Yellowknife Private Ice Fishing and Aurora Tour in Heated Hut

If you’re dreaming of a winter adventure that combines the quiet thrill of ice fishing with the awe-inspiring spectacle of the northern lights, the Yellowknife Private Ice Fishing and Aurora Tour from Arctic Tours Canada might just be your ticket. While we haven’t personally tried this exact experience, we’ve gathered enough details to give you a clear picture of what it offers—and why it could be a memorable part of your trip to Canada’s North.

One thing we genuinely like about this tour is the combination of comfort and adventure. Cozy, heated fish huts mean you don’t have to brave the cold in your layers, while the chance to reel in fish under the night sky adds a genuine outdoor thrill. Another highlight is the expert guidance—the bilingual guides not only manage the logistics but also share insights that can elevate your experience.

A key consideration is the cost, which is on the higher side at over $1,150 per group. While that may seem steep for a 4 to 5-hour activity, it includes private transportation, all equipment, hot beverages, and snacks, making it a relatively stress-free outing. This tour likely suits travelers who value comfort, are keen on a personalized experience, and want a memorable night under the Northern Lights.

Key Points

• Comfort in cold weather: Heated huts make ice fishing feasible and comfortable during the long Arctic night.
• Expert guidance and bilingual assistance: Guides help with fishing techniques and safety, sharing insights in both English and Chinese.
• Spectacular aurora viewing: The tour is designed for optimal northern lights spotting, with the guide ensuring you don’t miss the show.
• All-inclusive experience: Use of fishing gear, hot beverages, snacks, and private transportation add convenience and value.
• Limited group size: Private or small groups mean more personalized attention.
• Weather dependency: The experience requires good weather; it might be canceled if conditions aren’t suitable.

Starting at night, around 10:00 pm, the tour kicks off with pickup from your hotel in Yellowknife. The journey begins with a drive onto the ice of Great Slave Lake, the ninth largest lake in the world and the deepest in North America. Riding across this vast frozen expanse is a highlight in itself—standing on a thick sheet of ice that looks like a different world.

Driving onto the ice road is part of the adventure you’ll likely remember. The guides are well-versed in safety and regional knowledge, ensuring you feel confident as you step onto the frozen surface. Once at the fishing spots, you’ll be provided with heated huts, which act as your cozy base during the night. Think of them as your Arctic living room—warm, practical, and designed to keep out the cold while you focus on fishing.

Inside the huts, you’ll find all the fishing equipment needed, so no need to worry about bringing your gear. The guides will give you tips on fishing techniques, which is especially helpful if you’re new to ice fishing. It’s an activity that mixes patience with anticipation—reeling in a fish in freezing conditions can be surprisingly satisfying.

Throughout the evening, you can sip on hot coffee or tea and enjoy light snacks like soup, all included in the tour. The food and drinks help keep your energy up as you wait for the moment when the aurora borealis makes its appearance. The guides are adept at ensuring you don’t miss the Northern Lights, which are known for their dynamic displays of color and movement.

When the sky lights up, you’ll be able to watch one of nature’s most spectacular displays—green, pink, or even purple ribbons dancing above the lake. Many reviews mention the guides’ knowledge about the aurora, making the experience more meaningful and engaging.

The tour concludes with a comfortable drive back to your hotel, wrapping up an evening that blends outdoor activity, cultural insight, and natural beauty.

Breaking Down the Itinerary

Great Slave Lake is the star here, offering more than just a scenic backdrop. Its vast, frozen surface is the perfect setting for this nighttime adventure. The ice road drive adds a unique element—standing on a frozen lake miles from land, feeling like a tiny part of something much larger.

The hands-on ice fishing experience is straightforward but engaging. While you might find that fishing in the dark requires patience, this is part of the charm. Plus, with the comfort of heated huts, it’s more about the experience than the challenge—unless you’re determined to catch fish, in which case the guides are there to help.

The hot beverages and snacks are thoughtful touches that turn the cold night into a cozy occasion. They also make the experience better value, given the included equipment and transportation.

The Aurora viewing depends greatly on the weather. Clear, dark skies are ideal, and the guides do their best to maximize your chances. Several reviews highlight the guides’ dedication to helping you spot and enjoy the lights, which can last from a few minutes to over an hour.

Insight from Other Travelers

While the experience is still relatively new with no formal reviews, the emphasis on knowledgeable guides and stunning views appears to be a recurring theme across similar tours. The fact that the trip is private or limited to small groups makes it more intimate—perfect for travelers looking for a personalized adventure rather than a crowded tour.

The cost might seem high, but when you consider the inclusiveness—gear, food, transportation—and the unique experience of ice fishing under the aurora, it provides good value for those eager for a tailored Arctic night.

Practical Considerations

• The tour is scheduled to start at 10:00 pm, which means you need to be prepared for a late night. Pack warm clothing, including thermal layers, hats, gloves, and sturdy boots.
• The activity is suited for those with moderate physical fitness—standing outside in cold weather for a few hours.
• You’ll need to purchase a NWT Fishing License separately if you want to keep any fish caught, which is not included.
• Weather can cancel the tour if conditions are poor, but the company offers rescheduling or refunds in such cases.
• Since the activity is private, expect a more personalized experience, but also a premium price.

If you’re someone who loves outdoor winter activities and doesn’t mind the cold, this tour offers a blend of comfort, adventure, and natural wonder. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a no-fuss, high-quality experience with all equipment and logistics handled.

Those interested in Northern Lights photography or simply wanting a unique Arctic night out will find this tour rewarding. The private setting also makes it suitable for couples, small groups, or families with older children who are physically comfortable outdoors after dark.

However, if you’re more budget-conscious or prefer daytime activities, this might not be the best fit. It’s a niche experience aimed at those seeking something special—the kind of memory that’s less about ticking boxes and more about sharing a rare, beautiful moment.

The Yellowknife Private Ice Fishing and Aurora Tour offers an unusual combination of adventure, comfort, and natural spectacle. It’s a chance to enjoy a peaceful night on a frozen lake, surrounded by the silence of winter and the flickering lights of the aurora borealis. The inclusion of heated huts, guiding expertise, and private transportation means you can focus on the experience rather than logistics.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want an authentic, personalized Arctic night with a touch of luxury and a good chance to witness the Northern Lights in a cozy setting. While the price is premium, the experience’s uniqueness and comfort justify it for those eager to make the most of a winter trip to Yellowknife.

For anyone craving a blend of outdoor fun and natural beauty, this tour promises a night of quiet wonder and unforgettable memories. Just be prepared for the cold—and the beauty that comes with it.

Do I need to bring my own fishing equipment? No, all fishing gear is included in the tour. Guides will provide it and help you with the techniques.

Is the tour suitable for children or only adults? The experience is best suited for those with moderate physical fitness, and children should be comfortable outdoors at night. Check with the provider if you’re bringing younger travelers.

What should I wear for the tour? Dress warmly in thermal layers, a good winter jacket, hat, gloves, and sturdy boots. The huts are heated, but you’ll spend time outside.

Can I keep the fish I catch? You will need to purchase a NWT Fishing License if you want to keep your catch, but that cost is not included in the tour price.

What happens if the weather is poor? The tour requires good weather, and if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long is the tour? It lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, starting at 10:00 pm and ending with hotel drop-off.

Is transportation included? Yes, private transportation is part of the package, making it hassle-free to get onto the ice.

What language do guides speak? Guides are bilingual and can communicate in both English and Chinese.

Can I book this tour for a private group? Yes, this is a private activity, meaning only your group will participate. Prices are based on the group size (up to 6 people).

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful night under the stars or a fun outdoor activity with a cozy twist, this Yellowknife ice fishing and aurora tour offers a memorable winter experience. It’s a great way to combine a relaxing, scenic night with the thrill of catching fish and watching the Northern Lights—a true Arctic adventure in comfort.