From Helsinki: Bodom Lake Ice Fishing with Food & Drinks

Our review explores a popular tour near Helsinki that offers travelers a chance to try ice fishing on Bodom Lake — a quintessential Finnish winter activity. This experience combines outdoor adventure, cultural tradition, and hearty food in a compact five-hour package. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a curious newcomer, this tour provides a relaxing yet engaging way to spend part of your trip in Finland.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the guided instruction makes it accessible to all, even if you’ve never fished through ice before. Second, the opportunity to taste traditional Finnish foods like grilled sausages, glögi (mulled wine), and cookies adds a flavorful local touch.

However, a potential consideration is the weather dependency: the tour relies on stable, frozen lake conditions, which can vary with the winter’s severity. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy being outdoors, especially those interested in experiencing genuine Finnish customs in a small-group setting. If you’re looking for an authentic, well-organized winter activity with friendly guides, this tour could be just right.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Who this is perfect for:

Travelers eager to try local Finnish traditions
Those looking for a small-group experience
Visitors interested in a relaxed outdoor activity with cultural flavor
Anyone prepared for cold weather and winter gear

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Helsinki.

Key Points

Authentic Finnish experience combining fishing, food, and nature
Guided instruction simplifies the process for beginners
Beautiful scenery on Bodom Lake, just 25 minutes from Helsinki
Small group size enhances personal attention and a friendly atmosphere
Includes transportation, food, drinks, and fishing gear for convenience
Flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind

An Overview of the Bodom Lake Ice Fishing Tour

This tour is designed as a five-hour adventure that introduces you to the Finnish tradition of ice fishing — a favorite winter pastime in the region. It’s run by Backpacker Helsinki Tour, a reputable provider known for small-group, authentic experiences.

The meeting point is conveniently located just outside the city, at the jazz club Storyville, a familiar landmark that makes it easy to find your guide. After a short drive, you arrive at Bodom Lake, the largest body of water near Helsinki. Here, you’ll enjoy a scenic walk across the frozen surface, searching for the best spots to fish.

The ice fishing process itself is straightforward, thanks to the guidance you’ll receive. Your guide explains how to drill a hole in the ice and how to use the Pilkki, the traditional Nordic fishing rod. The process is as much about the experience as catching fish; many guests find the walk on the icy lake just as memorable as the actual fishing.

The Fishing Experience: Simple, Fun, and Educational

Once at the fishing site, the guide will help you find the best place to set up your gear. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced angler, the focus is on enjoying the activity and learning the Finnish way of fishing. While catching fish isn’t guaranteed (and, based on reviews, it’s quite common not to catch any), the emphasis remains on the cultural experience and the beauty of the winter landscape.

A highlight is the explanation of ice fishing techniques. The guide might mention how to drill a hole or handle the pilkki rod, turning a simple activity into a mini lesson in Finnish outdoor traditions. The reviews praise guides like David for their knowledgeable and friendly approach, making everyone feel comfortable and engaged.

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Traditional Finnish Food and Cozy Shelter

After the fishing, you’ll head to a Laavu, a traditional Finnish shelter, where a fire is lit. Here, the warmth of the fire complements the chilly environment. You’ll be served Makara (traditional Finnish sausages), with vegetarian options available, along with glögi (a spicy, warming mulled wine) and piparri (local cookies).

Guests have described this part of the tour as a delightful culinary addition that really immerses you in Finnish hospitality. The combination of food, drink, and a campfire creates a cozy and social atmosphere, perfect for sharing stories and enjoying the scenery.

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Transportation and Group Size

The tour includes private transportation to and from Helsinki, which adds value and convenience. You won’t need to worry about navigating or finding your way; the focus remains on the experience itself.

The group size is limited to eight participants, fostering a more intimate atmosphere where guides can attend to individual needs. This smaller size also means you’ll likely get more interaction with the guide and fellow travelers, enhancing the overall enjoyment.

Price and Value

At $112 per person, this tour offers a solid value considering the inclusions: transportation, fishing gear, guidance, and traditional Finnish food and drinks. Compared to other outdoor activities in Helsinki, it provides a balanced mix of culture, outdoor adventure, and local flavor.

Guests have expressed satisfaction with the overall experience. One reviewer noted, “Even without catching fish, drilling holes and walking on the frozen lake were very enjoyable,” highlighting how the activity’s appeal extends beyond the catch.

Practical Tips for Participants

Dress warmly and in layers: winter gear is essential to stay comfortable during the outdoor parts of the tour.
Be prepared for potentially slippery conditions on the ice; sturdy, non-slip footwear is recommended.
The tour doesn’t include hotel pickup, so plan to meet at the designated spot outside Helsinki.
The timing varies, so check availability to find a start time that works for your schedule.
The tour is conducted in multiple languages (English, French, Finnish, Spanish), ensuring good communication.

Authenticity and Review Highlights

Guests consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer described David as “a very friendly and knowledgeable guide,” emphasizing how much that enhances the experience. Many mention the stunning views of Bodom Lake and the pleasure of participating in a true Finnish tradition.

Even if catching fish isn’t guaranteed, visitors find the overall experience rewarding. One guest noted, “After fishing, we enjoyed glögi and grilled sausage by the campfire,” describing a perfect Finnish winter scene. Another added, “The walk on the frozen lake and drilling the hole were very enjoyable.”

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for travelers who want a relaxing outdoor activity with a cultural twist. It’s perfect for those who appreciate authentic local traditions and aren’t solely focused on fishing success. If you enjoy scenic winter landscapes and cozy communal moments, this tour will meet your expectations.

It’s also ideal for small groups or families seeking an intimate, informative adventure. The tour’s small-group format and friendly guides make it accessible for travelers of all ages, provided they’re prepared for cold weather.

The Sum Up

The Bodom Lake Ice Fishing Tour offers a rare glimpse into Finnish winter traditions wrapped in a friendly, small-group setting. It balances outdoor activity, cultural insight, and hearty food, making it a well-rounded choice for those seeking an authentic Nordic experience. With knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and a cozy campfire, it’s a memorable way to spend part of your Helsinki visit.

While weather conditions can influence the experience, the focus on learning, local customs, and conviviality ensures you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of Finland’s winter ways — perhaps even with a new story of fishing on icy waters to share back home.

This tour is best for curious travelers, outdoor lovers, and anyone wanting a meaningful, fun-filled break from city sightseeing. If you’re after a genuine Finnish adventure with good value and great reviews, this could be the highlight of your winter trip.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
Transportation, food and drinks, and fishing gear are included, making it a hassle-free experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts out front of the jazz club Storyville in Helsinki and ends back at the same meeting point.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the small-group size and outdoor nature suggest it could be appropriate for families, provided children dress warmly.

Do I need special clothing?
Yes, it’s recommended to be well dressed for the cold, including winter sports gear.

Will I catch fish?
While catching fish isn’t guaranteed (many reviews mention unsuccessful attempts), the focus is on enjoying the activity and the scenery.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

Is there an option for vegetarians?
Yes, vegetarian options are available for the grilled sausages and other foods served around the campfire.