FEBRUARY 8TH, 2026 | 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM (BACKUP DATE: FEBRUARY 15TH, 2026)
ISANTI COUNTY AREA LAKE (TBD), MINNESOTA
TOTAL COST: $25 | DEPOSIT: $25 (NON-REFUNDABLE)
AGES: 10-17 YEARS OF AGE
ARE PARENTS/GUARDIANS REQUIRED TO ATTEND: NO, CHILD DROP-OFF REQUIRED
TRIP DETAILS + OVERVIEW
Join Little Wilderness for our 2nd Annual Darkhouse Spearing Adventure and experience one of Minnesota’s most unique winter traditions! Darkhouse spearfishing is a fascinating and historic method of fishing through the ice using artificial decoys that attract fish in crystal-clear water. Participants will step inside a darkened fish house where, after a few moments, your eyes adjust and the underwater world comes to life beneath you. Watch carefully as a fish approaches your decoy... and when the moment’s right… SPEAR IT!
Upon arrival at the designated public lake access (TBD), participants will meet Little Wilderness coordinators and then head out to the darkhouses with our expert guides. Throughout the afternoon, our guides will teach the group about fish species identification, equipment, decoy use, spearing etiquette, and regulations, and answer any questions that come up. With a bit of luck, there may even be an opportunity to see and spear a fish!
All spearing equipment will be provided, along with a light meal on the ice. Please dress for the weather this adventure includes time both inside and outside of the darkhouse. We recommend layered clothing, gloves, a warm hat, waterproof boots, and cleats (if available). Participants ages 16–17 must have a valid Minnesota Angling License. (Note: your 2025 license remains valid through February 2026.) We’ll be in the North Central Pike Zone, targeting Northern Pike and possibly rough fish. If you successfully harvest a fish, you’ll have the option to bring it home for either taxidermy or meat processing.
After registering, you’ll receive an email from Little Wilderness with all the trip details including your packing list, meeting location, and additional event instructions. Please ensure you register with a valid email address so you don’t miss important updates. For questions, contact: angie.littlewilderness@gmail.com Adventure awaits on the ice! Join Little Wilderness for an unforgettable afternoon of learning, discovery, and spearing under the frozen Minnesota sky.