Arctic Fishing & Open Fire Cooking

If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Lapland’s winter traditions, the Arctic Fishing & Open Fire Cooking tour offers a memorable way to spend a few hours immersed in the local culture. This experience takes you just ten minutes north of Ivalo village to Lake Rahajärvi, where experts will teach you traditional ice fishing techniques and how to cook your catch over an open fire in a Lappish Kota. From the moment I first read about it, I loved the idea of combining hands-on fishing, stunning Arctic scenery, and a warm meal—all in one package.

Two things that stand out are the knowledgeable guides, like Sonja and Juhanni, who seem to know everything from fishing to sledding and even singing. Their passion makes the experience feel genuine and personalized. Plus, the authenticity of the fish cooking—learning traditional methods and then savoring a hearty fish soup—adds a special touch that’s far more meaningful than a restaurant meal.

A potential consideration is the weather variability — since this is an outdoor, winter activity, poor weather can lead to cancellations, although full refunds or rescheduling are offered. Also, if you’re traveling with very young children or those sensitive to cold, it’s worth noting that the activity runs in winter conditions and involves some physical activity and outdoor exposure.

This tour strikes a great balance of fun, learning, and authentic local flavor. It’s especially suited to those who enjoy nature, hands-on experiences, and a bit of Arctic adventure in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.

Key Points / Takeaways

Expert Guides: Guides like Sonja and Juhanni are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to entertain and inform throughout the tour.
Authentic Techniques: You’ll learn ice drilling (kairaaminen), pilkkiminen (traditional ice fishing), and under-ice net fishing (juomustus), providing genuine insight into local fishing customs.
Fresh Catch and Cooking: Reeling in your own fish and then cooking it over a traditional open fire in a Lappish Kota makes the experience memorable and tasty.
Family Friendly: Kids can enjoy activities like tobogganing and kick sledding, making it suitable for all ages.
Stunning Arctic Scenery: The clear waters and winter landscape create a beautiful backdrop for fishing and relaxation.
All-Inclusive Value: The tour includes guides, fishing equipment, food, drinks, and transfers, offering a well-rounded experience at around $184 per person.

Experiencing Arctic Fishing & Fire Cooking in Lapland: A Deep Dive

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Starting Out: What to Expect on the Day

Arriving at Xwander Nordic by 9:45 AM, you’re greeted with warm gear—overalls and boots—that prepare you for the cold Arctic environment. The tour begins around 10:00 AM and lasts approximately five hours, providing plenty of time to enjoy each phase of the day without feeling rushed.

Your guides will explain ice drilling (kairaaminen), which involves using a special tool to carefully cut through the thick ice. Watching the drilling process is surprisingly satisfying, and it’s a skill you might find useful if you ever return to those icy lakes solo. Then comes pilkkiminen, a traditional form of ice fishing where you drop your line into the water and patiently wait. The guides encourage a relaxed pace, emphasizing the meditative aspect of fishing in such a pristine environment.

Learning About Local Fish and Techniques

Check submerged nets for fish such as White Fish, Pike, Perch, or Burbot, giving you insight into the rich Arctic marine life. Many reviews highlight how knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides like Sonja make these moments engaging, sharing details about fish species and local ecosystems.

The Joy of Catching Your Fish

Reeling in your catch is a highlight, and the guides assist in fish handling and preparation. This hands-on approach makes the experience more meaningful—it’s not just about catching fish but understanding how locals do it. As one reviewer noted, the guides “know everything,” from fishing and cooking to singing and sledding—a testament to their versatility and friendliness.

Cooking and Eating: A Warm, Authentic Meal

The best part of any fishing trip is the meal, and here, that’s taken to a new level. You’ll gather around a crackling fire in a Lappish Kota, a traditional tent, to prepare your fish. All the equipment is provided, and you’ll learn traditional fish cooking methods, culminating in a delicious fish soup. The reviews repeatedly mention the quality of the food—it’s genuinely fresh, flavorful, and satisfying after a chilly morning.

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Optional Extras: Sauna and Ice Swimming

For those craving an even more intense experience, optional activities like tent sauna or ice swimming are available. These add a layer of adventure and are highly recommended if you’re looking to push your Arctic experience a bit further.

The Logistics: What Matters to Know

Price and Value

At around $184 per person, this experience offers a lot: expert guides, all equipment, transportation, and a hearty meal. When considering the value of authentic, hands-on fishing and a traditional Lappish meal, it’s a strong deal. The reviews support this, with visitors calling guides “the best” and praising the overall organization.

Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts about five hours, a perfect length to enjoy without fatigue. The group is small—a maximum of 8 travelers—which enhances the personal feel and allows guides to tailor the experience.

Transportation and Meeting Points

Transfers from Ivalo are included, making it easy to join without extra hassle. The main meeting point is Xwander Nordic in Inari, central enough for most travelers in the region.

Weather Considerations

Since the activity is outdoors in winter conditions, keep in mind that poor weather may lead to cancellations. However, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, so it’s flexible enough to fit into a winter trip plan.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for families, couples, and friends who enjoy nature, adventure, and learning about local traditions. It’s particularly appealing if you want to try real Arctic fishing and don’t mind the cold—hot gear and warm camaraderie make all the difference. The activity is well-suited to those who appreciate authentic, hands-on experiences over staged tourist shows.

It’s also a great choice for food lovers—the opportunity to cook and taste fresh fish in a traditional setting adds a layer of satisfaction hard to find elsewhere. Plus, optional extras like sauna or ice swimming can turn this into a full-day Arctic adventure.

Final Thoughts: The Arctic Fishing & Open Fire Cooking Experience

In summary, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic Finnish winter experience with expert guides, beautiful scenery, and delicious food. The emphasis on learning traditional fishing techniques and cooking over an open fire makes it more meaningful than many tourist activities. The small group size and inclusion of transfers make it easy and comfortable to enjoy.

While the activity depends on good weather and might not suit the most sensitive to cold, it provides a genuine slice of Lapland life that many travelers find unforgettable. The reviews consistently praise the guides for their knowledge, friendliness, and versatility, ensuring you’ll feel well taken care of from start to finish.

If you’re after a hands-on, culturally rich Arctic adventure that combines outdoor activity with culinary delight, this experience is hard to beat—and a fantastic way to make your winter trip in Lapland truly special.

FAQ

Do I need to bring any special clothing?
All necessary gear, including overalls and boots, is provided, so just dress warmly in layers underneath.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts about five hours, from 10:00 AM start to early afternoon, giving you plenty of time for each activity.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s perfect for families, with kids enjoying activities like tobogganing and kick sledding alongside fishing and cooking.

What is included in the price?
Guides, fishing equipment, food, drinks, and transfers from Ivalo are all included for a hassle-free experience.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations due to poor weather are fully refundable or can be rescheduled, providing peace of mind.

Are there optional activities?
Yes, you can add tent sauna or ice swimming for an extra Arctic thrill.

What kind of fish might I catch?
Expect species like White Fish, Pike, Perch, or Burbot, depending on the day’s catch.

Is this experience environmentally sustainable?
The tour emphasizes traditional fishing techniques and local guidance, aligning with sustainable practices, but always check with your guide for specific environmental policies.

Would I recommend this experience?
Absolutely—especially for those who love outdoor adventures, culinary exploration, and authentic cultural experiences in a stunning winter landscape.