Saariselkä: Ice Fishing Adventure

Imagine standing on a vast, frozen lake surrounded by snow-covered trees, the silence broken only by the sound of your drill and the occasional nibble on your line. That’s the essence of the Ice Fishing Adventure in Saariselkä, a cozy yet exhilarating experience that offers a taste of authentic Finnish life in Lapland. We haven’t tried it ourselves, but based on detailed descriptions and reviews, it promises a well-rounded, memorable outing perfect for those curious about Arctic traditions.

What we love about this experience is its combination of hands-on learning, peaceful natural scenery, and the chance to connect with local fishing customs. It’s ideal for beginners or anyone wanting to try a traditional activity in a scenic setting. A possible downside? The temperature can be quite cold, so proper winter gear is essential — luckily, the tour includes a snowsuit and winter boots. It’s a perfect pick for travelers seeking an authentic, family-friendly Arctic adventure that offers both relaxation and excitement.

If you’re someone who enjoys calm, nature-focused activities or wants to learn a unique Finnish pastime, this tour suits you well. It’s also great for those who prefer small groups for a more personalized experience. However, if you’re after high-adrenaline activities or have young children under 4, this might not be the best fit.

Good To Know

• Authentic Finnish tradition: Learn and try ice fishing, a calming, meditative activity.
• Comfortable experience: Warm snowsuits, boots, and hot drinks keep you cozy.
• Small group size: Enhances personalized attention from experienced guides.
• Beautiful natural setting: A peaceful, snow-covered lake in the Lapland forest.
• Ideal for beginners: Equipment and guidance are included, making it accessible.
• Price for value: At $169 for 3 hours, it offers a genuine Arctic experience suitable for most travelers.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What to Expect from the Ice Fishing Adventure

This 3-hour tour, designed for beginners, balances fun, education, and serenity. The activity begins with pickup from your Saariselkä accommodation, where you’ll be greeted by a friendly guide and transported by a comfortable minivan to a safe, scenic spot on a frozen lake. The transportation is smooth, usually involving a quick 20-minute drive, giving you a glimpse of the surrounding forest and snowy landscape.

The Transportation and Pickup

Your guide will arrive in a recognizable van—either a Mercedes marked “Follow us for northern lights” or one of the VW T5 models in white or army-green. The pickup service is included within a 15 km radius of Saariselkä, making it convenient if you’re staying at a nearby lodge or hotel. The mini-bus ride offers a chance to chat with your guide, who will share insights about local life and snow conditions.

Learning the Basics

Once on the lake, your guide will introduce you to the gear used in ice fishing. You’ll learn how to safely drill a hole through the thick ice with a powered auger — a skill that adds a touch of adventure and a sense of achievement. The guides are experienced and patient, making the activity suitable even if you’ve never fished before.

The Actual Fishing

After drilling, baiting your hook and dropping your line into the water feels surprisingly simple, yet watching for bites can be a waiting game. Several reviews mention how peaceful and almost meditative the experience is, with many describing it as a form of Finnish meditation. It’s a relaxing way to disconnect and enjoy the quiet beauty of winter wilderness.

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The Catch

While catching fish isn’t guaranteed, the chance to try your luck and see if you can match the local fishermen is part of the fun. Some reviews mention catching a fish or two, which adds a rewarding element to the activity. When a bite does come, the thrill of pulling up a fish through the ice is genuinely satisfying.

Warmth and Comfort

The tour includes winter overalls and boots, so you can focus on having fun without worrying about the cold. The snowsuits are designed to keep you warm and dry even in sub-zero temperatures. After a successful fishing attempt, you can relax beside a crackling fireplace, sipping hot drinks that are included in the package. Many reviewers appreciate this cozy ending, especially after spending time outdoors.

The Scenic Setting

The backdrop of snow-laden trees and the vast icy lake creates a stunning, almost surreal landscape. The quietness of the forest, combined with the pristine snow, makes this experience not just about fishing but about appreciating the peacefulness of Lapland’s wilderness.

The Itinerary in Detail

• Stop 1: Pickup at Saariselkä — your guide will meet you at your accommodation or designated pickup point.
• Stop 2: Van ride (20 mins) — enjoy a short drive through the snowy scenery, setting the mood for your Arctic adventure.
• Stop 3: Guided experience (105 mins) — on the lake, learn how to drill, bait, and fish, all while soaking in the natural beauty.
• Stop 4: Return trip (20 mins) — head back to Saariselkä with plenty of time to reflect on your experience.
• Stop 5: Drop-off back at your hotel — feeling relaxed and perhaps a little more connected to local traditions.

Included in the Tour

• 3-hour activity suitable for beginners
• Small group size (4-8 people) — promotes interaction and personalized guidance
• Experienced guide — knowledgeable about ice fishing and local customs
• Ice fishing equipment — including bait and safety gear
• Winter snowsuit and boots — provided, with sizes to be specified
• Fishing permit — included, so no extra paperwork needed
• Hot drinks — to keep you warm after your outdoor efforts
• Transportation by minivan — with pickup within 15 km of Saariselkä

Additional Details and Practical Tips

What to bring: Warm clothing and sturdy shoes are essential since the provided snowsuits and boots do a good job of keeping you insulated. It’s wise to dress in layers, with thermal wear underneath, as the outdoor temperatures can be quite low.

Know before you go: The tour is conducted in English, and children under 4 are not suitable for this activity. Since you can reserve now and pay later, it’s flexible enough to fit into most winter travel plans.

Safety and comfort: The guides are experienced, and the activity is designed to be safe and suitable for beginners. If you’re unsure about cold-weather gear, rest assured that everything is included, and sizes can be confirmed during booking.

Why Choose This Tour?

This ice fishing adventure strikes a balance between authenticity and comfort. It’s perfect for travelers looking to try something uniquely Finnish, enjoy nature with minimal fuss, and learn new skills. The small-group setting ensures personalized attention, making it a relaxed yet engaging experience. Plus, the inclusion of hot drinks and warm clothing means you can focus on the fun, not the cold.

It also offers a genuine insight into a traditional Arctic pastime, often referred to as the Finnish meditation — a calming, almost spiritual activity. For those wanting to slow down and connect with Lapland’s winter landscape in a meaningful way, this tour provides a memorable introduction.

The Sum Up

The Saariselkä Ice Fishing Adventure provides a well-paced, authentic Arctic activity that suits those interested in cultural experiences, nature, and tranquility. It’s especially appealing for beginners, families, or anyone wanting a peaceful outdoor activity in the snow. The combination of expert guidance, warm gear, and scenic setting makes it a great value at $169, offering both education and relaxation.

You’ll love the chance to learn a local tradition, enjoy the solitude of the frozen wilderness, and end your day cozy by a fire with a hot drink in hand. It’s a simple but deeply satisfying way to connect with Lapland’s winter charm.

FAQ

Is this activity suitable for beginners?
Yes, it’s designed for beginners, with equipment and guidance provided to help you learn the basics of ice fishing.

How long does the tour last?
The activity lasts approximately 3 hours, including transportation, instruction, and fishing time.

Are warm clothes provided?
Yes, the tour includes winter snowsuits and boots, which are fitted to your size to keep you warm.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing, layered for insulation, and sturdy shoes are recommended since the snowsuit is included but you may want to wear thermal layers underneath.

Is hot drinks included?
Yes, hot drinks are part of the experience and are available after fishing or during breaks.

What is the group size?
Small groups of 4-8 people ensure a more personalized experience and better interaction with your guide.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What kind of fish can I expect to catch?
While catching fish depends on luck, some reviews suggest the opportunity to catch local species, adding a fun element to the activity.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from Saariselkä within 15 km are part of the package, making it a hassle-free experience.

This tour offers a genuine taste of Finnish winter life, wrapped in comfort and guided expertise. An experience that’s likely to stay with you long after the snow melts.

You can check if your dates are available here: