Ice fishing is an old northern tradition, and trying it with a local guide is one of the most relaxed ways to spend a Yukon winter day. The trip takes you to a frozen lake near Whitehorse, where the guide chooses the spot, drills the hole with an auger and sets you up with a rod and bait. Then you sit, watch the line and enjoy the stillness while the snow-covered hills circle the lake. The lakes in the area can hold rainbow trout, lake trout and Arctic grayling, so there is a real chance of a catch, though the day is as much about the setting as the fish. The ice itself can be remarkably thick, from thirty centimetres to a metre in places, so you can walk and fish with confidence under a guide who knows which lakes are safe. A fire keeps the group warm and hot drinks are served, which turns the trip into a social outing rather than an endurance test. Because the activity is gentle and slow, it appeals to people who want to experience a Yukon tradition without strenuous effort.
What to expect
You are collected from your hotel, driven to the lake and shown how ice fishing works, including how to jig, how to read a bite and how to land a fish through a narrow hole. The guide handles the drilling and the safety checks, and the fire is kept going so you can step away and warm up.
Fishing success varies, and a day without a bite is normal, so go with a relaxed attitude. If you do catch something, the guide can explain what species you have and advise on keeping or releasing it, and any licence requirements that apply to your trip should be handled by the operator, so confirm this when you book.
Dressing for it
Ice fishing is a standing and sitting activity, so warmth matters more than mobility. Wear insulated waterproof boots, thermal base layers, a warm mid layer, a windproof parka and thick gloves, and consider chemical hand warmers. Bring a thermos or ask what hot drinks are provided, wear sunglasses against the glare of snow and ice and keep a spare hat in your bag. A folding stool or insulated pad is useful if the operator does not provide seating.
Aurora combination
Some operators combine the fishing with an evening aurora viewing, which makes sense because you are already out on a dark lake. If you choose a combination trip, the day becomes long and cold, so plan a slow morning afterwards. Whether you fish by day or night, pair the outing with other winter activities in the area rather than packing it into a single stretch, and tell the operator in advance about any dietary needs, mobility limits or medical conditions so the guide can choose the best spot on the lake.
Who it suits
Families with patient children, couples, friends and curious first-timers who like the idea of a quiet, authentic winter pastime. It is less suited to travellers who want constant action. If that is you, the snowmobile tour and the dog sledding options are better matches, while ice fishing is the one to choose when you want to slow down, talk and watch the light change over the lake.
What to expect
The experience
A guided half-day on a frozen lake near Whitehorse, with the hole drilled and rod and bait set up for you.
Best time
Winter, once the lake ice is thick and safe.
How long
About half a day including travel and time on the ice.
Tips
Dress for sitting still: insulated boots, thermal layers, windproof outer layer and hand warmers.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want a slow, authentic Yukon winter pastime with no experience needed.
- Families
- Good for patient children who are warmly dressed; check the operator's age rules.
- Couples
- A quiet lake, a fire and a line in the water make for a calm shared morning.
- Pair with
- An evening aurora tour on another night or a soak at the Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
Do I need fishing experience?+
No. The guide drills the hole, sets up the rod and bait and shows you how to jig and land a fish.
What fish might I catch?+
Lakes near Whitehorse can hold rainbow trout, lake trout and Arctic grayling, but catches are never guaranteed.
Is the ice safe?+
Lake ice can be from thirty centimetres to a metre thick, and the guide checks conditions and chooses the spot.
What should I wear?+
Insulated waterproof boots, thermal layers, a windproof parka, thick gloves and a warm hat. Hand warmers help.
Can I combine it with the northern lights?+
Some operators offer a fishing and aurora combination. It makes for a long, cold day, so plan a slow morning afterwards.
