Wilderness Ice Fishing near Yellowknife: A Two-Hour Northern Fishing Experience
Stand on a sheet of Great Slave Lake, warm inside a wood-fired tent, rod in hand as a northern fish tests your patience. This two-hour guided ice-fishing excursion outside Yellowknife pairs local expertise with heated shelters, fresh fish lunch, and authentic northern rhythms.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in insulated layers
Temperatures can drop rapidly; base, insulating, and windproof layers plus insulated boots keep you comfortable for the whole outing.
Use traction on boots
Ice and packed snow are slippery—bring microspikes or cleats to move safely between holes and tents.
Follow guide instructions on ice safety
Guides assess ice thickness and choose fishing spots—stay within marked areas and listen during hole-cutting and transit.
Try the fresh fish tasting
If offered, sample the cook-on-site fish—it's a direct way to connect with local food traditions and the catch you helped land.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Small inland lakes around Yellowknife often have fewer people and better shore access for photography
- •Visit the Old Town waterfront near Yellowknife for historic mining-era cabins and lakeshore views before or after your trip
Wildlife
- •Arctic hare
- •Bald eagle
Conservation Note
Respect local fishing regulations and catch limits; refuse single-use plastic and pack out all waste to protect fragile winter ecosystems and water quality.
Yellowknife takes its name from the Yellowknives Dene, who have fished and hunted in the region for generations; the area grew rapidly during the 20th-century gold and later diamond mining booms.
Photographer's Notes
- • Just outside the heated tent looking across the ice for scale and people
- • Near the hole when a fish is being landed to capture action and splash
What to Bring
Insulated winter parkaEssential
A windproof, insulated parka blocks the lake wind and retains warmth during long stands on the ice.
Insulated boots with good tractionEssential
Warm, waterproof boots and microspikes prevent frost risk and slips on packed ice.
Warm gloves and chemical hand warmersEssential
Layered gloves (thin liner + insulated outer) plus hand warmers keep fingers nimble for handling tackle.
Polarized sunglasses and thermos
Sunglasses cut glare off the snow and a thermos keeps hot drinks on hand between bites.
Common Questions
Do I need prior fishing experience?
No—this tour is designed for beginners and experienced anglers; guides provide instruction and handle technical tasks like drilling holes.
What species might I catch?
Common catches include lake trout, northern pike, and Arctic/ lake whitefish, depending on the lake chosen by your guide.
Is equipment provided?
Yes—guides supply augers, rods, bait, shelters, and basic safety gear; bring only personal clothing and extras like sunglasses.
How cold will it be and how should I dress?
Expect subfreezing conditions—dress in base layers, insulating mid-layers, a windproof outer shell, insulated boots, and bring gloves and a hat.
Are there health restrictions?
This activity is labeled easy but not recommended for travelers with serious cardiovascular issues; disclose any medical concerns before booking.
What is the cancellation policy?
All sales are final for this operator—there are no refunds for cancellations, so confirm plans before booking.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2 hours
Location
Yellowknife, Northwest Territories
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires standing and short walks on packed snow and ice.
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