Ice Fishing and Aurora Extravaganza in Fairbanks: Ice Fishing, Snowshoeing & Northern Lights
Spend a day on an Alaskan frozen lake learning ice fishing, snowshoeing through winter forest, and chasing the aurora in a guided, customizable full-night experience departing from Fairbanks.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in layers
Temperatures on the lake can plunge; wear a breathable base layer, insulated mid-layer, and waterproof outer shell to stay warm and dry.
Bring a one-day fishing license
Purchase an Alaska fishing license before the trip—guides provide links but license is required for everyone over 16.
Charge and protect cameras
Low-light aurora photography benefits from a tripod and spare batteries—cold drains power faster than you expect.
Prepare for long hours
The outing runs from afternoon into late night; bring snacks, personal medication, and a small thermos for hot drinks.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Salcha River pullouts for sweeping winter river views and photography
- •Small, quiet lakes near Delta Junction that offer darker skies for aurora without city glow
Wildlife
- •Moose—often visible near treelines at dusk
- •Snowshoe hare—common in forested areas during snowshoe walks
Conservation Note
Operators typically practice catch-and-release where appropriate and limit group sizes to reduce pressure on fish stocks; guests should avoid leaving gear or litter on fragile winter landscapes.
Interior Alaska’s lakes and river basins were shaped by glacial advance and retreat; Fairbanks developed as a gold-rush and transportation hub, and local guiding culture blends Indigenous subsistence knowledge with frontier-era skills.
What to Bring
Insulated, waterproof winter bootsEssential
Keeps feet warm and dry on icy lake surfaces and during snowshoeing.
Layered clothing and insulated parkaEssential
Modular layers let you regulate temperature between the heated fishing shelter and the cold night air.
Headlamp and spare batteriesEssential
Hands-free light is useful for evening walks, changing gear, and navigating the site at night.
Camera with tripod or smartphone tripod
A tripod and basic low-light settings help capture the aurora; guides offer photography assistance.
Common Questions
Do I need a fishing license?
Yes—everyone 16 and older must have an Alaska fishing license for the day; guides provide links to purchase one prior to the trip.
Is transportation included?
Yes—round-trip transport from the Fairbanks area to the ice fishing location (roughly 1–1.5 hours each way) is included.
How late does the trip go?
The tour is flexible—guides may end around 11pm or continue until about 4am depending on aurora activity and your preferences.
Are restrooms available?
Yes—the luxury ice fishing castle includes restroom facilities; outdoor options are also available at staging areas.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8–16 hours
Location
Fairbanks, Alaska
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for average fitness; participants should be comfortable standing on ice, short snowshoe walks, and staying up late in cold conditions
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