The spots I have highlighted above will give you a thrilling ice fishing experience. Just remember to dress warm, which starts with decent ice fishing bibs, get your tackles ready, do some research of what to expect, and head out to one of the spots.
Winter is quickly approaching, and you may be wondering what you will do throughout the season. It's possible that staying indoors isn't your thing. However, if you are an angler or are thinking about becoming one, the season should not be a deterrent.
Winter is also a great time to try your hand at ice fishing. It is one of the most exciting experiences for both novice and experienced anglers. Of course, it is not without difficulties. Furthermore, if you are a beginner, it is always best to use a guide to master the techniques quickly while remaining safe.
The question is, where in Europe can you go ice fishing? Don't be concerned! Here are the six best ice fishing spots in Europe that are worth your time.
The 6 best ice fishing spots in Europe
Stockholm, Sweden
Sweden is a pristine city from which you will be eager to fish. Even during winter, the Stockholm waters and the surrounding rivers are full of fish. Plus, you can fish without any restrictions as you do not need a license.
The common species in Stockholm are Trout, Northern Pike, Perch, and Salmon. But, if you go to surrounding rivers, you can enjoy saltwater fishing on the Baltic Sea. Here you might reel in Sea Trout, Salmon, and cod.
Once you are done fishing, you can explore the nearest tourist destinations such as the Gamla Stan, the old town in Stockholm. The place has pretty much a lot to offer. On long trips, you can check their museums, galleries, and palaces. Do not forget to take some breath-taking photos at the outlandish metro station to keep the memories alive.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Enjoy ice fishing in Reykjavik, one of the mythical places in Iceland. The sheer isolation and the country’s volcanic landscape give you unique scenery to fish from. And due to the long fishing heritage of the country, you will find some of the best-managed fisheries globally.
Once you get to Reykjavik, drive to Lake Thingvallavatn. Here you can catch trophy Brown Trout, some weighing 20-30 pounds, and Arctic Char. As you head into the ocean, there are other species to hunt like Halibut, Haddock, Pollock, and cod. That’s not all; you can fish from other rivers in Iceland that are full of wild salmon.
When it is time to take some time off fishing, go to the city’s outdoor pools to enjoy thermal waters, or go for some nice treat at a spa. Also, take pictures of monumental Hallgrimskirkja church and flawless wooden houses around the city.
Galway, Ireland
Galway is one of the best ice fishing spots in Europe as it has many lakes full of fish. Journeying north, you arrive at Lough Corrin, full of Salmon, Sea Trout, and Brown Trout. To the east and south lies Lake Lough Derg, where mayfly madness is common in April and May. You also have the Galway Bay hunt black crappie, rock bass, yellow perch, pumpkinseed, and walleye.
Apart from the various species you can catch in Ireland, the relaxed angling regulations make fishing more enjoyable. You do not need licenses to fish in any lake unless you are after the Sea Trout or Salmon. All you need is to watch the local limits and enjoy world-class fishing.
Fishing is not the only thing to enjoy in Galway. Being the Cultural Heart of Ireland, you can attend live music drifts and art festivals after landing your catch. But, if you are an outdoorsy person, go horse riding in Connemara.
Ammassalik, Greenland
This is one of the remote ice fishing spots in Europe where you get to hunt the catch while enjoying the amazing scenery. Ammassalik is in Eastern Greenland, and these fjords are both breathtaking and home to trophy fish. Here you can land a Greenland Shark that can weigh as much as 440 pounds and halibut of up to 110 pounds.
The best time to go to Ammassalik is when ice begins to thicken from January to April. But, always use guided tours to avoid getting lost on your way there. Plus, the guide will give you ice fishing instructions and take you on arctic excursions. It is also an opportunity for you to experience the traditional Greenlandic culture.
Oulu, Finland
Oula is an amazing spot for ice fishing during winter. You will enjoy the spectacular view of the frozen sea and the city as you reel in species such as roach, perch, and whitefish. No license is required, meaning you can visit the place with no restrictions.
But, it is always best to consider guided fishing trips to Oulu for a fun experience. Most tours will provide you with all the tackles and an ice fishing fish finder; you only need your insurance and winter clothes.
Fishing is not the only thing to do in Oulu. Once you are done with angling, take some nice pics of some of the gorgeous old buildings in the city. You can also head to Ainola Park or enjoy craft beer in fun bars such as Mallaskelleri.
Norway
Norway is a dream destination not only for deep-sea and fjord fishing but also for ice fishing. The country has many lakes that freeze during winter, making it the perfect spot to hunt for catches such as Cod, Sea Trout, Haddock, Coalfish, and Mackerel. The winter is also the best season as the fishing spots are less crowded, giving some solitude and more space to hunt.
Apart from enjoying ice fishing in Norway, you also get a good chance to experience the northern lights during the season and spot whales. Besides, you can go for outer winter sporting activities such as dog sledding, snowmobiling, and skiing.
Key insights & takeaway
Fishing doesn’t have to stop during winter. The spots I have highlighted above will give you a thrilling ice fishing experience. Just remember to dress warm, which starts with decent ice fishing bibs, get your tackles ready, do some research of what to expect, and head out to one of the spots. When you do it once, your winters will never be the same again!
Photo by James Wheeler on Unsplash
Ally is a wilderness explorer who has backpacked throughout South America, Iceland, and Europe. He loves sharing his adventures with others at Adventures Pursuit because he believes that everyone should be in the mindset of protecting our planet's beauty as much they can!
