Traditional Ice Fishing with Net Pull and Lunch

Experience the Traditions of Canada’s Indigenous Ice Fishing on Great Slave Lake

If you’re craving an authentic taste of northern Canadian life, this Traditional Ice Fishing with Net Pull and Lunch tour in Yellowknife is a great choice. For about $70, you’ll spend roughly three-and-a-half hours exploring the icy waters of Great Slave Lake, learning a traditional Indigenous fishing technique, and enjoying a fresh fish meal inside cozy cabins on Kam Lake. The tour is guided by knowledgeable locals who help you understand the cultural significance of net fishing—an ancient method still practiced today.

What we love most about this experience is the chance to participate directly in net pulling, which offers a tangible connection to Indigenous traditions. The warm, hearty fish fry lunch served right on the ice is another highlight, giving you a real taste of local flavors in a breathtaking setting. Plus, the optional snowshoeing and snowmobile-driven sleigh ride provide a playful way to extend your day in the snow.

One thing to keep in mind is that there is no washroom on-site, so plan accordingly. This tour suits travelers who are comfortable with outdoor winter experiences and want to learn about Indigenous culture in a hands-on way. It’s perfect for those looking for a meaningful adventure rather than just sightseeing—especially if you enjoy rustic, genuine encounters with nature and local traditions.

Key Points

• Authentic Indigenous experience through traditional net fishing on Great Slave Lake.
• Includes a fresh wild fish fry lunch cooked right on the ice, served in cozy cabins.
• Optional activities like snowshoeing and a snowmobile sleigh ride extend the adventure.
• Small group size (maximum 12) ensures personalized guidance and a more intimate experience.
• Pickup from Yellowknife hotels makes logistics easy and hassle-free.
• Free cancellation offers peace of mind if the weather turns poor or plans change.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This tour begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel in Yellowknife, setting the stage for a true northern adventure. The journey to Great Slave Lake takes you into some of the most striking winter scenery Canada has to offer, with snow-covered landscapes and endless blue skies that make the cold feel almost magical.

Once on the ice, your guide—who’s usually quite knowledgeable—will introduce you to traditional Indigenous fishing techniques. The focus here is on net pulling, a method that has supported Indigenous communities for generations. Unlike modern fishing that relies on rods or traps, this method involves pulling a large net through the water beneath the ice, offering a visceral understanding of survival skills in Arctic conditions.

Multiple reviews mention the guides’ expertise as a key highlight. One reviewer noted, “The guide, David, made the experience feel authentic and educational, explaining the importance of net fishing in their culture.” This personal touch helps you appreciate not just the activity but its cultural roots, fostering a deeper respect for Indigenous traditions.

After the excitement of fishing, you’ll settle into warm cabins set up on top of Kam Lake. Here, a freshly cooked wild fish fry awaits—filleted and cooked right on the ice using the fish you helped catch. The meal includes potato salad and a dinner roll, offering a hearty, satisfying taste of local seafood. Many travelers appreciate this part, describing it as “delicious and simply made, with the fresh fish clearly the star.” It’s a genuine chance to taste the flavors of the north in a cozy, convivial setting.

Following lunch, there’s time for additional activities. You can don snowshoes and explore the pristine lake, enjoying the silence and vastness of the snow-covered landscape. Or, opt for a sleigh ride pulled by a snowmobile, which adds a playful, adventure-filled element to your day. These options help balance the rustic, hands-on fishing experience with some fun outdoor recreation.

The tour wraps up around 1:30 PM with a return to your hotel, giving you the rest of the afternoon free. The entire experience is roughly 3.5 hours, making it a manageable addition to your itinerary while providing a full, immersive snapshot of northern life.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The cost of $69.68 per person covers the guide, the fishing experience, and the fish fry lunch. It’s a solid deal considering the depth of activity, cultural insight, and local cuisine involved. However, note that there’s no on-site washroom, so bring some tissues or hand sanitizer for comfort.

Transportation from Yellowknife hotels is included, making it accessible without extra fuss. The group is small (up to 12), which means more personalized attention and a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere.

Considerations and Practical Tips

The tour relies heavily on good weather—it’s outdoors on ice, and poor conditions can lead to cancellations or rescheduling. You’ll want to dress warmly in layered clothing, including waterproof outer layers, gloves, and warm boots. Be prepared for an outdoor cold snap, but also know the warm shelter inside the cabins will keep you comfortable during lunch.

If you’re someone who enjoys learning about local cultures, loves nature, and doesn’t mind the cold, this tour offers genuine value. It’s less about high adrenaline and more about connection, tradition, and a taste of what life on Canada’s frozen lakes has been like for generations.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Take This Tour?

This ice fishing adventure appeals most to travelers interested in cultural heritage and authentic outdoor experiences. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate hands-on activities and want a more immersive alternative to typical sightseeing. The small group size ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the guided nature of the tour guarantees you’ll learn from knowledgeable locals.

While the experience is straightforward and accessible to most, it’s best suited for those comfortable with winter outdoor conditions. If you’re after a rustic, meaningful encounter with Canada’s northern traditions, this tour offers genuine insight and a memorable day on the ice.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup from your Yellowknife hotel is included, making it easy to start this winter adventure without extra planning.

How long does the tour last?
Expect about 3 hours and 30 minutes, which includes the fishing, lunch, and optional activities.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layered, waterproof clothing, including gloves, a hat, and insulated boots. The outdoor setting on ice demands proper winter gear.

Are there washrooms on-site?
No, there are no washrooms at the ice fishing location, so plan accordingly.

Can I participate if I’ve never fished before?
Absolutely. The guide explains the net pulling technique, and no prior experience is needed—just enthusiasm.

What is included in the price?
The guide, the fishing activity, and a fresh wild fish fry lunch are included. Beverages and hot water are provided, but additional items are at your own discretion.

What activities are available after lunch?
You can try snowshoeing or hop onto a snowmobile-driven sleigh ride, both of which are shared activities included in the tour.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour depends on good weather; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the outdoor winter conditions and the small group size when deciding if it’s right for your family.

This tour offers an engaging and authentic peek into Canada’s Indigenous winter traditions, wrapped up in a scenic and cozy setting. Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, an outdoor lover, or simply curious about life on frozen lakes, it’s a memorable way to connect with the land and its people.