Full-Day Ice Fishing and Snowshoeing at Nancy Lake (Palmer, AK)
Snowshoe across a frozen expanse to a heated fishing tent on Nancy Lake, then drill holes and fish for lake trout and northern pike. This full-day guided trip includes gear, lunch, and local guidance on winter travel and ice safety.
The Experience
Before You Go
Purchase an Alaska fishing license
An Alaska State fishing license is required for all participants and is not included—buy it before arriving to avoid delays.
Dress for moving and waiting
Wear layered insulating clothing and waterproof winter boots; bring spare socks and hand warmers for the long stationary periods in the tent.
Trust the guide on ice safety
Follow instructions about where to step and where to drill; guides assess ice thickness and route conditions continuously.
Protect against sun and glare
Bring sunglasses with good UV protection and sunscreen—sun on snow can cause unexpected sunburn even in cold weather.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Look for shallow littoral zones near island chains where pike often patrol under the ice
- •Ask guides about nearby eskers—subtle ridges on the landscape that mark former glacial flow and make good scouting reference points
Wildlife
- •Moose
- •Bald eagle
Conservation Note
Respect catch limits and pack out all trash; winter travel concentrates impact on access corridors and following established routes helps protect fragile tundra edges and shoreline vegetation.
Nancy Lake and its chain of ponds occupy a landscape sculpted by glaciers; the lakes and wetlands have long supported Indigenous use for hunting and fishing before becoming a managed recreation area.
What to Bring
Insulated waterproof bootsEssential
Keeps feet warm and dry during the snowshoe approach and while standing on ice.
Layered clothing (base, insulating, shell)Essential
Allows you to manage sweat during the hike and stay warm while sitting in the fishing tent.
Sunglasses with UV protection
Reduces glare and eye strain from bright sun reflecting off snow and ice.
Hand warmers and spare socks
Simple comfort items that prevent numbness during long periods of inactivity on ice.
Common Questions
Do I need prior ice fishing experience?
No — guides provide all basic instruction and gear; beginners are welcome as long as they can manage the snowshoe approach.
Is an Alaska fishing license included?
No — each participant must obtain an Alaska State fishing license before the activity; guides will not provide licenses on-site.
What species are we likely to catch?
Common targets are lake trout and northern pike, both abundant in the Nancy Lake basin during winter.
What happens in bad weather?
Trips can be canceled for unsafe ice or severe weather; the operator typically issues full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours prior.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8 hours
Location
Palmer, Alaska
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate cardiovascular fitness and ability to hike 1–1.5 hours on snowshoes carrying a small pack; able to sit/stand for several hours while fishing.
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