Ice Fishing and Aurora Extravaganza

Discover the Unique Combo of Ice Fishing, Snowshoeing, and Aurora Viewing in Fairbanks

The Ice Fishing and Aurora Extravaganza from Wandering Alaska LLC offers a full day of authentic Alaskan winter activities for $450 per person. Starting around noon in Fairbanks, this 16-hour guided tour combines ice fishing, casual snowshoeing, and nighttime aurora chasing, making it ideal for those eager to experience multiple winter pursuits in one adventure.

What sets this tour apart is its highly customizable nature—you can decide when to return based on how the night unfolds, possibly staying out until 4 am if the aurora is spectacular. This activity is especially suited for travelers who enjoy learning about nature, trying their hand at fishing, and chasing stunning Northern Lights. The price includes many amenities, but travelers should note that additional costs for gear rentals and fishing licenses are not covered.

Key Points

• Full-day experience combining ice fishing, snowshoeing, and aurora chasing in Alaska.
• Flexible timing: the tour may extend until 4 am, depending on aurora conditions.
• Expert guides lead you through ice fishing on a luxury ice fishing castle with underwater cameras.
• Transportation from Fairbanks to the fishing spot, roughly 1.5 hours each way.
• Includes a guided 4-hour ice fishing session with lunch or dinner.
• Nighttime aurora viewing with photo assistance and portrait photos included.

Starting the Day: Departure from Fairbanks and Travel to the Ice Fishing Site

The tour begins in Fairbanks around 12:30 pm, where participants meet at the designated starting point. From there, a round-trip transportation service takes guests to a beautiful frozen lake in Southeast Alaska, with a scenic stop to photograph the Salcha River Basin along the way.

The roughly 1.5-hour drive offers a scenic introduction to the interior landscape, setting the mood for a full day of outdoor activity. This transportation arrangement ensures a comfortable start, with plenty of time to relax and prepare for the outdoor experience ahead.

The Luxury Ice Fishing Castle and Expert Guidance

Upon arriving at the frozen lake, guests are greeted by an Ice Fishing Expert Guide who introduces the Luxury Ice Fishing Castle—a specially designed shelter for comfort and warmth during the fishing experience. The guide emphasizes sustainable fishing practices, avoiding overfishing and managing group sizes for a more personalized experience.

Participants get about 4 hours to learn ice fishing techniques, watch fish beneath the ice via underwater cameras, and try their luck catching fish. The guide shares stories of Alaska’s wildlife and fishing traditions, creating a relaxed yet informative atmosphere. After catching fish, the guide prepares lunch or dinner using the fish caught, adding a delicious, fresh element to the day.

Watching Fish Beneath the Ice with Underwater Cameras

A highlight of the ice fishing portion is the use of underwater cameras, which provide a close-up view of fish swimming beneath the ice. This feature makes the experience accessible and engaging, especially for those new to fishing or unfamiliar with aquatic life under winter conditions.

Participants are encouraged to ask questions, and the guide remains on site to fish with the group, ensuring a shared experience. The no large groups policy means a more intimate and relaxed environment, perfect for beginners and seasoned anglers alike.

Enjoying a Warm Meal and Relaxing by the Campfire

After a few hours of fishing, the group gathers around a campfire near the lake. Here, everyone gets to roast marshmallows, enjoy hot cocoa or tea, and share stories in the crisp winter air. This cozy moment provides a break before heading into the snowshoeing portion of the tour.

The warm meal prepared by the guide adds comfort to the outdoor adventure, making the experience both exciting and restorative. It’s an authentic slice of Alaska’s outdoor lifestyle, with plenty of opportunities for photographs and moments of quiet reflection amid the snow-covered landscape.

Snowshoeing in the Winter Wilderness

Post-meal, the tour shifts to casual snowshoeing or hiking through the nearby forest. This activity is easy and accessible, suitable for most fitness levels and ages. Snowshoeing offers a chance to explore the winter wonderland, listen to the silence of the snow-covered trees, and appreciate the serenity of Alaska’s wilderness.

Guided by the same expert, this part of the tour emphasizes nature observation and appreciation of the landscape. Participants can expect a leisurely walk, perfect for photography or simply soaking in the scenery, before the night sky begins to darken.

Aurora Chasing and the Best Viewing Locations

As night falls, the group evaluates aurora viewing conditions and discusses the science of the Northern Lights. The tour is flexible: the guide may choose to stay on the lake or pursue the aurora further south toward Delta Junction or back toward Fairbanks for the best viewing spots.

Participants are encouraged to bring cameras or phones, as photo support is available, including basic tips to capture the aurora. The tour also offers portrait photos with the aurora, with five edited images included at the discretion of the photographer.

The Night: Full Aurora Viewing and Optional Chasing

The full night of aurora viewing can extend until 4 am, depending on the weather and aurora activity. The guide provides help with photography, so even those unfamiliar with night photography can get good shots. Extra fun perks and surprises may be added based on weather conditions, enhancing the experience with spontaneous delights.

Having a private tour ensures that groups do not feel crowded, and the flexible timing allows guests to maximize their chances of witnessing the Northern Lights in all their glory.

Logistics: What’s Included and What Costs Extra

The included amenities cover transportation, guidance during ice fishing, snowshoeing, aurora discussions, photos, and hot drinks. The tour provides snacks and makings for hot cocoa or tea to keep warm during the outdoor moments.

However, travelers should consider additional expenses such as warm clothing, camera rentals (ranging from $15 to $55), tripod rentals, and a fishing license for $15 (kids under 16 can fish for free). These extras enable a more comfortable or professional photography experience but are not included in the base price.

The Experience Provider and Booking Details

Operated by Wandering Alaska LLC, this tour is a private activity—only your group participates, making for a personalized experience. Booking confirmation occurs immediately after reservation, with the understanding that the experience depends on favorable weather; poor conditions lead to rescheduling or full refunds.

The meeting point is in Fairbanks, with pickup and drop-off included. The tour’s flexible timing allows you to tailor the experience based on the aurora forecast and your preferences.

Who Will Most Enjoy This Tour

This Ice Fishing and Aurora Extravaganza is perfect for adventurers who enjoy outdoor activities, learning new skills, and experiencing Alaska’s winter landscape firsthand. It suits those who want a comprehensive day filled with fishing, nature walks, and night sky exploration.

Participants should be prepared for cold weather and bring appropriate clothing, or plan to rent winter gear if needed. The tour’s personalized approach makes it a great choice for families, couples, or small groups seeking a customized winter adventure.

The Sum Up: A Truly Multi-Faceted Alaskan Winter Experience

This tour offers an engaging blend of ice fishing, snowshoeing, and aurora chasing in the heart of Alaska’s winter. Its flexible schedule and focused guidance make it an appealing option for those wanting to maximize their day outdoors while enjoying comfort and expert insights.

While extra costs for gear rentals and licenses are not included, the comprehensive experience—including photos, guidance, and full-night aurora viewing—provides good value. The small group setting and personalized approach ensure a memorable, authentic Alaskan adventure suited for nature lovers and curious explorers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children under 16 do not require a fishing license, and the casual snowshoeing and outdoor activities can be enjoyed by most ages, provided they are dressed warmly.

What should I bring for this tour?
Participants should bring warm clothing, including layers, hats, gloves, and waterproof boots. Rental options are available for cameras and tripods if needed.

Can I see the Northern Lights if I join this tour?
Yes, the tour is designed for aurora viewing and chasing, with flexible plans to maximize your chances of seeing the lights in various locations, depending on weather and aurora activity.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions are unfavorable, it will be rescheduled or fully refunded. The guide will adjust the plans for the best possible experience.