Wilderness Ice Fishing in Yellowknife

Wilderness Ice Fishing in Yellowknife offers a chance to try your hand at fishing in the remote Canadian North, with a typical price of around $118 per person. This 2-hour tour is offered by The Aurora Borealis Experience Inc and includes pickup from your accommodation, fishing equipment, and a cozy shelter to shield you from the cold. It’s a quick but immersive experience aimed at those curious to see the untouched wilderness of Yellowknife’s lakes while learning about ice fishing from seasoned guides.

We love that the tour emphasizes pristine locations—carefully chosen secluded lakes provide a peaceful backdrop, free from crowds, where you can soak in the serenity of the winter landscape. The quality equipment is another highlight, with well-maintained gear like augers, rods, bait, and heated shelters ensuring you’re comfortable and well-prepared.

However, one consideration to keep in mind is that success isn’t guaranteed—as one reviewer noted, no fish were caught during their trip, which can happen in ice fishing. This means patience and a bit of luck are part of the experience. Also, the short duration of two hours makes this a quick outing rather than an all-day adventure, so it’s best suited for travelers wanting a taste of Arctic fishing without committing to a longer trip.

This tour is ideal for those who enjoy outdoor experiences and want to get a real feel for Canada’s winter wilderness. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who appreciate well-organized, guided outings and are curious about local fishing traditions. Those looking for guaranteed catches might want to manage expectations, but for anyone wanting a unique, scenic, and educational Arctic activity, this fits the bill.

Key Points

• Authentic wilderness experience in remote lakes outside Yellowknife
• Top-quality, well-maintained gear and heated shelters for comfort
• Professional guides with helpful instructions and local knowledge
• Short, focused tour that offers a quick taste of ice fishing
• Possible disappointment if no fish are caught, as experienced by some
• Ideal for outdoor lovers and those curious about Canadian winter traditions

A Detailed Look at Wilderness Ice Fishing in Yellowknife

When considering a Canadian Arctic adventure, ice fishing in Yellowknife stands out as a blend of spectacular scenery and authentic activity. For around $117, you get a two-hour journey into the quiet beauty of northern lakes, with the chance to learn the basics, enjoy the company of friendly guides, and perhaps even land a fish or two.

The Itinerary: From Pickup to the Frozen Lake

Your adventure begins with pickup from your hotel or accommodation in Yellowknife. The tour operates most days from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM between June and April, aligning well with the best winter months when the lakes are safely frozen. Once on the bus, the ride out to the fishing spots is part of the experience, offering a scenic preview of the surrounding wilderness.

The journey typically takes you to one of the carefully selected, secluded lakes—these locations are chosen for their pristine condition and peacefulness, away from busy areas. The guides focus on fishing success, but also on safety and comfort, making sure everyone is prepared for the cold.

The Fishing Experience: Equipment, Shelter, and Technique

Once at the lake, the guides set up heated wood fire shelters—a thoughtful touch that makes braving the cold much more bearable. Inside, you’ll find comfortable seating and all the necessary equipment, including newer augers, rods, and bait. The guides provide clear instructions on ice fishing techniques, which are particularly helpful if you’re new to the activity.

In the reviews, one participant appreciated the friendly and helpful staff, noting, “The staff was friendly, helpful, and provided clear instructions on ice fishing.” The goal is to make you feel confident enough to try fishing yourself, whether you’re after northern pike, cod, or other freshwater species in the region.

The Food: Fresh Fish Lunch

A notable feature of this tour is the fresh fish lunch prepared during the trip. The guide or crew typically cooks northern pike or cod fillets, serving a meal that lets you taste the very fish you might have just caught. This adds a satisfying, tangible element to the experience—nothing beats eating a fish that’s been caught just hours before.

The Reality of Ice Fishing: Success and Frustration

While the experience is designed to be enjoyable and educational, it’s important to acknowledge that catching fish is not guaranteed. One reviewer, Sijia_Z, shared their disappointment: “No one caught fish, not even a bite. Very disappointed. Total waste of time and money.” Ice fishing can be unpredictable, especially for beginners, and sometimes the fish simply aren’t biting.

On the other hand, Jeff_G had a much more positive impression, sharing, “Within two hours, my son and I both caught a northern pike,” emphasizing the value of knowledgeable guides and well-organized setup. The difference often comes down to luck and patience, but the guides’ attentiveness and equipment quality increase your chances.

Group Size, Duration, and Overall Value

With a maximum of 15 travelers, the small group size ensures personalized attention. The 2-hour duration is perfect for those wanting a short, manageable outdoor activity without needing to dedicate an entire day. The price of $117.74 is reasonable given the inclusion of transportation, gear, shelter, and a meal—making it a good value for a unique Arctic experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves outdoor pursuits, appreciates guided experiences, and is excited by the idea of winter wilderness, this tour will suit you well. It’s also a good choice for families or travelers wanting a quick Arctic adventure that combines scenery, culture, and activity in one package.

Final Thoughts

Wilderness Ice Fishing in Yellowknife is a distinctive Northern Canada experience—offering a chance to see untouched lakes, learn a traditional activity, and maybe even land a fish. The professional guides and quality equipment make it accessible even if you’re new to fishing, and the warm shelters keep you comfortable in the cold.

However, it’s wise to keep expectations realistic about catching fish. Success isn’t guaranteed, but the scenery, knowledge, and authenticity of the experience make it worthwhile. This tour best suits outdoor enthusiasts and those eager to connect with a genuine Arctic tradition in a scenic, well-managed setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, pickup from your accommodation is offered, making it easy to start your adventure without arranging your own transport.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 2 hours, giving you a quick but focused taste of ice fishing.

What should I wear for this activity?
While not explicitly stated, expect to be outdoors in cold weather, so dress warmly—think insulated layers, waterproof boots, and gloves.

Can beginners participate?
Absolutely, guides provide clear instructions to help newcomers learn the basics of ice fishing.

What fish might I catch?
The tour mentions catching northern pike and possibly other freshwater species, but success varies from trip to trip.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers transportation, high-quality fishing gear, heated shelter, and a fresh fish lunch.

In the end, this tour offers a solid introduction to Arctic fishing, rooted in the quiet beauty of Yellowknife’s wilderness. If you’re after a scenic, educational, and authentic experience—and are okay with the unpredictability of fishing—you’ll find value here. Just remember, sometimes the biggest catch is the story you take home, not the fish.