Abisko: Ice Fishing Experience

If you’re looking for a truly authentic Arctic experience, an ice fishing trip in Abisko might just be the highlight of your trip to northern Sweden. While we haven’t personally held a rod in the frozen lakes ourselves, the reviews and details paint a vivid picture of what to expect. This tour offers a chance to learn a centuries-old fishing tradition, surrounded by breathtaking winter landscapes, with the comfort of warm gear and expert guidance.

What we love about this experience is how accessible it is — no prior fishing experience is needed — and how it balances adventure with comfort. Plus, the guides seem to make all the difference, sharing their knowledge while making you feel at ease on the ice. The only thing to consider is the cold — but if you’re prepared with warm clothing, the experience becomes a memorable Arctic highlight rather than a challenge. This tour suits travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, want a taste of local life, or are simply curious about Arctic wildlife and culture.

Key Points

• Expert guides ensure safety and teach you the ins and outs of ice fishing.
• The experience provides all equipment and gear necessary, making it accessible for beginners.
• Participants enjoy stunning lake views and the chance to see fish in clear water.
• The tour includes warm drinks and snacks to keep you comfortable.
• Small group sizes (max 8) add a personal touch.
• The chance to keep and cook your catch adds an authentic touch to the adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Is the Abisko Ice Fishing Experience All About?

This tour takes you to the top of a frozen lake in Abisko, a remote corner of northern Sweden renowned for its natural beauty and Arctic wildlife. The focus is on ice fishing — the coolest (pun intended) way to fish during winter — and it’s led by some of the most experienced guides in the area. The tour lasts about 2 hours, but you’ll find that time passes quickly when you’re focused on drilling holes, watching for fish, and soaking in the stunning scenery.

The experience is designed to be informative and approachable. Guides will walk you through every step — from how to drill through the ice, what gear to use, and how to fish effectively — so even complete novices can join in. They keep all equipment in top condition, which makes all the difference when you’re trying to catch fish in frigid conditions.

The Journey to the Lake

Your adventure begins with a pick-up at either STF Abisko Turiststation or Kalle Jons Väg 5. From there, you’ll travel by either car or snowmobile to reach the chosen lake. In early winter, smaller lakes are used — more manageable for beginners and less crowded. As the season progresses, the larger Torne Träsk becomes the main fishing spot, offering more space and a broader variety of fish.

Traveling on snowmobiles or vehicles across snow-covered landscapes is part of the charm. We love the idea of riding out onto the frozen lake, feeling the crisp air and hearing the crunch of snow beneath the vehicle — a genuine Arctic thrill.

What You Can Expect During the Tour

The core of the experience is learning how to fish through holes drilled in the ice. Guides will demonstrate how to do this properly, explaining the different types of bait and equipment. Many lakes in the area feature crystal-clear water, allowing you to see fish swimming below if you’re lucky — a rare and exciting sight.

Catching Arctic char, grayling, and burbot is typical, but you may also encounter whitefish, trout, or perch. One of the reviews mentions a guide summoning the “fish gods” to land a massive Arctic char — a humorous reminder that luck plays a part in fishing, but good guidance greatly increases your chances.

All fishing gear, bait, and warm clothing are provided, which makes this activity accessible regardless of your experience level. If you catch a fish above the minimum size, you’re welcome to keep it for dinner. Guides can assist with cleaning and offer tips on how to cook it, adding a delicious culinary bonus.

The tour includes warm drinks and light snacks, which are perfect for keeping your energy up in the cold. A lot of reviews highlight the hot blueberry soup as a highlight, along with the chance to enjoy the breathtaking landscape under the winter sun.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Pick-up

Your day starts with a convenient pickup at either the STF Abisko Turiststation or Kalle Jons Väg 5, both easy to reach and central in Abisko. The tour begins with about 15 minutes of warm-up and safety instructions before heading out.

Stop 2: The Guided Ice Fishing Tour

Once on the ice, your guide will show you how to drill holes, explain the different types of fish, and share local insights into the ecosystem. The 2-hour tour is a good length — enough to learn, fish, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Stop 3: Return and Drop-off

After fishing and perhaps catching some fish, you’ll head back by vehicle or snowmobile to your starting point, with time to reflect or ask questions. Small groups ensure a personal experience and plenty of interaction with your guide.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers excellent value with everything you need included:

• Transportation to and from the lakes
• Guided instruction and supervision
• Fishing gear and bait
• Warm clothing suitable for Arctic conditions
• Hot drinks and snacks

However, you’ll need to bring thermal underwear and warm socks — essentials for comfort in such cold environments. The tour is not suitable for children under 7, which makes sense given the cold and physical demands.

What the Reviews Say

The feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 17 reviews. Many mention the guides’ expertise and their ability to make everyone feel comfortable, regardless of experience. One reviewer said, “The guides were great and provided useful and detailed explanations,” emphasizing the educational aspect of the trip.

Others highlight the spectacular scenery and the unique opportunity to see fish swimming in clear water — a rare treat for freshwater anglers. The experience of riding on snowmobiles, combined with hot blueberry soup and stunning winter sun, creates a memorable mix of adventure and comfort.

A particularly memorable quote: “Thanks to the guide’s advice, I caught a fish and even bought my own gear afterward,” illustrating how this tour can inspire a new hobby.

What Makes This Experience Stand Out?

• Guides with Local Expertise: The guides are known for their detailed explanations, making the activity accessible to beginners and enjoyable for all.
• Stunning Arctic Scenery: The views from the frozen lake, especially under the winter sun, are truly breathtaking. Many reviews mention the “beautiful light” and “breathtaking landscape.”
• Inclusive and Comfortable: All equipment and warm clothes are provided. The inclusion of hot drinks and snacks ensures you stay cozy.
• Opportunity to Keep Fish: If you catch anything above the legal size, you can take it home — a rewarding conclusion to your fishing effort.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, or those curious about local traditions. It’s perfect for families with kids over 7, couples, or solo travelers eager to try something new in the Arctic. If you love wildlife, scenery, and hands-on activities, this tour offers a genuine taste of northern Sweden’s wilderness.

It’s also a great side activity if you’re exploring Abisko National Park or doing other winter adventures nearby. The small group size makes it more intimate, and the experience is flexible enough to suit varying skill levels.

Final Thoughts

The Abisko ice fishing tour offers an authentic, accessible, and scenic Arctic adventure. It combines expert guidance, beautiful landscapes, and the thrill of catching fish in a way that appeals to both beginners and seasoned outdoor lovers. The inclusion of warm gear, snacks, and drinks makes it comfortable, while the opportunity to keep your catch adds a special touch of authenticity.

If you’re in Abisko during winter and looking for a hands-on activity that connects you with local traditions and stunning scenery, this tour delivers. It’s ideal for anyone wanting to experience the Arctic in a memorable, engaging way without the need for prior fishing experience.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children over 7 years old can participate, but the cold environment and physical activity mean it’s best suited for kids who can handle outdoor winter conditions comfortably.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, especially thermal underwear and warm socks, to stay comfortable during the activity. All other gear and clothing are provided.

How long does the tour last?
The guided ice fishing experience lasts approximately 2 hours. Check availability for specific start times.

What fish can I expect to catch?
Common catches include Arctic char, grayling, and burbot. Whitefish, trout, and perch are also possible in some lakes.

Is equipment provided?
Yes, all fishing gear, bait, and warm clothes are included, so you don’t need to bring any fishing equipment of your own.

Can I keep and eat the fish I catch?
Yes, if the fish is above the minimum size limit, you are welcome to keep it. Guides can help with cleaning and offer tips on cooking.

To sum it up, the Abisko ice fishing tour is a finely balanced mix of adventure, education, and scenic beauty, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a genuine Arctic experience. Whether you’re a first-timer or have some fishing experience, the guides and scenery will ensure you leave with more than just a story — you’ll have a new appreciation for Sweden’s winter wilderness.

You can check availability for your dates here: