Ice Fishing in Lapland, Finland: A Peaceful Arctic Adventure Beneath the Frozen Lakes
Ice fishing in Lapland is a classic Finnish winter activity, offering a peaceful and immersive way to experience the region’s pristine natural beauty. Deeply rooted in Finnish traditions, ice fishing is more than just a sport—it’s a way to connect with nature, embrace the Arctic silence, and enjoy the thrill of fishing through a hole in the thick ice of a frozen lake.
What to Expect on an Ice Fishing Experience
Drilling the Hole: After arriving at the frozen lake, you’ll be equipped with an auger (either manual or powered) to drill a hole in the ice, which can be over half a meter thick. While guides usually handle this part, you might get the chance to try it yourself—an experience that truly makes you appreciate the effort behind this age-old practice!
Fishing Gear: Once your hole is ready, you’ll be given a hand-held fishing rod or an ice fishing jig. Bait options vary—some tours provide artificial lures, while others use real bait like small fish to attract fish such as perch, trout, or pike. Some traditional methods, like tip-ups (devices that suspend the line) or fishing traps, may also be available to try.
Relaxed Atmosphere: Unlike fast-paced adventure activities, ice fishing is more about the experience than the catch itself. As you sit by your fishing hole, surrounded by vast Arctic landscapes, you’ll enjoy the rare stillness and fresh winter air. The only sounds are the occasional crackle of ice, the wind whispering through the trees, and the anticipation of a nibble on your line. It’s a surprisingly meditative and peaceful activity.
Catch and Release or Keep: Depending on your location and tour provider, you might have the chance to keep your catch and cook it over an open fire—an authentic way to enjoy the freshest Arctic flavors. Some tours follow a catch-and-release policy to preserve local fish populations, so it’s always good to check beforehand.
Warm Drinks and Snacks: To make the experience even cozier, many ice fishing tours provide warm drinks such as traditional Finnish berry juice, coffee, or tea. Some even offer snacks while waiting for a bite.
Ice fishing is available throughout Lapland, Finland, and I had the chance to try it at Arctic River Resort in Ivalo. The experience was seamless, fun, and incredibly immersive—even though we didn’t manage to catch anything! Sitting out on the frozen lake, enjoying the Arctic silence with a warm drink in hand, was just as rewarding as the fishing itself.
If you’re looking for a winter adventure that blends tradition, nature, and relaxation, ice fishing in Lapland is an absolute must-try!
Ice Fishing Tips
- Dress warmly – Temperatures in Lapland can be quite cold during the winter months. Advise to wear thermal wear, insulated boots, gloves, and hats.
- Book in advance – especially during peak season (December-March)
- If you’re new to ice fishing, don’t worry! Local guides will walk you through the process, and their knowledge of the lakes and best fishing spots will make sure you have a great time.
- Be Patient & Enjoy the Silence – Ice fishing is a slow-paced and peaceful activity—embrace the Arctic silence and scenery while waiting for a catch.
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