Saariselka: Arctic Ice Fishing Experience

Join a serene and authentic Arctic activity as you set out on a short transfer from Saariselkä to a secluded, frozen lake deep in the pristine wilderness. Upon arrival, your friendly local guide will provide you with all the necessary equipment—warm thermal overalls, ice drills, and fishing rods—and show you the basics of traditional ice fishing, an essential skill passed down through generations in the north.

Drill through the thick lake ice, settle on a reindeer skin or bench beside your freshly cut hole, and patiently wait with line in hand. Beneath the surface, Arctic fish such as perch and trout glide silently—will you be lucky enough to catch one? Whether or not the fish bite, the beauty of the surrounding wilderness, the fresh air, and the silence broken only by the sounds of nature make this experience deeply meditative and memorable.

During your time on the ice, your guide will light a small fire where you can warm up with a hot drink and perhaps even grill your catch. With snow-covered trees around you and the soft daylight filtering through the winter haze—or, if timed just right, the twilight glow of the polar night—this is the kind of Arctic magic that leaves a lasting impression.

The experience is suitable for beginners and seasoned anglers alike and is especially popular with families and those seeking a quiet, mindful escape from modern life. Some tours may also offer the option of snowshoeing to the lake for added adventure, or combining the outing with an evening Aurora hunt.

Approximately 2.5 hours

• Learn traditional ice fishing techniques with a local guide
• Drill your own hole and fish in the heart of Lapland wilderness
• Enjoy the silence of nature and take in snowy panoramic views
• Warm up by a campfire with hot drinks and snacks
• Possibility to grill your catch on the spot

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

• Pick ups and drop offs
• Warm clothes
• Ice fishing gear
• Hot drinks

• Operates daily from December through early April
• No fishing experience required
• Group and private tours available
• Suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Snowshoeing add-on available on request
• Tour may be cancelled or rescheduled due to extreme weather or unsafe ice conditions