Ice Fishing on Lake Kuoksa — Rovaniemi Winter Fishing Experience
Sit on a simple stool over a drilled hole and wait—ice fishing on Lake Kuoksa is a patient, elemental introduction to Finnish winter life. In three hours, guides hand you rod, kit, and stories about fish, and may even show you how to prepare your catch on the ice.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer under provided overalls
Even though thermal overalls are supplied, wear a warm base layer and moisture-wicking mid layer to trap heat and stay dry.
Bring polarized sunglasses
Glare off the ice and snow can be intense; polarized lenses reduce eye strain and improve visibility into the fishing hole.
Keep movement deliberate on ice
Stand and shift weight slowly; use the provided stool while fishing to reduce slips and conserve warmth.
Charge your phone and bring a small dry bag
Cold shortens battery life—keep a phone warm in an inner pocket and a dry bag for gloves or a camera.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Ask the guide about a nearby Kota (traditional hut) where locals sometimes warm up with coffee and stories after fishing.
- •If time allows, visit the Arctic Circle marker on the outskirts of Rovaniemi for a short cultural detour.
Wildlife
- •Reindeer
- •Willow ptarmigan (winter plumage)
Conservation Note
Guides follow local fishing regulations and promote catch limits and respectful handling; small-group tours minimize impact on sensitive winter habitats.
Ice fishing was a practical survival skill in Finnish Lapland; communities developed local techniques for reading ice and finding wintering fish shoals that persist in guiding modern guides.
Photographer's Notes
- • Over a drilled hole with a low-angle view to capture the rod and ice surface
- • Shoreline where the tree line meets the frozen lake for scale and context
- • From the dressing room doorway for arrival shots with guides and gear
What to Bring
Warm base layers (merino or synthetic)Essential
Wicks moisture and provides the first line of insulation under the supplied overall.
Insulated socksEssential
Keep feet warm inside the provided winter boots and prevent cold-related discomfort.
Polarized sunglasses
Reduces glare from snow and ice for safer, clearer sight when fishing.
Small thermos
Keeps a personal hot drink at hand during the chilly, patient stretches on the ice.
Common Questions
What is included in the price?
Thermal overalls, winter boots, beanies, mittens, ice fishing equipment, snacks (sausage, cookies, warm blueberry juice), guide services, and hotel pickup in Rovaniemi are included.
Is this activity child-friendly?
Yes—equipment and clothing are available in children’s sizes and the pace is relaxed, but children should be supervised on the ice at all times.
Can I keep the fish I catch?
If you catch fish, guides may show you how to prepare them on the spot; local rules apply and guides will advise on any size or catch limits.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The operator indicates tours run in a range of winter conditions; all sales are final and trips run unless the supplier cancels due to safety concerns like unsafe ice.
Do I need prior fishing experience?
No—guides provide step-by-step instruction for beginners and supply all necessary equipment and bait.
How cold does it get and how should I dress?
Temperatures can drop well below freezing; wear insulated base layers and bring hand warmers if you’re prone to cold—bulkier outerwear is provided.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3 hours
Location
Rovaniemi, Lapland
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most ages and fitness levels; requires basic mobility to walk short distances on snow and ice and to sit/stand from a low stool.
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