From Saariselkä: Ice Fishing Tour with Open Fire Cooking

An Authentic Arctic Day: Ice Fishing on Lake Inari from Saariselkä

If you’re dreaming of experiencing the wintry wonders of Lapland, the Ice Fishing Tour with Open Fire Cooking from Saariselkä offers a genuine taste of Arctic life. This tour promises more than just catching fish; it’s about soaking in the quiet beauty of frozen lake landscapes, the thrill of snowmobile rides, and the warmth of a fire in the middle of nowhere.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the expert guidance that simplifies ice fishing for beginners while still offering a challenge for seasoned anglers. Second, the adventure-packed snowmobile ride that transports you across the snowy terrain in style. Lastly, the cozy fire-side meal, which transforms a simple activity into a memorable Arctic feast. One potential consideration? You’ll need to come prepared with warm, waterproof clothing, as weather conditions can be quite cold and unpredictable.

This tour is ideal for adventurers keen on outdoor activities, families seeking a unique experience, or anyone wanting to connect with nature beyond the usual sightseeing. Regardless of your fishing experience, it’s an engaging, hands-on journey into Lapland’s wilderness.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Arctic Experience: Combining ice fishing, snowmobiling, and open fire cooking for a well-rounded adventure
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable local guides help you learn and enjoy safely
• Beautiful Landscapes: Lake Inari’s icy vistas and remote islands make for stunning scenery
• Flexible Transportation: Options include pickup from Saariselkä or Ivalo, with comfortable hybrid and snowmobile rides
• All Equipment Provided: Fishing rods, gear, and cooking supplies are included, so you only need to dress warmly
• Worth the Price: At $234 per person, the experience offers great value, considering the activities and personalization

Exploring the Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure kicks off either with a convenient hotel pickup from Saariselkä or Ivalo, or at the Holiday Club Saariselkä itself. This flexibility is a big plus, especially if you’re staying in one of the local accommodations. The journey to Lake Inari is made in a comfortable, hybrid Multivan, which adds an eco-friendly touch to your trip. This part of the experience isn’t just transit — it’s part of the Arctic immersion, with scenic views of snowy forests and frozen lakes.

Snowmobile Ride to the Island

Once at Veskoniemi on Lake Inari, the group hops onto a shared snowmobile sleigh or optional walk along a sledge track. The snowmobile ride is short but exhilarating — you’re flying across pristine snow, with the crisp winter air filling your lungs. This segment adds a real sense of adventure and helps you feel fully immersed in Lapland’s untamed landscape.

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Learning to Ice Fish with a Local Guide

Your guide, a seasoned local with extensive knowledge of the area, will introduce you to the art of ice fishing. They provide step-by-step instructions for beginners, including how to handle your fishing rod and the best bait to use—either worms or maggots, depending on what you’re aiming to catch.

One review mentions, “The local guide was very knowledgeable and gave clear instructions, which made the whole experience accessible even for novices.” This friendly guidance turns what might seem like a daunting task into an enjoyable challenge. The fish you’re targeting, often pike or perch, are common in Lake Inari, but catching them depends on luck and patience—so don’t be discouraged if you don’t hook anything immediately.

Open Fire Cooking on the Island

After fishing, the group gathers around an open fire, a cozy focal point amidst the winter scenery. Here, you’ll fry sausages and enjoy hot drinks like juice and coffee, accompanied by cookies and buns. The fire-side setting is surprisingly warm and inviting, creating a perfect contrast to the icy surroundings.

One reviewer appreciated this part, noting, “Even if you don’t catch any fish, the fire and hot drinks make it a memorable experience.” It’s this blend of activity and relaxation that makes the tour so appealing. The fire-cooked sausages aren’t gourmet, but they’re satisfying and authentic, adding a rustic charm to the outing.

Duration and Group Size

The entire tour typically lasts several hours, with flexible timing to suit your schedule. Groups tend to be small, allowing for more personalized interaction with guides and a more intimate experience. This setup ensures everyone gets ample attention and can ask questions about the local environment or fishing techniques.

What to Wear and Practical Tips

Given the outdoor, cold-weather nature of the tour, dressing warmly in layers is essential. Waterproof boots, thermal clothing, hats, gloves, and windproof outer layers will keep you comfortable. The tour provider recommends bringing extra warm clothing — a sensible tip, as the weather can shift quickly.

Valuing the Experience

At $234 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the inclusions. The transportation, guide, fishing equipment, and fire-side meal are all factored into the price, making it an all-in-one Arctic adventure. Compared to other activities like husky safaris or Northern Lights hunts, this experience provides a hands-on, authentic connection to Lapland’s winter life.

Authenticity and Learning

One of the tour’s highlights is the authentic local guide, whose insights and instructions elevate the experience. You’re not just watching others do activities—you’re actively participating, learning a skill, and connecting with the environment. This is what makes the tour stand out for many travelers.

Nature and Scenery

Expect breathtaking views as you sit on the ice, surrounded by snow-covered trees and the vast, frozen Lake Inari. The remote island setting amplifies the sense of escape from everyday life. The quiet beauty of this landscape, especially under clear, starlit skies, can be truly magical.

Who Is This Tour For?

This experience caters well to adventure lovers, families, and nature enthusiasts. It’s suitable for those wanting to try a traditional Arctic activity, but it’s not recommended for wheelchair users due to the outdoor, uneven terrain. The tour’s flexible pickup options and inclusive approach make it accessible for most travelers eager to experience Lapland’s outdoor life.

The Sum Up

The Ice Fishing Tour with Open Fire Cooking from Saariselkä offers a genuine slice of Lapland’s winter environment. It’s a blend of thrill, relaxation, and cultural connection, all wrapped into a manageable half-day. From snowmobile rides to fish-catching lessons and fire-side snacks, this tour provides a well-rounded Arctic experience.

For those looking to connect with nature, learn a traditional skill, and enjoy a unique outdoor meal, this adventure hits the mark. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate the authenticity of guided experiences and are prepared to dress warmly for an outdoor outing.

While the fishing element relies partly on luck, the overall journey, scenic views, and friendly guides make it worth every cent. It’s a wonderful way to create memories in Lapland, especially if you’re curious about local traditions and outdoor survival in the cold.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup from Saariselkä or Ivalo is included, making it easy to access the tour without extra hassle.

What should I wear?
Bring warm clothing in layers, waterproof shoes or boots, and gloves. Dress as warmly as possible to stay comfortable outdoors.

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically lasts several hours, giving plenty of time for each activity and some relaxing Fire-side moments.

Can I participate if I am not experienced in fishing?
Absolutely. The guide provides clear instructions and guidance, making it suitable for beginners.

Are the fishing rods and equipment included?
Yes, all fishing gear is provided, so you don’t need to bring your own.

Is the snowmobile ride suitable for everyone?
It is generally suitable for most participants, but those with mobility issues may prefer walking, as snowmobiles require handling balance and coordination.

What is the price per person?
The experience costs $234 per person, offering good value considering all activities included.

Is there an option to cancel?
Yes, cancellations are possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Will I see the Northern Lights during this tour?
This particular experience doesn’t focus on Aurora viewing, but the scenic winter landscape provides beautiful, starry nights.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
Yes, you can reserve and pay later, providing flexibility for your trip planning.

This guided ice fishing outing combines adventure, cultural authenticity, and scenic beauty—perfect for curious travelers eager to spend a day in Lapland’s winter wonderland. Whether you’re after a new skill, stunning views, or cozy fire-side moments, this tour delivers a memorable Arctic escape.

You can check availability for your dates here: