Arctic Ice Fishing and Open-Fire Fish Soup at Lake Rahajärvi
Drill a hole, wait for a bite and warm up in a Lappish kota where the day’s catch becomes a smoky fish soup. This five-hour winter experience outside Ivalo blends traditional Sámi ice-fishing techniques with hands-on cooking around an open fire.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in layers and use wool
Bring merino base layers and a fleece mid-layer under the supplied overalls; avoid cotton which holds moisture and chills you quickly.
Keep spare camera batteries warm
Cold drains batteries fast—store spares against your body and bring a small dry bag for electronics.
Glove strategy: thin liner + waterproof mitt
A thin liner glove lets you handle lines and knives; add a waterproof insulated mitten for breaks and transfers.
Respect ice safety and guide instructions
Follow the guide’s route markers, never wander off the packed trail on your own; stay clear of thin-ice zones and open holes.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •The quiet interior of the kota during soup preparation — a great spot for candid portraits and warm conversation
- •Short toboggan runs near the meeting point where kids can play while adults prep gear
Wildlife
- •Reindeer
- •Willow ptarmigan
Conservation Note
Guides follow local fishing quotas and encourage catch-aware cooking; visitors are asked to pack out waste and minimize wood use to protect shoreline vegetation.
Ice fishing in Lapland combines Sámi subsistence traditions with techniques adapted for long winters; the kota used for cooking echoes historic Lappish communal shelters.
Photographer's Notes
- • Near the drilled holes for action shots of bites and lines
- • Inside the kota capturing the fire, smoke and cooking process
- • The shoreline where birch and spruce frame the frozen lake
What to Bring
Insulated waterproof boots (recommended to bring if you have them)Essential
Even with supplied boots, a well-broken insulated boot improves warmth and footing on snow-packed ice.
Thermal base layers (wool or synthetic)Essential
Core warmth comes from base layers — they keep you dry and warm during long periods of standing.
Waterproof insulated glovesEssential
Protects hands from freezing when handling lines, fish, and tools near open holes.
Camera or smartphone with spare batteries
Cold shortens battery life; keep spares warm and ready for candid shots in the kota and on the ice.
Common Questions
Do I need prior fishing experience?
No — guides teach all techniques from drilling to filleting; the activity is designed for beginners and families.
Are children allowed?
Yes — kids are welcome and can enjoy sledding and kick-sled activities, though guardians should monitor them near open holes.
Is equipment provided?
Yes — Xwander supplies overalls, rubber boots, fishing gear, and cooking equipment; bring personal base layers and gloves.
What fish species might we catch?
Common catches include whitefish, pike, perch and burbot; exact species vary with season and lake conditions.
Is transportation included from Ivalo?
Transfers are included; confirm pickup point when booking and arrive at the meeting spot 15 minutes early.
What is the cancellation policy for bad weather?
The tour can be canceled for bad weather or insufficient travelers; cancel at least 24 hours for a full refund per the supplier policy.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 hours
Location
Ivalo, Lapland
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; you should be able to walk short distances on packed snow and stand for periods on the ice.
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