Ice Fishing Tour from Saariselkä/Inari to Lake Inari

If you’re craving an authentic taste of Lapland’s wilderness, this Ice Fishing Tour from Saariselkä to Lake Inari offers a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. It’s a well-rounded excursion perfect for those who want to try their hand at ice fishing, enjoy the stunning Arctic scenery, and connect with local guides who know the landscape inside out.

What really sets this experience apart is the combination of comfortable transportation, guided instruction, and the chance to partake in a traditional activity—fishing through the ice—while wrapped in the serenity of northern Finland.

A potential consideration is that the tour does require participants to have warm clothing—something you’ll need to prepare for separately. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate genuine outdoor activities that don’t just involve sightseeing but also hands-on participation. Whether you’re a fishing novice or a seasoned angler, this experience fits a wide range of interests and fitness levels.

Key Points

• Authentic Arctic activity with guided ice fishing on Lake Inari
• Comfortable transportation including a hybrid car, snowmobile, and sleigh
• All necessary equipment provided, with the chance to cook your catch
• Flexible options like walking or riding in a sleigh to the island
• Expert guides ensure a safe, informative, and engaging experience
• Inclusive snacks and drinks make it a cozy outing even if fishing isn’t successful

An In-Depth Look at the Ice Fishing Tour Experience

Comfortable Start and Scenic Drive

The journey begins at Holiday Club Saariselkä, where you can be picked up from your hotel or meet at the designated location. The transport is a hybrid Multivan, which not only offers comfort but also aligns with eco-conscious travel. We loved the smoothness of this part of the trip—after all, for a 5-hour adventure, a relaxed start sets a good tone.

The drive itself is scenic, giving you a glimpse of Saariselkä’s snowy landscape before heading toward Veskoniemi Marina on Lake Inari. As you leave the town behind, you’ll notice how the landscape opens up into a tranquil, snow-covered wilderness, promising a true Arctic adventure.

Snowmobiling and Sledding to the Fishing Spot

From the marina, you’ll hop onto a snowmobile and sleigh, which adds an extra layer of excitement. This short ride to a nearby island is one of the tour’s highlights, offering a glimpse of the Arctic winter from a different perspective.

You can choose between sitting comfortably in the sleigh or, if you’re feeling energetic, walking along the sledge track. Reviewers, like Christina_N, appreciated the flexibility—noting guides drilled a hole if they wanted to move to a different spot on the lake, which shows how personalized the experience can be.

Ice Fishing: A Skill for All Levels

A knowledgeable local guide will provide clear instructions on how to fish through the ice. The fact that even beginners can fish like pros is a testament to the quality of guidance you’ll receive. You’ll be handed your own fishing rod and learn to bait it with a worm or a maggot—simple, straightforward, and accessible.

One reviewer, Christina_N, shared how much fun the actual fishing was, emphasizing the smoothness of the entire process from instruction to catch. Even if you don’t end up catching fish, you’ll be enjoying the peaceful environment and the thrill of trying.

Campfire Cooking and Cozy Moments

After fishing, everyone gathers around a campfire, where sausages are grilled to perfection. The aroma of sizzling sausages combined with warm campfire coffee or juice creates a cozy ambiance amid the snow. It’s a genuinely authentic touch that makes the experience memorable.

If you do manage to catch fish, you might find yourself cooking and tasting your own catch, adding an element of achievement to the adventure. Several reviews mention how memorable this part of the tour is, especially the shared warmth and camaraderie around the fire.

The Beauty of Lake Inari in Spring

Spring is considered an ideal time for this tour because of the milder weather and the chance to see Lake Inari’s stunning vistas without the harsh winter cold. The scenery is breathtaking, and the calmness of the lake provides a perfect backdrop for reflection and photographs.

Practical Details and Value

With a price of approximately $238 per person, this tour offers great value considering the inclusions: transportation, ice fishing gear, guidance, snacks, and a truly unique Arctic experience. The small group size—limited to six travelers—ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

The tour lasts around five hours, which strikes a good balance between adventure and relaxation. The flexible pickup options—including from your hotel—add convenience, especially after a long journey or a busy day of sightseeing.

What to Bring and Considerations

• Warm clothing is not included, so dressing in layers, thermal wear, hats, gloves, and sturdy boots is essential.
• The tour operates with good weather, but if weather conditions are poor, it may be canceled or rescheduled, which is standard for outdoor Arctic activities.

Authentic Guides and Excellent Service

Guides like Marja and Jyrkki, mentioned in reviews, are described as lovely and professional, adding warmth and expertise to the experience. Their flexibility in relocating the fishing spot and attentive instruction ensures everyone feels comfortable and engaged.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This ice fishing adventure is perfect for travelers seeking a hands-on outdoor activity combined with cultural insight. It suits those interested in nature, wildlife, and traditional Arctic pursuits, even if they have no prior fishing experience. The relaxed pace and small group size make it ideal for couples, small families, or solo travelers looking for a genuine connection to Lapland’s wilderness.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For anyone eager to try ice fishing in a stunning natural setting, this tour offers a fantastic blend of comfort, instruction, and authentic Arctic charm. The guides’ expertise and the inclusive nature of the experience make it approachable for beginners, while the scenic snowmobile ride and campfire moments make it memorable for seasoned travelers.

The value lies not only in the activity itself but also in the chance to disconnect from everyday life and learn about the peaceful, snowy world of Lake Inari. Whether you’re after a unique outdoor experience, cultural insights, or just a memorable day in Lapland, this tour ticks many boxes.

It’s especially well-suited for travelers who appreciate guided outdoor activities and are willing to prepare for cold weather. The small group size and flexible options enhance the feeling of a personalized adventure—something you’ll cherish long after you leave Finnish Lapland.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own warm clothing?
Yes, warm clothing is not included, so layering up with thermal gear, hats, gloves, and waterproof boots is recommended to stay comfortable during the outdoor activities.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation by car and snowmobile sleigh, ice fishing equipment, guided instruction, snacks, coffee/tea, soda, and sausage grilling over a campfire.

Can I participate if I’ve never ice fished before?
Absolutely. The guides are experienced and will teach you how to fish through the ice, making it accessible even for complete beginners.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 5 hours, providing enough time for transportation, fishing, and relaxing by the campfire.

Is pickup available?
Yes, pickup is offered from Holiday Club Saariselkä or other locations upon request, making it convenient for travelers staying nearby.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour is dependent on good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Is this suitable for children or families?
Most travelers can participate, and the small group size makes it suitable for families with children who are comfortable in outdoor winter environments.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of six travelers, ensuring a personalized experience and attentive guidance.

This ice fishing tour offers a genuine glimpse into Lapland’s wilderness, complete with expert guides, scenic rides, and cozy campfire moments. Perfect for those wanting to get away from the crowds and into the heart of Finland’s wintery landscape.