Arctic Fishing & Open Fire Cooking

If you’re looking for a true taste of Lapland’s winter traditions, this Arctic Fishing & Open Fire Cooking tour offers a compelling mix of outdoor adventure, authentic culture, and a chance to savor super fresh fish. Organized by Xwander Nordic, this five-hour experience takes you to Rahajärvi Lake near Ivalo, where traditional Finnish ice fishing techniques meet the cozy appeal of cooking over an open fire. It’s a fantastic way to get off the beaten path and truly engage with the Arctic landscape.

We love that this tour doesn’t just give you a fishing lesson; it’s a genuine cultural experience, complete with guide-led stories and hands-on activity. The chance to catch your own fish and then prepare it in the wild adds a layer of satisfaction you won’t find in typical sightseeing trips. Plus, the peaceful, snowy scenery makes for a memorable backdrop.

The only potential drawback? The activity depends on weather conditions and the number of participants—so it’s not guaranteed every day. If you’re curious about traditional Sami or Finnish winter ways, this is an ideal fit. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, are comfortable in cold weather, and want a hands-on experience that’s both fun and educational.

Key Points

• Authentic Arctic experience: Learn and practice traditional ice fishing techniques.
• Fresh catch: Enjoy eating fish straight from the North Waters, cooked over open fire.
• Expert guidance: Guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and speak multiple languages.
• Scenic setting: The quiet, snowy landscape provides a peaceful, scenic backdrop.
• Small group size: Limited to 8 participants, offering personalized attention.
• Value for money: The $161 price includes gear, food, and transportation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Arctic Fishing & Open Fire Cooking Tour

What’s Included and How It Works

This tour offers everything needed for a genuine outdoor experience. For $161 per person, you get all necessary fishing gear, such as gloves, overalls if needed, and safety equipment. The trip lasts around five hours, with a schedule starting at 10:00 am from the Eräsoppi / Xwander shop in Ivalo, and includes transportation to Rahajärvi Lake. The pickup service is complimentary for Ivalo, but travelers from nearby areas like Inari, Nellim, Saariselkä, or Kiilopää should contact the provider ahead of time to arrange transfers.

Once at the lake, the activity begins with guides demonstrating traditional techniques like drilling ice holes (kairaaminen), pilkkiminen (ice fishing), and juomustus (net fishing under the ice). These methods aren’t just tourist tricks; they’re practices handed down through generations, offering an authentic peek into Finnish winter life.

What You’ll Experience During the Tour

The core of this trip is hands-on fishing. We loved the way guides patiently explained each step, making sure everyone got a turn. While you might find drilling through thick ice challenging (perhaps especially if the weather is particularly cold or the ice is tough), the guides are there to assist. One reviewer mentioned, “We had a hard time digging a hole in the lake, but the guide cooked the fish we caught with the net,” highlighting the genuine effort involved.

Once you’ve caught your fish, the tour shifts to cooking and eating. The guides create a cozy campfire, and you’ll sample fish cooked in various styles—a simple, primal pleasure that’s hard to beat when surrounded by snow and silence. The experience of eating fish straight from the water makes the taste all the more memorable, and you’ll appreciate the superior flavor from the cold, clear waters of the North.

Scenic and Cultural Highlights

The scenery here is as serene as it gets—the snow-covered landscape, the frozen lake, and the quiet forests create a picture-perfect winter setting. The guides share stories about the region’s history and traditions, giving context to your activity. As one traveler remarked, “The guide was kind and polite throughout the activity,” contributing to a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere.

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Food and Atmosphere

After fishing, the team sets up for open fire cooking—a true test of patience and skill. The experience is more than just a meal; it’s about connecting with nature and understanding how locals have prepared food for centuries. Roasting marshmallows after the meal adds a fun, childlike charm that appeals to all ages.

Timing and Group Size

The tour is limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience. The small group size is appreciated, especially given the outdoor nature of the activity. The trip’s flexibility, with options for “reserve now and pay later,” makes planning easier, especially if travel plans are subject to change.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $161, this experience offers excellent value if you’re interested in authentic outdoor winter activities. Everything from gear to food is included, and the shared guides’ expertise helps ensure safety and enjoyment. Given the remote, pristine environment and the chance to catch and cook your own fish, most travelers find this a memorable, worthwhile expense.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure seekers who enjoy outdoor activities, are comfortable in cold weather, and want to learn about Finnish fishing traditions. It’s also great for food lovers eager to taste the freshest fish possible, and those wanting a break from more commercial or crowded attractions. Families with older children, couples, or groups of friends will all find something special here.

If you’re after a relaxing, authentic Arctic experience that combines education, nature, and delicious food, this tour hits the mark. Conversely, if you’re not keen on getting cold or prefer structured, indoor activities, it might not be your best fit.

Final Thoughts: Is It for You?

In essence, this Arctic Fishing & Open Fire Cooking tour offers a genuine slice of Lapland’s winter life. You’ll love the chance to learn traditional fishing techniques, the delicious fish fresh from the lake, and the quiet beauty of the snow-covered landscape. The experience’s small-group format and expert guides make it accessible and personal, adding value to your trip.

For those who crave something memorable, hands-on, and rooted in local culture, this tour delivers. It’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting an active day outdoors, a taste of authentic Arctic food, and stories to tell long after the snow melts.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The trip lasts around 5 hours, starting at 10:00 am and returning around 2:00–3:00 pm, depending on the day.

What should I bring?
Wear warm, windproof clothing suitable for winter outdoor activities. Bring a camera to capture the scenery, snacks, and water for during the day.

Is transportation included?
Yes, a complimentary pick-up service is offered within Ivalo. For travelers from Inari, Nellim, Saariselkä, or Kiilopää, prior arrangement is recommended.

What if I don’t catch any fish?
Even if fishing isn’t successful, the guides ensure you still enjoy the experience, and you’ll likely get to taste some fish cooked by the guides themselves.

Can I participate if I’m a beginner?
Absolutely. The guides are experienced and patient, and the techniques are explained step-by-step so that everyone can participate.

Are there any age restrictions?
The activity is suitable for most ages, but children should be comfortable in cold environments and able to handle outdoor activities.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak Finnish, English, and French, making the experience accessible to many travelers.

What is the weather like?
Weather can vary greatly, so dress accordingly. Be prepared for cold, windy, or snowy conditions, which are part of the adventure.

In the end, this tour balances adventure, culture, and scenery into a single, memorable Arctic experience. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just looking to try something new, you’ll likely walk away with stories—and perhaps a fish or two—that you’ll cherish for years.

You can check availability for your dates here: