Rovaniemi: Lakeside Ice Fishing Experience

Your experience begins with a scenic drive from Rovaniemi to a secluded lakeside location where winter has painted the landscape in white. Upon arrival, your guide provides a short introduction to the art and tradition of Finnish ice fishing—how to drill a hole in the thick ice, how to set up your gear, and how to wait with both calm and hope for the fish beneath the surface. Clad in warm winter clothing (often provided or available for rent if needed), you step out onto the frozen lake and feel the vastness of the Arctic silence.

With each twist of the auger you pierce the ice, you’ll sense the quiet anticipation that has drawn Finns here for centuries. Then you settle into position, rod in hand, and gaze across the frozen expanse as snow-dusted firs hold still and the horizon stretches under that pale Arctic light. Your guide walks you through best practices—how to minimise noise, reading the water beneath, spotting movement and reacting when the rod tip twitches.

Between waiting and watching the ice, your guide takes time to share local tales—stories of winter survival, the traditions of reindeer herding nearby, and how ice fishing is woven into life in the far north. Occasionally, you’ll feel the thrilling tug of a fish on the line—perhaps a perch or whitefish—and savour the moment of victory as you pull it from the ice to inspect or photograph. After the fishing session, you’ll gather around a small campfire on the ice-edge or shore, sipping hot berry juice or Finnish coffee while reflecting on the stillness, the cold air filling your lungs, and the white world around you. The return route provides a gentle wind-down, carrying you back to Rovaniemi with the memory of frozen lakes, quiet patience and Arctic wilderness in your mind.

Whether it’s your first time on a frozen lake or you’re seeking a deeper connection with nature’s quiet side, this lakeside ice fishing experience offers an authentic and serene way to discover Lapland’s winter spirit.

Approximately 2 hours

• Embark on a guided ice-fishing session on a secluded frozen lake near Rovaniemi.
• Drill through clear Arctic ice and learn the traditional technique of winter fishing.
• Hot drinks and warm pause by the campfire in the winter wilderness.
• Expert local guide sharing stories of Finnish fishing culture, northern nature and Arctic traditions.
• Peaceful immersion in snowy landscapes, away from the crowds and bright city lights.

Prices start from 74 EUR (exact pricing may vary based on group size and additional services).

• Ice fishing equipment (rods, bait, and tools)
• Hot beverages
• Winter overall clothing
• Pick up from your accommodation with some distance restrictions:
• If your accommodation is 11km – 30km from Rovaniemi and you wish us to pick you up,  the additional fee for pick up is 50€ per booking. Please contact our sales to arrange the pick up

• Suitable for most ages; children often welcome with adult supervision.
• Wear warm base layers beneath provided gear; Arctic conditions are cold and wind-chill can be significant.
• Not wheelchair or stroller accessible due to snow-and-ice terrain.
• Ice and weather conditions may affect the availability and location of the tour; operators may adapt route or schedule for safety.
• While catching a fish is likely, it cannot be guaranteed—much of the experience is about nature, calm and waiting.
• Bring a good camera or smartphone to capture the frozen lake, ice holes and winter scenery.