Barato River Smelt Fishing for Families

To plan your trip, review Sapporo Travel - Official Sapporo Tourism Website.

To plan your trip, review Hokkaido University.

Families love this spot because it offers large, colorful heated tents on the ice. These tents keep your children warm while they wait for the fish to bite. You do not need to bring any of your own heavy fishing gear. Rental shops provide rods, bait, and even warm boots for every family member.

The fishing season here usually runs from early January through mid-March each year. It is easy to book ice fishing in Sapporo through local travel agencies. Prices for a half-day trip typically range from 5,000 to 8,000 yen per person. This cost often covers all equipment and professional guide assistance.

Guides will teach your children the best techniques for catching small wakasagi fish. These tiny fish are very active and provide constant excitement for young anglers. You can check the Sapporo Travel website for updated local event schedules. Make sure to reserve your spot early during the busy festival weekends.

Lake Shinotsu Winter Fishing Experience

Lake Shinotsu offers a wonderful rural escape for families seeking a quieter atmosphere. This beautiful lake is located about an hour drive from central Sapporo city. It is famous for its thick ice and very clear winter air. The lake area features a dedicated fishing park designed specifically for tourists.

One major highlight of this spot is the nearby Tappu-no-yu hot spring resort. You can warm up in the steaming onsen baths after your fishing session. Many families choose to buy a combined ticket for fishing and the hot springs. This makes for a perfect full-day winter itinerary in the Hokkaido countryside.

The fishing huts at Lake Shinotsu are sturdy and well-protected from the wind. They are large enough to fit a family of four or five comfortably. Staff members are always nearby to help you drill holes in the ice. They also provide plenty of bait and extra lines if you need them.

You can find more details on the City of Sapporo website regarding regional winter transport. Buses run frequently from the city to the Shin-Shinotsu area during the peak season. Expect to spend about four hours on the ice for a full experience. The peaceful surroundings offer great photo opportunities for your family album.

Practical Tips for Fishing with Kids

Taking children ice fishing requires some extra preparation to ensure everyone stays happy. The most important factor is keeping small hands and feet warm at all times. Use high-quality thermal layers and waterproof outer clothing for the best protection. Knowing what to bring for ice fishing will make your day much smoother.

Bring plenty of high-energy snacks and warm drinks like cocoa or tea. Children often get hungry quickly in the cold winter air of Hokkaido. Small stools or cushions are also helpful for sitting inside the fishing tents. These items keep your kids off the cold ice while they fish.

• Pack extra pairs of dry socks for every child.
• Use disposable chemical hand warmers inside gloves and boots.
• Bring a small plastic bag for any trash or wet items.
• Carry a portable power bank for your phone or camera.

Safety is always a top priority when walking on frozen bodies of water. Always follow the instructions of your local guides and stay within marked areas. Do not let children run on the ice as it can be slippery. Most family-friendly spots have very thick ice that is safe for walking.

What to Bring for Your 2026 Trip

Preparation is key for a successful family outing on the ice near Sapporo. You should start by packing multiple layers of moisture-wicking clothing for everyone. Avoid cotton fabrics because they stay wet and cold if they get damp. Synthetic materials or wool are much better choices for the Hokkaido climate.

Sunscreen is surprisingly important during the bright winter months in northern Japan. The sun reflects off the white snow and can cause sunburns quickly. High-quality sunglasses will also protect your eyes from the intense winter glare. Do not forget to bring a sturdy camera to capture the fun.

Most rental shops provide the basic fishing gear like rods and bait. However, you might want to bring your own specialized winter gloves. These should be thin enough to handle the fishing line but warm enough. Many families also bring small toys to keep toddlers entertained during slow moments.

The weather in Sapporo can change rapidly during the month of February. Check the local forecast every morning before you head out to the ice. If a blizzard is predicted, it is best to reschedule your trip. Safety should always come first when traveling with young children in winter.

Cooking Your Fresh Catch On-Site

The best part of ice fishing is eating the fish you just caught. Most family-friendly spots offer a cooking your catch service right on the ice. Staff members will clean your smelt and dip them in light batter. They then fry them in hot oil until they are crispy.

Freshly fried wakasagi tempura is a delicious and healthy snack for children. The fish are small enough that you can eat them whole, including the bones. They have a mild flavor that even picky eaters usually enjoy. This experience teaches kids about where their food comes from in nature.

Many tours provide a small table and chairs for your family meal. You can enjoy your hot fish while looking out at the snowy landscape. Some locations even offer hot miso soup to go with your fresh tempura. It is a cozy way to end your winter adventure together.

The cooking service is usually included in the price of your guided tour. If you are fishing independently, you may need to pay a small fee. Always wash your hands before eating after handling the bait and fish. Most sites provide hand sanitizer or portable washing stations for guests.