Ice-Fishing
Reeling in Serenity: Wakasagi Ice-Fishing in Furano’s Winter Wonderland
Picture this: Hokkaido, in the throes of winter, with its once shimmering lakes now locked beneath a thick sheet of ice, transformed into a vast, frozen playground. It’s the kind of landscape that looks like it’s been lifted straight from a postcard—or perhaps from the imagination of someone who prefers their winters distinctly Narnian. And here, among the stillness, the frosted trees, and the muffled crunch of snow underfoot, is where you’ll find a uniquely Japanese winter pastime: wakasagi ice-fishing.
Now, the idea of spending a day drilling a hole into an icy lake and waiting for fish to swim by might not strike you as exhilarating at first glance, but—believe me—there’s a charm to it. A kind of magic that lingers in the quiet simplicity of it all.
Why Wakasagi Fishing?
You see, most people flock to Hokkaido for its world-class skiing and snowboarding. The thrill of hurtling down powdery slopes at breakneck speed is the kind of heart-pounding adventure that draws the crowds. But here’s the thing: not everyone is chasing an adrenaline rush. Some come for something quieter, more communal.
That’s where wakasagi fishing comes in. Instead of zipping down mountainsides, you gather with friends (or perhaps friendly strangers) in a heated tent pitched over a frozen lake, rods in hand, waiting for the wakasagi to bite. And while you’re waiting, you can chat, laugh, and engage in some light-hearted competition over who will catch the most. It’s relaxed, a far cry from the speed of the slopes, but the appeal is in the shared experience. It’s you, your companions, and a serene winter landscape stretching out as far as the eye can see.
There’s no stress—the guides handle everything—so you don’t have to worry about equipment or expertise. All you have to bring is yourself and maybe a few good jokes to pass the time.
The Basics: Not as Complicated as You Think
If you’ve ever seen a documentary on ice-fishing, you might have gotten the impression that it’s a high-stakes game of patience, precision, and perhaps a little madness. But wakasagi fishing? It’s refreshingly simple. Even if you’ve never held a fishing rod in your life, this is the kind of activity you can jump into with minimal fuss.
Here’s how it works: a small hole is drilled into the ice (some tours even let you drill your own, which, let’s be honest, feels pretty satisfying). You drop a tiny hook into the water below and wait for the tug of a wakasagi. These fish tend to move in schools, so when they do arrive, things can get rather exciting.
Despite the tranquil pace, the thrill of a bite is universal. It doesn’t matter if you’re a six-year-old with boundless enthusiasm or an adult with a to-do list as long as your arm—the moment that line pulls, you’ll feel it. Guides are always on hand to help bait hooks, manage lines, and offer advice. So, even if your fishing skills are on par with your ability to juggle flaming swords, you’ll manage just fine.
Wakasagi Fishing Options: From Cozy to Classic
Now, wakasagi fishing comes with options. And who doesn’t love options? Especially when they involve how much of the cold you’d like to endure.
If the idea of sitting out on a frozen lake with Jack Frost nipping at your toes doesn’t quite appeal, you can opt for the more civilized version. This includes fishing from the comfort of a heated dome boat or houseboat, where you can drop your line through the floor without ever stepping outside. You get all the fun of fishing without the frosty cheeks.
However, if you’re in it for the real experience—the kind that involves braving the elements like some kind of Arctic adventurer—you can do it the traditional way. You sit out on the lake, bundled up, surrounded by miles of snow and ice, waiting for the fish to bite. There’s something about this option that feels a little more authentic, more connected to the landscape. You can almost hear the ice creaking and groaning beneath you, as if the lake itself were sighing in its winter slumber.
The Reward: Wakasagi Tempura
Once the fishing is done and your fingers have thawed, the fun isn’t over. Oh no. The true reward of wakasagi fishing comes when you get to cook (or, more often, have someone cook for you) your fresh catch into delectable wakasagi tempura.
Picture this: the fish, freshly fried to golden perfection, with a delicate crunch that gives way to soft, flaky fish. The contrast of the hot, crispy tempura against the cold winter air is a sensation you won’t soon forget. Pair it with a frosty glass of beer, and you’ve got the perfect end to your day—simple, delicious, and utterly satisfying.
What You’ll Need: Dress for Success
Now, as magical as this all sounds, let me remind you: Hokkaido winters are no joke. You’re going to want to dress the part. Ski gear works well—think thermal layers, a sturdy pair of gloves, a warm hat, and boots that can handle the cold. And don’t forget sunglasses. You might think, “It’s winter; why would I need those?”—but trust me, the glare off the snow is enough to make you squint like you’re staring into the sun. Sunscreen isn’t a bad idea either. (Yes, you can get sunburned in winter. I speak from experience.)
And for those who might have packed a little too light, never fear—many tours offer winter gear rentals. They’ve got you covered, quite literally.
A Memory for All Ages
Wakasagi ice-fishing is one of those rare activities that truly everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re young or old, experienced or brand new, it’s accessible, relaxing, and remarkably rewarding. It’s a chance to pause—to step away from the frantic pace of everyday life and simply enjoy the peace of a winter’s day in Hokkaido.
Whether you come for the slopes or the frozen lakes, you’ll find that the simple joy of wakasagi fishing is something that sticks with you. It’s an experience you’ll want to carve out time for—and one you’ll remember long after the ice has melted.
Kanayama Lake on Google Maps
- Address: Higashishikagoe, Minamifurano, Sorachi District, Hokkaido 079-2411
Katsurazawa Lake on Google Maps
- Address: Katsurazawa Lake, Mikasa, Hokkaido