Ultimate Ice Fishing on Great Slave Lake — Yellowknife Half-Day Adventure
Spend a cozy half-day on Great Slave Lake jigging from a heated tent or cabin, then eat wild-caught fish fried on the ice. This guided Yellowknife outing blends easy angling, local stories, and optional snowshoeing for a compact winter adventure.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in moisture-wicking layers
Start with a base layer, add insulating mid-layers and a windproof outer shell—temperatures on the ice can be much colder than in town.
Protect electronics and batteries
Keep phones and cameras inside inner pockets near your body to prevent battery drain in subzero temps.
Follow ice-safety instructions
Listen to guides about tent/cabin placement and never wander beyond marked areas—ice conditions can change quickly.
Bring cash or card for souvenirs
There may be local crafts or photos available after the trip—carry a small payment method since remote vendors may not take large cards.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Old Town Yellowknife shoreline for quick aurora checks after the trip
- •Quiet frozen bays near Kam Lake for a short snowshoe away from main sites
Wildlife
- •bald eagle
- •moose
Conservation Note
Operators follow local fishing regulations and emphasize catch limits and waste-free practices; visitors should pack out trash and avoid driving on untested ice to reduce environmental impact.
Great Slave Lake has been an important fishing and travel route for Dene peoples for centuries; Yellowknife later grew as a mining and supply hub serving northern communities.
What to Bring
Insulated, waterproof winter bootsEssential
Keeps feet dry and warm on cold, wet ice and during snowshoeing stops.
Layered clothing (base, mid, shell)Essential
Allows you to adjust warmth between the sheltered tent/cabin and the open ice.
Warm hat and waterproof glovesEssential
Protects extremities from rapid heat loss during long periods outdoors.
Sunglasses with strap
Reduces glare from sun on snow and protects eyes during bright winter days.
Common Questions
Are cabins always available?
Cabins are generally available when ice is thick—typically Dec 20–Mar 31; outside that window guides use heated tents or may cancel if ice conditions are unsafe.
Can I keep or eat the fish we catch?
Yes—guides often prepare a fresh fish fry on the ice as part of the tour; fish handling follows local regulations and fishing limits monitored by the operator.
Is there hotel pickup?
Yes—pickup from Yellowknife hotels is included; exact pickup times are given at booking and depend on seasonal daylight and road conditions.
Is this suitable for kids or people with limited mobility?
The experience is labeled easy and family-friendly, but there is standing and walking on snow and ice; contact the operator about accessibility needs and best practices for children.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3–4 hours
Location
Yellowknife, Northwest Territories
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires basic balance for standing on ice and short walks on snow.
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