Ultimate Ice Fishing with Jig Fishing Net Pull and Lunch

Experience the Chill with a Taste of Northern Tradition: Ultimate Ice Fishing with Jig Fishing Net Pull and Lunch

If you’re heading to Yellowknife and craving an authentic taste of the North’s snowy wilderness, the Ultimate Ice Fishing tour offers a balanced mix of culture, adventure, and delicious local fare. For around $119, you get approximately three and a half hours of guided fishing, a warm and cozy environment—plus the chance to reel in some wild fish right from the ice of Great Slave Lake.

One of the best parts? The experience is kept intimate with a small-group format, ensuring plenty of opportunity to ask questions and engage with knowledgeable guides like Leon, who make the trip both fun and informative. We especially appreciate the all-inclusive approach: all necessary gear is provided, and winter boots are available for rent if slipping on icy surfaces worries you.

A couple of things to consider: the weather plays a significant role in the experience—if conditions are poor, the trip might be canceled or rescheduled. And, be aware that there’s no on-site washroom, so plan accordingly. This tour suits travelers who appreciate hands-on adventures, cultural insights, and a hearty, freshly cooked fish lunch amid stunning winter vistas.

Key Points

• Authentic Culture: Experience traditional net pull fishing on the icy waters of Great Slave Lake.
• All-Inclusive: Gear, bait, and winter boots are provided, making the experience hassle-free.
• Warm Comfort: Fish inside a heated tent or cabin if the weather isn’t suitable for open-air fishing.
• Delicious Meal: Enjoy a fresh, wild fish fry lunch cooked right on the ice, accompanied by potato salad and a dinner roll.
• Small-Group: Limited to 12 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and lots of interaction.
• Weather Dependent: The trip relies on good ice and weather conditions; flexibility is key.

In-Depth Review of the Ultimate Ice Fishing Experience

Setting the Scene: Winter Wonderland in Yellowknife

Yellowknife, perched on the edge of the Arctic, transforms into a winter paradise during the colder months. Snow blankets the landscape, and the nearby Great Slave Lake becomes a vast, shimmering expanse of ice—perfect for ice fishing. This tour captures the essence of that beauty, combining outdoor activity with culture.

The adventure kicks off with a hotel pickup from centrally located accommodations, making logistics straightforward and stress-free. The trip duration clocks in at just over three hours, making it a manageable outing that leaves plenty of the day free for other explorations.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The tour comprises three main segments:

1. Traditional Net Pull Fishing (Weather Permitting)

Here’s where the authentic northern fishing tradition comes alive. You’ll join guides like Leon on the ice of Great Slave Lake to participate in net pull fishing—a method long used by local Indigenous communities. We loved the way this activity brought history and culture into the experience, connecting us directly to local practices.

2. Fishing Inside a Warm Tent or Cabin

If the weather turns harsh, the guides are prepared with cozy tents or cabins that shield you from the cold. Inside, you’ll fish through holes drilled in the ice, with supervision and assistance, making it suitable even for beginners. As one reviewer noted, “We sat in a heated tent on the ice with fishing poles in a hole, just like you’d imagine.” This flexibility ensures comfort without sacrificing the thrill of catching fish.

3. Fresh Fish Lunch on the Ice

The highlight for many is the lunch—a simple but satisfying meal of wild fish, cooked right on the ice. Accompanied by potato salad and a dinner roll, it’s a true taste of the North’s bounty. Multiple reviews mention how tasty and fresh the fish is, with one stating, “they fed us a meal of fried fish with a roll and potato salad that was yummy.” This part of the experience underscores the value of eating fresh, locally caught fish in an extraordinary setting.

What You Get and What You Need to Know

The tour provides all necessary fishing gear, bait, and the option to rent winter boots if slipping is a concern. The guide-led format ensures you’re well-supported, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions about the local environment, fishing techniques, and the cultural significance of the activity.

Note: There’s no on-site washroom, so plan accordingly. The tour ends back at the original meeting point around 1:30 pm, giving you time to explore more of Yellowknife afterward.

Authenticity and Quality: What the Reviews Say

Guests consistently praise the friendly and knowledgeable guides. One reviewer, Ervin, said, “Thank You for an Unforgettable Ice Fishing Experience,” emphasizing the professional and welcoming nature of the staff. Everett added, “Pickup and dropoff at our hotel was prompt and easy,” highlighting the smooth logistics.

The small-group setting, limited to 12 people, allows for a personalized experience. Many reviews mention how much they appreciated the opportunity to interact with guides like Leon, who shared local insights and ensured everyone was comfortable.

Value for Money: Is It Worth It?

At $118.60 per person, the tour offers a well-rounded package that combines authentic cultural activities with a hearty, freshly cooked meal. The included gear, bait, and the option for winter boots contribute to ease and comfort, especially for travelers unfamiliar with winter outdoor activities. The trip’s reviews confirm that guests leave with not just fish, but also a deeper understanding of local traditions, making it a good value for those interested in culture and outdoor adventure.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who:

• Want to try authentic ice fishing with expert guidance
• Are interested in learning about local traditions and culture
• Appreciate small-group settings for a more personalized experience
• Don’t mind braving the cold for a memorable outdoor activity
• Enjoy hearty, freshly cooked meals in unique settings

It’s especially suitable for those who favor interactive experiences over sightseeing from a distance, and for families or groups looking for a fun, educational outing.

The Sum Up: Is the Ultimate Ice Fishing Tour Right for You?

This tour offers a genuine slice of the North’s winter lifestyle, wrapped in a comfortable, well-organized package. The combination of hands-on fishing, warm indoor options, and a delicious local meal makes it a memorable experience that goes beyond just catching fish.

It’s especially valuable for travelers keen to connect with local traditions and enjoy a small, friendly group atmosphere. If you’re looking for an adventure that balances outdoor fun with cultural insight, this trip will serve you well.

However, if you have mobility issues or dislike cold weather, consider that the activity depends heavily on weather conditions and involves outdoor exposure on ice. Also, remember there’s no on-site washroom, so be prepared.

This ice fishing trip offers an excellent way to experience the rugged charm of Yellowknife’s winter, making it a worthwhile addition to your northern itinerary.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 10:00 am and returning around 1:30 pm.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup from Yellowknife hotels is offered, making the logistics easy and stress-free.

What clothing should I wear?
While the tour provides winter boots for rent, you’ll want to dress warmly in layers—think insulated boots, thermal layers, and waterproof outerwear.

Can I participate if I’ve never gone ice fishing before?
Absolutely. The guides provide supervision and instructions, making it suitable for beginners and experienced anglers alike.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is most suitable for most travelers, especially since it’s a small-group experience with knowledgeable guides, but specific age restrictions aren’t detailed.

What should I bring?
Just yourself! All gear and bait are provided, and the experience is designed to be hassle-free.

Is the fish I catch safe to eat?
Yes, the fish caught is wild and prepared right on the ice for your lunch. It’s a genuine North American delicacy.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour relies on good weather and ice conditions. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Can I get a refund if I cancel?
Yes, cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance are fully refundable, per the policy.

This Ultimate Ice Fishing tour provides a rare chance to experience winter in the North with warmth, expertise, and a taste of local traditions. It’s a well-rounded outing that balances adventure, culture, and comfort, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an authentic Arctic experience.