Episode 2: Through the Ice: Stories and Lessons from the Frozen Wild

The Yukon winter is a time of transformation. As the lakes freeze and the snow blankets the wilderness, a new kind of adventure begins—ice fishing. There’s something magical about stepping onto a frozen lake, drilling a hole into the icy surface, and waiting patiently for a fish to tug at your line. It’s not just about the catch; it’s about the connection to nature, the quiet moments, and the stories that linger long after the ice melts.

In the latest episode of the Wild Place Adventures podcast, we delve into the heart of ice fishing. From my earliest memories as a kid braving the wind on the Churchill River to modern-day trips on the crystal-clear lakes of the Yukon, this episode is a journey through time, filled with lessons, laughter, and a touch of nostalgia.

It starts with a memory—my very first ice fishing trip. Armed with a hand auger and a stick wrapped with fishing line, we set out onto the ice, guessing where the fish might swim beneath. The wind howled, the current beneath the ice tugged at our lines, and while the details blur, the sense of adventure remains vivid. Those early experiences taught me not just about fishing but about resilience, patience, and embracing the unknown.

Fast forward to today, and ice fishing has become more than a pastime—it’s a passion. Technology has transformed the experience with electric augers and pop-up shelters, but the essence remains the same. It’s still about finding that perfect spot, braving the elements, and sharing the day with friends and family.

This episode is more than just a recounting of past trips. It’s a guide for anyone who dreams of stepping onto a frozen lake, whether for the first time or the hundredth. We dive into ice safety—how to recognize strong ice, what to do if you or your snow machine breaks through, and why preparation is key. We explore the tools of the trade, from the simple hand auger of my youth to the sleek electric models of today. And we touch on conservation, sharing why responsible fishing ensures these experiences for generations to come.

But perhaps the most meaningful part of ice fishing is the time spent with loved ones. I share stories of taking my kids out on the ice, teaching them how to fish, and watching them learn to love the outdoors. I recount moments with friends, where a simple tug on the line turned into laughter, chaos, and memories that will last a lifetime. Ice fishing, at its core, is about connection—to nature, to others, and to ourselves.

This episode is an invitation. It’s a call to step out into the cold, to embrace the wild, and to find the joy that comes from something as simple as a hole in the ice and a line in the water.

Are You Ready to Join the Adventure?

Listen to Through the Ice: Stories and Lessons from the Frozen Wild and discover the magic of ice fishing. Whether you’re an experienced angler or someone who’s never stepped onto a frozen lake, this episode has something for everyone. Together, let’s celebrate the season, honor the wild, and create stories worth sharing.

Click here to listen now, and don’t forget to subscribe for more adventures. Winter is calling—will you answer?