Ice fishing experience with Backpacker Helsinki Tour

Ice Fishing on Lake Bodom with Backpacker Helsinki Tour: A Genuine Arctic Adventure

When I first looked into the Ice Fishing experience on Lake Bodom with Backpacker Helsinki Tour, I knew it was one of those unique ways to get a true taste of Finnish winter life. For around $125, you get a roughly five-hour adventure that takes you just 25 minutes from central Helsinki — a quick escape to the snowy, frozen wilderness to learn the traditional Nordic art of pilkki fishing. This tour has a perfect mix of hands-on activity, natural beauty, and cozy Finnish hospitality, making it a compelling choice for travelers seeking something beyond the usual city sights.

What I love most about this experience is the clarity of instruction and friendly guidance from the tour leader. Many reviewers, including Angelica and Frank, rave about David, who makes the whole process approachable, even if you’re new to ice fishing. I also appreciate that this tour offers more than just fishing — after the successful pilkki lesson, you’ll settle in around a traditional Laavu (a Finnish shelter) for grilling makkara (sausages) or vegetarian options, complemented by steaming glögi (mulled wine) and sweet pariri cookies. It’s a genuine way to wrap up the day in an authentic Finnish setting, not just a tourist snippet.

A small consideration to keep in mind: the weather can be unpredictable. While most tours run smoothly, wind, snow, or poor ice conditions may lead to cancellations or rescheduling. The good news is the tour provider offers full refunds if weather causes a cancellation, but it’s worth planning for that potential and being flexible. This is a well-organized experience, with a maximum group size of 8 people, ensuring personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Key Points

• Authentic Finnish Tradition: Learn how to fish on ice using the pilkki, a classic Nordic fishing rod, in a natural winter setting.
• Expert Guidance: Guides like David are praised for their kindness and clear instructions, making it accessible for beginners.
• Cultural Finish Flavors: End the tour around a Laavu fire with grilled makkara, mulled glögi, and cookies, offering a taste of local hospitality.
• Flexible Booking & Refunds: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance offers peace of mind in case plans change.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups of up to 8 enhance personal guidance and a more intimate experience.
• Value for Money: At around $125, you’re paying for a memorable, hands-on activity that combines outdoor adventure with cultural rituals.

The Detailed Experience

The adventure begins at Museokatu 8 in Helsinki, where you meet your guide, David, and other participants. Once everyone is gathered, the short drive or walk takes you to Lake Bodom, the largest in the Helsinki region and renowned for winter activities. The fact that it’s only about 25 minutes from the city center means you enjoy a quick getaway into nature without long travel hassles.

As you arrive at the lake, the scenery is breathtaking — the vast, snow-covered surface stretches in every direction, with the only sounds being the crunch of snow underfoot and occasional calls of winter birds. Here, your guide will explain the basics: how to safely walk on the ice, where to find the best fishing spots, and most importantly, how to use the Pilkki, the traditional Nordic fishing rod.

What makes this tour stand out is the hands-on nature. You’ll learn how to make a hole in the ice, a skill that many first-timers find surprisingly satisfying. Once you’re ready, it’s your turn to pilkki — the guide will offer tips on technique, but it’s really about enjoying the process. Several reviews highlight that even if you don’t catch fish (and that’s quite common due to weather or luck), the fun of the activity and the shared experience outweigh the catch rate.

The highlight for many, including those quoted, is the warm, inviting Laavu — a traditional shelter where everyone gathers after fishing. Here, the guide (sometimes named David) sets a fire, creating a cozy atmosphere that makes the cold wilderness feel welcoming. The scent of Finnish sausages grilling, combined with mulled wine (glögi), makes for a memorable tasting session. Vegetarian options are also available, making the tour accessible to different diets.

Throughout the experience, the guide’s knowledge and friendly demeanor shine. As Frank mentions, a well-organized and friendly tour that leaves you with not just fish stories but also a better understanding of Finland’s winter lifestyle. The fact that the tour includes a cultural element with food and company makes it more than just a fishing trip; it’s a slice of Finnish life.

One specific detail I find appealing is that the tour is designed to maximize your chances of catching perch, pike, or pike-perch, depending on luck and the day’s conditions. While some visitors, like Hayley, didn’t catch anything, they still considered the experience worthwhile. It’s a reminder that in ice fishing, patience, humor, and enjoying the scenery are just as important as the fish.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who want to try something genuinely Finnish and outdoor-focused. It suits individuals, couples, or small groups wanting a relaxed, guided activity with intimate group sizes. It’s particularly appealing to those interested in cultural traditions — learning how Finns spend their cold months fishing and socializing around a fire. If you’re curious about winter outdoor activities but not keen on a rigorous hike or ski, ice fishing offers a low-key but fun alternative.

The tour is also well-suited for families with older children or groups who don’t mind getting a bit cold in exchange for a memorable day out. The professional guidance ensures safety, and the emphasis on learning makes it a good choice for newbie fishers. But if you’re after a high-energy, adrenaline-pumping activity, this may not satisfy that craving.

Final Thoughts

This ice fishing tour stands out because it combines authentic culture with nature’s serenity and friendly guidance. You’ll appreciate the chance to learn a traditional Nordic skill, enjoy the crisp winter air, and warm up with Finnish treats at the end. The pricepoint is reasonable given the personal guidance, food, and cultural experience packed into five hours.

Whether you’re a curious tourist or someone eager to connect with Finland’s winter traditions, this tour offers a balanced and genuine taste of local life. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a relaxed pace, fond memories with small groups, and the chance to say they’ve fished on a true frozen lake in the north.

FAQ about the Ice Fishing Experience

How long does the tour last?
The experience is approximately five hours, starting at Museokatu 8 and ending back at the same point.

What is included in the price?
You get guided instruction on ice fishing, use of the pilkki rod, access to Lake Bodom, and the traditional Finnish Laavu experience with grilled sausages, mulled wine, and cookies.

Is the activity suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. Guides like David are praised for their kindness and patience, making it accessible even if you’ve never fished on ice before.

Can I participate if I have pets?
Yes, service animals are permitted according to the tour provider.

What if the weather cancels the tour?
There is free cancellation if the tour is canceled due to poor weather, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized and relaxed experience.

This ice fishing tour with Backpacker Helsinki is a chance to connect with Finland’s winter culture in a friendly, manageable setting. It’s an opportunity to learn, laugh, and enjoy some truly Finnish moments amidst snowy lakes and crackling fires—an authentic experience that stays with you long after the snow melts.