Ice fishing on a frozen lake

If you’re considering a unique winter experience in Rovaniemi, this ice fishing tour might just be the thing. While it’s not a typical sightseeing activity, it offers a genuine taste of Finnish wilderness — quiet, beautiful, and surprisingly engaging. We haven’t done this particular tour ourselves, but based on detailed reviews and the experience it promises, it seems like a solid choice for those curious about local customs and craving a peaceful outdoor escape.

What we really like about this tour is its personalized, off-the-beaten-path feel — it’s hosted in a private spot far from crowds, which means you’ll get a bit of serenity and undisturbed nature. Plus, the guided element, complete with a wilderness expert, makes the whole process accessible, even if you’re new to fishing. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that if you’re not into fishing or outdoor winter activities, this might be less appealing. It’s a hands-on, cold-weather experience that’s best suited for those comfortable with some chill and adventure.

Overall, if you’re looking for an authentic, scenic, and well-organized outdoor excursion during your stay in Rovaniemi—especially if you’re into nature photography or just want a different way to enjoy winter—this tour could be just right. It’s friendly enough for those with no fishing experience, and the added warmth of a campfire makes it inviting even in the coldest months.

Key Points

• Authentic Finnish Wilderness: You’ll travel to a private, peaceful lake, far from city crowds, for a truly immersive nature experience.
• Expert Guidance: The tour includes a knowledgeable wilderness guide who shares insights about ice fishing and local culture.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Equipment, warm clothing, snacks, hot drinks, and even photos are provided, making it hassle-free.
• Beautiful Scenery: Expect stunning winter landscapes, with plenty of photo opportunities, especially around wildlife and icy vistas.
• Cultural Element: The traditional Lappish Teepee setup adds a cozy, authentic touch, perfect for relaxing after fishing.
• Group Size & Booking: Limited to 8 travelers, booked about 78 days in advance on average, ensuring a personalized experience.

A Detailed Look at the Ice Fishing Tour

The Itinerary and Transportation

The adventure begins with hotel pickup in Rovaniemi, making logistics simple and seamless. From there, it’s about a 20-minute drive in a minivan — a comfortable way to get out of the city and into the wilderness. Once you arrive at the designated meeting point, the group takes a short walk to the lake, which helps set the tone for the quiet, scenic experience awaiting.

Traveling in a small group of up to 8 people, you’ll appreciate the intimacy and the chance to ask questions or get tips from your guide. The trip, lasting approximately 3.5 hours, balances time on the ice with relaxed breaks, especially around the campfire.

The Ice Fishing Experience

Once at the lake, you’ll be introduced to the basics of ice fishing — a skill that might seem intimidating but becomes surprisingly manageable with guidance. The tour emphasizes teaching you how to fish in icy conditions, where fish are hiding under a thick layer of ice. This knowledge is especially valuable if you’re curious about local traditions or want a different take on winter outdoor activities.

Your guide, who is also proficient in photography, will help you capture the scenery — expect plenty of stunning shots of the icy landscape, snow-covered trees, and perhaps some local wildlife. The fact that the lake is a private spot means fewer crowds and better opportunities for photos.

The Campfire and Food

One of the highlights is setting up a traditional Lappish Teepee, creating a cozy spot where everyone can warm up. Here, the guide will prepare a campfire, cooking sausages and serving hot drinks and snacks — a simple but satisfying way to stay warm and connected with your surroundings.

The tour includes frying your catch of the day, turning a potentially quiet fishing moment into a delicious, hands-on meal. Even if you don’t catch anything, the experience of sitting around a fire in the middle of winter is quite memorable.

The Photos and Final Touches

After fishing, the guide will send you edited photos from the trip, giving you a lovely keepsake of your time on the ice. This added feature is especially appreciated by those who love capturing scenic moments or want a souvenir from their Arctic adventure.

The Value and Cost

At $124.51 per person, this experience offers good value, considering everything included: transportation, equipment, warm clothing, snacks, and photos. The small group size makes it more personalized and less commercial than larger tours, which is often what travelers looking for authenticity prefer.

What Reviewers Say

Multiple guests have shared their positive impressions, emphasizing the quality of the guides. One reviewer noted, “Our guide was fabulous — knowledgeable not only on all things ice fishing but also on Finnish culture,” highlighting the educational aspect of the tour. Another praised the thoughtfulness of the guide, who prepared sausages and lit a fire, making the cold experience more comfortable and memorable.

The scenery is also a big hit, with travelers describing the landscape as magnificent and the overall experience as peaceful and relaxing. Since the tour is suitable for most travelers and most importantly, the service animals are allowed, it’s accessible for a variety of visitors.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re someone who appreciates quiet outdoor adventures and wants to explore Finnish winter culture up close, this tour is a great pick. It’s ideal for those who enjoy photography, nature, or simply want a different kind of Arctic experience. The small group setting and guided approach make it suitable for beginners and seasoned outdoor lovers alike.

However, if you’re not comfortable with cold weather or outdoor activities, this might not be your best fit. It’s a hands-on experience, with a good amount of time spent on the ice, and requires some patience and a willingness to embrace the winter.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making the logistics straightforward.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including transportation, fishing, and breaks.

What should I wear?
Warm clothing and winter boots are provided if needed, but it’s best to dress in layers suitable for outdoor winter activities.

Can I participate if I’ve never been ice fishing?
Absolutely. The tour includes a basic teaching session, so beginners are very welcome.

Will I get to see wildlife?
While wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, the scenic landscape offers great photo opportunities and chances to see local animals.

Is this suitable for children?
The tour is generally open to most travelers, but it’s best for those comfortable with outdoor winter conditions and the cold.

What do I do if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

This ice fishing adventure in Rovaniemi is a well-organized, authentic way to connect with Finnish winter culture. It combines the thrill of learning a new skill with the beauty of Arctic scenery, all guided by knowledgeable hosts who make the experience approachable and fun. Whether you’re into photography, outdoor activities, or just want a peaceful day away from the crowds, this tour delivers.

It’s especially suited for travelers who seek a more personal, off-the-beaten-path experience and don’t mind the cold. The comfort of a campfire, hot drinks, and photos ensures you’ll leave with more than just a few memories — you’ll have stories to tell about your day on the ice in Finland.

If you’re planning a trip to Rovaniemi and want a genuine taste of winter’s quiet magic, this ice fishing trip is worth considering. Just remember to dress warmly and bring your curiosity — the Finnish wilderness awaits.