Pilkkiminen

Pilkkiminen, or ice fishing, is a winter fishing method practiced on frozen lakes and rivers. In Finland it is a popular pastime during the cold months, traditionally conducted by drilling holes in the ice and fishing through them.

The core method is jigging through a hole using a short rod and a small lure or live bait. An alternative approach uses tip-ups placed on the ice with flags that signal when a fish takes the bait. Anglers may combine several holes and approaches, sometimes moving between sites to follow fish activity.

Gear includes an ice auger or power drill to create the holes, a skimmer to clear slush, appropriate warm clothing, and a chair or sled for transport. Many practitioners use an ice shelter or tent to protect against wind and cold, and some setups include a small heater or insulated seating.

Common targets are perch and pike, with other species such as whitefish or pike-perch depending on location. The season spans the period when the lake surface is reliably frozen, typically from late autumn through winter.

Safety and regulations emphasize ice condition assessment and local rules. Practitioners should check ice thickness and stability, avoid travel on unsafe ice, and follow regulations on licenses, bag limits, and protected species. Ice fishing is often conducted as a social activity, sometimes accompanied by warm beverages and simple meals, reflecting its role as a seasonal tradition in northern regions.