The festival is held at an altitude of approximately 700 meters above sea level, a height famously marketed by Pyeongchang as the optimal elevation for human biological rhythm.
The target fish species is the mountain trout, which thrives in the clean, cold, and fast-flowing waters of the Odaecheon Stream.
The festival relies on the extreme temperature drops in the Gangwon-do mountains to naturally freeze the river to a safe depth for thousands of visitors.
The event provides specific 'bare-hand' fishing zones where participants attempt to catch fish in freezing water without tools, a popular challenge for local participants.
The Pyeongchang Ice Fishing Festival, also known as the Odaecheon Stream Ice Fishing Festival, takes place on the frozen waters of the Odaecheon Stream in the Gangwon-do province. Visitors drill holes through thick ice to catch mountain trout using handheld jigs. The festival site is located at a high elevation, ensuring sub-zero temperatures that maintain the ice thickness required for the event. Participants can grill their freshly caught trout on-site at designated cooking zones provided by the festival organizers. Beyond fishing, the venue features winter-themed activities like traditional sledding and snow tubing on groomed tracks. The event is deeply rooted in local Pyeongchang culture, emphasizing the region's connection to its cold-water mountain streams.
The central bridge overlooking the vast expanse of the frozen stream filled with hundreds of colorful fishing tents.
Wear multiple layers and thick, waterproof insulated boots, as you will be standing on ice for extended periods.
Bring a portable folding stool for comfort while waiting for a bite.
If you are a beginner, watch experienced locals to learn the specific rhythmic jigging technique required to attract trout.
Avoid arriving without hand warmers or thermal insoles, as the cold radiates directly through the soles of standard shoes.
Operates only during the peak winter months (January and February) when the ice is sufficiently thick; closed during warmer periods.
Do not leave fishing gear or trash on the ice; respect the demarcated fishing zones and maintain a safe distance from other fishers' holes.
