From Helsinki: Bodom Lake Ice Fishing with Food & Drinks

Imagine standing on a frozen lake, a traditional Finnish pilkki in hand, surrounded by pristine snow and the quiet hush of winter. This tour offers more than just fishing; it’s an authentic peek into Finland’s cold-weather traditions. Located just 25 minutes outside Helsinki, Bodom Lake becomes your playground for a 5-hour adventure that combines outdoor fun, tasty food, and plenty of cultural charm.

One of the things I love about this experience is how it balances guided instruction with freedom to try your hand at fishing—whether or not you catch anything. Plus, the inclusion of traditional foods like grilled sausages, glögi, and cookies really warms up the cold day. However, keep in mind, if you’re not used to icy conditions, the walk on the frozen lake might be a bit slippery—so good footwear and caution are wise.

Plus, I appreciate the small group size—limited to just 8 participants—which means plenty of personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere. The knowledgeable guides, such as David and others, receive glowing reviews for their friendliness, humor, and local insights. On the downside, the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to meet at the designated spot, but the location is straightforward and easy to find.

Authentic Finnish tradition—try ice fishing, a real local winter activity.
Small group setting—enhances the experience with personalized guidance.
Tasty food included—grilled sausages (with vegetarian options), glögi, and cookies add warmth and flavor.
Proximity to Helsinki—just 25 minutes from the city, making it a convenient escape.
Guides like David—friendly, humorous, and knowledgeable, making the trip enjoyable.
Limited availability and flexible cancellation—book in advance, cancel up to 24 hours prior for a full refund.

The tour starts outside the lively jazz club, Storyville, where gathering is simple and straightforward. From there, a comfortable transfer whisks you away to Bodom Lake, an iconic body of water celebrated not just for its size but also for its central role in local outdoor activities. The drive itself offers a charming glimpse of Finnish winter scenery—frosted forests, snow-covered roads, and an atmosphere of hushed anticipation.

Once on the lake, your guide will lead the group to the best spot for fishing. Expect a lively explanation on how to drill a hole in the ice, how to use the pilkki, and some tips for success. Regardless of whether you’re an experienced angler or a first-timer, the guides make the process accessible and fun—highlighting the importance of patience, technique, and, of course, enjoying the surroundings.

The Art of Ice Fishing

Walking on Bodom Lake feels surreal; the vast, frozen expanse is a sight to behold, especially under a snow-dusted sky. The guides know the lake well and will help you find the best spot for fishing, which is a crucial part of the experience. Even if you don’t catch a fish—something some reviewers mention—it’s still a rewarding activity. One guest, Eszter, shared that drilling the hole and walking on the frozen lake was “very enjoyable,” despite the catch being elusive.

The guides are attentive and eager to share their knowledge, often making the experience both educational and humorous. You might be surprised how much fun it is just to sit quietly, watch the ice crack, and wait for that tug on your line.

Food and Warmth in a Laavu

After some time at the fishing spots, everyone gathers in a Laavu, a traditional Finnish shelter, where a fire is lit for grilling Makara, the local sausages. These sausages are a Finnish staple—juicy and flavorful, perfect after a chilly morning. Vegetarian options are available too, which is thoughtful, as not everyone eats meat.

The warmth of the fire is complemented by glögi—a spiced, warm drink akin to mulled wine—and traditional cookies called piparri. These delicious treats add a cozy, social element to the outing, and many guests mention how the food elevates the overall experience. The chance to share stories and laughs around the campfire makes this part of the trip especially memorable.

The Return to Helsinki and Practicalities

After a relaxed hour of eating, chatting, and enjoying the view, your guide will transport you back to Helsinki. The entire experience lasts around 5 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity for those looking to do something active and culturally enriching without a full-day commitment.

It’s worth noting that transportation is included, but hotel pickup isn’t, so you’ll need to meet at the specified location in Helsinki. The tour operates in small groups—up to 8 participants—which ensures that the guide has time to attend to everyone, answer questions, and keep the atmosphere lively.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want an authentic taste of Finnish winter culture without the need for specialized outdoor skills. The guides’ friendliness and expertise make it accessible even for beginners. If you’re curious about traditional activities, enjoy being outdoors, or are eager to taste local foods, you’ll find this tour satisfying.

It’s also perfect for small groups or couples who enjoy a cozy, social outing, rather than large, commercial tours. The included food and drinks make it especially good for those who appreciate good, hearty Finnish fare. However, if you’re uncomfortable in very cold conditions or walking on ice, make sure to come prepared with proper winter gear and a cautious attitude.

Price and Value

At $112 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded package—guidance, transportation, fishing gear, and authentic Finnish food. Considering the proximity to Helsinki and the inclusive nature, it provides good value for those wanting a genuine, memorable outdoor experience. The guided instruction, friendly staff, and small-group setting all enhance the overall value.

The Bodom Lake Ice Fishing tour is a wonderful way to step into Finnish winter life, even if you’ve never fished before. Its combination of scenic outdoor activity, local cuisine, and knowledgeable guides makes it an experience worth considering. It balances fun, culture, and comfort, making it suitable for a range of travelers—from adventurous families to curious solo visitors.

Just remember to dress warmly, bring your sense of humor, and enjoy the quiet beauty of a Finnish winter day in Bodom Lake. Whether you catch a fish or simply enjoy the atmosphere, this tour will leave you with stories to tell and memories of a truly authentic Finnish adventure.

Is transportation included in the tour? No, the tour starts at the specified meeting point outside the jazz club Storyville, but transportation is provided from there to Bodom Lake.

How long does the tour last? The experience runs for about 5 hours, including travel, fishing, and food time.

What should I bring? You need to bring winter sports gear—warm clothing, waterproof boots, gloves, and a hat to stay comfortable in the cold.

Can I cancel my booking? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Is food and drinks included? Yes, the tour includes grilled sausages, glögi, cookies, and drinks.

Are vegetarian options available? Yes, vegetarian options are offered for those who prefer not to eat meat.

What is the group size? The tour is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personal and relaxed experience.

Who are the guides? Guides like David and others are experienced, friendly, and knowledgeable, often praised in reviews for their humor and attentiveness.

Is this experience suitable for children? While not explicitly stated, the small group size and outdoor activity could make it suitable for older children, provided they are dressed warmly and can handle icy conditions.

Will I actually catch fish? While some guests, like Eszter, didn’t catch fish but still enjoyed the activity, the experience emphasizes the fun of trying and the cultural value of the activity itself.

This tour is a fantastic blend of outdoor adventure, cultural insight, and hearty Finnish hospitality—perfect for those seeking an authentic winter experience near Helsinki.