Saariselkä kakslauttanen: Ice Fishing Experience + barbecue

Discover the Quiet Magic of Ice Fishing in Lapland

Our review of the Saariselkä Kakslauttanen Ice Fishing Experience with Barbecue highlights a truly distinctive way to connect with Finland’s frozen wilderness. This tour promises a peaceful escape into the snowy outdoors, guided by locals who know the landscape and traditions inside out.

What we love about this experience is its perfect blend of hands-on activity, cultural insight, and cozy comfort. You’ll feel the thrill of trying your luck at catching fish through thick ice, enjoy the warmth of a traditional open fire, and get a genuine taste of Lapland’s rustic lifestyle.

One thing to consider is the weather—being outdoors in Lapland’s cold requires proper winter clothing, which is essential for comfort and safety. This journey would suit those who enjoy nature, are curious about local traditions, and don’t mind a bit of cold for an authentic experience. If you’re seeking a peaceful, family-friendly adventure with a touch of adventure, this tour fits the bill.

Good To Know

• Authentic Ice Fishing: Learn from experienced local guides and enjoy catching fish in the wilds of Lapland.
• Cultural Insight: Experience traditional Lappish customs, including a warm barbecue served by an open fire.
• Comfortable Transportation: Travel in a warm minivan to a secret fishing spot, avoiding the harsh winter chill on the way.
• Small Group Size: Limited to 15 participants for a more personal and engaging experience.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand offers peace of mind.
• Ideal for Nature Lovers: Perfect for those wanting a quiet, authentic outdoor adventure with cultural flavor.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Ice Fishing Tour

The Itinerary and How it All Comes Together

The tour begins with a pickup from your accommodation in Saariselkä, Kakslauttanen, or Kiilopää. The convenience of included free pickup and drop-off within a 20 km radius means you won’t need to worry about transportation logistics—just be sure to specify your exact location. This makes the experience accessible and stress-free, especially in the cold.

Once aboard a cozy, warm minivan, your guide—likely a local who knows the area inside out—takes you to a hidden fishing spot. The journey itself is a highlight; traveling through Lapland’s stunning winter scenery, you’ll see vast snow-covered landscapes that look like scenes from a postcard. This part of the experience is as much about appreciating the environment as it is about fishing.

What to Expect During the Fishing Experience

Upon arrival, you’ll be introduced to the high-quality fishing gear and receive instructions on how to ice fish. This is where the guidance truly shines: your host will share tips on baiting the hook—using worms or maggots—and techniques specific to the icy conditions.

The real fun comes with the anticipation of whether you’ll land a fish. According to reviews, many find the activity surprisingly engaging, with one guest noting, “It was very cold but very interesting to have this experience.” The sensation of patiently waiting with a line in the ice and feeling a tug from below is quite different from conventional fishing and adds an authentic touch of the Arctic.

The Cozy Campfire and Barbecue

While you fish, your guide will be preparing a traditional Lappish barbecue over an open fire. This isn’t just about catching fish; it’s about relishing a moment of warmth and camaraderie in a crisp winter landscape.

After a successful (or not-so-successful) fishing session, everyone gathers around the fire in a traditional Lappish hut. Here, you can enjoy hot drinks and a hearty barbecue meal, creating a perfect contrast to the cold outdoors. One reviewer mentioned, “Savoring the barbecue in the warmth of a traditional hut made the experience unforgettable.”

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Authentic Lappish Lifestyle

This tour offers more than just fishing; it provides a window into local customs and lifestyle. Sitting around the fire, sharing stories, and enjoying simple, hearty food gives you a taste of what life is like for those living in Lapland year-round.

Practical Details and What You Need to Know

Pricing and Value

At $163 per person for approximately four hours, this experience offers good value for those interested in genuine outdoor activities and culture. The cost covers everything: guiding, fishing gear, hot drinks, and the barbecue. Considering the personal touch, small group size, and the opportunity to learn from locals, it’s a worthwhile investment.

Group Size and Guides

Limited to 15 participants, the small group size ensures an intimate atmosphere. The guides are fluent in English and Finnish, making communication straightforward. Guests have noted the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, which enhances the overall experience.

Weather and Clothing

Since the activity takes place outdoors in winter, warm clothing and proper shoes are essential. The tour emphasizes bringing appropriate gear, so plan to dress in layers, including thermal wear, insulated boots, hats, gloves, and scarves. Weather conditions can be severe, but the provided gear and warm transport make it manageable.

Cancellation and Flexibility

The free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before means you can book with confidence, knowing your plans are flexible. This is especially useful if weather conditions change unexpectedly or if your plans shift.

Suitability and Limitations

The tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as the activity involves outdoor walking and ice conditions. It’s also designed for those comfortable with cold weather and outdoor activities.

Authentic Experiences Informed by Guest Reviews

The single review available praises the tour with a 5-star rating, citing how “it was very cold but very interesting to have this experience.” This highlights that while the weather can be challenging, the experience itself is rewarding.

Guests appreciated the guides’ expertise and the chance to learn practical ice fishing techniques. The warm barbecue and fire provided a cozy, satisfying end to the outdoor activity, which many found memorable.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking an authentic Arctic adventure that combines outdoor activity with cultural insights. It suits those who enjoy quiet, scenic environments and are willing to embrace colder conditions for a genuine experience. Families, couples, or solo travelers with a sense of adventure will appreciate this tour’s personal touch and focus on traditional practices.

It’s especially good for nature lovers who want to slow down and enjoy the calm of Lapland’s winter landscape, and those interested in learning local skills like ice fishing. If you’re looking for a more active, hands-on experience with cultural flavor and a cozy meal, this tour hits the mark.

FAQs

Is pickup included?
Yes, free pickup and drop-off are available within a 20 km radius of Saariselkä, making it easy to join without extra hassle.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, including transportation, fishing, and the barbecue.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing and insulated shoes are recommended, as the activity takes place outdoors in winter weather.

Is the experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the activity is best suited for those able to handle outdoor winter conditions, so consider age and comfort with cold.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for flexibility.

Is food included?
Yes, a traditional barbecue lunch by open fire and hot drinks are part of the experience.

What level of fishing experience do I need?
No prior experience is necessary; guidance is provided, making it accessible to beginners.

Is the activity weather-dependent?
Yes, it only happens if at least three participants are booked and weather conditions are suitable.

Are guides bilingual?
Guides speak English and Finnish, ensuring clear communication.

Is it suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
No, the activity involves outdoor walking on ice and snow, so it’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments.

Final Thoughts

The Saariselkä Kakslauttanen Ice Fishing Experience with Barbecue offers a rewarding mix of outdoor adventure, culture, and cozy comfort. It’s a fantastic way to experience Lapland’s quiet winter beauty while learning a traditional skill from local guides.

The small group size, expert guidance, and authentic setting make it a memorable activity for those who want to slow down, enjoy nature, and embrace the Arctic’s simplicity. The included barbecue and warm fireside moments turn what could be a cold activity into a heartwarming, genuine encounter with Lapland’s lifestyle.

If you’re after an experience that’s more than just sightseeing—something that allows you to connect with the environment and local culture—this tour offers fantastic value and authentic charm. Perfect for curious travelers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a true Arctic adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: