Many hardcore anglers who have travelled to the northern parts of Ontario will tell you tales about fishing that’s simply outstanding. Ontario fishing destinations can be likened to a fine wine as they get better with age. This speaks volumes about the care and effort put into Ontario’s fisheries by not only governments but by anglers as well. We’ve all heard the phrase ‘Trip of a Lifetime’ and it is often spoken in the same breath with the word ‘Ontario’.

Reflecting on some of the ‘Trips of a Lifetime’ I’ve taken in the past much can be said about the care given to the local fisheries and the significant impact it’s had by Lodge and Resort owners. These are the folks who ensure that every visitor to the north experiences that ‘Trip of a Lifetime’ and that you will have the chance to relive them on a regular basis. Delving further into and researching some of the great operators in the province you’ll slowly learn that experience, knowledge and care for the environment all play a vital role in your future ‘Trips of a Lifetime’.

Ontario’s north is a vast area pocketed with towns villages and hamlets nestled in picturesque settings. None so picturesque as Ontario’s Sunset Country. Spreading from the eastern border of Manitoba you’ll discover towns such as Minaki and Kenora. South of Kenora you’ll discover two world famous water bodies, Shoal Lake and Lake of the Woods . Made popular by many television hosts Lake of the Woods continues to be trophy waters for many species of fish. Heading eastward on Hwy #17 you will soon discover just how big the Lake of the Woods body of water really is. Carved into the western Canadian Shield over 570 million years ago its history is also carved into the region with many First Nation tribes who have lived on this land long before the first fur trader expeditions into the northwestern part of the province. Covering almost two thirds of the province the Canadian Shield provides thousands of lakes and rivers for anglers and endless forests for the avid hunter.

Turning southbound on Hwy #71 we travel through the Ojibway and Sioux Indian historical battle grounds of Sioux Narrows. Continuing southbound you’ll soon discover the community of Sioux Narrows and Nestor Falls. Once each a unique town of their own they officially merged municipalities on Jan 01, 2001 and provide travelers and tourists with many services. This area provides some of the most popular vacation spots in the region and is noted for its spectacular scenery, inland lakes, hunting, fishing and wilderness activities.

Nestor Falls has become a much desired location for many anglers and hunters over the years. Located smack dab in the middle of dozens of lakes it is home to many species of Ontario sport fish. Anglers can enjoy Walleye, Northern Pike, Musky, Smallmouth Bass, Largemouth Bass and Lake Trout. During the winter season fish huts become part of the frozen landscape while anglers enjoy reeling in Perch and Crappie and Lake Trout in large numbers. With an area of historic proportions such as Lake of the Woods and its outlying towns you will find many fishing lodges and resorts that provide anglers and hunters with year round facilities.

Many First Nation reserves dot the landscape in this area; Lake of the Woods Indian Reserve, Obabikong Indian Reserve and Sabaskong Bay Indian Reserve just to name a few. You’ll also find that many outfitters in the region offer professional guiding services which are deeply rooted with many of the native people in the area providing guiding services. Choosing a guide in this area should always be taken into consideration when selecting a lodge, resort or outfitter. Many locals also offer guiding services and guides who have grown up in the area can provide that little extra knowledge that's definately helpful in catching that trophy fish. 

The fact that many of these folks are deeply rooted in the area and fish these waters on a daily basis should only enforce your decision to hire a guide. They are a valuable resource when fishing for trophy game fish in Ontario. They know the waters in the area, eating habits of the fish, seasonal patterns and favorite locations. Some lodges and resorts such as First Nation Guides and Meline’s Lodge and Guide service offer special packages and rates for fish guiding in the Sabaskong Bay and Kakagi Lake areas respectively. They also offer as guided tours of the Lake of the Woods area and know all the best spots which you might not find on your own.

You'll be surprised that the rates for hiring a guide are quite affordable and with their knowledge and experience you might not only catch that trophy of a lifetime but might also learn some interesting historic information of the area as well. The best part is you’ve met a new friend who will be there for you the next time you visit.

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

Copyright 2008. Ontario Fish Trips