Ice Fishing on Lake Bodom: Pilkki Lessons, Laavu Fire, and Finnish Winter Traditions
Learn pilkki on Lake Bodom with a local guide, ending the day in a laavu over grilled makkara and glögi. This half-day, beginner-friendly ice fishing trip mixes hands-on instruction with Finnish winter culture just 25 minutes from Helsinki.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in warm layers
Temperatures on the ice can be much colder than in town—use moisture-wicking base layers, insulated mid-layers, and a windproof shell.
Use traction on boots
Attach microspikes or wear boots with aggressive tread to reduce slips on packed ice and snow.
Respect ice safety
Stay with the group, follow the guide’s route, and avoid areas marked as thin ice or moving water.
Stay hydrated and snack
Cold suppresses thirst; bring a thermos and eat small snacks to keep energy up while you fish.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Laavu spots along the eastern shore that catch late sun on calm afternoons
- •Short snowshoe routes through nearby pine stands that reveal quiet overlooks of the lake
Wildlife
- •Red fox
- •Whooper swan (in open water areas in shoulder seasons)
Conservation Note
Guides emphasize Leave No Trace around laavu fires and compact campsites; follow catch suggestions and avoid disturbing birdlife near open water areas.
Lake Bodom’s basin was shaped by glacial erosion and has long supported fishing and small lakeside settlements; the area also entered national attention because of a high-profile 1960s case linked to the name 'Bodom.'
What to Bring
Insulated waterproof bootsEssential
Keeps feet warm and dry on ice and prevents numbness during long periods standing.
Microspikes or ice cleatsEssential
Improves traction on slippery ice and reduces risk of falls.
Warm hat and glovesEssential
Protects extremities from cold while handling line and gear.
Daypack with thermos
Carries snacks, a water bottle or thermos, spare gloves and any personal items.
Common Questions
Do I need a fishing license for this trip?
No—guided short excursions on Lake Bodom include necessary permissions, so participants do not need to purchase a separate license.
Is this suitable for children or first-timers?
Yes—this is an introductory experience suitable for beginners and older children accompanied by adults; guides tailor instruction to the group's experience level.
What if the weather is very cold or windy?
Tours can be canceled for unsafe conditions; the operator monitors ice conditions and weather and will reschedule or refund according to the cancellation policy.
Are there vegetarian food options?
Yes—the laavu meal includes vegetarian alternatives to the traditional grilled makkara and the guide provides hot glögi and piparkakut (ginger cookies) for everyone.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 hours
Location
Espoo, Uusimaa
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires standing, bending and walking short distances on flat ice up to several hundred meters.
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