Fishing tours from Tromsø in winter

Fishing is deeply connected to life in Northern Norway and winter is an amazing time to discover this Arctic tradition. You can head onto the Arctic fjords aboard a historic wooden boat or leave the coast behind to try fishing through the ice of a frozen lake.

If you are looking for fishing tours from Tromsø in winter here are the experiences, you can book and what you should know before choosing your tour.

Can you go fishing in Tromsø during winter?

Yes, winter fishing in Tromsø is possible, both at sea and on frozen lakes. Sea fishing gives you the opportunity to discover the fjords and Northern Norway’s coastal culture, while ice fishing takes you into the countryside for a very different Arctic experience.

You do not need to be experienced to join either activity. Fishing equipment and guidance are provided, making these experiences suitable for travelers who simply want to try something new during their stay in Tromsø.

Experience sea fishing on a fjord cruise

If you want to combine fishing with time on the water, our Fishing & Fjord Cruise aboard Hermes II offers both experiences in one trip. The approximately 4.5-hour cruise departs from Tromsø aboard a restored wooden vessel built in 1917, adding some maritime history to the journey.

The captain heads toward suitable fishing areas and the crew provide the equipment you need. Whether it is your first time holding a fishing rod or you have fished before, the crew can help you get started. To keep the experience comfortable and prevent tangled lines around five or six rods are used at once and guests alternate so everyone gets an opportunity to fish.

The tour is as much about culture as fishing. Hot drinks are included and if the day’s fishing is successful the fresh catch may be prepared and served on board with butter and flatbread.

Try ice fishing near Tromsø

For a completely different experience, ice fishing near Tromsø takes you away from the coast and into the Arctic countryside. Our Best Kept Secret: Ice Fishing combines a scenic drive from Tromsø with time on a frozen lake, where you can experience a slower and quieter side of winter in Northern Norway.

Once you reach the fishing location, your guide provides the equipment and explains how ice fishing works. You will learn how to drill through the ice before preparing your fishing line and trying your luck for fish.

Depending on the conditions, snowshoes may also be used to move through the snowy landscape. When weather and conditions allow, your guide can make a fire while you enjoy hot drinks, snacks and a simple hot lunch outdoors.

The experience lasts approximately 6 hours and currently has a minimum age of 8 years. With a small group, it is particularly suitable for travelers who want to leave the city behind and spend more time surrounded by Arctic nature.

Sea fishing or ice fishing: which should you choose?

The fishing cruise is a good match if you want to combine fishing, sightseeing and maritime culture without traveling far from Tromsø. The historic wooden boat, fjord scenery and time at sea make the journey as important as the fishing itself.

Choose ice fishing if your idea of a winter adventure involves frozen lakes, snowshoes, a small group and spending time in the Arctic wilderness. The experience takes you farther away from the city and combines fishing with a scenic road trip and time outdoors surrounded by winter landscapes.

Do you need fishing experience?

No previous fishing experience is required for these Tromsø fishing experiences. Equipment is provided and guides or crew members help you understand what to do which makes them suitable for travelers who simply want to try fishing for the first time as well as those already experienced in the activity.

It is also important to remember that a catch is never guaranteed. The conditions and the fish ultimately decide what happens so part of the fun is enjoying the surroundings while you wait.

What should you wear for winter fishing in Tromsø?

Dress warmly and in layers regardless of which experience you choose. Even though thermal suits are available during the activities, we recommend wearing warm clothing, winter boots, a hat, mitten and a scarf.

Winter conditions in Northern Norway can change quickly so being properly dressed makes a significant difference. For more detailed advice before your trip read our guide to what to pack and wear in Northern Norway.

If you don’t have suitable winter clothing with you can also rent warm winter clothing through our partner Tromsø Outdoor.

What else can you combine with a fishing tour?

A daytime fishing tour leaves you with plenty of possibilities for the rest of your stay. In the evening, you could join one of our Northern Lights tours, while another day could be dedicated to dog sledding or join a reindeer experiences.

If you are looking for more ways to experience Tromsø without making every day an expensive full-day excursion our guide to budget-friendly tours in Tromsø can also help you plan your stay.

Book your winter fishing tour from Tromsø

Whether you want to drop a fishing line into an Arctic fjord aboard a historic wooden boat or drill through the ice of a frozen lake a winter fishing tour offers a different way to discover Northern Norway. Both experiences allows you to discover the fishing culture.

Explore Best Arctic’s fishing tours from Tromsø and choose the experience that suits you best.