The Top 6 Ice Fishing Locations in Europe

Winter is on its way, and you might be wondering what you’ll do with yourself throughout the season. It’s possible that staying inside doesn’t appeal to you. If you are an angler or are considering becoming one, however, the season should not be a deterrent.

Ice fishing is also a fun activity to try in the winter. For both novice and experienced anglers, it is one of the most thrilling experiences. It isn’t without its challenges, though. Furthermore, if you are a beginner, it is always recommended that you use a guide to quickly master the techniques while remaining safe.

Where can you go ice fishing in Europe, then? Don’t worry about it! Here are six of Europe’s best ice fishing spots.

The 6 best ice fishing spots in Europe

Stockholm, Sweden

Sweden is a beautiful city where you will want to go fishing. The Stockholm waters and surrounding rivers are teeming with fish even in the dead of winter. You can also fish without restrictions because you don’t need a license.

Lake trout, Northern pike, Perch, and Salmon are the most common species in Stockholm. However, if you travel to nearby rivers, you can go saltwater fishing in the Baltic Sea. You can catch Sea Trout, Salmon, and Cod here.

After you’ve finished fishing, you can visit nearby tourist attractions such as Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s old town. The location has a great deal to offer. You can visit their museums, galleries, and palaces on long trips. Don’t forget to take some breathtaking photos at the bizarre metro station to preserve the memories.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Ice fishing is a popular activity in Reykjavik, one of Iceland’s mythical cities. The country’s volcanic landscape and sheer isolation provide you with one-of-a-kind fishing opportunities. And, as a result of the country’s long fishing heritage, some of the best-managed fisheries in the world can be found there. You can also rent ice fishing gear such as an ice fishing rod and reel combo if you didn’t bring yours. 

Drive to Lake Thingvallavatn from Reykjavik. Trophy Brown Trout, weighing up to 30 pounds, can be caught here, as well as Arctic Char. Other species to hunt include halibut, haddock, pollock, and cod as you travel further out into the ocean. Not only that, but you can also catch wild salmon in other rivers in Iceland.

When it’s time to take a break from fishing, head to one of the city’s outdoor pools to soak in the thermal waters, or visit a spa for a relaxing treatment. Take photos of the magnificent Hallgrimskirkja church and the city’s immaculate wooden houses as well.

Galway, Ireland

Galway has many lakes full of fish, making it one of the best ice fishing destinations in Europe. As you travel north, you will come across Lough Corrin, which is teeming with Salmon, Sea Trout, and Brown Trout. Lake Lough Derg, to the east and south, is a hotspot for mayfly madness in April and May. You can also catch black crappie, rock bass, yellow perch, pumpkinseed, and walleye on the Galway Bay.

Aside from the diverse species available in Ireland, the relaxed angling regulations make fishing more enjoyable. Unless you’re after sea trout or salmon, you don’t need a license to fish in any lake. All you have to do is keep an eye on the local limits and you’ll be able to enjoy some world-class fishing.

Galway has more to offer than just fishing. After landing your catch, you can attend live music drifts and art festivals in the Cultural Heart of Ireland. However, if you enjoy being outside, go horseback riding in Connemara.

Ammassalik, Greenland

This is one of Europe’s most remote ice fishing locations, where you can hunt for your catch while admiring the breathtaking scenery. Ammassalik is located in Eastern Greenland, and the fjords here are both beautiful and home to trophy fish. A Greenland Shark weighing up to 440 pounds can be caught here, as well as halibut weighing up to 110 pounds.

Ammassalik is best visited between January and April, when the ice begins to thicken. To avoid getting lost on your way there, however, always take guided tours. In addition, the guide will teach you how to ice fish and take you on arctic adventures. You will also have the opportunity to learn about Greenlandic culture.

Oulu, Finland

During the winter, Oula is an excellent location for ice fishing. As you reel in species such as roach, perch, and whitefish, you will be treated to a spectacular view of the frozen sea and the city. There is no need for a license, so you can visit the location without restriction.

However, for a more enjoyable experience, consider guided fishing trips to Oulu. Most tours will supply all of the tackle; all you need is your insurance and winter gear.

In Oulu, fishing isn’t the only thing to do. After you’ve finished angling, take some nice photos of some of the city’s beautiful old buildings. You can also visit Ainola Park or drink craft beer in fun bars like Mallaskelleri.

Norway

Not only for deep sea and fjord fishing, but also for ice fishing, Norway is a dream destination. Many lakes in the country freeze over during the winter, making it ideal for fishing for Cod, Sea Trout, Haddock, Coalfish, and Mackerel. Winter is also the best time to go fishing because the spots are less crowded, allowing for more solitude and space to hunt.

In addition to enjoying ice fishing in Norway, you have a good chance of seeing the northern lights and whales during the season. You can also participate in outdoor winter sports like dog sledding, snowmobiling, and skiing. 

Final Thoughts

Fishing does not have to be put on hold during the winter. The ice fishing spots highlighted above will provide you with an exciting ice fishing experience. Just remember to dress warmly, prepare your tackles, do some research on what to expect, and then head out to one of the locations. Once you’ve done ice fishing once, your winters will never be the same!