Aurora Ice: Ice Fishing and Northern Lights Salmon Dinner near Fairbanks
Spend five hours ice fishing from heated panorama cabins away from city lights, watching the aurora through glass while an underwater camera helps you catch char, trout, or salmon. Enjoy a hot, grilled salmon dinner and warm beverages as the northern sky performs.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring a valid Alaska fishing license
A fishing license is required to fish legally in Alaska—purchase one online beforehand or confirm your guide’s policy.
Dress in layers for transfers
Cabins are heated, but the walk from vehicle to cabin and the ride can be very cold—insulated outerwear and warm boots are recommended.
Protect camera gear for low-light
Use a tripod or high-ISO settings; keep spare batteries warm in an inner pocket to prevent rapid drain.
Limit bright lights during aurora viewing
Turn off flashes and dim screens to improve night vision and preserve the view for everyone in the cabin.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Chena Hot Springs for a post-aurora soak and thermal rejuvenation
- •Murphy Dome Road overlooks for panoramic northern light perspectives away from the lake
Wildlife
- •Moose
- •Arctic fox
Conservation Note
Operators minimize impact by using insulated cabins and established access routes; visitors should pack out waste, avoid leaving gear on ice, and follow guide instructions to protect fragile winter habitats.
The Fairbanks region is home to Interior Alaska Athabascan peoples; fishing and river corridors have long been central to local subsistence and travel.
What to Bring
Alaska fishing licenseEssential
Required by law for anyone participating in fishing activities on state waters.
Insulated winter bootsEssential
Protects feet during transfers across ice and cold surfaces.
Warm base and mid layersEssential
Keeps you comfortable between heated cabins and transport in sub-freezing temperatures.
Low-light camera or tripod
Improves your chances of capturing aurora displays through panoramic windows.
Common Questions
Do I need to know how to ice fish?
No—guides provide fishing gear, show you how to use the underwater camera, and assist with lines and technique.
Are cabins heated and comfortable?
Yes—cabins are insulated and kept at warm temperatures (around 75–85°F inside), with seating and hot beverages included.
Will I definitely see the Northern Lights?
Aurora sightings cannot be guaranteed; the tour maximizes viewing by operating away from city lights and monitoring conditions, but visibility depends on solar activity and clear skies.
Is food included?
Yes—a light fish dinner (grilled wild salmon/trout/char), hot beverages, and snacks are included in the tour price.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 hours
Location
Fairbanks, Alaska
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal physical exertion but mobility needed for short transfers to the lake
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