At a Glance
Quick OverviewFew experiences connect you to Norwegian tradition quite like ice fishing on a frozen Arctic lake. As you drill through thick ice to reach the cold waters below, surrounded by snow-covered mountains and pristine wilderness, you’re participating in an activity that has sustained Norwegian communities for centuries. Whether you catch dinner or simply enjoy the meditative quiet of the frozen landscape, ice fishing offers an authentic Arctic experience unlike any other.
According to Visit Norway, “ice fishing is one of Norway’s most popular winter activities, as the country is dotted with thousands of lakes. Every year, enthusiasts of all ages grab their fishing rods and set off to find their own lake full of trout or char.”
Why Ice Fishing in Norway
Authentic Norwegian Tradition
Fishing is woven into Norwegian culture—a way of life for coastal communities and a cherished leisure activity for millions. Winter ice fishing continues traditions practised for generations, connecting visitors to the genuine Arctic lifestyle.
Thousands of Fishing Lakes
Norway offers unparalleled ice fishing opportunities:
- Countless frozen lakes throughout the country
- Mountain lakes teeming with char and trout
- Fjords that freeze in sheltered areas
- Remote wilderness locations
- Accessible lakes near major towns
Unique Winter Experience
Ice fishing provides:
- Peaceful escape from daily life
- Connection with pristine nature
- Potential for Northern Lights whilst fishing
- Warmth of traditional lavvo experiences
- Fresh-caught Arctic fish
Best Locations for Ice Fishing
Tromsø Region
Why Tromsø: According to Visit Tromsø, the region offers “perfect conditions for ice fishing. With its dancing Northern Lights and many frozen lakes and waters, Tromsø is a great place to try your fishing luck.”
What makes it special:
- Hidden valleys with untouched frozen lakes
- Combination with Northern Lights viewing
- Short transfer from city centre
- Multiple tour operators
- Beautiful mountain backdrops
Fish species: Arctic char, brown trout
Kirkenes
Why Kirkenes: “With thousands of lakes and the Arctic Sea at its doorstep, Kirkenes is one of the best places in Norway for ice fishing trips.”
What makes it special:
- Vast wilderness areas
- Combine with king crab safaris
- Snow hotel experiences
- Excellent aurora viewing
- True Arctic atmosphere
Fish species: Trout, char, potential for coastal species
Alta
Why Alta: Alta’s inland location means reliable ice conditions and clear skies, making it excellent for combining ice fishing with Northern Lights viewing.
What makes it special:
- Famous Northern Lights destination
- Alta Ice Hotel nearby
- Sami cultural experiences
- River and lake fishing
- Professional guiding available
Lake Mjøsa (Southern Norway)
Why Lake Mjøsa: According to Visit Norway, “Lake Mjøsa gets at least a few inches of ice during winter season. As the largest lake, it contains one of the highest populations of fish in mainland Norway.”
What makes it special:
- Giant perch (up to 50cm)
- Trout over 4 kilogrammes
- Accessible from Oslo region
- Historic lake setting
- Local fishing culture
What to Expect on an Ice Fishing Tour
Tour Structure
Typical half-day tour (4-6 hours):
- Pickup: Hotel collection in warm vehicle
- Transfer: Drive to frozen lake location (30-60 min)
- Introduction: Safety briefing and equipment explanation
- Setup: Learn to drill holes and prepare lines
- Fishing: 2-3 hours of fishing time
- Refreshments: Hot drinks, traditional food in lavvo
- Return: Transport back to hotel
The Fishing Experience
Getting to the spot:
- Snowshoe walk to fishing location
- Snowmobile transport (some tours)
- Short hikes through winter landscape
Setting up:
- Drill through ice (typically 50-100cm thick)
- Set up fishing lines and equipment
- Learn jigging techniques
- Find the best spots with guide’s help
The fishing:
- Peaceful, meditative activity
- Patience rewarded with bites
- Guides help optimise technique
- Share experiences with group
What You Might Catch
Arctic char:
- Beautiful spotted fish
- Excellent eating quality
- Common in mountain lakes
- Various sizes
Brown trout:
- Strong fighters
- Delicious when fresh
- Found in most lakes
- Can reach several kilos
Perch:
- Easier to catch
- Good for beginners
- Plentiful in many lakes
- Fun for families
Practical Information
What’s Typically Included
Equipment:
- Ice auger (drill)
- Fishing rods and lines
- Bait and lures
- Ice fishing seats/sleds
- Safety equipment
Clothing (most tours):
- Thermal oversuit
- Insulated boots
- Warm gloves
- Hat and balaclava
Refreshments:
- Hot drinks (coffee, tea, hot chocolate)
- Traditional snacks or meals
- Often in heated lavvo tent
- Some cook your catch
What to Bring
Essentials:
- Warm base layers (wool/synthetic)
- Extra warm socks
- Sunglasses (glare off ice)
- Camera
Recommended:
- Hand warmers
- Snacks
- Thermos with extra drinks
- Positive attitude and patience
Fishing Licences
Freshwater lakes:
- Licence required for most lakes
- Tour operators typically include
- Can purchase online at inatur.no
- Day and week options available
Saltwater (fjord fishing):
- Generally free for tourists
- Handheld equipment only
- Some species restrictions apply
Types of Ice Fishing Tours
Standard Day Tours
Duration: 4-6 hours Includes: Transport, equipment, guide, refreshments Best for: First-time ice fishers, those with limited time Price range: NOK 1,500-2,500 (£115-190)
Northern Lights Ice Fishing
Duration: 5-7 hours (evening) Includes: Everything above plus aurora viewing opportunity Best for: Those wanting to combine experiences Price range: NOK 2,000-3,000 (£155-230)
Full Wilderness Experiences
Duration: Full day (8+ hours) Includes: Extended fishing, meals, multiple locations Best for: Serious fishing enthusiasts Price range: NOK 3,000-5,000 (£230-385)
Combined Cultural Tours
Duration: Half or full day Includes: Ice fishing plus Sami experience or other activities Best for: Those wanting varied experiences Price range: NOK 2,500-4,000 (£190-305)
Ice Fishing Season
When to Go
| Period | Conditions | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| December | Season begins | Ice forming, check conditions |
| January | Good ice | Cold, polar night atmosphere |
| February | Excellent | Light returning, stable ice |
| March | Peak season | Milder temps, great conditions |
| April | Late season | Easter popular, ice thinning |
Best Months
February-March advantages:
- Reliable ice conditions
- Returning daylight
- Milder temperatures
- Still cold enough for good ice
- Excellent Northern Lights chances
Easter period: According to Visit Norway, “around Easter time, when the weather gets milder, you may see locals on skis and snowmobiles all over the mountain lakes, rod in hand, fishing for trout, char, perch or pike.”
Compare Fishing Tour OptionsSafety Considerations
Ice Safety
Minimum ice thickness:
- Walking: 10-15 cm
- Group activities: 15-20 cm
- Snowmobile/vehicle: 25+ cm
Tour operators:
- Monitor conditions daily
- Cancel if unsafe
- Carry safety equipment
- Know rescue procedures
Personal Safety
Important guidelines:
- Never go alone without experience
- Stay with your guide
- Don’t wander from group
- Watch for thin ice signs
- Know emergency procedures
Weather Awareness
- Conditions change quickly
- Tours may be modified for weather
- Dress appropriately
- Listen to guide instructions
Combining with Other Activities
Ice Fishing + Northern Lights
Evening tours often include:
- Fishing during blue hour
- Aurora watching from the ice
- Campfire and hot drinks
- Photography opportunities
Ice Fishing + Sami Culture
Some operators combine:
- Traditional fishing techniques
- Lavvo experiences
- Sami food and stories
- Reindeer encounters
Ice Fishing + Snowmobile Safari
Full-day combinations:
- Snowmobile to remote lakes
- Extended wilderness experience
- Multiple fishing spots
- Adventure and tranquillity
What Happens to Your Catch
Cook and Eat
Many tours include:
- Preparing your catch
- Cooking over open fire
- Traditional recipes
- Fresh Arctic fish meal
Catch and Release
If preferred:
- Careful handling techniques
- Quick release
- Environmental responsibility
- Photo opportunities first
Take Home
Some operators offer:
- Cleaning and filleting
- Packaging for transport
- Tips for cooking at home
- Check regulations first
For Families
Family-Friendly Options
Age recommendations:
- Most tours: 6+ years
- Some offer younger child options
- Shorter duration for kids
- Indoor warming breaks
What kids enjoy:
- Drilling holes in ice
- The excitement of catching fish
- Hot chocolate in lavvo
- Playing in snow
- Wildlife spotting
Tips for Families
- Choose shorter tours
- Ensure proper warm clothing
- Bring extra snacks
- Pick tours with heated shelters
- Prepare for early return if needed
Final Advice
Ice fishing in Norway offers more than catching fish—it’s a window into how Norwegians have lived with and appreciated their Arctic environment for generations. The combination of pristine wilderness, peaceful activity, and potential for Northern Lights creates an experience that resonates long after you’ve returned home.
Whether you catch dinner or simply spend hours in quiet contemplation on a frozen lake, you’ll understand why fishing remains central to Norwegian culture. Book with reputable operators, dress warmly, embrace the cold, and let the Arctic work its magic.
The fish may or may not bite, but the memories of ice fishing under the Arctic sky are guaranteed.
Information in this guide is sourced from Visit Norway and established Norwegian fishing tour operators. Last updated January 2026.