Not to be outdone by the world class fishing in the southern and eastern areas of the province the North West region of Ontario continues to produce trophy fish and world class outfitters. Enjoying a family vacation in this northern Ontario setting is nothing short of astounding. You will love the never ending fishing opportunities and your family will enjoy the natural wilderness and solitude only northern Ontario can provide.

Divided primarily into regions or sections the northern areas of Ontario can be divided into the following. Algoma, Sunset Country, James Bay Frontier, and North of Superior. North of Superior major cities and tourist attractions include Thunder Bay, Armstrong, Nakina  and Atikokan. Popular fishing lakes in this region are Lake Superior, Lac des Mille Lacs, and Lake Nipigon. Travelling northwest from Thunder Bay along Hwy#17 you pass the town of Ignace which acts as the midpoint when travelling between Thunder Bay and Kenora. A thriving northern community sporting all the amenities of a midsized town awaits your arrival on your journey into the northern regions of the province. Rugged scenery is ideal for the photographer as this area provides natural beauty only found in the north. Turtle River and Sand Bar Lake Provincial Park are minutes away and you will soon recognize that Fishing and Hunting are the primary source of income for most of the inhabitants of this area.

Turning northward on Hwy#599 you pass many fishable northern lakes such as Sandbar Lake, Sowden Lake, Indian Lake, Barrel Lake, Bell Lake and Sturgeon Lake. Continuing east along HWY#642 other angling opportunities await with popular lakes such as Minnitaki Lake south of Sioux Lookout lying between  Hwy#642 and Hwy#72 , Lac Seul to the north and Little Vermilion to the west.  It’s hard not to tell that Sioux Lookout is an angling paradise when a town has its own Master Angler program. An angler who lands a trophy fish within size limits can enter the towns master angler program and visitors provided they are staying at a Sioux Lookout area establishment are also eligible. If you or your family need a break from hauling in numerous northern trophy sized fish then a day out in the town of Sioux Lookout is recommended. 

Take a drive to the heart of the town and enjoy a swim at one of the numerous public beaches and catch some of the local action. August visitors will also find the renowned Blueberry Festival to be an extremely tasty outing. A nine hole golf course is also close by and you might just want to play a round while your family enjoys the shops and souvenir stores nearby.  Regroup for lunch at one of the many fine cafes and restaurants that serve the area and enjoy some real home style cooking and service.

Touring the town and surrounding areas you will realize that this area thrives on fishing. With that being said many Northern Lodges, Resorts and Fly In Outposts in this area are some of the best you will ever experience.  Many popular destinations cater to angling groups and families alike. Most modern lodges such as Anderson’s Lodge and Fireside Lodge cater to a wide variety of people. Even the most particular visitor will feel right at home while your hosts ensure that everything is just perfect. Unpack your gear,  find where the hottest fishing areas are and enjoy your northern Ontario fishing vacation with your friends and family.

Trophy fishing made simple.

  This article was written by the
contributing staff of OFT and its
group of amateur and pro Ontario anglers.

Copyright 2008. Ontario Fish Trips .