole in the ice. This part can be surprisingly fun — especially if you’ve never done it before. The process is straightforward, and guides are there to help, making it accessible for first-timers or those who might feel a bit uncertain. As you wait for bites, you’ll soak in the silence, the vast whiteness, and the crisp winter air.

The Art of Ice Fishing

The core activity is, of course, fishing beneath the ice. You’ll use a small fishing rod, which is perfect for beginners. Some reviews mention that catching fish isn’t guaranteed — and that’s true — but many say that’s part of the charm. As one reviewer noted, “We didn’t catch anything, but it didn’t matter; the place was so pretty and peaceful.” Patience is key here.

Fireside Snacks and Conversation

While fishing, your guide will prepare a campfire on the shore. They’ll chop firewood, get the fire going, and serve some traditional Finnish snacks and hot drinks. It’s a welcoming moment, a chance to relax and ask questions about life in Lapland, local customs, or anything else you’re curious about. When a decent-sized fish is caught, it will be cooked over the fire and added to your meal — talk about a fresh, local dinner.

Catch or No Catch

If you do catch a fish, your guide will happily prepare it for you, adding it to the meal. If the fish are undersized, they’re returned to the ice respectfully, emphasizing sustainability. Many reviews highlight this caring approach, noting the guides’ patience and willingness to teach.

The Experience in Detail

The tour lasts about three hours, which is enough time to enjoy the activity without feeling rushed. The price, around $102, offers good value considering everything included: professional gear, winter clothing if needed, snacks, hot drinks, and round-trip transportation. It’s a stress-free way to enjoy a genuine Arctic experience without worrying about logistics or equipment.

The small group size (up to 8 people) makes it more personal and less touristy. With fewer people, you’ll have more room to ask questions and get individualized attention from your guide. Many guests appreciated the intimate atmosphere, noting how guides shared interesting facts about Finnish culture and the Arctic environment. One reviewer praised a guide named Theo for being particularly knowledgeable and friendly.

The Landscape and Atmosphere

Travelers frequently mention how beautiful and peaceful the setting is. You’ll be in the midst of pristine snow and ice, with the silence broken only by the crackling fire and occasional bites on the line. One family described their experience as “truly a once-in-a-lifetime adventure,” highlighting the feeling of being in a remote, untouched winter wonderland.

Practical Considerations

The tour operates in all weather conditions — so even if your trip coincides with a snowstorm, it will still go ahead unless conditions are truly unsafe. Dress warmly, of course, and be prepared for the cold. The tour provides winter clothing and boots if needed, which is a real convenience. Also, hotel pickup and drop-off help make the experience smooth, especially if you’re not staying right in the city center.

Customer Feedback

Overall, reviews are overwhelmingly positive. Participants love the combination of learning, scenery, and culinary fun. Even those who don’t catch fish praise the tour for its scenery and the guide’s friendliness. One reviewer described it as “an unforgettable experience,” and many mentioned that it was their favorite activity in Rovaniemi.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re looking for a calm, authentic Arctic adventure, this ice fishing tour delivers just that. It’s ideal if you appreciate nature, enjoy learning new skills, or want a quiet moment in Lapland’s stunning landscape. The experience is accessible for beginners and offers enough guidance to make it enjoyable, even if you’ve never fished before.

However, if you’re hoping for a lengthy fishing expedition or a high-adrenaline activity, this may not be the best fit. It’s a short, gentle introduction to ice fishing, emphasizing the scenery, cultural exchange, and the joy of trying something new. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy small-group adventures and want a memorable, low-key experience.

To sum it up, this tour offers a genuine taste of Lapland’s winter environment — with the added bonus of a cozy fire and fresh fish. It’s a wonderful choice for those seeking a peaceful, educational activity that deeply connects you with Arctic nature.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are provided for accommodations outside Rovaniemi’s city center, making it easy to join the tour without extra hassle.

What should I wear?
The tour provides winter clothing and boots if needed. Still, it’s a good idea to dress in warm layers, including thermal underwear, a waterproof jacket, and gloves, to stay comfortable during the outdoor parts.

Can I participate if I’ve never fished before?
Absolutely. The guides are experienced and will teach you the basics of ice fishing. Many reviews mention that even complete beginners had a great time.

How long does the tour last?
The activity lasts approximately three hours, including transportation, fishing time, and the fire-side snack break.

What is included in the price?
All taxes, fees, handling charges, professional guide, hotel pickup/drop-off, snacks, hot drinks, and winter clothing/gear are included.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, it operates in all weather conditions unless the weather is dangerously bad. You’ll be advised accordingly, and the tour can be rescheduled or refunded if needed.

What if I don’t catch any fish?
That’s quite common, and it’s no problem — many guests enjoy the experience regardless. The focus is on the scenery, learning, and the overall adventure.

How many people are in a group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 participants, ensuring a more personal and relaxed experience.

Can I bring children?
While the tour is generally suitable for most travelers, it’s best for those comfortable in cold outdoor environments. Kids who enjoy nature and outdoor activities tend to love it.

Final Word

This Ice Fishing Tour in Rovaniemi isn’t just about catching fish — it’s about embracing the quiet beauty of Lapland’s winter landscape, learning a traditional skill, and sharing a cozy moment around a fire. Whether you’re a nature lover, a curious traveler, or someone seeking a meaningful Arctic experience, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s a straightforward, well-organized outing that offers genuine insight into the region’s outdoor life, all wrapped up in a small-group setting that feels personal and authentic.

If you’re after a calm, scenic, and memorable Arctic outing, this tour hits the mark. Just remember to dress warmly, bring your patience, and get ready for a peaceful day in the snow — with the possibility of a fresh, local fish for dinner.