Ice Fishing in Rovaniemi: Reindeer Sleigh & Fireside

Reindeer sleigh to an ice hole, fishing rod in hand, fire at your back.

Ice fishing with reindeer sleigh transport in Rovaniemi combines a 2–3 km reindeer ride through Lapland forest with a session of ice fishing on a frozen lake. You travel by sleigh to the fishing spot, spend time at the hole with a guide, then return by sleigh to your starting point. The activity includes hot juice, cookies and fireside stories.

The experience

Rovaniemi's ice fishing activity starts with a reindeer sleigh ride into the forest. The animals themselves are part of the experience, not just the backdrop. A guide leads the way and explains reindeer herding, the animals' role in Lapland life, and what to expect on the ice. The sleigh carries you 2–3 km through the snow to reach the fishing spot, a journey that sets the rhythm for the rest of the morning or afternoon.

Once at the ice, you fish from a hole cut into the frozen lake while a fire burns nearby. The guide brings hot juice and cookies. The quiet of the Arctic and the warmth of the flames are the real draw here. There's no pressure to catch anything. The point is to sit with the landscape and listen to stories about life in this part of the world. After fishing, the sleigh ride back follows the same forest route, closing the loop.

Pickup and drop-off are included within 10 km of Rovaniemi city center, and the guide speaks English. The activity runs about four hours total. Small groups keep the atmosphere intimate, and the guide handles all the logistics. You just show up ready to ride and fish.

What’s included

• Reindeer sleigh ride through Lapland forest (2–3 km).
• ice fishing at a frozen lake with guide instruction.
• hot juice and cookies by the fire.
• information about reindeer herding and Lapland life.
• air-conditioned vehicle for pickup and drop-off within 10 km of Rovaniemi city center.
• English-speaking guide.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 18 Jan 2027

Book up to1d before

AgesAdult (13 and older) · Child (3 to 12 years) · Infant (under 3): free

GroupUp to 24 · max 8 per booking

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup is optional; you can also go straight to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.You can choose from 14 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Good to know

Low physical effortNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by StayLapland

Is this one for you?The sleigh ride and fishing both happen at a relaxed pace, with no strenuous walking or sudden movements required: the activity suits anyone comfortable sitting outdoors in Arctic cold and riding in an open sleigh.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (3 to 12 years); Infant (under 3): free.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What happens if the weather is too rough for a sleigh ride?

If weather prevents a sleigh ride, the reindeer experience becomes a walk through the forest instead, and the rest of the activity (ice fishing, the fire, the guide's stories), stays the same.

Do I need experience to ice fish, or is this for beginners?

Ice fishing here is beginner-friendly. The guide handles setup and instruction, and the goal is to relax by the hole rather than land a trophy. No prior fishing knowledge is needed.

How cold is it, and what should I wear?

Rovaniemi winters are well below freezing. Dress in layers, waterproof outer gear, insulated boots, gloves and a hat. The guide and operator can advise on what works best for the season you're visiting.