First, the ice
The idea of walking out onto a frozen sea unsettles most first-timers. It should not. By midwinter the ice is thick, solid and safe, and our guides check conditions before every trip. From our Experience Center on the Nallikari shoreline it is only a five to fifteen minute walk out to the fishing spot.
What surprises people most is the silence. Snow crunches underfoot, the horizon opens up in every direction, and the sound of the city simply disappears.
Drilling your own hole
Everyone gets to drill their own hole with an ice auger. It takes a bit of effort, and there is a particular satisfaction in the moment the blade breaks through and dark water wells up into the hole. Your guide will show you the technique. No strength or experience is required.
The fishing itself
Finnish ice fishing uses a very short rod and a small lure, jigged with tiny movements to attract fish beneath the ice. Your guide will show you how to bait the hook and how to move the lure so it looks alive.
We also use a sonar fish finder, which is what turns the waiting into a game. You can watch the fish approach your lure on the screen, see them react, and feel the anticipation build before the strike. Children in particular tend to be fascinated by this.
The waters here are rich in fish, and we catch something on almost every trip. Perch, roach, burbot and ide all live in this unusual ecosystem, where freshwater species thrive in slightly salty seawater.
Warmth, coffee and campfire
Arctic fishing is not an endurance test. We set up a heated tent on the ice for shelter if the wind picks up, and it is entirely possible to fish inside it in the warm. There is a campfire, hot drinks and pot coffee brewed over the flames, which is a Finnish ritual in its own right.
Thermal overalls, boots, gloves and hats are included, so you do not need Arctic gear of your own. Bring warm layers to wear underneath and you will be comfortable.
Do you need experience?
None at all. Most of our guests have never held an ice fishing rod before. All equipment is provided, and the guide handles the technical side. What you need is curiosity, warm layers and a willingness to slow down for a couple of hours.
It suits families, couples, solo travellers and groups equally well, and it is one of the few winter activities where doing very little is exactly the point.
When can you go ice fishing in Oulu?
Our ice fishing season runs from 22 December to 31 March, when the sea ice is thick and reliable. Morning departures tend to be best, as fish are usually most active early in the day.
For something different, there is also burbot fishing under the city lights in the depths of winter, and the traditional fish trap experience, where a net trap is lifted from beneath the ice and the catch is essentially guaranteed.
Frequently asked questions
Is ice fishing on the sea safe?
Yes, when done with people who know the ice. Our guides assess conditions before every trip and only take groups onto ice that is thick and stable.
Do I need my own equipment?
No. Rods, lures, augers, seats, sonar and thermal clothing are all included.
Will we actually catch fish?
Usually, yes. The sea here is fish-rich and we catch something on almost every trip, though nature never offers guarantees. On our fish trap experience, the catch is effectively guaranteed.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, and the sonar screen tends to be the highlight for younger guests. Check the age guidance on the specific tour when booking.
How cold is it?
Typically between -5°C and -20°C. With the thermal clothing we provide and a heated tent nearby, it is comfortable.
Try it yourself
Our Arctic Sea Ice Fishing experience runs daily through the winter season from our Experience Center on the Nallikari seafront, with English-speaking guides and all equipment included.
Groups of 6 to 100 welcome. Contact us for group and tour operator rates.