Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Planning to visit Whitehorse and looking for a memorable outdoor adventure that combines fishing and the aurora borealis? The Yukon Icefishing and Aurora Viewing Combo Trip offers just that—an authentic taste of northern life with some truly special moments. Whether you’re an angler or simply eager to see the northern lights, this tour promises a unique experience with a good dose of Yukon charm.
What really draws us to this trip are the knowledgeable guides, who bring over a decade of experience, and the chance to witness the northern lights in their full glory, all while staying warm inside a heated shelter. That said, it’s important to note that this experience is weather-dependent, and the fishing license isn’t included, which might be a small extra step for some travelers. Overall, it’s a fantastic choice for those seeking an active, authentic outing, especially on a clear winter night.
Key Points
- Authentic northern activity: Icefishing for burbot inside a heated shelter.
- Stunning aurora views: Nighttime viewing of the spectacular northern lights.
- Expert guidance: Guides with over 10 years of experience ensure a safe, informative experience.
- Convenient logistics: Pickup from your hotel and private transportation simplify the day.
- Cost-effective: For around $165, you get fishing gear, snacks, and a memorable night.
- Weather dependent: The experience relies heavily on clear skies and good weather.
An Honest Look at the Yukon Icefishing and Aurora Viewing Tour
This tour from North Country Outdoor Adventures offers a practical way to combine two quintessential Yukon experiences: icefishing and aurora borealis viewing. It’s designed as a half-day adventure—roughly 4 to 6 hours—that packs in enough activity and spectacular scenery to justify the price of about $165.83 per person. We’ll walk through what you can expect, what’s included, and what might be a consideration for your planning.
Looking for more options in Whitehorse? Here are some other experiences worth considering.
The Starting Point and Transportation
The tour begins with pickup from your hotel or a designated meeting spot in Whitehorse. This is especially convenient if you’re staying centrally or near the airport. The transportation is private, meaning your group won’t be mixed with strangers, allowing for a more relaxed and personalized experience.
Once on the road, you’ll head into the Yukon wilderness, which alone makes the journey worthwhile. The scenery is classic Yukon—vast, open, and dramatically beautiful, especially in winter. Expect a comfortable ride, with a knowledgeable guide sharing insights about the local landscape and wildlife along the way.
The Main Activity: Icefishing at Lake Laberge
The heart of the tour is icefishing—a traditional activity that’s both accessible and engaging. The target is typically burbot, a freshwater cod unique to these northern lakes. Guides use top-of-the-line electronics, bait, and equipment, which means even beginners have a good shot at catching something.
You’ll fish from inside a heated, insulated shelter, which is a welcome feature given the colder temperatures outside. The shelter provides a cozy environment, allowing you to focus on fishing without battling the cold too much. As you fish, you’ll enjoy hot drinks like coffee, tea, apple cider, or hot chocolate—perfect for warming up and adding a touch of comfort to the night.
The Aurora Borealis Experience
What makes this tour particularly memorable is the chance to see the northern lights. The guide’s experience and the Yukon’s dark, clear winter nights increase your odds of witnessing this natural wonder. The best part? The tour is scheduled in the late evening, aligning with prime aurora viewing hours.
While aurora viewing is never guaranteed—it depends on solar activity and weather conditions—the chance to see the lights dance across the sky is a significant perk. Many travelers have shared how the experience of watching the lights flicker and swirl is simply unforgettable, especially when combined with the peacefulness of night fishing.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The tour provides snacks, bottled water, hot drinks, and all fishing gear, making it a convenient outing. However, fishing licenses are not included, and travelers 16+ will need to purchase one (around $12.05). The guide can help arrange this if needed.
You might also want to explore these Whitehorse activities
Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary
Lake Laberge: This iconic Yukon lake is famous not only for its picturesque winter scenery but also for its role in the Klondike Gold Rush lore. It’s a perfect setting for icefishing—vast, quiet, and stunningly beautiful. The guide will lead you to a heated shelter set up right on the ice, ensuring comfort during your fishing session. Many reviews mention the “top-end electronics and bait” as making the fishing process smooth and enjoyable, even for those new to the sport.
Inside the Shelter: Expect a cozy environment with plenty of space for your group. The warmth and the electronics’ help mean you’re unlikely to feel cold or frustrated. The guide, with over 10 years of experience, is adept at both catching fish and making sure everyone understands what they’re doing, which is especially helpful if you’re a beginner.
The Aurora Viewing: As night falls, the focus shifts from fishing to gazing upward. The Yukon’s nighttime sky, far from city lights, offers some of the best chances to see the aurora. Several reviews expressed appreciation for the guides’ knack for finding the best spots and the overall “magical” atmosphere. Just remember that clear skies are crucial—if the weather turns cloudy, the northern lights might hide behind clouds. Still, the experience of being under the vast Yukon sky, waiting in a warm shelter, is incredible in its own right.
Practical Considerations
The duration of 4 to 6 hours means you can comfortably combine this with other activities in Whitehorse. The tour runs year-round from mid-November through April, with flexible timings to maximize your chances of seeing the lights.
Weather is a key factor—if it’s stormy or heavily overcast, the tour could be canceled, with options for rescheduling or a full refund. The tour is suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals, and it’s accessible via public transportation options nearby.
Important: You’ll need a Yukon fishing license if you plan to fish, which can be purchased online or arranged through the tour guide. Since fishing is part of the experience, this small extra step adds to the overall value but requires a moment of planning.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This outing is ideal if you’re looking for a combination of outdoor adventure and natural wonder. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy authentic, hands-on experiences, rather than purely sightseeing. If you’re curious about local traditions like icefishing, love the idea of nighttime sky gazing, or just want to try something different in Yukon, this trip hits the mark.
It’s also well-suited for those who want a manageable, half-day excursion that doesn’t require extensive planning or physical exertion. The private transportation and guided setup mean you’ll be in good hands, making it accessible even if you’re not an experienced angler.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
For just over $165, you receive gear, snacks, transportation, and the chance to catch fish and possibly see the northern lights—all in a single evening. The knowledgeable guides make the experience more approachable, especially for first-timers, and their local expertise enhances your chances of a memorable night.
The stunning views, paired with the cozy shelter and warm drinks, create a genuinely authentic Yukon adventure. It’s a good choice for travelers eager to combine outdoor activity with spectacular natural phenomena. While weather can be unpredictable, the experience of being out on a frozen lake under a starry sky is something you’ll remember long after your trip ends.
If you’re after a fun, engaging, and slightly adventurous night out that offers a taste of Yukon’s rugged beauty and natural phenomena, this tour is a strong contender.
Ready to Book?
Yukon Icefishing and Aurora Viewing Combo Trip
FAQ
Do I need a fishing license?
Yes, fishing licenses are required for those 16 and older. They cost around $12.05 and can be arranged online or through the guide.
What should I bring?
Most gear and bait are provided, along with snacks and hot drinks. It’s wise to wear warm, layered clothing suitable for cold outdoor conditions and bring your own fishing license if applicable.
Is the northern lights guaranteed?
Not exactly. Aurora viewing depends on weather and solar activity. Clear, dark nights improve your chances, but sightings can’t be assured.
How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 4 to 6 hours, including pickup, fishing, and aurora viewing.
Is it suitable for children or beginners?
Yes, the guides are experienced and can assist beginners. Children who can handle cold outdoor conditions will enjoy it, but always check with the tour provider if you have specific concerns.
What if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternate date or a full refund.
This Yukon icefishing and aurora viewing combo offers a well-rounded, authentic experience that blends outdoor fun with one of nature’s most mesmerizing displays. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a first-time aurora watcher, you’ll find plenty to love in this thoughtfully organized adventure.
