Big Hook News & Fishing Reports

Red Lake Info

2012-01-13T13:02:00.001-06:00

Red Lake Tim Horton's

Two big name corporations are establishing themselves in Red Lake, Ontario this winter. The first, is one of the more popular restaurants/coffee shops in all of Canada, Tim Hortons. Tim's is a casual fast food restaurant known for it's coffee and donuts. It is also Canada's largest fast food service with over 3000 stores nationwide. Just imagine a Dunkin Donuts. Amazingly Tim's is growing faster in Canada than mega fast food giant McDonalds. Guests will immediately notice Tim's on the right side of 105 just before you arrive into Red Lake.

Super 8 Red Lake

Tim's and Super 8 are next door

The second business firing up in Red Lake is a welcomed Super 8 hotel. The Super 8 franchise is scheduled to be completed by spring 2012. This motel is reported to have 65 rooms and are a much appreciated addition to the limited hotel scene in Red. With such a gold boom occurring in Red Lake, hotels in the past were often booked solid with mining exploration teams. Some guests noted they were required to make reservations six months in advance. Attached right is progress of the Super 8 as off 12/7/2011. The hotel is located in the same area as Tim Hortons. Visit the link below for a visual Google Map.

Map for Tim's and Super 8

A Side Note
On a side note... If anyone is flying into Minneapolis and would like to rent a van to drive to Red Lake this company is worth checking out.

Twin City Truck and Van Rental 460 E Villuame Ave S. St Paul, MN 55075 651-457-6687

Winter Tid Bits

2012-01-05T11:30:00.002-06:00

Happy New Year to all. 2011 has come and gone in the blink of an eye. Where did the time go? It seems just like yesterday I was navigating the sunny skies of the Opasquia Provincial Park in XZK (the Big Hook cargo plane) or as I call it "the flying root beer can". Hmmmm, only 19 weeks to the walleye opener! I'll be back in that flying vessel before I know it. Even though myself and my family is not able to enjoy the beauty of NW Ontario in these chilly winter months, we anticipate to live vicariously through your amazing fishing stories during the 2012 sport show tour.

Winter Road Sunrise

January is a surprisingly busy month for Big Hook Camps. Along with traveling throughout out the USA for the entire month on the All Canada tour, we also must plan for the winter road. As many of you know, the winter road to Sandy Lake is an adventurous undertaking. Long hours navigating harsh and frigid terrain is indeed an energy depleting task. The last several years the winter highway has opened in the closing days of January. However, a mild winter has begun in the north country. Luke warm temperatures thus far have resulted in thin ice and little snow. Optimal ice thickness for our travels on the road is 16 inches. Fuel tankers are not allowed to travel the highway until ice reaches a minimum thickness of 22". That being said I am one of few people that are keeping my fingers crossed for numbing temperatures.

We have plenty of materials purchased and ready to transport for the 2012 winter highway. Five new 4 stroke Yamaha's, a new boat, new solar batteries for Central and plenty of lumber are just several goods that will be accompanying us on the journey. We expect to traverse the highway twice with two or three vehicles and a trailer.

Other tid bits:

Sandy Lake cell phone tower is completed, however telecommunication officials still need to visit the site before cell coverage is available.
Little snow so far this winter doesn't bode well for lake levels next spring. As many of you remember 2011 was one of the driest summers on record.
The 2012 season is booking up incredibly fast. Make sure to get your reservations in as soon as possible.

Let us start 2012 with a delicious walleye recipe. I like to add a couple of dashes of cayenne for some extra kick. Enjoy!

Caribbean Walleye

3 pounds walleye pike fillets -- 3/4" thick
4 shallots -- chopped
4 cloves garlic -- minced
1 cup orange juice
1 cup white wine
1/4 cup dark rum
Juice of 2 limes
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup parsley -- chopped
1/4 teaspoon white pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary

Remove skin and any bones from fillets. Wash with cool water and pat
dry. Put all ingredients except the fish in a skillet over medium high
heat until mixture reduces by half. Stir gently while cooking.
Grill the fish for 3 to 4 minutes on each side at a medium high
temperature, turning gently. Spoon a few tablespoons of the sauce over
each portion of fish. Serve immediately.

We look forward to visiting with everyone over the next couple of weeks.

-Nathan

Big Hook Camps

2012 Sport Show Tour

2011-12-28T12:15:00.001-06:00

VISIT Big Hook Wilderness Camps AT THE 2012 SPORT SHOWS

All Canada Shows:

Jan 12-15 Pheasant Run Mega Center St Charles, IL

Thurs 5-9, Fri 3-9, Sat 10-6, Sunday 10-4

Jan 16-18 Merriott Madison West Madison WI

Monday 5-9, Tuesday 3-9, Weds 10-3

Jan 19-22 Milwaukee County Sports Complex Milwaukee, WI

Thurs 5-9, Fri 3-9, Sat 10-6, Sunday 10-4

Jan 26-29 Green Bay, WI Shopko Hall

Thurs 5-9, Friday 3-9, Sat 10-6, Sunday 10-4

Tinely Park Show:

Feb 11-12 Tinley Park IL, High School

Sat 9-5, Sun 9-5

We look forward to seeing everyone there. Hope everyone has a great New Year!

-Nathan

Big Hook Camps

www.bighookcamps.com

Ontario Fishing Licenses

2011-12-27T08:22:00.001-06:00

How to buy your Ontario fishing licence online:

Introducing the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources' New Automated Licensing System

This page is highly recommended for all guests and especially guests flying commercial airlines to N.W. Ontario. We recommend buying your licence a month in advance.

The fall of 2011 marks the introduction of the Ministry of Natural Resources' automated licensing system. Clients will see a number of improvements as a result of the new system. For example, the system will facilitate the sale of fishing and hunting licences at licence issuers, over the Internet and through a toll-free telephone application.

You can also get more information on the Outdoors Card by calling the Outdoors Card Centre at 1-800-387-7011 . This toll-free number works from all of North America, from Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Eastern Time).

The following web address will take you the page that allows you to buy your outdoors card and licence.

http://www.mnr.gov.on.ca/en/Business/LetsFish/2ColumnSubPage/STDPROD_091032.html

Before you start

WHAT YOU NEED
First Time Applicants for Fishing Outdoors Card	Existing Outdoors Card Holders
your first and last name your date of birth your mailing and residential address your height and eye colour	your Outdoors Card number your date of birth your postal or zip code last on file

Tis the season....for Bowl Games!

2011-12-08T10:44:00.001-06:00

Think you know how the college bowls will play out...then prove it by entering the Big Hook Bowl Pick'em Challenge. Test your college football knowledge against fisherman who have enjoyed vacations at Big Hook Wilderness Camps. Top finisher wins a new fishing reel. Go to http://football.fantasysports.yahoo.com/bowl. Click join league. Enter: 20603 for the league number and bighook for the password. Good luck to all.
-Nathan
www.bighookcamps.com

Burnt Lake Project- Part 2

2011-10-20T10:25:00.001-05:00

This building project started with a wager. All of our workers had to predict when the exterior of the cabin would be completely finished. Before we get to the predictions I feel it necessary to provide you with a little background on our "professional" construction crew. Our staff consisted of 4 full time workers: Dad, Benny, Corey and Tyrol. I have to label myself as part time, due to the fact I was constantly flying materials. Benny is a master carpenter from Sandy Lake that has built numerous houses, hands down the most knowledgeable about constructing an outpost. Both Dad and I possess plenty of construction experience however, never have built a cabin from scratch. Corey and Tyrol were apprentices ready to learn construction trades.

Now the project we were undertaking was a 24X32' cabin with a 8X20' screened in porch. As you will see in the numerous pictures to follow, vinyl siding, fascia and soffiting, and steel roofing composed the exterior. Now with this information reader, what is your guess for our construction project? Two days? Ten days? Remember this is for finishing the exterior only. I'll let the pictures do the majority of the story telling. *Note: I flew all building equipment i.e. hammers, skill saws, miter saws, generator in prior to building so construction was ready to begin upon arrival.
Predictions:
Dad: 5 days Benny: 7 days Corey: 8 days Tyrol: 9 days Nathan (the pessimist): 12 days

Day 1
Our first day of construction began with flying into Burnt around 7 am with the 1/2 the crew (Dad, Corey and Tyrol). However, I was required to promptly fly to Sandy to pick up the brains of the operation, Benny, along with a load of knotty pine interior siding. Concrete pads were measured out with pressure treated posts as the foundation of the cabin. Production moved swiftly as we were able to finished the entire floor of the cabin and even started framing one of the walls.

Day 2

The amazingly warm weather greeted us for another day. The weather was perfect for building a cabin 80 degrees and no winds. Ok, it was a tad warm but I'll never complain about 80 degree weather in September in the Big Hook area. The goal for day two was finish building trusses and complete the framing of the walls.

Three of us tackled creating a jig for the trusses while Dad and Benny laid out walls for the floor plan. After another 10 hour day we managed to finish hand constructing the trusses thanks to the pre-cut boards, however the trusses and gable ends chewed up most of the time. All walls were framed although only three walls were erected with OBS boards placed on most.

Day 3

The unreal weather continued however black flies and mosquito's began hatching. The construction paced slowed this day due to hot humid weather peaking at 90 degrees. With rain in the days to come we really pushed to get the roof in place. We came really close to our goal and managed to install all the rafters with strapping. The remainder of the cabin was enclosed with OBS plywood. With an hour left in the day we began securing the steel roofing. Unfortunately daylight got the better of us and we only finished half of the roof.

Day 4

Poor weather slowed us this day. Rain and metal roofing are a unfavorable combination. We held off finishing the roof and focused on a new set of stairs for the camp. We also began constructing the screened in porch.

Day 5

Clearing weather allowed us a daybreak start. The roofing was completed along with great progress on the fascia and soffiting. The windows and door were installed. The new large windows are a enormous improvement allowing ample amounts of light in. Everyone noticed the undergrowth sprouting all over the forest bed. Grass on the front lawn was already ankle high. We ended the day once again sun burnt and sweltering in heat.

Day 6

The task for this day was to tackle the vinyl siding. After a round of camp checks I joined Corey and Tyrol with the siding while Dad and Benny focused on finishing the porch. We finished the vinyl siding in no time and I began siding the interior with the knotty pine. Once again the weather cooperated with sunny skies and warm temperatures. We started to notice wildlife in the woods. Wood peckers and robins chirped from the burnt trees. We even spotted a moose on the south shoreline.

Day 7

If you guessed seven days to finish an outpost cabin exterior you are indeed correct. Below is a photo of the area right after the forest fire and a picture of the completed exterior. Basically 70 hours of work with a full time 4 man crew and one part timer completed the exterior on the project. Tremendous weather aided the building process.

Before After

Below are couple pictures of the interior of Burnt Lake.

The interior of the cabin will include two 12x12' bedrooms and an 8x12 shower room with a vanity. The kitchen and sitting area is a massive 12x32' area. All the rooms have doors and ceilings. The cabin will be powered with a quiet and efficient Honda 2000 Watt generator.

All in all, the construction of an outpost camp 200 miles from the nearest road was quite the learning experience. We did have some hiccups but overall the process went along smoothly. The weather cooperated, our preplanning efforts kept the errors to a minimum and most of all, we had a great group of guys working incredibly hard every single day.

Good luck on the water this fall everyone!
-Nathan

Big Hook Camps

www.bighookcamps.com

The Burnt Lake Project-Part 1

2011-10-02T20:08:00.000-05:00

A common question asked by our guests is "How did the cabins get here? There isn't a road within 185 miles!" In the past, I could pass on the story that whole cabins were flown in a DC-3 during the winter time. The massive DC-3 was equipped with ski's and was able to land on the frozen lakes right at the building location. In the frigid cold, pilots unloaded the entire cabin onto the ice and left the hauling to several builders. The cabin was then packed board by board off the ice to the construction site before the ice melted. At the time, that was the most efficient way to transport materials.

Present day, as many of you know Big Hook suffered the loss of Burnt Lake to forest fires this summer. Presented with this problem, I asked myself "How do we get a cabin up here?" DC-3's are no longer cost effective along with being few and far between. Plus, the option of waiting till winter to build a cabin was out of the question. Our final decision was to build a cabin this fall. Plenty of planning promptly ensued. Costs, logistics and labor help were difficult to estimate being so remote. A magical number calculated was 17,000. This number was the weight, in pounds, of the cabin. Once again, I asked myself, "How do we get a cabin up here?"

12,500 lbs of materials

After countless phone calls, we developed our plan to haul the cabin in. The cabins journey started via semi from Dryden, Ontario to the Wasaya hanger in Red Lake. On September 5th Wasaya Airways then loaded up their Hawker, a large cargo plane with a max 12,500 pounds payload, for the first run and the remaining 4,500 on the second run. In Sandy Lake 7 helpers plus dad and myself unloaded the Hawker board by board onto a freighter truck that looked like it had survived numerous rough winters in Sandy. Without the aid of forklift or heavy machinery, just strong hands and backs, we carefully piled the first 12,500 lbs of materials onto the truck. After a short drive to the float base, we then lumped everything out of the truck onto the front lawn of Sandy Lake Seaplane. No big deal, we just moved 25,000 lbs...our aching backs thought otherwise. The second run of 4,500 pds was effortless compared to the first. Everyone let out a small cheer as we were 145 miles closer to delivering our cabin to Burnt. However, the most difficult leg of the cabins journey was upon us.

Corey marching up the hill

Without a doubt, Sept 7th was the most physical day of work I have ever experienced. Under clear skies and cool temperatures we utilized Showalter's Twin Beech for the final push to deliver the cabin. Unfortunately, several workers failed to show up for duty. "Off to a rocky start," I thought. Myself and two helpers situated ourselves in Sandy Lake for the loading half while Dad and two helpers unloaded at Burnt Lake. Countless 2x4 after 2x4 we loaded up the Beech. The material that slowed the pace of the day was the steel roofing. Delicately loading the 13 ft 11 inch roofing into the Beech was equivalent to parking a full size truck into a compact car spot, it's doable but takes time. Just when everyone thought their arms and backs couldn't haul any more, we were finished. After seven loads with the Beech and several with our 185 Cessna airplane the cabin was successfully moved to Burnt Lake. Dad and his helpers even managed to haul every board up the Burnt Lake hill without the aid of steps, just a makeshift step way. Not too bad for a 63 year old with one replaced knee! In one day we managed load and unload 17,000 pounds, march it all up a steep grade and get home before the sunset. I'll admit as proud as we were of our accomplishment, no one was able to stay awake past 8 p.m. that evening.

The materials up top the hill

The final weight of the cabin...16,950 pounds. Not bad estimating in my opinion. Now you know the story on the grueling task of delivering an outpost cabin 200 miles into the bush. The next task at hand is to begin construction.

To be continued......

Burnt Lake

2011-09-10T21:16:00.000-05:00

Steve, Nathan and the boys are busy at Burnt Lake building a new cabin. The new cabin is being constructed in the same location, however everyone should find the new upgrades very pleasing. Today was day 5 of the project and the vinyl siding, soffeting, windows, and door were installed. The exterior should be done tomorrow. Pics and more details will follow soon once Nathan returns.

Summer is holding on

2011-08-29T16:00:00.000-05:00

Summer is still holding on here at Big Hook. The mercury has been holding strong in the mid 70's in our final week of August. In the past once September arrives, it's a crap shoot for the weather. I have witnessed temperatures up to 90 degrees and been blanketed in snow. One can tell the fall is about to grasp the area. The birch trees are now yellow and just yesterday I had to avoid a flock of Sandhill Cranes flying south for the winter. Several strong storms pushed through last night providing howling winds, a tad of hail and a ton of rain. Every bit of moisture that falls from the sky is rapidly absorbed into the ground. I have yet to see any run off this summer.

The lake levels have been holding steady. Albeit, lake levels are still 2-3 feet lower than normal. The surface temperatures have been hovering around 64-68 degrees, which is quite warm for this time of year. The warm water has been creating some odd fishing patterns for pike. They are holding primarily in the deeper water but guests have found them in the weeds in short bursts. It seems the fish are just coming into the weeds for short periods to feed and quickly darting back to the deeper water. Trolling deeper running cranks was an effective technique to boating larger fish.

Walleye are best found in 20 ft of water. Jigging has been the most productive on reefs and shoals. With walleye holding in deeper water it is crucial to have a depth finder to locate those rock humps. Fishing without a depth finder in August can be extremely difficult.

Burnt Dad and I finished construction of the most crucial part of this outpost yesterday...the outhouse of course. The new cabin is en route to Red Lake as we speak and will be shipped up via Wasaya's Hawker on Friday. 15000 pounds of lumber, roofing, nails, etc. will then need to be transferred to float plane. I feel a sore back coming soon. The sauna will be getting some use regularly next week.

27" walleye released on Central's East Portage

Central The east portage was a hot little lake last week. A fat fat 27" walleye was boated and released, the lunker fell prey to a blue and silver Hot N Tot. Several 30-35" pike were boated while trolling. The narrows is beginning to heat up. The weeds are starting to fall allowing fisherman to cast baits. I see some intense top water action starting soon.

Cocos The Sagawitchewan has been the hot spot. More particularly the SW section of the river towards Burnt Lake. The weed beds near camp have been frustratingly slow. In my opinion, as the cooler weather approaches pike will once again prowl these weeds.

South Who says you need to go far from camp to catch fish? Some of the hottest spots were just a stones throw from the dock. The island just 300 yards north of camp held the most fish. Weed beds in the NE bay from camp were also dynamite.

Southwest Hundreds of 16-20" walleye were the story from SW last week. As usual, every rocky point and deeper hole held fish. Four moose were also spotted roaming the lake. The NW arm held the larger fish.

West The "fish bowl" was for once the slow half of the lake. The deeper north half was hands down more productive. Larger fish were boated while trolling rock reefs and ledges. The Horseshoe has still been producing quality fish.

Good luck on the water everyone! Remember to practice catch and release.
-Nathan
www.bighookcamps.com

Big Baits Do Catch Big Fish

2011-08-22T14:18:00.000-05:00

For us at Big Hook camps fall is quickly approaching. Considering we are just 200 miles south of Hudson Bay, fall arrives early for us. Typically, around the end of August Mother Nature starts sending signals that fall is on the way whether we like it or not. The trees begin to change color and nights cool down into the 40’s with ample visions of Northern Lights dancing in the north sky. Soon we will hear the honk of the Canadian geese migrating southbound.

One of my favorite aspects of the approaching fall is the aggression in pike. As the temperatures cool, the gators of the deep awaken with a sense of urgency that winter will soon arrive. Pike often turn into feeding machines this time of year. Their primary objective is to put on weight before the freeze occurs. No bait is too small for trophy caliber fish. I'll begin to raid my tackle box for Bulldawgs, Depth Raiders, Reef Hawgs, Bomber Magnums, Williams Whitefish, Musky Killers, Top Raiders or any bait of size to throw.

When targeting late season pike I'll begin my efforts on my favorite weed beds. Within 20 minutes I'll know whether pike are feeding in the weeds or focusing on chasing schools of walleye around reefs. Last week pike were shunning the weeds up until a couple of days ago. With a couple of cool nights under our belts the pike have rose from the depths back into the foliage.

Weather Patterns

As mentioned earlier in the blog, the weather is showing signs of fall. Days are ranging from the 60's-70's while the nights having been dipping as low as 45 degrees. The westerly winds have dominated for the past three days pushing fish into the east shoreline. A couple days of rain are forecasted for Tuesday and Wednesday. Water temperatures are beginning to cool as a result of the cold evenings.

Central

Walleye are hanging in 17-20 on many of the reefs in the north end of the lake. Several hotspots were in fact just a golf club swing from camp. Many 16-20" fish were caught jigging and trolling along Frisco Bay. Today (August 22nd) a 27" walleye was boated and released on the East Portage.

Cocos

Late last week, Thurs and Fri, the big pike turned on. Most big fish were found in the SW section of the Sagawitchewan River. The rapids continued to churn out ample amounts of walleye. Many fish 35"-41.5" were boated and released, the majority hanging in deep weed beds.

Favorable

Lemonade is on the slow down, which is typical for this body of water late in August. Favorable has been notching some big pike in Pike Alley and Sandy Bay. The north arm was also a hot spot for big pike in the weeds.

South

South had the numbers last week and five walleye over 25" were boated and released. An impressive night bite occurred with the full moon in effect. Worm harnesses over 20+ of water were the most effective bait for the week. Trolling Reef Runners Lil Rippers also produced.

Southwest surprisingly produced the biggest walleye of the week last week at 28.5". The deeper water in the north arm is where the larger fish were located. Several points to the east of camp held hundreds of walleye 16-18".

West

The Horse Shoe held a number of nice fish, while the NE side of the fish bowl was also productive. The north end of the lake kept producing walleye 25-27" on the eastern shore. Look for structure rising to 15'. Yesterday, a 45" monster was released.

Good luck on the water everyone.

-Nathan

Big Hook Wilderness Camps

www.bighookcamps.com

Mid August Monsters

2011-08-14T11:34:00.000-05:00

And boom just like that we are in the middle of August. It is head spinning how quickly the season blazes past. It seems like I was just flipping boats and battling frost heave's. Fortunately, the end isn't here just yet, there are still 4 great weeks of fishing left in the 2011 season.

The daylight is getting shorter and the birch trees are even beginning to change color. Temperature wise the days have been warm with cooler nights. Great sleeping weather! It has been very common to see lake fog for a bit every morning. The Northern Lights have been astounding on the cool clear nights around midnight. Just peer to the north and look for the dancing colors.

The weather the past several days has been warm 75-80 with calm winds. Water temps have been hanging in the 68-70 degree range. The water is heated through quite deep. I personally believe the nice weather is for the dogs for fishing. The nastier the weather the better the fishing, or am I just a glutton for punishment? I love days just before the leading edge of a low pressure front. Because on bright, sunny, calm high pressure days those pike will become following machines. More often than not they will just follow to the boat, smile and turn away teasingly.
Fishing Patterns
Walleye patterns have been fairly consistent throughout the lakes. Most walleye are hunkered down in deeper water. The sizable females are holding in 20+. Plenty of fish can be caught between 15-20 ft but those big girls are prowling in the depths. Wind blown shorelines and points have been effective locations. Anything with deeper water nearby. With the water temperatures I have been pulling lil ripper Reef Runners, which dive about 16-18ft until I catch a fish, then immediately turn around with jigs.

At least on Central, the pike have been boycotting the weed beds. Guests were skunked on every attempt. However, the rock piles were on fire. Pike are chasing walleye throughout the water column. With cooler nights coming the pike will eventually return to the foliage. Other lakes had more positive reports with boating pike from weeds.

Central
This time of year the narrows on the north end will be the go to location, however that hasn't been the case. 8 fish between 35-39 inches were boated on BIG crankbaits all off of rock piles. The rolling reefs throughout the north end of the lake have been prime locations.
Cocos
The deep water in the SW end of the Sagawitchewan river was the prime location for ample walleye. The rapids remains navigable. Water is still dropping throughout the lake. The rapids will hold fish throughout the year into the fall.
Favorable
39" was the big pike for the week and 27" was the big walleye. Lemonade lake has begun to get weed choked as is usual for this time of year. The deeper water on Favorable close to camp is my prime stomping grounds for big walleye this time of year.
South
South put together another impressive resume not only for big walleye but also big pike. Three thirty inch wally's were boated and released along with pike topping out at 40". Those big fish were boated in deep water around 30 ft. Rattle Traps and jigs were effective baits.
Southwest
The boys at SW were able to find the big pike notching many over 30" up to 38". The fish factory pumped out the usual plethora of walleye 16-18". Points nearby camp held many fish, whereas the deeper water on the north end of the lake held some of the larger fish.
West
The big fish of the week was caught right off the dock, go figure. Who says the best fishing is on the far end of the lake? The fish bowl was slow with the fish harboring in deeper waters. Reefs east and north of camp were the hotspots. The Horseshoe was a producer in the evening hours.

Hot Lures
Walleye: Rattle Traps, lil Ripper Reef Runners, as usual jigs
Northern: Depth Raider, bulldawg, bucktails, suicks, Bomber Long A Magnum (gold)

Big Hook News and Fishing

2011-08-07T13:54:00.000-05:00

Last week brought plenty of wind and water to the Opasquia Provincial Park. Numerous rain fronts doused the area heavily. Fires are still burning to the south around the Red Lake area. However around the park, 99% of the fires are out. Guests traveling into the Red Lake area will notice smoke in the air. As of right now, smoke is undetectable in the Opasuia Park. With the several days of rain, the water levels have remained stable the past two weeks.

Dad and I have been extremely busy making preparations for the Burnt Lake Project. We are hoping to begin building within the next two weeks. Aircraft's are lined up and ready to haul in the cabin once we receive clearance from the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) on the new building site.

Some fishing tidbits
I wish I could say fishing was simple last week, however Mother Nature provided some challenging winds. Those who could hold a boat on the windy shorelines in about 15' of water were rewarded with ample fish and wet feet from waves over the transom. The winds had both walleye and pike pinned to the rocky points and shorelines. If a spot contained several walleye, a big pike was guaranteed to be prowling the area. A great technique for catching both species was having the motorist jig while the other fisherman tossed a deep diving crank bait for pike.
Weed beds were on the slow side last week. The fish preferred the rocky points with deep water nearby.
Water temperatures are still very warm, hence the fish have been descending to deeper depths. Start fishing walleye at 12 ft and work your way deeper for best results. A depth finder is essential this time of year.

Central
Wreck Island and Frisco bay yielded numerous quality walleye. The windblown shoals topping at 12 ft on the north end of the lake were also effective. The north narrows should start producing trophy pike any day. The east portage will continue to produce trophy walleye until year end.

Cocos
The rapids is low and very navigable. Trolling deep cranks along the rapids channel will boat quality fish. Heading southbound down the Sagawicthewan river seemed to be the most productive. The deeper holes two to three miles down the river were holding plenty of fish.
Favourable/Lemonade
Pike alley will hold some nice pike this time of year. Trolling the south side of the Three Sisters in 15-20 ft of water is effective for walleye. Walleye Point is another productive spot. The outflow of the Severn River before Shallow NO Go has been producing awesome pike action.
South
The deep water near camp has been hot. The small island on the west shore a stones throw from camp had fish everywhere. Look for windblown points with 15 ft of water for those trophy's.
Southwest
As usual the fish factory produced. Fish really truly are on just about every point. More sizable fish have been boated around the Twin Towers and the north finger. It has been difficult navigating the east end of the lake due to low water. Weeds are extremely thick and choke the propeller instantly.
West
Visited the guests this morning 8/7 and as we taxi'd up with the airplane they were releasing a 40" pike boated right from the rock. Many many nice fish have been boated and released there. The fish bowl has been somewhat disappointing with fish seeking deeper water. A couple of cool days will return fish to the area. Reefs on the north end of the lake along the east shoreline have been hot for trophy walleye.

Hot Lures: Walleye: 3/8 oz jig with flouro orange or pink twister, 15' Reef Runners Pike: Depth Raider black, black bucktails, bulldawgs.

All quiet on the Western front.

2011-07-31T08:37:00.000-05:00

It was a quiet week from July 23rd-29th. The majority of Big Hook was closed due to civil orders from the MNR requiring camps to be shut down because of the threat of forest fires. Not much fishing occurred last week so the big topic of this blog will be the status of the fires burning in NW Ontario. Truly, the fire status can be summarized down to one sentence. As of yesterday, the fires affecting us in the Opasquia Provincial Park are 95% down and out. Dad and I spent much of last week surveying the park and the puffs of smoke determining if there was any real threat. The sufficient rain that fell last week took away any doubt about reopening the camp to guests.

Temperatures have remained warm, however several large rain clouds sat over the Opasquia Park last week dousing us for hours. The rain was welcomed by all. The water levels did not drop last week with the sufficient precipitation. On a side note, the MNR lifted the fire ban in NW Ontario. However, the bush is still very very dry so be vigilant if you have a camp fire. Make sure all embers are out before you leave the fire unattended. I would not recommend any burning on a windy day.

As far as fishing is concerned, I would expect walleye's to be continuing their decent to deeper waters. 15-20 ft have been optimal in years past around this time. I have several guiding afternoon's lined up this week and will be able to better report where the walleyes are holding. Pike are scattered and prowling everywhere from rocks to the edges of weeds. As I have reported before, the weedbeds are extremely thick due to the low water and sunny skies. Weedless lures and top water baits are the best to combat the foliage.

Good luck on the water everyone.

-Nathan

Big Hook Camps

www.bighookcamps.com

The good and bad news.

2011-07-22T10:53:00.000-05:00

The week of July 16th-23rd has been a chaotic one for Big Hook Wilderness Camps. However, let us first start out with the good news. We finally received a good dousing of rain Thursday and Friday. Last night the first steady rain of the summer fell from the skies and we could not have been happier. I stood on the dock and let myself get absolutely soaked through. Mom and dad both cheered at the moisture that was accumulating in the back of the boats.

Mom with a 28" walleye on Central.

Now for the bad news. The fire situation was elevated to critical last week. Between Saturday July 16th and Wednesday the 20th fires spread out of control with heavy winds and 96 degree weather. Mother Nature threw us a curve ball at Burnt Lake and the cabin was lost to the flames. Everyone was pulled out safely way prior, however the cabin perished. Dad and I tried to defend the cabin with sprinklers lashed to the roof, but in the end the flames won out. We are already planning on rebuilding the cabin and need to work out some serious logistics. Ordered by the MNR, Cocos and Favorable were also evacuated mid week as a precautionary measure.

Unfortunately, the fire ban is still in effect until further notice from the MNR (Ministry of Natural Resources). It will take a couple of good rains before that is lifted. As a precautionary measure advised by the MNR, several of our outposts that are closer to the affected fire areas will be closed next week July 23rd-July 29th.

Back to the good news.

As mentioned before, we received approximately 2 inches of rain last night, ousting and knocking down the fires in the area. With such a heavy and steady rain, the MNR lifted a tourist travel ban that was implemented 48 hrs prior. Rain is forecasted to continue into Saturday and Sunday which will deliver a one, two punch to the dry ground.

Moose cooling off from the hot temps.

The fishing reports from the camps that were able to finish out the week (South, Central and West) were great. The walleye are descending quickly though the water column. Most were caught in the 15-20 ft range, however some surprisingly large fish were caught on the edges of weeds. For example, the two biggest walleye at Central, a 28" and a 25.5", were caught in the middle of lilly pads. Go figure, just when I think I have the fish figured out they surprise me in the shallows. Pike are holding everywhere from weeds, which are incredibly thick this summer, to rock piles chasing walleye.

Hot lures are the usual suspects for summer patterns.
Walleye: Hot N Tots, Shad Raps SR7 firetiger while trolling for walleye. 1/4-3/8 oz jigs for vertical jigging with yellow, white, fluro-orange, pumkinseed tails.
Pike: Orange bladed bucktails with white or black skirts dominated the big fish for the week. Check out Mepps Musky Killers or Skimmer Lures. Weedless lures like Berkley Hollowbody's did well along with Johnson Silver Minnows. Bulldawgs and larger deep water baits are starting to catch big fish on rocky points and reefs.

Good luck on the water everyone. Thanks to everyone for understanding the fire situation. We are lucky to have such terrific and loyal guests.
-Nathan
Big Hook Wilderness Camps

www.bighookcamps.com

Bring Your Weedless

2011-07-15T08:48:00.000-05:00

The heat and dry weather is still camped out over the Opasquia Provincial Park. With the exception of Monday, which we saw a splash of rain, temperatures have hovered around 85-90 degrees. The outlook is more of the same hot, dry weather. The fire ban is still in place. No outside fires are allowed. Burning inside the stove is permissible along with using the fish cookers.

A West Lake 42.5" Pike

Water levels are still dropping due to lack of rain, evaporation and rapids outflow. Be careful boating! New rocks are strikable with the low low water. Weed beds are flourishing with the sunny skies and low water. Raid your tackle box for weedless lures. Johnson silver minnows, top water baits, Berkley Hollow Body's, and bucktails all are great for maneuvering through and over the thick foliage. When a pike strikes in the thick weeds constant pressure and even a little force is a must to avoid a spit hook. Pike are notorious for throwing the hook while battling in the slop.

West Lake Walleye

I knew the Mayflies would strike back right after I stated in a previous blog "the may fly hatch is over and gone." South and West Lake experienced a second hatch last Tuesday. Fortunately, the walleye have still been aggressive. Due to the hot weather, walleye have been slowly descending through the water column. Fish have been found as deep as 20 ft. Jigging over reefs and rocky points has been the most effective techniques. Trolling a wind blown shorelines with a Hot N Tot or a Shad Rap is yielding results.

Pike are hunkered down in the slop challenging fisherman to come and get them. Numerous fisherman have also reported fish holding around rocky points.

Hot spots for the majority of the lakes are the same as my last report. Remember to focus on the windy shoreline. Pick out a wind swept rocky shoal or a weed bed. Two days of wind beating a shoreline will stack up bait fish and predators will follow.

Hot Lures:
Pike: Johnson silver minnow, Mepps Musky Killer, Top Raider
Walleye: Flouro green Hot N Tot, 3/8 oz jig with yellow twister.

Good Luck on the water everyone!
-Nathan
Big Hook Wilderness Camps
www.bighookcamps.com

Could you spare some rain?

2011-07-08T10:05:00.000-05:00

After over a week we are finally back online. It is amazing how lost one can feel without internet for seven days. No weather forecasts for flying, $2.00/minute satellite phones are our only communication with the outside world, and most important the ability to write a blog suddenly vanishes. The culprit to our problem was the external modem on our satellite dish and extreme weather temperatures. The temperatures on the roof were so warm a teeny tiny little piece of plastic in the electrical board melted and POOF, we were shut down.

Simple fix right? Just run down the street to the local electronics store and grab a new external modem....wait a minute. Turns out the satellite internet is not a booming business here in the north country with ownership changing hands about every three months. For example, one such call to Red Lake where two Xplornet dealerships are to exist resulted in finding each has changed hands TWICE only to be sold off to a company in Thunder Bay. Only a modest 10 hr drive away to the Bay from Red. Keep in mind during this modem treasure hunt each phone call costs $2 bucks a minute. You would think Xplornet (our internet provider) main support would be able to find a dealer for us, that my friends, would be too simple. Oh, did I mention there is also a mail strike. Canada Post is just coming back online, however due to extreme mail overload parcels could take weeks to reach there destinations. Looks like we will be flying our modem in once we can locate one.

After scouring all of NW Ontario (Using a phone book? I almost forgot how to use one with my excessive dependence on the internet) we are able track down a helpful local gentleman out of Sioux Lookout. In 20 minutes we convince him we are competent enough to remove the four screws to the external modem and perform the 30 second repair ourselves. Although, he was quite adamant we should hire a tech who starts charging $70 an hour from the minute he departs the office. In the end he writes up the work order and ships the part via Wasaya Air from Sioux to Red. Long story short, 7 days and about $400 in phone bills later we are up and running.

Now to the important stuff....the fishing!

The hot weather is still settled over the Opasquia Provincial Park. We have not received any considerable amount of rain since the first days of June. Water levels are the lowest I have ever witnessed here in the park. Be careful navigating your boat! Due to low water conditions rocks not marked on the map exist and are hazardous to lower units health.

Conditions in the woods are extremely dry. *SPECIAL NOTE* There is a FIRE BAN in place. No external camp fires are allowed. Bird dog fire spotters are flying everywhere at the moment and any sign of smoke is considered a threat and a hefty fine.

With water temperatures now holding steady in the 70's the may fly hatch has come and gone. The hatch was very mild this year and only tormented us for about two days. Just enough to drive the walleyes into a feeding frenzy and not completely fill their bellies.

One benefit of the low water, the weed beds are looking as healthy as ever. Pike are enjoying the ample amount of coverage, holding tight in the slop. They have been very active in the warm water. With the sunny skies the peak bite has been in the late afternoon.

Walleye are holding throughout the water column from weeds to rock piles. Most fish are found at about 8-10 ft and ranging as deep as 18'. Both jigging and slow rolling Lindy rigs over the bottom have been effective. Trolling cranks are a great way to locate the schools.

Burnt Lake
With the dominant south winds, Moose Creek has still been the hot spot for pike and perch. I have been amazed with some of the massive perch in that lake. Small beetle spins and Mepps spinners are perfect for catching tasty perch. Wind blown weed beds have led to the best results on Burnt, pay close attention to the winds.

Central Lake

Colton with a 42" on Central

The Wilford party had a ball in the north rapids boating 204 walleye in just over two hours. The narrows on the north end of the lake was also productive for trophy pike. Spinner baits were the key to luring pike out of the weeds. One evening resulted in 15 pike over 30" in that spot alone. More and more walleye are starting to congregate on the numerous submerged reefs throughout Central. The East portage was on fire for walleye.

Cocos Lake
The rapids is usually the main story to the Cocos Lake fishing report. Low water is allowing guests to navigate the flowage. Fish are stacked throughout the current. Duckling Island yielded the largest pike this past week. Several weed beds in the southern half of the Sagawitchewan River were productive.

Favourable Lake

Owl Hawk visiting Central Lake

Lemonade was covered with mayflies the past couple of days, causing a rare slow down on that body of water. Favourable picked up the slack producing awesome walleyes on the shore adjacent to the dock. Trolling 8-12' cranks produced. Pike Alley was on fire for both species. Several 38-41" fish were boated and released.

South Lake
South Lake continued the dominance of biggest walleye for the week with a 29" fish and many many over 25"+. The weeds just east of the narrows held some 40+" pike. Guests the past couple days have boated large walleye trolling cranks on shorelines close to the camp. Just goes to show you that the biggest fish are not located the furthest away from camp.

Southwest Lake
The "producer" churned out thousands of fish yet again. Southwest will never cease to amaze me with the shear numbers it contains. Some larger fish were located on the very north end of the lake where deeper water exists.

West Lake
The "pike bowl" held some quality fish in the NE corner. South winds have been blowing fish into weeds along the northern shores. Deeper shelves just east of the camp were hot for walleye. Never forget to cast a couple of times on seagull rock just in front of camp, it holds monsters. The Horseshoe was another hotspot.

Hot Lures
Walleye: Fire Tiger Shad Rap, Worm Harness (orange or silver blade), 1/4 oz jig with Berkley Gulp
Pike: Mepps Musky Killer, Doctor Spoons, Berkley Hollow Body

Good luck on the water everyone!
-Nathan
Big Hook Wilderness Camps

Thar be monsters in the waters.

2011-06-26T09:57:00.000-05:00

Central Lake rapids

Sunny skies and hot temperatures certainly did not deter any of the fish from biting last week. Light SE winds and temperatures sailing into the high 80's dominated throughout the week. Water temperatures skyrocketed and water levels plummeted. Central Lake was recording temperatures up to 75 degrees in shallower bays while the level of the lake dropped almost 10 inches. It has been almost three weeks now since we received any significant rain. Now I know rain on a vacation isn't the most pleasant aspect, however any drops of rain will be welcomed.

Fish are still holding shallow, 6 feet or less, windblown shorelines. Both species are beginning to migrate away from rapids to typical summer habitat. With the ample amount of sunshine, weed beds are springing to life and holding toothy pike. All camps I chatted with had huge smiles and plenty of fish stories to tell.
Burnt
Excellent fishing was reported around the "Bottleneck" NE of camp. Perch Bay, was holding numerous large pike prowling for...well perch. Moose Creek held several large fish, however fish were holding further out from the creek. Walleye were reported "everywhere."

Central

A Canadian 40" pike released on Central

The south rapids was holding numerous large walleye between 23-26 inches. Trolling shallow diving cranks along wind blown mudflats was effective for large walleye, Husker rock is a great example. Pike were holding around the Stop and Go Jug. The west portage started to produce large pike.
Cocos
The Mroz party boated and released 28 pike over 30" and several over 40". Cocos now leads all Big Hook outposts with the largest pike of 45.5". The doctor spoon was the hot lure for the week. The lower water is allowing motorists easier navigation through the rapids.
Favourable
Numerous reefs east of camp were holding quality walleye between 22-26". Trolling Walleye Point was probably the most effective fishing technique all week. Johnson's Island held numerous walleye and large pike. The weed growth behind Johnson's Island is excellent and harboring numerous fish. A highlight of the week was a huge pike hammering a fellow 26" northern. Guests estimated the monster to be in the 45-47" range, unfortunately the monster finally released the smaller pike right when the net was placed in the water.
South
As usual numerous large walleye were reported, topping out at 29.5". A large 44" pike was boated and released while jigging for walleye. Fish were still holding 12 ft or shallower in muddy areas. As the year progresses fish will transition to rocky structure versus the mudflats.
Southwest
200 fish per boat was the highlight for the week. Between the three boats, guests reported having 6 fish on at the same time. Walleye were holding on shallow rock reefs and mudflats. According to the guests, every lure was a hot lure.
West
A week of awesome weather led to many fish boated and released. The highlights were a 42.5", 41" and numerous fish over 30" for pike. For walleye a 28.5" was the top fish with several over 25". Wind blown bays in the Fish Bowl were hot.
Hot lures:
Pike: Doctor Spoon, Spinner Baits (black with silver blade), bucktails
Walleye: Jig/gulp, Little Ripper Reef Runner (fire tiger), Hot N Tot (pink)

Good luck on the water everyone.
-Nathan
Big Hook Wilderness Camps
www.bighookcamps.com

Great Fishin!

2011-06-21T17:41:00.000-05:00

Last week brought great walleye fishing throughout the Opasquia Provincial Park. Guests at every lake boated and released fish after fish after fish. Most fish were reported in shallow mud flats. Attached is an amazing quote from the guests last week at South Lake:

"Our group at south lake boated 2,229 walleye. Actual numbers counted on clickers. 170 northern by accident. We had 80 walleye over 20 inches. 13 walleye over 25 inches. 29 1/2 , 29 1/4, 29, 28 1/2 , 5- 26inchers, and 4 -25 inchers. The fishing was simply amazing. We were at South from June 11th through the 18th. Wish I was still there. What an amazing place."

Thanks guys! Glad to hear you had a good time. Check out the Big Hook facebook page for more photos on the amazing week from South Lake.

Hot weather is dominating the week thus far with strong easterly winds. It has been unusual wind for the past 5 days. Water temperatures are rising back up into the 70's. The water temperatures in the 70's means we have to.....GULP.....watch out for the mayflies.

Also weather related, it has been very very dry the past two weeks. Lake levels are dropping quickly and the forest is getting extremely dry. Be extra careful when having a shore lunch and make sure your fires are extinguished.

I was stationed at Favourable for the past 3 days. Walleye fishing was fantastic, we had no problem boating 18-22" walleye every day along with a 24" and 26" on Monday. Pike were a bit finnicky, the calm water and sunny skies didn't help our cause. Many pike were following to the boat but strikes were difficult to achieve. Walleye Point and Johnson's Island were the hands down best spots. Lemonade Lake, especially the dock, was great for numbers. We boated numerous large perch and quality walleye just bobber fishing off the dock with a worm and a hook.

Good luck on the water everyone,
-Nathan
Big Hook Wilderness Camps

Walleye, walleye everywhere

2011-06-17T16:26:00.000-05:00

Normally I like to post my blogs Sunday morning after I have had a chance to converse with the guests on Saturday. This way I am informed how the fishing on individual lakes progressed and fared for the week. However, this up and coming week I'll be stationed at Favourable Lake, which is about 55 miles from my laptop. I figured I'd better give a quick update on the fishing throughout the Opasquia Provincial Park and Big Hook Wilderness Camps.

Weather

The weather included copious amounts of sun and heat the past week. A couple of days brought howling winds from the south with the warm weather. The water temperatures have skyrocketed into the 70's on the surface. The water does cool rather quickly just a couple of feet down. Forecasts show the warm weather will continue with a possibility of rain this up and coming Sunday and Monday.

We are in dire need of rain here in the North country. Water levels have dropped about 10 inches in 5 days. If rain doesn't fall soon, fire bans could be placed upon NW Ontario. It is amazing how quickly the landscape here dries out when hot weather arrives. Be careful when having shore lunches and fires. Make sure the fire is completely extinguished.

Fishing

Unfortunately I can't list all the lakes and hot spots this blog because I haven't had the chance to speak with everyone. Here is what I know:

-walleye are everywhere, from 2 ft-12ft of water. Guests are having best luck on mud flats in shallow bays throwing crank baits (blue and silver in particular), tossing light jigs 1/4 oz (white and pumpkinseed) above the mud has been effective. Central has boated and released 20+ walleye between 24-28 inches.

- pike have been huddled right with the walleye. Here at Central, guests had multiple pike smash walleye boat side. Spinnerbaits are great lures to work through the shallows for pike, along with buck tails and larger floating crankbaits.

-rapids and quick moving water have been just absolutely dominant. Bait fish are back in the fast moving current with larger predators hot on their tails. The fish won't remain in the current for too long, once the water temperatures get too high, fish will sink to cooler water.

-as long as the weather stays stable....so will the fishing. Fish love weather stability. Abrupt changes in the weather changes feed habits and water temperatures.

Hopefully I'll have some great news to reports in the up and coming days from Favourable Lake. Until then, good luck on the water everyone.

-Nathan

Big Hook Wilderness Camps

Fishing goes Boom!

2011-06-12T21:38:00.000-05:00

Waiting for the post spawn lag to end is like holding a fire cracker. The fuse creeps along and you wait for the BANG! When it happens an adrenaline rush occurs, very similar to the fishing bite after the post spawn. All lakes reported a flurry of action last Thursday, Friday and Saturday. New guests arriving Saturday were grinning ear to ear starting their fishing week with impressive results.

The walleye are moving into the currents and shallow mud flats. The pike are following the schools of walleye, whitefish and suckers, picking off the stragglers. Both trolling and casting have been effective. Fish are really enjoying the past couple of days of sunshine, frolicking in the warm shallow waters. Water temperatures have shot into the 60's on the surface with the pleasant weather the past few days. Weed growth is finally beginning in most bays. Unfortunately, some black flies have been spotted so bring some bug spray.

Burnt: The narrows flowing into the north end of Burnt was the dominate spot. Several points just southeast of camp have been productive for walleye. Moose Creek just to the west of camp was incredibly productive today according to guests. Many 36+" pike were reported last week, topping out at 39". I'll be if they pinched the tail on that fish it would have been 40."

Cocos: As in every report you will see this summer, the rapids is the hot spot. However, several large fish have been boated in bays adjacent to camp and bays on the western shoreline from the rapids. Water levels are subsiding from last week allowing smoother transitions up the rapids.

Central:
The Newburn party boasted they collectively boated and released the most 30+" pike this year in their 20 years of vacationing at Big Hook. Hot spots were the East and South rapids. Several fish surpassing 40" were boated on Manns Hardnose Shads. "No Fish Bay" produced another large pike, a dandy 42.5 incher. Someday I may have to change the name of that spot.

Southwest: The Fish Factory kept churning out the 16-20 inch walleye. The east arm put up impressive numbers of quality pike. Small jigs with yellow twisters were favorites among the walleye. Thanks to the Allen party for the great smoked walleye!

South: Large walleye are being boated in the narrows just south of the cabin. Pike are looming all around the area. I was told the walleye bite will be hot and heavy and suddenly stop. Guests would have their line bit or boat a nice pike. The narrows on the very east end of the lake was another productive area.

West: Guests claimed I needed to change my map marking. Most fish were just holding about 100 yards from all my marked hot spots. Smaller baits were the key to boating finnicky fish last week. However, fish the past two days have changed there feeding, increasing their aggressiveness. Chatting with the Sellner party this morning I learned that several large fish are holding on the rock just in front of camp. I always say to give it a couple of casts every morning and evening, you will be surprised with the results.

Favourable: Mud flats, mud flats, and mud flats are where the fish are holding. Pike alley and Bear Creek are a couple areas that are consistently producing. Johnson silver minnows with white trailers are top lures thus far. Lemonade is cranking out the numbers as usual. I truly think every spot in the lake holds fish this time of year. The Severn out flow on the west end of Favourable is holding massive amounts of fish. Trolling 5ft diving crankbaits is a great way to locate the schools in that expansive area.

Hot lures:
Pike- Johnson silver minnow, small silver rattle trap, Hardnose swim shad, Rapala Original F18
Walleye-Jig with Gulp twister, Hot N Tot

Attached photo is of a dandy 28 inch walleye boated and released at West Lake.

Good luck on the water everyone.
-Nathan
Big Hook Wilderness Camps
www.bighookcamps.com

Reporting In

2011-06-05T09:06:00.000-05:00

Fisherman had some elements to contend with last week. Walleyes having spawned during the week were lethargic. On top of that, Mother Nature provided some less than pleasant wind with cool temps for several days. However, some surprisingly productive fishing reports rolled in after conversing with the fisherman on Saturday.

Most reports were consistent that the week began slow with the walleye coming off the spawn. The bite steadily increased as the week progressed. All reports reflected that Thursday and Friday were the peak days for both pike and walleye.

Water temperatures are still very cool for this time of year. 50 degrees can be found on some mud flats, with fish congregating around the warmer water. Steady sun forecasted for this week should send the water temperatures skyrocketing.

As I have stated before, finding the warmer water temperature is crucial for fishing success this time of year. Fish are craving some warmth after a long cold winter. Even one degree difference can change a bay or channel from a vacated room to a fish party. Analyze the area, is it a mud flat? Dark shallow bays heat up super fast in these tea stained lakes. On top of that, if a current is nearby you have the perfect spring fishing combination.

Burnt
The "bottleneck" and the narrows were the most productive spots throughout the week. Both walleye and northern both congregated in the same area. Walleye's centered on the current with pike flanking the stray pickerel or sucker.
Cocos
Boated and released 3 pike over 40", and an impressive 28" walleye. The rapids continues to gush with the higher waters. Guests were able to drive up the rapids 5 out of the 7 days. Some of the biggest pike however were boated just a stones throw from camp.
Central
The east and west rapids were the hot spots on the lake. Slow trolling a shallow diving crank bait was the key to catching the lethargic walleyes. Three pike sized between 36-38" were released in 15 minutes just outside the west rapids. The bite for both species steadily increased as the week progressed.
West
Three fisherman reported over 1000 walleyes and three pike over 40", topping at 42.5". Fish were located in the narrows towards the "fish bowl" and shallower water where the water temperatures were slightly warmer. The key was standard for spring fishing, finding that warmer water temperature.
Southwest
The fish factory continued to pump out tons and tons of walleye. Most fish were holding in shallow mud flats soaking up the warmer water temperatures. One of the hottest spots was the narrows just in front of the cabin.
South
The narrows just south of camp is the goto spot. Big female walleye were stacked in the area. Sporadic lulls in the walleye action meant cruiser pike swept through the area. The north end of the lake was also active just above the outgoing rapids. Numerous walleye were boated and released over 25".

Good luck on the water everyone. Looking forward to talking about fishing with everyone soon.
-Nathan
Big Hook Wilderness Camps

The opening

2011-05-28T16:03:00.000-05:00

Much apologies to my blog followers, I have been out and about opening up Big Hook Wilderness Camps for the 2011 season. The past eight days I have been stationed at several different outposts. Opening up the resort every spring presents numerous challenges. One always hopes the camp weathered the winter favorably. However, I'd like to mention the gremlins do like to come out of the woodwork and keep you on your toes this time of year.

Our new pilot Andrew and I arrived at Central on May 14th flying under sunny skies and one heck of a north wind. The trek north from Eagle Lake to Central was a smooth but tortoise like. We felt like a salmon swimming up stream battling a 20+ knot headwind to Big Hook. Upon arrival, Central was half iced over and at the resort every thing appeared to be as we left it. One of the three windmills was damaged during the winter months and was in need of a new set of brushes for the alternator, a tedious fix to say the least. It takes one hour to crank the windmill down for repair and then another long grueling hour to crank the turbine upright.

Two days after arrival we managed to haul in 11000 pounds of materials from Sandy Lake with the help of a Twin Beech. It was a much needed sauna night after a day of playing pack mule. That night, for the second year in a row I was the first to grace the waters of Central lake. I'll admit the water hardly acknowledged my presence as I streaked back up the dock into the sauna, teeth chattering and all.

The weather has been anything but stable the past two weeks. We were graced with 80 degree temperatures for several days only to get dumped on with 6 inches of snow last Monday, don't worry the snow was gone by morning. For over 7 days we witnessed a strong east wind, a rarity for us. North and west winds are commonplace in the great white north. Not counting the snow, this Saturday is truly our first rain we have had in the past two weeks.

Now to the fishing report.

Central and Cocos we the two outposts brave enough to tempt opening week. Water temperatures began last week peaking out at 57 degrees in some shallow bays. However after the snowfall, temperatures plummeted to 47 on the surface. They have been slowly on the rise, averaging in the low 50's on the surface.

Cocos reported a 43" pike as the largest for the week and a 28.5" walleye. The pike was boated and released just a stones throw from camp. The rapids are flowing at a pretty good rate considering the high water throughout the park but are still drivable. According to the guests, about 80% of the female walleyes still had eggs which means they are late to spawn this year. The pike have spawned and are holding in the shallow waters absorbing as much sun as possible. The suckers are packing the rapids and are readying to spawn. The pike are close by. Hot colors for Cocos were gold gold and more gold. Gold spoons seemed to have the magic touch for pike and jigging slowly for the walleye.

Central Lake was finding fish in every moving current. The walleyes also are in the process of spawning. The west narrows are holding large amounts of fish. Shallow sunlit bays have pike prowling everywhere. Another couple days of sunshine and the fish are going to get ravenous. Shallow running crankbaits have been really effective in the muddy bays, along with jigging in the currents.

As I get out and around this week to the outposts I'll be able to see how the other outposts are fairing. I'll make sure to bring the news directly to the blog site. Good luck on the water everyone and looking forward to seeing you soon.

Nathan
Big Hook Wilderness Camps

Spring Fever...continued.

2011-05-01T13:05:00.000-05:00

May is a surreal time of year for a resort owner. The anticipation for the up and coming fishing season is almost overwhelming. In our case, making sure all the necessities for the 2011 season are purchased is a top priority. Once at the resort it is tough to go shopping at the store down the street; especially when considering that store is almost 200 miles away.

Eagle Lake ice

A lot of attention is now focused on Mother Nature and more particularly the ice. An early ice out is always appreciated. A long cold winter created plenty of stubborn ice, on some lakes ice was recorded at close to 40 inches thick. It was close to record year for the local trucking companies on the ice roads to Sandy Lake. However, warm temperatures in NW Ontario over the past week put a formidable dent in the ice. Ice in the Dryden area has been reduced to floating slush. (Attached right is a pic of the ice on Eagle Lake).

This weekend a rather wicked low pressure has traversed through NW Ontario brining plenty of snow/rain. Snowfall totals in Sandy Lake have surpassed 4 inches and is still accumulating. The large amount of precipitation will only raise the already high water in the area. The back side of this low pressure is dragging plenty of wind which will aid in ice break up. Also, looking at the forecasts warmer temperatures (50-60F) are to return to the area next week. Coupled with the warm temperatures last week we should be on track for an on time season opener.

Rapala Shad #5

I'll keep everyone posted with ice out updates. I have all my equipment sorted, reels freshly lined and greased and ready to hit the water. Attached are a couple pictures of lures I just bulked up in my tackle box that I think will be really effective this summer.

Reef Runner Lil Ripper

Good luck on the water to everyone. It is only a couple of weeks until I can start posting fishing reports.
-Nathan
Big Hook Wilderness Camps
www.bighookcamps.com

Loss of a quality establishment

2011-04-15T11:49:00.000-05:00

Those of you who frequent NW Ontario often are most likely familiar with the Village Corner in Vermilion Bay. It was one of the last stops for travelers before venturing up HWY 105 to Red Lake. This restaurant/gas station was a great establishment that offered everything from fishing gear to heaping portions of food.

Unfortunately, last fall the local business caught fire and burned beyond repair. Everything was a total loss in the gas station and the restaurant. Cause of the fire was believed to be an electrical short. Locals were hoping to have the business rebuilt for the 2011 season, however it looks as if the Village Corner will not be operating anytime soon.

For travelers looking to refuel in the Vermilion Bay area have the option of Bobby's just 2 miles west on Hwy 17. Just like the Village Corner, Bobby's offers fuel, has a great selection of fishing tackle (rather expensive, in my opinion) and gift store. Neighboring Bobby's is now Busters Barbecue Restaurant, not a bad place for lunch with large portions and a great tasting sauce. The local BBQ sauce has won so many taste competitions that a national distributor out of California agreed to supply groceries stores throughout the USA. Keep your eyes open for Busters Blueberry BBQ sauce. I have already seen the product on the shelves in several towns throughout Wisconsin.

2011 Ice Watch

Now is the time of year Big Hook starts getting out the blow dryers and heating elements to melt the ice covering our bodies of water. As of April 12, 2011 17 inches of ice still covered Eagle Lake, ON. Up north in the Sandy Lake area, the snow is melting quickly, however ice is still clinging to the shores. Cool temperatures in the region are slowing the melt off. Massive amounts of snow this past winter suggests that we will have high water this spring throughout the Opasquia Provincial Park. As every spring, Big Hook is thinking warm thoughts.

(Attached right is a couple of photos taken while trout fishing on Eagle Lake April 10th, 2011).

Hope the spring is treating everyone well.

Remember to practice (catch, photo, release) CPR.

-Nathan

Big Hook Wilderness Camps

www.bighookcamps.com

Countdown

2011-04-06T13:59:00.000-05:00

The 2011 season is almost upon us. Temperatures are on the rise which means the snow is melting quickly. It is only a matter of time before the lakes are devoid of ice. This time of year is the equivalent of limbo for most fisherman in the north. River fishing is available however most lakes are still covered with ice preventing fisherman from launching their boats. To pass the time before lake open I like to inventory and organize my tackle and make sure my gear is up to par.

Over the summer I manage to lose hundreds of dollars in fishing tackle. Those toothy pike are the culprits to most of my loses. My refusal to use steel leaders while trolling is detrimental to my tackle box. However, I'll risk loss of a lure for a 25"+ walleye any day. Even in our neck of the woods walleye are generally leader shy. To catch more trophy walleye, first ditch the leader. I'll explain an alternative to leaders in a moment. My second reason to avoid trolling with leaders for walleye is they truly mess with the lures action. Walleye lures on average are smaller, less than 1/2 oz. Pairing that with a bulky leader just causes the lure to slosh and pull through the water with no vibrant action.

Instead of a steel leader, I'll splice an 18-24" section of 30# fluorocarbon. Fluorocarbon is valued for its refractive index, which is similar to that of water, making it less visible to fish. Plus fluorocarbon is more dense than traditional mono filaments allowing baits to reach deeper depths if needed. Fluorocarbon does have drawbacks. Since the line is more dense means it is subject to line memory. Be ready to expect plenty of loops and twists if you line a whole spin casting spool. The other down side to fluorocarbon is simply the cost. I just purchase the leader spools that offer approx 25 yds of material. Ande and Berkley manufacture quality fluorocarbon leaders.

Back to gearing up for the summer. It is crucial to inspect your fishing reels and rods before the fishing season begins. Every fishing combo that has spent the winter in the garage or attic could use a little TLC every spring. Believe me, there is nothing worse than flying 185 miles from the nearest town only to have your gear foul up on the first day.

Fishing rod maintenance is simple. Inspect all your guides and make sure there are no chips or cracks. A tiny crack in a guide will cause line to fray and eventually snap. If a tip is missing on a rod, no sweat, just take it to your local tackle shop. Most stores will replace tips for around $5 while you wait.

Reels can be a little more complicated to maintain. First, begin with the fishing line on the spool. Is it the same line that came with the reel? If so, it is time to be changed. Mono filaments that have been exposed to the sun deteriorate over time becoming brittle and unpredictable. Once again, stroll down to the local tackle store and get spooled up for around $6. No need to fumble with line yourself, let the store utilize their bulk spools and line winders. Braided lines are more resistant to the suns UV rays and can withstand years of abuse before changing.

Second, inspect the mechanics of the reel. Is there a grinding noise when you attempt to retrieve? Sand and dirt is most often the culprit. A simple clean and grease can make an old reel feel like new again. Most of the time a small dab of reel oil on the bearings and drag washers is all that is needed. Check the bail on spinning reels and the thumb press on bait casters. Another common malfunction to fishing reels is a busted bail spring. This .05 cent part is the Achilles heel of fishing reels causing fisherman more frustration than....well fish.

Now that our gear has passed inspection, it's time to hit the water. Oh wait....walleye opener isn't until May 21st in Canada. Back to strolling the stores for me.

Good luck on the water everyone. Remember to practice Catch, Photo, Release (CPR).
-Nathan
Big Hook Wilderness Camps

Interesting Article

2011-03-25T14:52:00.000-05:00

Here is an article from Field and Stream On-Line that discusses 30 great new instant classic lures. A number of the lures are irrelevant for fishing at Big Hook. However, several look rather intriguing and a couple are a staple in my tackle box. Click the highlighted text above for the article.

Lures mentioned that in my tackle box are:

The ever popular Bulldawg. Many of you know that I am a firm believer in this lure, it consistently produces trophy fish for me in the months of July, August and September. However, there are drawbacks such as durability (it only takes one 24" pike to rip the tail off) and price tag (around 13-17 bucks).
I have tried the Sebile Magic Swimmer. The lure looks fantastic gliding though the water, however it has yet produce great numbers for me. Perhaps I'll give it another go this summer.
The Gulp minnow is a staple for walleye, don't leave home without it on a trip to Big Hook.
The Zoom Fluke is a great rig for early spring pike. Twitching a texas rig in the shallow mud flats will produce great pike and even walleye action.
The Bomber Salt A is a close cousin to my favorite pike lure Bomber Long A magnum. The gold or silver colors are a must.
Reef runner makes quality baits. The color combo posted in the article is effective in our tea stained waters.
The Yozuri crystal minnow is a great spring walleye lure. The blue silver color combo has been good to me in the past.

A couple of lures on the list that I'll be purchasing for this summer are the:

Salmo Hornet-looks very similar to my favorite walleye trolling lure the Shad Rap.
The Lucky Craft Sammy could be a lot of fun for pike on calm nights. The upturned nose could provide awesome walk the dog action.
The Cavitron Buzz Bait could be another top water winner.
The Live Target Crawfish Crank looks to fit the bill for walleye. Crayfish are one of the primary forages for walleye in our waters. I fore see this bait becoming a quick favorite.

So many lures so little time. Good luck on the water everyone. Remember to practice CPR (catch, photo and release).

-Nathan

Big Hook Wilderness Camps

Spring Fever

2011-03-21T15:01:00.000-05:00

Spring fever has officially set in. This yearly ailment usually strikes me around March Madness, as much as I like to watch the NCAA tourney, I would really rather be outdoors. Temperatures here in Minnesota are on the rise and the snow is dissipating quickly, it is only a matter of time before the ice retreats from the shoreline. Unfortunately, it is matter of time before I can get a line wet.

However, the weather is a different story up north around Big Hook. I have been keeping a close eye on the temperatures in the Opasquia Provincial Park and have yet to witness temps above the freezing mark. We just had a report from Sandy Lake Seaplane that the tankers are still running the ice highway with fuel. This is excellent news because there is never a surplus of fuel in Sandy. Looks like more snow is on the way up there, so that furthers the expectation of high water this spring.

So let us get back to fishing...

Spring is a great time of year for great discounts at most retailers. Fishing specials often roll out in February and March. I like to keep an eye on Cabela's Bargain Cave. Here are a couple great buys they are offering and other store specials.

Rapala Glass Shad-a great trolling bait for walleye in July and August. The Glass Citrus Shad looks like it could be effective for trophy walleye.
Hot N Tot- another great walleye trolling lure. The Orange Fire UV and Blue Chrome are my fav's.
Free shipping on rod/reel combos, is a great deal. It is often expensive to ship fishing rods.
Cabela's Tackle Bag-These are perfect for a fly-in fishing trip and at $40 is not a bad price.
Gander Mountain- has 20% off all soft sided tackle boxes.
Fleet Farm is another great place to check out for fishing. They don't post sales on the website often so check your local store. I have found most of the time they will beat out Cabela's and Gander.

Those are just a couple of deals I have stumbled across while browsing the web this morning. I'll keep everyone posted if I come across anymore online deals.

-Nathan

Big Hook Wilderness Camps

March Madness 2011

2011-03-09T14:21:00.001-06:00

It's that time of year to start going crazy over NCAA basketball. Selection Sunday is just around the corner. This is by far one of my favorite sporting events. Who will be this years surprise? That anticipation for a Cinderella team to emerge is just awesome. We have set up a Big Hook NCAA Tourney Pick'em Challenge.
Yahoo Tourney Pick'em
Once you visit the link, click on the Join a Group tab.
Group ID#: 28671
Password: bighook
Good luck to everyone that enters. Top three finishers win!

Nathan
Big Hook Wilderness Camps
www.bighookcamps.com

10 Traveling Tips

2011-03-04T14:24:00.000-06:00

Planning for a fishing trip to a foreign country is an exciting process. However, numerous simple items and important issues are often overlooked when traveling. Here are 10 brief and helpful tips for planning a smooth and successful trip to Big Hook Wilderness Camps.

One of the first and most important steps is to accustom yourself with border crossing requirements. Remember US Citizens will need a passport or a passport card to reenter the USA. A great site for border crossing information is: Canada Welcomes You . Please also remember Canada has a different criminality code. If you or a party member have had a criminal conviction in the past i.e. Impaired Driving charge, please contact the Canada Customs office you are planning to pass through for admissibility requirements and/or restrictions.
An important issue with fly in resorts is WEIGHT. Guests are limited to 100 pds of gear per person and are subject to overweight fees if exceeded. If possible, please pack your personal gear in one or two duffel or gym bags. Please, no coffin sized boxes or coolers. Bags should fit into the airplane without having to make a new door or hire extra staff to lift them. If it takes more than one man to lift or carry it – it is too big! Note that a case of beer is 22 pds and a case of water is 26 pds, these two items eat up your 100 pd allowance quickly.
If you are planning on staying in Red Lake the night before your departure to Big Hook Camps book a hotel reservation EARLY. Presently, Red Lake is experiencing a gold boom and hotel rooms are in high demand with miners and prospectors. A list of hotels in the Red Lake area is listed here .
Prepare yourself for the weather. Stay up to date with weather patterns at Big Hook by visiting this blog or our web site.
Remember we provide a list of staple foods to help customers keep weight to a minimum. Review this list so you are not packing items we stock.
Upon your departure from Red Lake to Big Hook, please arrive at Wasaya Air in Red Lake at least 45min-1 hr in advance. Make sure to have ALL of your bags marked with your destination outpost. If your flight is delayed due to weather, please be patient. Know that if the pilots don't want to fly, you don't want to fly.
Before you travel northbound you can watch a quick tutorial and familiarize yourself with Mercury motor operations.
Read the fishing regulations provided at each outpost or visit the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) fishing regs page for more information. Make sure you understand the rules. Note: Big Hook has a no trophy take out policy, meaning all walleye over 18" and pike over 27" must be released.
When at the outposts, properly disposing of fish guts, cooking oil and scraps is important and keep unwanted animals out of camp. 5 gallon buckets are provided at all the outpost, make sure to place fish guts and your daily food scraps in them, then transport them across the lake for disposal. Seagulls and eagles are natures amazing vacuum cleaners.
We go through extensive lengths to make sure our cabins are properly stocked with the items we provide. During your stay should you require additional staples, a member of your party may really really like the peaches or baked beans, notify us as soon as possible. All outposts have communication to the main base at Central Lake. If you are at an outpost with radio communications we have the radio operational from 5:00-5:30 pm every day. Or if your outpost is equipped with a satellite phone just call and leave a message. A last resort to communicating with us is to simply leave a message on the table, it is something we keep a lookout for when doing camp checks.

Hopefully these listed items above will aid you in planning and experiencing a truly spectacular Canadian fly-in fishing vacation with us at Big Hook Wilderness Camps. The fishing season is quickly approaching and we are very excited for the 2011 season. We look forward to visiting with everyone this summer.

Spring is in the air...wishful thinking.

2011-02-25T12:00:00.000-06:00

Last week a huge warm front had people in the Great White North (aka Sandy Lake area) nervously chewing their fingernails. Unfortunately, the winter road in it's 2011 infancy was forced to be shut down due to unseasonable weather. Temperature in NW Ontario peaked at a balmy 40 degrees and caused the once solid road to turn to mush. Flashbacks to 2010 quickly arose, where a tanker was lost to the Flanagan river after a brief warm spat. Freight companies that were hauling thousands of pounds of desired fuel and freight didn't hesitate to postpone shipments and patiently wait for cold weather to return.

To say the ice road is a "life line" to northern communities is an understatement. These communities rely heavily on the ice highway, and cold temperatures for that matter, for cheaper transportation of goods and fuel. Building materials for housing, fuel for communities generators, airplane fuel and vehicles are some of the most important goods transported on the highway. At current costs of $1 per pound for flying goods, a simple one dollar can of soup instantly costs $2 when placed in an airplane. Furthermore, this is the one time of year where northern families are able to drive off the reserve and stock up on groceries among other goods. With gas pricing at $8.65 a gallon, milk costing 10.99 a gallon, soda at $24 a 12 pack and steaks costing around 15 bucks a pound for simple sirloin most families save a considerable amount with just one trip. Also, this is the only time of year people can purchase a vehicle. Just imagine driving 10 hrs to reach the nearest grocery store. And I thought the Target five miles away is a long haul!

Fortunately, cold weather has returned to the north country. The tankers are once again transporting goods northbound to Sandy, North Spirit and Deer Lake. Trucks utilizing giant augers three feet in diameter have been testing and flooding the Berens River and North Spirit Lake for quality ice. Also, as I mentioned in my previous blog, helicopters with radio imagery are now able to determine ice thickness just hovering over the water for a short period of time.

Personally I am ready for spring. Come to think of it, didn't the ground hog see his shadow? Which means winter will be over in three days. Oh, I hope Punxsutawny Phil was correct. On a similar note, the spring thaw in the Big Hook area should be much different from last 2010, due to the fact there is ample amount of snow. This means we should expect high water levels this spring. I like high water in the spring, mostly because the fish are drawn to the gushing rapids like a moth to a flame. I realize it is still at least two months before I have the chance to cast a line in Canadian waters, but just mentioning spring fishing makes me want to rummage through the closet and prepare my gear. Maybe in the next blog I'll discuss some spring fishing tactics.

Hope the winter is treating everyone well. Remember to practice CPR (catch, photo, release).
Nathan
Big Hook Wilderness Camps

Winter Road 2011

2011-02-16T13:59:00.002-06:00

Overall, the 2011 Winter Road from Red Lake to Sandy Lake was a successful trip. Although, every winter road has various unique problems and challenges. This year uncertainties of ice thickness was a main concern. Like most of the Midwest, NW Ontario received record amounts of snow in December. The massive amount of snow combined with mild temperatures throughout December and January lead to slow developing ice.

Our original plan was to begin travels on the 31st of January to NW Ontario. However, as of January 28th vehicles had not ventured forth on the ice highway towards Sandy Lake. In previous years, the road was opened around January 15th. With a sigh of relief, Dad received a phone call from Sandy Lake Seaplane on January 29th indicating several 4x4 half tons had completed the run. Two days later Dad and I arrived in Vermilion Bay ready to load the trucks with our supplies. On HWY 502 in transit to Vermilion Bay from the States, we managed to chase down a small bull moose that was unwilling to depart the smooth highway into the deep snow. Dad was practically bumping the heels of the moose while I was scrambling for the camera in the passenger seat.

On Feb 1st, Dad, Ed Carson and myself ventured into Dryden and loaded our three trucks with approximately 4000 pounds of lumber, 5 new 4-stroke Yamaha engines bound for West Lake, and various other supplies. Two miles west of Dryden the Dodge Ram 2500 started coughing, sputtering and jerking. We begged the local Dodge dealer for an emergency appointment and after a quick diagnosis it was determined the truck needed a coil and wiring. Even more amazingly the part was flown in the very next day. Looking back, we were fortunate the truck didn't break down in the middle of nowhere on the ice highway.

After our brief set back, we departed Vermilion Bay on the 3rd at 4:30 am towards Sandy Lake. A brief stop in Red Lake for a hearty breakfast the the infamous Lakeview restaurant and we were on our way. The first trip to Sandy Lake was rather uneventful. Two moose and 19 chickens were spotted along the journey. It was noticeable that very little traffic had traveled the road thus far. The snow was packed well and had very few ruts. We encountered only two vehicles during the 10 hour drive. Arriving to Sandy Lake around dinner time we were flattered with a moose roast prepared for us.

The following day we unloaded the vehicles and fueled up. Not surprisingly, the gas station was only open two hours that day. At 3:00 am on the 5th, we departed Sandy Lake ventured back to Red in vehicles stocked with empty propane bottles. Driving the road during the evening hours is optimal because oncoming traffic is visible along with the moguls in the road.

After watching an amazing Superbowl and cheering the Packers until my throat was raw, we ventured back along the winter highway. The final two legs of the trip were fairly non eventful. We witnessed helicopter flying over various parts of the winter road utilizing sonar imagery to record ice thickness. According to several sources, ice was reported 22 inches at the thinnest spots. As a rule of thumb, semi's and fuel tankers will begin traveling the highway at 20-24 inches of ice. During our final trip back from Sandy we encountered 6 fuel tankers heading northbound.

For a neat Google Interactive map of our latest winter road journey click here.

A couple of numbers from the 2011 winter road:

$8.65- the current price for a gallon of gas in Sandy Lake.
21-number of grouse spotted along our travels
1424-kilometers (882 miles) driven on the winter road
41-number of hours it took to drive the 1424 kilometers
21-average mph along the winter road
10650-the we weight of goods transported along the winter highway. Current price is $1 per pound to ship via air.
4-moose spotted
3-average number of stops per cup of coffee consumed.
-33-average morning temperature in Celsius (-27 F) in Sandy Lake. The wind chill our last day at Sandy was a bone chilling -44 Celsius (-47 F)

Website Up-dates

2011-01-21T13:49:00.000-06:00

As I have mentioned in previous posts, Big Hook's website recently has undergone a face lift. My brother Ricky and I have been busy over the past several weeks formatting pages and uploading content. As the winter progresses we hope to keep delivering additional features, so check back often. Please comment at the bottom of this blog on what you think of the new site and/or additional features you would like to see.

Most people will notice new site has an updated appearance, numerous new pages and features that are now accessible. Visitors will notice additional links at the bottom of the page to a brief history about the owners Steve and Evelyn, a mission statement, information about the Opasquia Provincial Park and a sitemap. A couple of new features that I would like to highlight are:

Google Interactive Maps

Utilizing Google's powerful map data base, guests now have the ability to view their favorite Big Hook Wilderness Camp lake. Google Maps allow users to view each lake in either standard scale or from a satellite imagery. In addition, these new maps allow users to scroll, zoom and click on points of interest. Highlighted throughout the maps are icons for fishing hot spots, rock hazards and scenic locations. Text and pictures accompany each icon for more explanation. To start browsing Google Interactive Maps visit Big Hooks home page and click on your favorite outpost lake. There you will see a Google Interactive Maps link.

Nathan's Tackle Box

This new section of our website allows guests to peer into Nathan's Tackle Box. Visitors can now study the hot lures Nathan uses while guiding at Big Hook Wilderness Camps. New guests should find this section incredibly helpful when preparing for an up and coming Big Hook vacation. Included in the page are successful walleye, northern, and perch lures, along with photo's and links to the manufacturer's websites.

On a side note, we are at the All-Canada Milwaukee show this week Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Stop by and pay us a visit. For you non football fans, I am sure there won't be any lines to contend with on Sunday due to the Packers/Bears game.

The following is a quote from Going Fishing TV in regards to there fishing tour throughout NW Ontario in 2009. Big Hook was their first stop.

"The first operation was Steve and Evie Hartle’s Big Hook Wilderness Camp www.bighookcamps.com located in a sportsman’s paradise 185 air miles north of Red Lake, Ontario. Situated in the middle of the 1.5 million acre Opasquia Provincial Park, Big Hook Wilderness Camp offers up some of the hottest walleye jigging I’ve experienced. On top of that, the pike just won’t stop biting and surroundings are some of the most spectacular in the country. You can fish right off the dock at the main camp or Steve will fly you in to numerous outpost lakes that offer mind boggling action."

Have a safe winter everyone.
-Nathan
Big Hook Camps

Let the shows begin!

2011-01-15T11:11:00.001-06:00

Sport Shows
This weekend is the kick off to the sport show season for Big Hook Wilderness Camps. The first show of the tour is also the largest, Chicago Pheasant Run All Canada. This show runs from the 13th-16th of January. Visit All Canada's website for attractions, hours and directions. The next stop for Big Hook is the All-Canada Milwaukee, which is running from January 20-23. We hope to see many of you there.

Random News
I woke up this morning to see the temperature was a chilly -5 F on the thermometer; grimaced, poured myself another cup of hot coffee for breakfast and shuffled over to my laptop. In my morning web crawl, I decided to see how the weather was faring up in the greater land of Sandy Lake and the Opasquia Provincial Park. I must say it is a heat wave here in Minnesota compared to the current morning weather in Sandy Lake. The air temperature was hovering around -34 Celsius (just about the same in Fahrenheit) with wind chills ranging from -38 to -48 C. Needless to say, that's COOOOOOLD!

With the sub zero temperatures abound, Mother Nature should have no problem making ice for the winter highway this year. Dad and I hope to journey northbound along the ice road around the first week of February. We have plenty of goods and lumber to accompany us on the long journey. Also, we have a new vehicle to shuttle around Sandy Lake that will be driven up. Attached left is a pic of the beauty. Should be interesting driving this one up the ice highway.

Finally, for you aviation enthusiasts. In my early morning web browsing I stumbled across a rather informative weather site offered by NOAA. It shows weather stations at all major airports in North America in real time, including some in our region in NW Ontario. Click on the highlighted text for a very neat link to the NOAA site. You will notice the nearest weather stations are still a fair distance away from Big Hook camps.
Have a safe winter everyone.
Nathan
Big Hook Wilderness Camps

Google Maps

2011-01-02T15:08:00.003-06:00

Happy New Year to all! Big Hook just rang in the New Year with a revised and improved web site for 2011. A new polished look with streaming photo's are the main updates to BigHookCamps.com.

An additional new web feature is Big Hook's interactive lake maps powered by Google. Using Google's expansive mapping features, guests will now have the ability to scroll and zoom in on their favorite spots. Hotspots and several other places of interest are now highlighted throughout our outpost camp lakes. Click on the emblems for fishing advice or gander at what that particular location looks like. Lake maps will be updated continuously throughout the year, so check back often. To view the lake maps just visit your favorite outpost camp at BigHookCamps.com and click on the Google Map link.

Sport Show's

Tis the season for Sport Shows. Big Hook will be hitting the road here shortly to begin the sport show season. Below is information on our 2011 sport show tour. We hope to see you there.

All Canada - St Charles, IL — Jan 13-16
All Canada - Milwaukee, WI — Jan 20-23
All Canada - Madison, WI — Jan 24-26
All Canada- Green Bay, WI — Jan 27-30
Tinley Park, IL — Feb 12-13
All Canada - Dallas TX — Feb 25-27

Big Hook Orchids

2010-12-15T17:24:00.003-06:00

Big Hook’s Orchids of the North

Every year fisherman at Big Hook miss out on the flora and fauna wonders of the Opasquia Provincial Park and the boreal forest. The Park is home to the Pink Moccasin Flower (Cypripedium Acaule), sometimes called Stemless Lady Slipper. This member of the orchid family is losing habitat all over North America. While not on any endangered list, it is nice to see them thriving around Big Hook and throughout the Opasquia.

Pink Moccasins are found in a variety of shaded, acidic habitats, both wet and dry, in boreal and temperate regions These orchids need very definite environmental conditions, rarely surviving transplanting to gardens. Root system extends approximately a meter in opposite directions from the plant, and cannot withstand severance in order to transplant. Germination from seed to flowering plant requires 10-16 years. They are pollinated by bumble bee (Bombus) queens.

So the next time the group is making the trip across a portage, stop and take a look at the plant life around you. You are so lucky to be standing in a wilderness that is virtually untouched.

Steve Hartle

Big Hook Wilderness Camps

200 Miles!

2010-10-27T12:04:00.003-05:00

Take some time to contemplate on exactly how far 200 miles is. For a good reference, 200 miles is approximately the distance from Chicago to Green Bay. Now take the time to imagine 200 miles of nothing. No roads, no cities, no cars....just miles and miles of vast green boreal forest. So, take away I-94 and I-43 that run north out of Chicago to Green Bay. Take away Milwaukee, Sheboygan, and Manitowoc. Replace all of that with nature. Kind of tough to do, right?

Witnessing 200 miles of forest is an experience that one must see for themselves. As you cruise thousands of feet over the earth surface in a Cessna Caravan northbound out of Red Lake, ON your eyes continually search for signs of life. Your brain has trouble processing the simplicity of nature. You witness no human influence, just trees, rock and water; repeat that mile after mile after mile. Your mind keeps repeating "There has got to be something!" however your eyes just provide visions of pristine lakes and endless forests of pine and poplar trees.

For the past 25 years our family has operated Big Hook Wilderness Camps 200 miles from the end of the road in Red Lake, ON. Situated in the Opasquia Provincial Park, Big Hook is the most remote outfitter in Ontario. We offer guests the opportunity to witness true isolation and escape from the modern world. No cell phones constantly ringing, no daily commuters to battle, no endless hours at the desk.....it's just you and Mother Nature.

On your next visit to Big Hook try an experiment to appreciate the remoteness of the Opasquia Park. While you are out fishing turn off the motor, close your eyes and just listen to nature. I mean, really listen. There will be no honking horns, no motorcycles accelerating down the street and no sirens wailing in the distance. What you may hear is the faint cry of a loon or the water lazily lapping at the side of your boat. However, most of the time, silence will consume you and your ears will begin to ring. That in my opinion, is when you can take a deep breath and relax because only then you truly know you are isolated.

For another experiment, try stepping on shore somewhere. Just pick a random shore line and dock your boat for a moment. Chances are, you are the only person to stand in that spot, ever! That is how remote Big Hook Wilderness Camps truly is. The miles and miles of forest sprawling before you probably is unexplored. The Opasquia Provincial Park has a population of three. Myself, my mom and my dad. Thus, there is extremely little human influence on the park.

All in all, what I am trying to convey is traveling 200 miles from the nearest road or town can be exciting and at the same time difficult to process. From a business point of view the distance is very challenging to overcome. Months of planning is needed for an efficient season. From a guests stand point, you are witnessing Mother Nature as she has existed for the past thousands of years undisturbed by man. On your next Big Hook vacation, take a step back and a deep breath because it is just you and Mother Nature.

Good luck on the water in your fall/winter fishing adventures everyone. Please remember to practice catch and release.

-Nathan

Big Hook Wilderness Camps

Get on the Water

2010-10-12T11:31:00.005-05:00

It has been quite the warm fall thus far in the Midwest. In my opinion, this is a great time of year to get your boat out of storage and on the water. Generally, waterways this time of year are less crowded due to the fact kids are back in school and many people are switching their focus to hunting. Plus, this very well could be the last outing before temperatures plummet and snow begins to descend from the sky. Personally I prefer fishing from a boat rather than sitting in a shack watching a tip up.

Fall is also another great time to check out your local tackle shop for great deal on fishing gear and tackle. Often retailers will discount whats remaining of their summer stockpile to clear out space for hunting season and holiday products. Great brands to keep an eye on are: Shimano for fishing reels and St Croix for rods. I'll admit these brands are rarely discounted but watch the prices closely in the fall.

Now that the Big Hook fishing season is over Mom, Dad and I begin tackling the off season projects in preparation for the 2011 season. One big project for the winter is driving supplies up the winter ice highway. A large amount of planning is invested before driving the ice highway. The first step is discussing projects for camp in 2011 and figuring out what will be needed. The second step is allocating enough materials and goods from around NW Ontario for two trips up the ice road. The majority of the trips we have more goods than we can haul. The final step is transporting the goods, which usually takes ten days or so depending on the weather conditions.

Another big chunk of the "off season" is directed to the sport show tour. Our 2011 sport show dates are as follows:

All Canada - St Charles, IL - Jan 13-16
All Canada - Milwaukee, WI - Jan 20-23
All Canada - Madison, WI - Jan 24-26
All Canada- Green Bay, WI - Jan 27-30
Tinley Park, IL Feb 12-13
All Canada - Dallas TX - Feb 25-27

We look forward to visiting with many of you during our sport show campaign. Good luck on the water everyone. I am already looking forward to the 2011 Big Hook season.

-Nathan

Big Hook Wilderness Camps

Year End

2010-09-20T14:06:00.002-05:00

The 2010 fishing season is officially over for us at Big Hook Wilderness Camps. First of all, I would just like to personally thank everybody (guests, friends,family and employee's) for allowing the 2010 season to be one of our best. We truly appreciate our customers loyalty over the years.

Let's take a look back at Big Hook's 2010 season. Even with the downturn in the US/Canadian economy Big Hook managed a successful season. According to numerous economist's, tourism throughout Ontario was down approximately 15%. Big Hook managed to beat the curve, maintaining an even client base from 2009 to 2010.

From an operators standpoint 2010 was a quiet and uneventful year. Ice was not an issue, forest fires never threatened our camps and overall Mother Nature provided decent weather. The season began with the earliest ice out in Big Hook history, April 20th. Throughout the years, ice normally retreats from the shorelines around the 10th of May. Overall, the weather throughout the summer was far superior to 2009. May, June and July saw many days reach into the 80 and 90 degrees. August, which is normally our most stable month, saw several low pressure systems that brought cool weather and plenty of rain.

Due to lack of snow last winter, the lake levels throughout the Opasquia Provincial Park were drastically low to begin the year. West Lake was so low we couldn't even dock the plane without touching the bottom with the airplane floats. However, the middle of May brought plenty of moisture and the lakes returned to normal level throughout the summer. Burnt Lake was the exception, with high water most of the year. Water temperatures remained in the 70's the majority of the summer. For the first time in years I was able to swim almost every day during the month of July.

Now for the fishing. Fish responded to the favorable weather. Week after week fishing reports continued to amaze me, numbers and size wise. The largest walleye of the summer, 32" inches long, was boated and released at South Lake. West Lake and Favorable were a close second with 31" monsters. South Lake broke the 30" barrier 23 times for the 2010 season, an unbelievable feat. Due to how north we are located the growing season for fish is incredibly short. According to some reports, a 30" walleye as far north as us is almost 30 years old! When you catch and release these "old timers" please make sure to handle them carefully, because they have plenty of years behind them. Beginning in 1992, Big Hook enabled a No Trophy policy for walleye and northern. All walleye over 18" and pike exceeding 27.5" are to be released. The fish above these size limits are your primary breeders, keeping Big Hook's fishery one of the top in Ontario. With 18 years of catch and release, the fishery is better than ever.

It was a three way tie for the largest pike, at 45" between Central, West and Favourable Lake. Dozens of pike were reported from 42-44" from the other camps. Surprisingly, sauger are being caught throughout the Opasquia Provincial Park. The species is expanding eastward from Island Lake Manitoba.

As you probably saw during my season's fishing reports, I recommended numerous lures. Two lures in particular stood out from the rest: the fire tiger or flouro orange Shad Rap #7 for walleye and the Mann's Hard Nose Swim Shad for pike. Both of these lures combined to boat dozens of trophy fish during the 2010 season. On top of the usual array of lures, I would highly recommend adding these two in your tackle box for your next Big Hook adventure.

What is in store for the 2011 season? Big Hook hopes to continue it's leading effort in "green technologies". We plan to keep the Opasquia Provincial Park as one of the greenest provincial park in Ontario by relying on and continuing to upgrade our solar and wind technologies.

Plans for new docks at South and Lemonade Lakes are in the works. Much depends of course on a solid winter road.

As remote as our business is, 185 air miles from the nearest town, the smallest mishap is the often critical. Planning for an upcoming year is crucial and time consuming. There is no calling a plumber if the water shuts down. Electricians are not on speed dial and carpenters are not available. As a "mom and pop" operation in the remote north, our family has to take each matter into our own hands and solve the problem efficiently and effectively. I always joke that we are the "jack of all trades and masters of none." Bridging the communication gap was probably the biggest challenge for us over the years. However, advancements in technology, i.e. internet and VOIP phone communications have made the ability to operate a successful remote business. Mom, Dad and I hope our efforts in the 2010 season met and exceeded your expectations.

Once again, I would like to thank everyone for visiting us at Big Hook Wilderness Camps. We certainly hope you enjoyed your stay with us during our 2010 season. Please remember to send us your pics your latest Big Hook fishing trip and we will try to include them in our fall/winter news letter. Good luck on the water in your fall/winter fishing endeavors.

-Nathan

Big Hook Wilderness Camps

September Report

2010-09-14T11:15:00.003-05:00

In all the years we have operated in the Opasquia Provincial Park, September has been the most difficult month to predict for weather and fishing. For example, September 2009 was the most pleasant month of the summer, with temperatures ranging in the mid seventy's and sunny skies. Fish were very predictable. Walleye were in 20ft of water aggressively feeding and pike were scattered between rock piles and dying weedbeds. Aside from fishing, we were able to close the resort wearing t-shirts and shorts. Flying the sunny skies throughout the park was relaxing and flying tree top level was never required.

However, this year is a different monster. The leaves on the birch and poplar trees have begun to yellow and fall to the forest floor. Honking geese flying south bound are now the major air traffic for us within the provincial park. On calm, clear nights the faint cry of a wolf is signals fall is on her way. The occasional moose call is audible if you know what to listen for. This September we have witnessed just one day of sunshine and consistent cool temperatures. The north winds off of Hudson Bay have been particularly strong bringing plenty of rain/mist with it. Dense clouds have hidden the sun and the ambient temperature

has rapidly cooled the water temperature to 55 degrees.

The walleye have responded to the cool weather with a light bite. Trolling in about 18 ft of water with a deep diving crank bait has been the most effective technique. Jigging has been tough due to the bite, often twister tails will be stolen. The cool weather however has invigorated the pike. Numerous trophies have been caught since the temperatures have turned cool. West Lake boated 7 pike between 40-45" for the last two weeks in a row. Not to mention numerous other large fish reported from the other camps. Pike are rapidly bulking up for the winter time, feeding on anything up to 1/2 their size. Hence during the fall, larger baits are very enticing to this toothy species. This time of year, it is often the large fish will transition from the muddy weed beds to areas with rock bottom.

Every year people ask me "When is the best time to fish for trophy pike?" It is often a topic that will spur much debate. Each month is different towards fishing technique's. In my honest opinion every month offers fantastic fishing. I know many of you will roll your eyes at that response. However, I have had the fortunate opportunity to fish this park for the last twenty years and can say the fishing holds year round. You just have to educate yourself on the tools you'll need and the pike habits for each lake and time of year. Because of our NO trophy take out policy, the fish will always be there year after year.

A key element for fishing, don't forget to try and experiment. Whether it's and new lure or jigging versus trolling. If the fishing is tough ask yourself, "is it the fish or the fish-

erman?" I often swallow my pride and admit I am doing something wrong. To this day I find new successful fishing technique's and spots that will surprise me. For example, this spring we were fishing the east rapids at Central and our jigs were frequently getting bit off by pike. I figured a simple solution would be to cast spoons or crankbaits. The result, absolutely nothing. Jig with a leader, zero. I couldn't believe it! Just on a whim, I tried a rig similar to a jig. I rigged up, in a sense, a bass worm rig. The fish went ballistic over this lure. We boated 6 fish in thirty minutes over 35". Never had I considered using this lure, however I have a feeling it will be a staple in my spring time fishing box.

The year is winding down to an end for us. The last guests departed Saturday. It is now time to close and winterize each of the outposts. The process of closing up usually takes between two and three weeks depending on the weather of course.

Good luck to everyone in your fall and winter fishing endeavors! Please send us your pictures from your latest Big Hook fishing trip.

-Nathan

Big Hook Wilderness Camps

Big Hook Fishing Report Week 14

2010-08-31T09:44:00.004-05:00

The sense of fall has integrated itself into the north country here at Big Hook Wilderness Camps. Although the temperatures have been fairly pleasant, Mother Nature is beginning to convey signs of fall. Birch trees are beginning to yellow, water temperatures are on the decline, and yesterday (8/30/2010) we even witnessed several flocks of geese on their way south bound. The late summer weather this August is indeed cooler than 2009. If I remember correctly, we saw day time highs of 78 degrees consistently and I even flew out of camp on Sept 20th wearing shorts last year.

The fish have finally begun holding in their late summer/fall patterns. Walleye are now holding on 20ft reefs and are being caught as deep as 30 ft. Jigging and spinner rigs/

worm harnesses are the best option when fish are holding deeper. My favorite set up is jigging with a 3/8 oz jig and a flouro orange Berkley Gulp. Another great setup is a Lindy Rig (attached right is pic). Most Lindy rigs with a flouro orange or a chartreuse blade are more effective. Backtrolling with these rigs is crucial for "feeling" the bottom, it allows you to slow the boat to a crawl. Thus your baits are able to reach the bottom much easier.

Pike are prowling everywhere, aggressively feeding on their prey. Larger northern were boated while fishing a variety of techniques, from retrieving topwater lures to trolling larger crankbaits in 20+ ft. With the decline in sunlight and lowered water temperatures, the majority of the weed beds are beginning to brown and thin. However, these dieing weeds will still hold numerous fish. The thinning weeds allow fisherman to burn bucktails through the foliage with ease. A great tactic for fishing a weed bed is: Find a wind blown weed bed, meaning a weed bed where the wind has been blowing into for at least several hours. Then align the boat at least 100 ft from the border of the weeds and begin to cast the outer edge. After casting the outer edge of the weeds, slowly begin to creep the boat further into the foliage. Typically the larger fish will hold on the outer edge.

As for the outposts, big pike were reported all around last week, which is normal for late August. Typically, the largest pike of the year will be caught in the waining weeks of August and into the first weeks of September. West Lake boated 7 fish over 40" and the largest of the week at 44". Burnt Lake boated and released a 42" pike. South Lake managed to duplicate another 42" fish and South West reported an impressive 41" caught on a jig. Numerous other fish between 30-39" were boated and released throughout all the outposts.

Several large walleye were reported last week. South had numerous fish

over 25" topping out at 30.5". They reported the majority of the larger fish hanging in 20-25 ft of water. Cocos boated and released a chunky 26" fish while trolling Shad Raps along the edge of the current on the first set of rapids. (Attached right is a beauty 29" walleye boated and released at South Lake).

Please remember Big Hook has a NO TROPHY take out policy. Which means, walleye over 18" and pike over 27.5" MUST be released.

Remember to send us your pics from your latest Big Hook fishing trip.

Good luck on the water everyone.

-Nathan

Big Hook Wilderness Camps

(Attached right: the impressive cliffs at SW Lake).

Big Hook Fishing Report Week 13

2010-08-23T09:22:00.005-05:00

Guests last week had to bear down and brave some tough weather. Winds howled from the NW carrying ample amounts of rain. The barometric pressure sank to a summer low of 29.18" as a wicked low pressure sat over northwest Ontario for two days. Water temperatures began the week at 72 degrees only to plummet to 62 degrees. Fortunately, the system passed and we have been graced with warm temperatures, light winds and cloudy skies the last several days.

Even with the warm temperatures this week, Mother Nature has started the fall patterns early. Birch and poplar leaves have begun turning yellow, weeks earlier than normal. Another sign that fall is coming early are wild rose hips turning bright orange. Wild roses can be found everywhere throughout the Opasquia Provincial Park, and are dominant where a forest fire have recently burned. Bulbs from wild roses contain extremely high amounts of Vitamin C and with a little honey make an excellent tea when dried out. Rose hip tea is one of my favorite remedies to knock out those wicked fall and winter head colds. With late summer and early fall also comes the blueberry harvest. Unfortunately, the blueberry crop was rather disappointing this summer.

could only scrounge up a half gallon of berries. However, tons of raspberries flourished in recently burned areas. In my opinion, there is nothing better than waking up to fresh blueberry pancakes with a hand full of picked raspberries on the side.

As I mentioned before, we witnessed some drastic pressure changes last week. Over the 20 years of fishing here at Big Hook I have encountered hundreds of weather systems and recorded their effects on the Opasquia Provincial Park fishery. As the barometric pressure falls before a front, fish often respond with aggressive feeding. However, once the front is upon the area, fish (walleye especially) become very timid and bite incredibly light. These days you will often find walleye nibbling the ends off your twister tails. Steady barometric pressure is the key to excellent fishing. I have found three days of constant pressure will yield the best results.

The wind last week, in my opinion, was the toughest element to battle. Howling winds make it incredibly tough to back troll and jig. Water will constantly breach the transom and soak your feet while fishing the wind blown shoreline. When this occurs, I will often switch to forward trolling crankbaits along 16ft banks for both walleye and pike. In late August, pike can be found everywhere and trolling is a great tactic locating them. They spread from the weed beds and aggressively feed to bulk up for the winter. Northerns will often hold along wind blown rock shelfs and wind blown points hunting walleye and whitefish. Late season trolling I will often run one line out with a larger crankbait like a Baby Depth Raider or a Rapala Original F18 for pike and another line out with a Shad Rap, Reef Runner or Wally Diver for walleye. Remember walleye can be leader shy, so to prevent getting bit off from a pike, try splicing a 30# flourocarbon tippet for your leader.

Burnt Lake won the weekly fish bragging rights for pike with an impressive 42" fish and South continued it's amazing streak, photoing and releasing an awesome 30" walleye. (Pictured above: Heidi with an impressive Central Lake walleye. Pictured right: wild roses opened. )

Good luck on the water everyone. Please remember Big Hook has a NO TROPHY take out policy. Please release all walleye over 18" and all pike over 27". These fish are our primary breeders and help maintain a healthy fishery for future generations.

-Nathan

Big Hook Wilderness Camps

Big Hook Fishing Report Week 12

2010-08-15T14:57:00.004-05:00

The summer is winding down. Unfortunately, fall weather has prematurely graced our skies. Heavy northwest winds, cool temperatures and mist falling makes for short fishing excursions before the need for a warm cup of coffee arises. A low pressure system is forecasted to sit around until Monday.

Drastic changes in the weather can make fishing tough. However, windy days tend to push fish to the wind blown shoreline. I find a constant wind for two days is a great for predicting fish locations, especially walleye. As I have mentioned in previous Blog's, trolling along a windy shore with a Shad Rap, Reef Runner, Fat Rap or any crankbait that dives 12-15 ft is one of my favorite walleye catching tactics. The key is holding the boat close to a shore that has a good drop off and trolling forward the slowest the motor will idle. For example, today on Central Lake we have a 20 mph NW wind. I decided to fish the SE end of the lake. We trolled along a rock ledge and managed to hold the boat in 12 ft. One person was using a deep diving brown Fat Rap and the other was trolling an orange jointed Cotton Cordell crankbait. We found 16 walleye between 16-20 inches schooled up along the eastern shoreline in just a couple of minutes.

Over the remainder of the summer walleye will continue their descent. Traditionally, the last week of August walleye's are hovering in 20 ft of water. Pike will continue predictable patterns, feeding in weedbeds and suspending in deeper water. Most big pike will be caught within the weeds and on several rock piles. This time of year my favorite lure to use on rock piles is a Bulldawg or a Rapala 1 oz Storm Shad. Please remember to crimp the barbs on your treble hooks, especially the Bulldawg (that lure can be a nightmare extracting from a pike's mouth). It is always helpful to have an extra long pair of needle nose pliers to help safely remove the hooks and safely release the fish.

The weekly award for biggest pike goes to Favourable Lake, boating and releasing a 45" monster (pictured above). It was the second fish of the trip! Talk about an impressive start to a week of fishing. South Lake continue's an impressive streak with the largest walleye of the week photoing and releasing a 28.5".

Good luck on the water everyone. Please remember to release all walleye's over 18" and all pike over 27.5". Take care,

Nathan

Big Hook Wilderness Camps

Big Hook Fishing Report Week 11

2010-08-10T15:06:00.005-05:00

I can really appreciate the warm weather this summer especially after operating during one of the coolest seasons in on record in 2009. An early ice out this spring (approx April 19th) and sunny skies have contributed to warm water temperatures and active fish. The water temps are holding at a steady 70 degrees, just warm enough to enjoy a quick dip in the lake. The majority of this week and last saw an abundance of sunshine with several days of thunderstorms. Hail was reported at a couple of camps too.

The fish are beginning to hold in the late summer patterns. Walleye are descending to 14-20 ft while pike are scattered throughout the lakes. Most larger pike are being caught o

n the edge's of weed beds while the occasional monster has been caught off of rocky points. Yesterday, I witnessed a common occurrence. While a smaller walleye was being brought to the boat a massive pike darted from the depths and smashed the little flailing walleye. When I see this scenario unfold I immediately open up the bail on my reel and allow the pike to swim away for a short while. After about 15 seconds I'll snap my bail shut and slowly, very slowly, reel the pike back to the boat. The majority of the time the fish has a better grasp on t

he walleye and will refuse to let go. Get the net handy, take a picture, release the fish and enjoy! You just caught two fish at once.

As I have mentioned in previous posts, jigging is one of the most effective ways to reach walleye in deeper waters. However, other technique's such as worm harnesses are a great alternative if you feel "jigged out". Most of the time I don't even bother with the worm and just place a twister instead. This time of year the fish move from deep rock shoal to shoal quite frequen

tly, so don't get discouraged if you cannot find the fish immediately. If the fish seem to have completely disappeared try the windy shoreline. A steady wind for two days will stack the fish on the wind blown shore.

For larger pike on these hot calm days I prefer hunt them in the late afternoon. Case in point, while guiding yesterday we witnessed about 7 large follows in the morning. None of the fish appeared to be aggressive, just curious. I gave up and switched to walleye until about 4:30 pm. Maybe we got lucky or maybe it's skill (I prefer to think the latter) but we boated fish consistently until we left at 6:00 pm including a 42.5", 40.75" and a 36" pike. Two of the fish, were boated on a Top Raider and the third was on a Mann's Hardnose Swim shad. The weedless soft plastic baits have been incredibly effective this summer for large pike. Berkley Hollow Body lures are another bait that gets a thumbs up.

The weekly big fish award for walleye once again goes to South Lake at 29" while Central wins it with a 42.5" pike. Pictured above (myself with a 27" inch walleye and Mike Radis with a 42.5 pike, look at the jaws on that pike!)

Good luck on the water everyone. Please remember Big Hook has a NO trophy take out policy which means NO walleye can be kept over 18" and NO pike can be kept over 27.5"

-Nathan

Big Hook Wilderness Camps

Big Hook Fishing Report Week 10

2010-08-02T12:53:00.003-05:00

Temperatures have been quite warm throughout the past week. Sunny clear mornings followed with thunderstorms in the afternoon has us in the great white north feeling like it is Florida. Most guests at Central are taking advantage of the warm water with an afternoon dip to cool off. Amazingly, loads of walleye are huddled up under our floating docks dodging the sunlight. I recorded water temperatures around 74 degrees down to approximately 6 feet.

Surprisingly, walleye are still holding throughout the water column. Fish have been caught as shallow as 4 ft and as deep as 20 ft. The larger walleye are holding on points close to deep water access or rocky shoals. Jigging has been most effective with Berkley Gulp or just plain white twister tails. The largest walleye last week were boated and released on West and South , tied at 29". Many 24-27" walleye were reported throughout all the other outposts.

Pike are holding tight to weedbeds most days. However, on sunny calm mornings and afternoons you will find many many fish following up to the boat. If you see a fish follow to the boat and it doesn't take on a figure eight, try dropping a jig on a leader. You will be quite surprised with the results. I find hot calm days to be very difficult fishing for pike. On these days I prefer attacking pike in the afternoons and early evenings, especially with top water baits and bucktails. Find you favorite weed bed and wait for the fire works to happen. Top water strikes can be unpredictable and very exciting. Rattle traps are great lures to toss on rock piles in deeper water while the sun in high in the sky. Central and West tied for largest pike for the week at 43.5". One fish was boated on a white musky killer and the other on a soft plastic swim bait covered with a water proof band aids of all things! Attached right is a pic of the lucky lure.

Fishing Tip

Typically, August is the month when walleye begin their dive to deeper depths. It is common for fish to hold in water around 20 ft. Jigging is the primary tactic to reach walleye in deeper waters. Several crankbaits such as Shad Raps, Wally Divers, Hot N Tot's and Reef Runners reach to depths of 16 feet. Great colors are blue and silver, flouro orange and fire tiger. Troll these slowly along deeper mud flats and rocky shores. If you happen to catch a fish try turning around and making another pass. If the fish continue to bite, consider dropping some jigs on the school of walleye. Remember walleye will school up in like sizes. If you happen to boat a 20" walleye chances are some big fish are holding throughout the area.

Good luck on the water everyone. Please remember Big Hook has a NO trophy take out policy. All walleye over 18" must be released and all northern over 27.5" must be released.

Take care,

Nathan

Big Hook Wilderness Camps

Big Hook Fishing Report Week 9

2010-07-28T07:46:00.003-05:00

Just rolled in from guiding several days at West Lake. Sunny humid mornings and stormy afternoons have been the norm all week long thus far. Air temperatures have been flirting with the 90's earlier in the week. Today is cooler with wind blowing from the north and mist falling from the skies. Water temperatures are averaging a pleasant 72 degree's down to about 15 ft.

Weather is fore casted to remain warm with a day or two of rain peppered in.

Surprisingly, the walleye's have not begun their dive to deeper cooler waters. The last week I found fish holding as shallow as 4 ft and as deep as 18 ft. However, the majority of the fish have been caught holding between 10-12 feet. Trolling has been quite disappointing the past couple of days, I often find that changes frequently. Most walleye have been caught jigging on the edges of the weeds and on top of rock piles. Yellow was a hot colored twister on a 3/8 oz jig head. We haven't had a dark day lately so dark colors such as black and purple have been rather ineffective.

Pike have been extremely active in the weed beds. Calm afternoons are an exciting time to fish for monster pike held up in thick cabbage beds. Try finding weeds that grow in 6 ft or deeper for the larger fish. The majority of trophy pike are caught just on the edge of the foliage. While holding the boat off the weed bed, try casting your bait deep into the cabbage with a medium retrieve. Mann's Bullnose Swim Shads, Johnson Silver Minnows, Buzz Baits and Bucktails are all great baits to work through the weeds. Once that big fish is hooked get ready to battle him through the weeds, this is where most big fish are lost. Let your rod do most of the work, NOT your reel. Pull back and reel down to get that fish out of the weeds. However, if you are tired of cleaning cabbage off your hooks, try switching tactics and cast for pike on rock piles. Hunt down a rocky shoal that reaches up to about 10 ft from deeper water, especially one that you have been catching walleye on, and start slinging larger crankbaits, Rapala Wild Eye, or Bulldawgs. Pike often prowl rock piles waiting for a stray walleye to separate from the school.

Fishing Tip

This is the time of year where depth finders can be incredibly effective. Locating deeper rock piles can be key to a successful trip of catching fish. Fishing these deep reefs usually require jigging or bouncing a worm harnesses. Fish often will hold on top of the reef. However, if no fish are found directly on top of the rock pile, slowly back troll around each side. I find anchoring frustrating due to the fact the boat cannot stay mobile and chase the schools of walleye.

Tackle Tip

Fishing the weeds can be frustrating. Without the right bait or proper retrieve hooks will snag weeds every cast. As mentioned before, great weedless baits are the Johnson Silver Minnow or the Bullnose Swim Shad. Bucktails are a great bait to work over the top of the weeds and retrieve around the weeds. Keep your rod tip high when retrieving bucktails so you can navigate the bait throughout the foliage. A #8 Colorado blade bucktail is one of my favorites.

All of the camps had similar reports to which I addressed above. Central won the weekly trophy (7-17 through 7-24) with both the large pike and walleye for the week.

(Pictured above: Alan grinning from ear to ear with a great looking 38.5" pike caught and released on Central).

Good luck on the water everyone. Please remember Big Hook has a NO trophy take out policy. Which means all pike over 27.5" and walleye over 18" MUST be released. Take a picture and gently put the fish back in the water.

Take care.

-Nathan

Big Hook Wilderness Camps

Big Hook Fishing Report Week 8

2010-07-18T14:51:00.004-05:00

Last week Mother Nature played some tricks on us. The week began with pleasant skies and favorable temperatures. However, that all turned south for Wed, Thursday and Friday. Numerous thunderstorms and torrential downpours made for interesting fishing. Also, the barometric pressure dropped to the lowest I have seen in years, 29.36. I have found that frequent big swings in barometric pressure makes for tough fishing. Walleye turn lethargic and have a tendency to just "tail bite" the jigs. During these periods, it is common to retrieve your lure with just half a twister remaining. Smaller presentations often is a way to combat the light bite.

Fishing Tip

The Figure Eight often gets overlooked when fishing pike. Last week at Favourable, this little tactic boated an aggressive 37.5" pike. The Figure Eight is a maneuver where at the end of your retrieve, you place your rod tip in the water pull your lure alongside the boat in the pattern of an eight. Often, those following pike will turn around and strike. Pike often will hide just under the boat and surprise fisherman. The Figure Eight maneuver is not necessary

every cast, just once our twice on a spot will suffice.

Tackle Tip

Top water baits are probably the most exciting method of fishing pike. Watching a pike surge through the water and strike a bait still gives me goose bumps after all these years. Calm afternoons and early evenings are my favorite times to toss topwaters. Great lures are: buzz baits, Zara spooks, Dancing Raiders and Top Raiders. Remember not to set the hook until you feel the weight of the fish. So many times I have excitedly sent my lure zinging back at my boat in an attempt to set the hook prematurely.

Burnt Lake

Weed beds are holding both perch and pike. Try fishing the edges for the bigger fish. The shoals just 800 meters off the dock will start to hold larger fish this time of year. Large crank baits, bulldawgs, rapala wildeye shads are all great for reef fishing.

Cocos Lake

As noted for Burnt, weed beds are holding a great number of fish. There are great weed beds close to camp that are not to be overlooked. Remember the best fishing isn't necessarily on the far end of the lake. Several reefs in the middle north of the rapids were holding large amounts of walleye. Jigs are still my favorite way to fish walleye at Cocos, whether in the rapids or on the edge of weed beds.

Central Lake

Nice walleye are holding on reefs close to camp. Airplane island and Hippo rock have been very productive. Several 24-27" fish were caught last week. Trolling floating Shad Raps along 10-14 ft breakline's have been effective. I have started seeing some monster pike prowling the thick weeds in narrows on the north end of the lake. If there is a consistent wind for at least two days, remember to fish the windy shorlines.

Favourable/Lemonade

When in doubt, fish Lemonade. So far this year, the fishing on Lemonade has been nothing short of great. This shallow lake is impervious to weather systems. Consistent walleye over 20" and more pike than you want to deal with. Walleye Point and the Three Sisters on Favourable held great walleye action early in the week. Several of the reefs east of camp held big pike. Tossing a Gold Bomber Magnum was effective but the trophy lure was the Johnson Silver Minnow last week. Three pike over 37" were boated and released on the Silver Minnow.

South Lake

The size of walleye at South continue to amaze me so much that I forget there are monster pike in that lake also. Weed beds close to camp, straight across the bay from the dock, hold some big fish. The narrows to the SE of camp continue to hold both large pike and walleye. Many big walleye 27-29.5" were photo'd and released last week. Jigging reefs with a Wild Eye Shad can be fun, because you'll never know if you'll boat a big walleye or pike.

Southwest Lake

I honestly don't think the fishing ever slows at SW. This lake doesn't seem to get affected by weather fronts. Walleye are in typical summer patterns holding on the edges of weeds or rocky points deeper than 10 ft. Pike are anywhere you can find weeds. The eastern arm of the lake is a scenic boat ride, not to mention great fishing.

West Lake

West Lake boated and released both the big pike, 43" and the big walleye, 30" last week. Fish are beginning to descend into deeper waters. As noted above, fish are now in typical summer patterns. Weed beds in the NE corner of the fish bowl hold amazing pike. Bucktails and topwater are my favorite ways to fish those beds. The rock just off the dock should not go unfished this time of year. It is amazing how many big fish will hold so close to camp.

Good luck on the water everyone. Please remember Big Hook has a NO Trophy takeout policy. Which means NO pike over 27.5" and NO walleye over 18" can be kept. We want these fish to be in the waters for generations to come. Remember to send your pictures!

-Nathan

Big Hook Wilderness Camps

Big Hook Fishing Report

2010-07-14T08:31:00.004-05:00

Big Hook Wilderness Camps
I apologize for the late blog this week, I was stationed at Favourable for the last three days. For this post I'll try condense the last ten days of fishing. (Pictured right: A beauty 40" pictured and released at Favourable 7/12. Below: Awesome 40" released on West Lake 6/21.)

Weather

I awoke this morning to the soothing cry of a loon under a red sunrise. You all are most likely familiar with the term, "Red skies in the morning, sailor take warning. Pink skies at night sailors delight." Storms indeed are on the horizon. Thunderstorms are very common this time of year and can roll in abruptly. Keep your eye's on the sky as 99% of the storms will roll in from the west or southwest. If you see dark clouds with plenty lightening and thunder, common sense should tell you to get off the water.

Weather over the past week has been erratic. We had a mix of all types. Several days last week the wind blew out of the north bringing chilly temperatures from Hudson Bay, only to change immediately to southern breezes and 80 degree temperatures. As a rule of thumb here in the northwoods, north winds mean cooler temperature and southern winds will bring warm temperature and the thunderstorms.

Fishing Tip

Since we are on the topic of storm fronts. Generally, I have found fishing picks up hours before a band of weather arrives in an area. As mentioned before, you shouldn't be trying to catch your next trophy while lightening is striking down all around you. That being said, storm fronts have a way of exciting the fish. The skies darken which give fisherman the advantage, fish have less sunlight to distinguish the bait. The old fisherman's saying is "The worse the weather, the better the fishing."

Tackle Tip

I have preached many lures in this blog. In my cabin a closet is dedicated to fishing tackle, but every fisherman has one lure they turn to in a time of doubt. Mine, the Johnson silver minnow. The lure itself is very bland, just a hunk of curved silver metal with a single hook. However, when tipped with a 3" to 4" twister tail, the lure turns deadly. It is so crucial to add that little piece of plastic. With weed beds getting thicker throughout the summer, this little lure is the perfect way to combat the foliage. You can do a straight retrieve through the weed beds or even turn it into a top water dancer. An immediate retrieve the instant the lure strikes the water and keeping your rod tip high will allow the spoon to slide on its back on the surface over the top of weeds. The larger sized minnows I have found to be more effective, i.e. 1 oz or bigger.

Fishing

Walleye are beginning to descend to deeper waters. Over the past couple of days I found the best depth ranging from 10 to 14 feet. Jigging has been effective on rocky points and submerged reefs. Trolling wind blown shorelines with Shad Raps and Hot N Tot's have produced lots of fish. Flouro orange and perch colored crankbaits have been hot colors.

Pike are beginning to follow predictable patterns. Most fish are found in weed beds or along the edges. The best ways to tempt a pike out of the weeds is to use a silver minnow or burn a bucktail over the top/around the weeds. Some pike are also scattered along submerged reefs among the walleye. Reefs that top out around 10' is where I love to cast my bulldawg.

The fish patterns above seem to be holding true for all of the outposts. South again topped the weekly walleye at 29.5" and as far as I know Favourable released the large pike at 40". Many fish from other outposts came close.

Here is a great recipe that mom makes with every fish fry. Her famous Jalapeño corn is as follows:

-3 cans of kernel corn, drained

-1 8 oz container of soft Philadelphia Herb and Garlic cream cheese

-1 seeded fresh jalapeño or canned is fine, amount varies to personal spice limits

-Optional: throw in some parsley and chives for color. About 1/2 tablespoon of each.

Bake for 30 minutes at 350 degrees covered in a casserole dish. Enjoy with walleye.

Good luck on the water everyone. Remember the size limits: Walleye must be kept under 18" and northern must be kept under 27.5".

-Nathan

Big Hook Wilderness Camps

Big Hook Fishing Report Week 6

2010-07-04T08:21:00.003-05:00

Have a great Independence Day everyone! Here at Big Hook we are celebrating with some delicious fresh from the lake walleye. Mom mixed up a batch of tasty home made ice cream, a rare treat here in the north considering the closest Dairy Queen is over 300 miles away. Tonight we will ignite some fireworks purchased from Sandy Lake to cap off a great day.

Mayflies continued their hatch throughout the week. Fortunately, stiff north winds on last Sunday and Monday prevented the winged nemesis from landing on the water and thus into the bellies of walleye. The hatch should be on it's tail end here. Remember a healthy mayfly hatch is a sign of a healthy body of water.

Weather

Overall, the weather trended warmer throughout the week. Last Thursday and Friday brought plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures. Continued humid warm weather with thunderstorms is fore casted throughout this week. Water temperatures are

again flirting with 70 degree's on the surface. I even jumped in the lake Friday three times to cool off, lets just say the water is a tad cooler 4 feet under the surface. Water levels have peaked on most lakes and are hanging around normal levels for this time of year.

Tackle Tip

First time fishing at Big Hook? The most valuable piece of luggage other than a fishing rod, in my opinion, is a depth finder. Depth finders can tell you water temperature and show you reefs that would go otherwise undiscovered. The Eagle Cuda 300 is a great portable depth finder, make sure to purchase the rechargeable battery.

Fishing Tip

Jig fisherman are you having trouble locating a school of walleye? Try jigging the edge of a weed bed or lilly pads you would be amazed how many walleye will hang around foliage. Keep the leader in your tackle box and not on the end of your line. Take the risk of a bite off from pike. Walleye's are leader shy and will strike more often when no leader is present.

I managed to chat will all the guests this past Saturday and obtained some valuable fishing information from each lake, which I'll now pass on to you.

Burnt Lake

Lots of fish reported. Weed growth has been solid and fish are all holding tight to the beds. Large walleye can be caught on reefs just 400 yards straight south from camp. Fish are still holding in the narrows. 8-12 ft is still the magical depth for Burnt for walleye. Pike are holding in all water columns. Perch are still hanging in weed beds with the pike. Try yellow or white beetle spins for best results.

Central Lake

The topside of the north rapids was the hot spot of the week. Jigging just above the falls resulted in hundreds of walleye. With water temperatures warming walleye can be found throughout the water column. Schools of fish were found as deep as 20ft. Pumkinseed and flouro orange twisters/gulp were great lures. Trolling a blue and silver shad rap in twelve feet of water over rock piles was successful too.

Pike were hanging in the north narrows where weeds are continuing to develop. Many pike are suspended right now feeding on whitefish. Whitefish come to the surface to feed on Mayflies and are great targets for hungry for monster pike. Try tossing some deep diving cranks or a Bulldawg over reefs to target the suspended fish.

Favourable/Lemonade

Favourable or Lemonade didn't disappoint last week. Tons and tons of fish were boated on Lemonade. Many walleye between 18-21". Any shoreline with a depth of 8+ feet was producing fish. Favourable hot spots were "walleye point" just before you make the turn to the first arm. Trolling an orange crankbait along this point was very productive. For pike, "pike alley" was still the hot producer. Bucktails and johnson spoons are the best way to retrieve through the weeds.

Cocos

The rapids as usual held the fish. Weed beds just 1/2 mile to the SW of the rapids were holding nice pike. Remarkably, one of the best pike spots was a giant weedbed straight across the bay from camp. Walleye were also holding on the edges of weed beds. When in doubt finding fish, try the windy shoreline. If a wind has been blowing to that shore for more than one day, chances are the fish will be stacked there. The rapids is still navigable, remember to stay just left of center for the first set of moving water. For the second, just giver and stay in the middle.

South

The south guests handed me a list of impressive catches from throughout the week. The list is as follows: Pike 1- 40", 1- 39", 3-36" and a number between 30-32". Walleye 2-29", 4-27", 4-26", 20-25" had too many to keep track of. Jigging with Berkley Gulp along the weed edges was most productive. Some of the bigger fish were holding on drop off just away from the weed beds.

Southwest

Southwest produced the usual plethora of fish. Hundreds and hundreds of eye's were boated between 18-20". Yellow jig tails once again were the most popular lure. Weed beds in the north arm of the lake produced the largest pike. The tiny island just west of camp was amazing for walleye.

West

The west lake crew reported great fishing despite a dominant may fly hatch. A 40" was boated and released in the fish bowl. The sunken island just east of the camp produced some large walleye, a 26" was photo'd and released. According to the guests, "big bertha" was hooked but won the battle, snapping the line and returned to the depths. The weed beds throughout the lake are heating up. Lots of sunshine has attributed to excellent weed growth. Try tossing top water baits in the "horseshoe" in the afternoon for an exciting pike strike.

Good luck on the water to everyone. Send me some pictures to post on the blog here.

-Nathan

Big Hook Wilderness Camps

Big Hook Fishing Report Week 5

2010-06-27T08:04:00.003-05:00

Overall, the weather held up well last week. One storm squall brought us ample amounts of lightening and even some hail. Typically, fish will bite like crazy just prior to sweeping fronts. Just keep in mind you should get off the water when you see lightening crashing in the distance.

Water levels finally seem to be topping out. It is amazing how fast the water has shot up in one week. Central is the highest of all the lakes with water almost over the tops of the docks. Cocos is usually the last to peak because the lake is at the end of the river system.

Fishing tip: You have probably heard this before, but while pike fishing don't forget to do a figure eight at the boat every couple of casts. You would be amazed how many fish will shoot up from the depths and slam your bait boatside. Also, if you have a big pike follow your lure, try slinging a jig on a leader immediately after that fish swims out of site. Chances are that timid fish will strike a smaller lure.

Tackle recommendation: Flourocarbon leaders can make a huge difference for fishing. Flourocarbon is a monofilament fishing line thats doesn't reflect sun light, thus making it invisible to fish. 50# flourocarbon leaders are great vs traditional steel leaders for boating timid, lethargic pike.

Central Lake

Central boated and released the largest fish of the week, a beautiful 45" pike. Caught by Wally from the Cook party on his first trip boated the monster just 400 yds from the camp on a small Mepp's spinner. With the high water walleye's are holding tight to all four incoming rapids. Husker rock was a hot spot for eye's bigger than 23". Trolling a silver fat rap through the West narrows was really effective. Other large pike were caught on the west portage and in the north narrows.

South Lake

The walleye's cooperated all week long reported the Brutcher party. Many fish were caught and released over 25". The topside of the rapids on the north end was superb. The narrows just south of camp was also excellent. Weeds are beginning to thicken on the north end of the lake. Water levels have come up about a foot throughout the week.

West Lake

The high water has the waterfalls flowing and the fish holding tight to the current. Don't be afraid to fish well away from the rapids for big prowling pike. The narrows again were the hot spot for monsters. Largest pike topped at 43" with several others larger than 40". The guests managed to net a 40" fish that T-boned a smaller 18" pike at the boat. That is a rare feat, normally the big fish let go. The weed beds in the fish bowl are heating up with thicker foliage holding many fish. The north end of the lake is producing, reefs on the east side are holding large walleyes.

Cocos Lake

The Mroz party submitted an awesome list of pike caught and released during the week. For example here are some of the fish caught. 14 pike caught over 35" and two pike reaching a staggering 43". Several 25" walleye were photo'd and released also. Many of the fish were caught in cabbage beds. Hot lures were doctor spoons and johnson silver minnows. The rapids are still navigable, although more and more water is spilling through daily.

Burnt Lake

The Long party had huge smiles on their faces after a week of great fishing. According to them, fish were holding on points and everywhere the lake narrows. Several large perch were boated. Perch were holding in the weeds. As usual, the narrows held thousands of fish. Pike are prowling between reefs and weeds.

Favourable/Lemonade

Lemonade produced hundreds of walleye along with many perch and saugers. Pike are always striking on Lemonade, however it is typical just to catch fish around 20-24". For pike Lemonade always has the numbers but it is tough to get the size. Nice walleyes between 18-22" are common on both Lemonade and Favourable. Fish are holding both in mud flats and rocky points. The creeks on the "elbow" of Favourable were holding plenty of both species. Pike were a little timid throughout the week, commonly following the lures to the boat. Note the fishing tip at the beginning of the blog. Several nice pike over 35" were boated and released. I'll be guiding on Favourable in the near future and will be able to report specific locations.

Good luck on the water everyone. (Pictured above: A nice walleye boated and released from Burnt.)

Nathan

Big Hook Wilderness Camps

Big Hook Fishing Report Week 4

2010-06-22T09:59:00.003-05:00

Two days of solid rain sent the water levels sky rocketing last week. Water levels are now above normal. The rising water has stunted weed growth over the past week. Hopefully, the weeds will catch up to the rising levels with the ample amounts of sun we have been receiving. Overall, the weather has been warm with scattered thunder showers in the afternoon. Water surface temperatures are starting to flirt with 70 degree's. May flies have been spotted on several lakes over the past couple of days. The main hatch still is looming.

A key tactic to combat the may flies is to try scaling down on tackle size. Just switching to 1/4 oz jigs from 3/8 oz can yield great results. Smaller crank baits like baby fat raps and small husky jerks are great for trolling. My favorite colors are blue and silver.

Central Lake

The Walker and Buck party boated tons and tons of 20+" walleye. Lots were caught trolling crankbaits

in about 8-12ft of water. Pike were active on cloudy days, smashing bucktails on the mud flats.

Dave from the Cook party hit the grand slam of fishing boated and releasing one of every species

(walleye, pike, whitefish, sucker and perch) in one afternoon. All rapids are gushing with the high water. Fish are

holding tight to the current. The West and South portages have been amazing according to several

guests. Yesterday, we boated and released 12 walleye between 23-26" in one hour while trolling

over a twelve foot mud flat.

South Lake

Over 40 walleye between 25-30" were boated and released last week. Several pike over 38" were released also. The hot spot was just south of the camp in the narrows. Another hot spot was above the falls on the north end of the lake. Like most other lakes fish were holding in 8-12 ft of water. Weed growth has been minimal.

West Lake

The north end of the lake was surprisingly effective for big walleye. Trolling and jigging in 8 ft of water in the east bays on the north end produced many walleye pushing 25+". The north end of west is usually a slow starter due to the deeper cool water. The fish bowl produced several monster pike. The camp ground hogs kept the Sellner party company.

Cocos Lake

As usual the rapids churned out thousands of walleye. Jigs with flouro orange gulp hammered many larger female walleye. Johnson silver minnows tipped with white twister tails brought in nice pike. A number of larger pike were caught on the north end creeks near duckling island. The water is flowing heavily through the rapids and is getting border line accessible. Please use your best judgement running the rapids.

Burnt Lake

All three species are slamming at Burnt Lake. Fish are beginning to move from the narrows to the main bodies of water. Jigging or trolling any point was effective. Weed beds were holding all pike, perch and walleye. Smaller tackle for perch yields numerous fish. The Koehler party reported many 25-28" walleye along with pike topping 38".

South West

"Thousands of fish!" raved the Smith party last week. When I asked "where did you catch them?"

"Everywhere!" was their response. The popular lure was a 1/4 oz jig with a yellow twister for walleye. Just about anything was effective for pike according to guests. Many spots within eyesight from camp boated the most fish.

(Pictured above: Dave with a nice 25.5" walleye that was promptly released on Central Lake 6-21)

Please remember Big Hook has a no trophy take out policy, which means NO walleye over 18" and NO pike over 27.5" can be kept.

Good luck on the water everyone.

Nathan

Big Hook Camps

www.bighookcamps.com

Big Hook Week 3

2010-06-14T08:58:00.005-05:00

Today is a beautiful day here at Big Hook Camps in the Opasquia Provincial Park. Temperatures are hanging around 72 degree's and the sun is shining. This past Saturday brought us plenty of rain to raise the water levels. Finally, water is on the rise at most lakes. Hopefully we have seen the lowest levels of the summer.

Central

Water temperatures should spike drastically with the sunshine we are supposed to receive this week. Yesterday I was marking 58 degree's consistently throughout Central. Walleye were biting light due to the nasty weather pattern. We switched from jigs to crankbaits and the fish were striking much more aggressively. Pike are still holding shallow along with most of the walleye. It seemed any rocky point or mud flat that was 7 ft held fish. The Newburn party last week boated numerous pike between 36-40", mostly on the north end of the lake. The Bunting party found much success for 20-25" walleye within 1/2 mile of camp. Jigging is still the most effective way to boat walleye. Yellow tails and a 1/4 oz or 3/8 oz head were most popular.

Burnt Lake

The boys at Burnt exclaimed they boated over 3000 walleye last week! Fishing was great, walleye and pike are still holding in the "bottleneck" to the NE of camp. Any point was holding fish and the perch are hanging in the shallower weedy areas. Weeds are now becoming visible in shallower areas. The weed beds should spring to life with this weeks sunshine.

West Lake

The falls towards the SE end of the lake held several big pike. The guests were often surprised when a huge pike would T bone a small walleye on the end of their lines. The narrows towards the "fish bowl" still are holding plenty of pike too. The north end of the lake is still slower due to the cool temperatures but that should change quickly. Johnson silver minnows were effective in the shallow weedy bays. Walleye are holding shallow 8 ft or less.

Cocos Lake

The rapids continues to impress guests week after week. Thousands and thousands of walleye continue to hold in the current and should remain there the majority of the season. Several of the rock piles south of the current will hold big prowling pike. Be careful running the rapids with the low water, new rocks are hittable! Weeds are growing quick and pike are finding their way to the weed beds.

Favourable/Lemonade

Guests claimed they the best fishing spot was within eyesight of the dock on the Lemonade side. Fishing in about 8 ft of water, each guest claimed they boated a 100 fish just drifting and jigging within 400 yds from the dock. Favourable produced some great pike action in Pike Alley. The big fish are also holding in the creek mouths chasing suckers and perch. Water on Favourable is about a foot low so keep your eyes open for new reefs. Walleye are hanging around points and around Pike Alley. One of my favorite spots this time of year is Pike Alley for both species.

South Lake

Nice walleyes were being caught in the narrows SE of camp. Pike were in the weed beds around the area also. The rapids on the north end of the lake were holding tons of walleye. Walleye seemed to be favoring flouro orange colors. Guests boated an impressive 38" pike on 6 pd test line and a jig. It never fails to catch big pike while walleye fishing.

Hope all is well with everyone. Good luck in your fishing endeavors! Remember to throw the big ones back.

-Nathan

Big Hook Camps

www.bighookcamps.com

Big Hook Fishing Report Week 2

2010-06-06T09:01:00.002-05:00

Fisherman had to battle some rough weather last week. Last Sunday brought in a "north easter" weather system with wind and rain. Those who braved the weather for two days did manage to boat plenty of fish. Remember fish don't care if they get wet.

Tuesday morning brought plenty of sunshine for the rest of the week and the water temperatures skyrocketed. Weed growth on most of the lakes is minimal. Fish are still holding in the current or mud flats.

Majority of the fish caught at the outposts last week were in 8 ft or shallower. As usual, jigs were the effective bait for walleye. The johnson silver minnow and Mepps Musky Killer were top baits for trophy pike.

Burnt Lake

I guided at Burnt for three days last week and found some success for both species. The Magna party boated a 40" fish the first night in the narrows NE from the camp. The "bottleneck" as we called the spot was holding thousands of walleye. No kidding, thousands of walleye's would be an understatement. When in doubt, anyone could drop a jig and find a walleye on the end of their line in seconds. Pike were holding on the sides of the "bottleneck" prowling for their next meal. Perch were holding in the shallow mud flats. Small jigs with white twisters, Mepps 0 agila, and beetle spins were great baits. Walleye 14-20" were everywhere in 8 ft of water or shallower.

Cocos Lake

Cocos rapids were unstoppable. Fish were holding all around the current. Many of the bays close to the cabin were hot spots for pike. The key was finding the sun soaked bays. Water for Cocos is still extremely low, approximately 2 ft below normal. Careful shooting the rapids, new boulders are hittable.

West Lake

The narrows to the south of the camp was the spot of the week. The Grady party boated and released many fish from 35" up to 42.5". According to the guests, walleye were holding everywhere and striking just about ever bait. Many of the guys tried every bait in their tackle box and found success. The "fish bowl" is usually the more active end of the lake during the early months of the summer.

Central Lake

The Newburn party boated and released a 41.5" fish on the second cast of the trip. Many fish were holding on the wind blown shoreline, an east wind for the last three days has stacked the fish on the west shorelines. Water temperatures are on the rise with some shallow area's reaching into the mid 60's. .

Good luck on the water everyone. Remember to throw the big one's back.

-Nathan

Big Hook Camps

www.bighookcamps.com

First week report

2010-05-29T09:33:00.002-05:00

Been awhile since I have posted a blog report and I apologize for that. I have been running around to all the camps and opening up with our pilot Graham. I have noticed water levels are extremely low, so I urge guests to be very careful the first time out on the water. Cocos, SW and West are at least 1.5 ft lower than normal. Flying over the lakes, new reefs are appearing with the lower water. We are in need of rain. There is no fire ban as of yet, so be extremely careful when having a shore lunch and make sure the fire is completely out when you depart.

I have had a chance to wet a couple of lines and figure out the fishing patterns. Fish seem to be will out of the post spawn patterns. Most are holding on the shallow mud flats or any sort of current. Walleye and northern have been mixed together in most areas. Smaller baits have been rather effective for both species. The 3/4 oz five of diamonds has been Graham's choice of lure. Thus far in the few hours of fishing we have accomplished he has boated a 35", 37" and 39.5" on it, not to mention many in the 30-33" range. I have been trying some new technique's for pike in the shallows. Last few trips out I have thrown a twitching shad, very similar to bass fishing style, and have had excellent success. I have been surprised at how shallow the pike are holding 3 ft or less. Any place with weed growth or dead weeds from the winter has been packed with fish. The water temperatures have fluctuated between 58-63 degree's over the week. We have had a cool and cloudy finish to the week and the water temps have dropped a bit.

We chatted with the crew at Cocos Lake and they managed to give us a good report. Fish are stacked in the rapids right near camp. They commented that about 90% of them were over 18", which means the bigger females are aggressively feeding. Pike were in the shallow sun soaked bays and holding just outside the currents. Once again the giant lures are still ineffective and scaling down to smaller sizes were producing better results.

Aside from fishing we have managed to knock out some spring projects thus far. Both Cocos and West have received new docks. Favourable's dock and stairs are currently being rebuilt as well. I'll be at Burnt Lake for several days and will be able to give a great fishing report when I return.

Good luck in everyone's spring fishing endeavors. Remember to throw the big ones back. Looking forward to visiting with everyone over the course of the summer.

-Nathan

Big Hook Wilderness Camps

PS if you are on Facebook don't forget to become a fan of Big Hook Wilderness Camps. We post quick updates on the happenings here at the resort and outposts. There is a link on this blog page to the Facebook page.

Ice out.

2010-05-01T11:23:00.003-05:00

The ice is long gone at Big Hook Wilderness Camps and throughout the Opasquia Provincial Park according to Sandy Lake Seaplane. The warm temperatures we have had this spring helped the ice disappear about three days ago. Water levels in Northwest Ontario are severely lower than previous years. Estimates are that the lake level in Sandy Lake is about two feet lower than the last two years. Lack of precipitation over the past six months has drastically lowered the water levels, dried out the forest, and have caused the Ministry of Natural Resources to place a fire ban on Northwest Ontario. However, rain and even some snow flurries are in the forecast for the next week to come. On a good note, the last two days the Eagle Lake area has received about 2 inches of much needed precipitation.

Tuesday I'll run to Winnipeg, pick up our pilot (Graham) and fly XZK back to Eagle Lake for a night or two. Hopefully I'll begin opening camp as early as this upcoming weekend, as long as the weather cooperates of course. I'll keep everyone updated with our progress as we open each outpost and main camp. Hopefully the winter was kind and no bears decided to make our cabins their winter domicile.

Good luck on the water everyone,

Nathan

Big Hook Wilderness Camps

Heat Wave

2010-04-19T08:52:00.002-05:00

Mother nature has brought warm temperatures to the north this spring. The last few days have been pushing 70 degrees in the Eagle Lake area. The same is for Sandy Lake and the Opasquia Provincial park. Water in the north continue's to be extremely low due to lack of precipitation. Eagle Lake itself is about one foot low, while waters in the Opasquia park are pushing two feet down. If no precipitation arrive's soon the NW Ontario could see some early fire bans, we will keep you posted.

Low water and warm temperatures could change the fishing patterns for the spring. The walleye and pike will likely spawn earlier due to the warmer water temperatures. Weed growth will boom also, creating some nice beds for pike to ambush their prey in. The fish could be at deeper depth's than you are normally accustomed to fishing due to the increased water temperatures. Motorist's BEWARE, a number of reefs/rocks could now be hittable due to the low water. So be careful your first time down the lake and keep your eyes open for new structures.

On a separate note, the Real Outdoor Destination's Ontario episode featuring Big Hook Wilderness Camps has been posted to You Tube. Those of you who didn't catch it on the initial airing, visit this link:

http://www.youtube.com/user/nhart189#p/a

With this great weather, now is the time to get out and test all your gear and make sure it is up to par. Enjoy some spring fishing.

Good luck on the water everyone and remember to throw the big one's back.

-Nathan

Big Hook Wilderness Camps

www.bighookcamps.com

Weather Report

2010-04-11T22:19:00.000-05:00

Saturday 10, 2010

Evie and I finished our drive to Eagle Lake , Canada today around 2:00 in the afternoon. The temperature is 51 sunny and windy, when we pulled into the driveway. The air is fresh and 90% of the ice is out on Waldhof Bay . There are small pieces and flows of old rotten, black ice moving around with the wind. On the bigger part of the lake around The Barberpole there is still a fair amount of ice. But, the cracks were 10 yards wide, and the ice will be gone in a couple of days. The lake level is about 12 inches lower then last November, when we left for the sunny south. The bush is dry and the firefighting crews are gearing up for fire season already. I might put the 14ft aluminum boat in the water and see if I can't pick up a Laker over around the point on Sunday.

Steve and Evie

News

2010-04-06T09:17:00.002-05:00

First of all, I would like to thank everyone for participating in the Big Hook Tourney Pick'em. Congrats to Zeke for the top spot and taking home the Flip Book video camera. This years tourney was one of the best I can remember. Butler had a chance to be the Cinderella team. It is great to see a championship game come down to a last second shot.

Second, GeoCaching is an underground hobby that is exploding throughout the world. Big Hook wants to offer all fellow GeoCacher's a chance to explore the Opasquia Provincial Park. Throughout the summer I'll be placing caches throughout the park, some easy to find and others a little more difficult. GeoCaching is a perfect side activity during a week of vacation. Those of you unfamiliar with this new trend the basic concept is a treasure hunt with a GPS. For more information and to stay updated on Big Hook's caches visit:

http://www.geocaching.com/

Finally, Mother Nature is being kind to us this spring with warm temperatures throughout March and April. Ice is already beginning to shift around and crack according to many sources in Ontario. It is looking to be an early ice out this spring, the first in many years for Big Hook. Water levels are still extremely low due to lack of snow. With low waters new submerged reefs are revealed. If the lake you are visiting is low, be careful boating on the first day. Many reefs will appear that you have never seen before!

I, like many other fishermen, have noticed the warm temperatures and spring fever has struck. This is a good time of year to check your fishing equipment i.e. change you line, grease your reels and look at the guides on your rods. For fishing line there are tons of options. My favorite for walleye is 6# P-Line mono filament and for pike 40# Power Pro. If you are having trouble with line curl and memory try spraying your spool with Reel Magic line spray. It works wonders for line memory. As for servicing your reel, take your spool off and make sure there is no grit and dirt underneath. Take note if your bail flips adequately, is there grinding in the bearings? All of these symptoms are an easy fix. Also, spray a little WD-40 on the internals to ensure dirt displacement. As noted before, make sure to check all the guides on your fishing rod. One little nick in a guide can snap line in a heartbeat, which means a lost picture opportunity. Your local fishing shop can aid you in your spring cleaning of fishing equipment.

Good luck to all in your spring fishing endeavors. Remember to throw the big ones back and we will be seeing you soon in the great white north.

-Nathan

Big Hook Wilderness Camps

Selection Sunday

2010-03-14T15:03:00.002-05:00

Time for March Madness, join the Big Hook Tourney Pick'em for great prizes. Top three places are winners.

http://tournament.fantasysports.yahoo.com/t1/register/joinprivategroup

Group Id#: 19613
Password: bighook

Good luck to all.

-Nathan

Big Hook Wilderness Camps

ESPN radio

2010-03-11T12:50:00.002-06:00

For you early bird fishermen (aren't we all?), dad will be part of an ESPN Outdoors radio interview at 6 am on Saturday March 13th.

Here is a link to the radio broadcast.

http://espn.go.com/chicago/radio/show?showId=chaunceysgreatoutdoors

Also if you are in the Rochester MN area, I will be attending the Pheasants Are Forever Banquet at the Rochester International Event Center on March 20th. For information on the banquet:

http://tricounty.mn.pheasantsforever.org

Big Hook Pick'em

2010-03-06T18:14:00.002-06:00

The Big Hook Tourney Pick'em is open for enrollment. I know it is a bit before the tourney begins but register your team for great Big Hook prizes. Top three are winners.

http://tournament.fantasysports.yahoo.com

Group Id# 19613
Password: bighook

Good luck to all!

Winter Road

2010-02-25T09:13:00.002-06:00

For those of you that are not a fan of Big Hook Wilderness Camps on Facebook here is a link to the latest winter road video.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=71EzHijDGek

Overall the winter road this past February was in rough shape. Lack of snow is the prime culprit. Water levels at Sandy Lake are very low due to lack of snow. So it is to be expected that the water levels with all of our outposts will also be low. I was told December and January were too cold for snow.

We were able to drive in about 9800 pds of freight (lumber, propane, building equipment, etc) over the course of a week.

On a separate note, March Madness is approaching quickly. Look for a Big Hook Tourney Pick'em Bracket to be posted soon. Compete with fisherman from throughout the USA for the top spots for great prizes.

Take care all and remember to practice catch and release.

-Nathan

Big Hook Wilderness Camps

Winter Road 2010

2010-01-28T13:24:00.003-06:00

Winter has been upon us for several months now. The air is cool, snow covers the ground and most, if not all, lakes in the northern half of the USA and almost all of Canada are well frozen over. Most people utilize this time for ice fishing and numerous other sports on the lakes. However, in other parts of the world and during this brief time of year, the ice highways are opening up to remote communities in Northern Canada.

The northern ice roads have been recently made famous by the show Ice Road Truckers and their hardships of driving in the NW Territories and the Yukon. Unfortunately, the show has skipped over the even more rugged roads of NW Ontario. These distant and less traveled ice highways extend north out of two towns in Northern Ontario. Red Lake and Pickle Lake are the two communities where the concrete roads end and the ice "highways" begin. I use the term highway loosely because they could be better compared to a logging road darting through the dense forest of NW Ontario.

Depending on the winter, the ice highways open up around the third week of January or first week of February. First to general traffic, mainly half ton trucks, and then to semi's. Once the semi's begin the long slow arduous journey the road tends to get chewed up in a hurry. The main function of these highways is to provide service or access to isolated native reserves that are otherwise cut of to the rest of the world. The only method of reaching these reserves any other time of year is with a float or wheeled airplane. The ice highways provide access to lower cost transportation to these communities and allow them to have numerous goods shipped (or driven in) versus flown in. As a rule of thumb, the cost of goods is cut in half when driven up the winter road as compared to delivered via airplane.

Most years the road is solid and navigable, however warm snaps have happened in the past and the ice highways were deemed closed. When an ice highway is closed prices skyrocket on the reserves. For example, gasoline will jump from $6/gallon to $10/gallon. Lumber for building new homes such as 2x4's and plywood become unaffordable because it now has to be flown in.

The reason I am writing about the winter road in NW Ontario is because dad and I begin our 2010 winter road journey on Feb 1st. Reports from Sandy Lake on the winter road are marginal thus far. The road is open however, according to a Sandy Lake pilot "is in rough shape and driving is slow." The majority of our building supplies for the 2010 Big Hook fishing season have been purchased. Sheets of plywood, pressure treated lumber and propane are just a few of the items we will be hauling along the 256 mile stretch that leads us from Red Lake to Sandy Lake.

Hopefully, there will be an average commute this year of around 8 hours. In the past, trips have been known to take up to 16 hrs due to poor road conditions or even semi's stuck across the entire width of the highway. One prepares for scenario's such as those previously mentioned as much as possible. Extra gas, blankets, food, tow straps, shovel and satellite phones are all necessities when traversing through the great northern boreal forest. Most of the time the biggest obstacle, is the bitter cold. Temperature's can hover as low as 50 below Celsius without windchill factored in. One particular night, I witnessed my spit freeze before it even reached the ground.

All in all, our journey takes two round trips. Most of the time driving is completed at night, this is when the bumps in the road are visible. I can't count how many time my truck steering wheel has given me a quick upper cut to the jaw, while driving during the day time.

I never thought I would say this but...I am really hoping for some cold temperatures over the next week. The colder the weather generally means the better the road. I'll make sure to bring my digital camera and video camera along to document this trips voyage.

Take care all,

Nathan Hartle

Big Hook Wilderness Camps

Sport Shows

2010-01-10T19:11:00.002-06:00

The sport shows are now beginning for us here at Big Hook Wilderness Camps. Here is our schedule of shows for the 2010 season. Stop by and pay us a visit.

2010 SPORT SHOWS - All Canada
Pheasant Run - St. Charles, IL January 14-17
Thurs 5-9, Fri 3-9, Sat 10-6, Sun 10-4

Milwaukee County Sports Complex January 21-24

Thurs 5-9, Fri 3-9, Sat 10-6, Sun 10-4

Shopko Hall Green Bay, WI January 28-31

Thurs 5-9, Fri 3-9, Sat 10-6, Sun 10-4

To contact us at the show please call our cell 920-457-3525.

Take care all,
-Nathan
Big Hook Wilderness Camps

TV Show

2010-01-06T09:23:00.004-06:00

Just got the TV listing for our show airing on the Pursuit channel which is featured on Direct TV Channel 608 and Wild TV in Canada (check your local listings). The air times are as follows:

Big Hook Wilderness Camp	1/5/10 - 8pm	1/4/10 - 12pm
- Red Lake, ON	1/7/10 - 5am	1/6/10 - 1:30am
	1/8/10 - 8am	1/7/10 - 9:30pm

All times are EASTERN TIME ZONE.

For those of you that don't get these channels we will post the show on our website as soon as we receive it.

Also, the sport shows start soon. First up is the Chicago Pheasant Run show the 15-17th of January.
Take care all,
-Nathan
Big Hook Wilderness Camps

Remembering Big Hook 2009

2009-12-31T11:40:00.004-06:00

Let us take a brief look back at Big Hook's 2009 season.

Weather

Year in and out Big Hook Wilderness Camps faces many challenges as Ontario's most remote outpost fishing resort. As a fly-in outfitter, Mother Nature has always been our biggest competitor. Some years she cooperates more than others, blessing us with blue skies and calm waters. However, in 2009 Mother Nature was quite defiant. May started out cool and with a later than usual ice out. The ice departed from the shores of Central Lake around the 13th of May. Typical ice out usually lands around the 4th-8th of May. The last lake free of ice in 2009 was Cocos around the 1st of June. June remained cool and blasted us with an ice storm in the first week, our poor air plane was covered with over an 1/2" of ice. Also, an unexpected snow storm on the 11th was another surprise Mother Nature had up our sleeve for us. July brought us gray skies and a late May Fly hatch, which occurred in the third week of the month. Mother Nature saved her best weather in 2009 for the last couple weeks of August and the month of September. Unseasonably warm, September 2009 was one of the nicest on records, providing us with several weeks of 70+ degree days.
Fishing
The cool summer of 2009 didn't affect the fishing, it just altered the hot spots. The dark skies actually helped produce some of the bigger fish (on average) that Big Hook has recorded. In my experience, dark skies have always aided the fisherman in catching the elusive trophy walleye and pike. The cool temperatures of the spring held the fish in shallower waters up until the beginning of August. Typically, walleye begin descending mid July to depths of 15'+.
The water levels throughout the park remained a little higher than in past years. The flowages and rapids were pushing more water. The higher volume of water flowing throughout the Opasquia Provincial Park attracted more fish to the highly oxygenated areas.
Projects
We accomplished several projects in the 2009 season. The new solar systems at Burnt, South, Southwest and Cocos were fine tuned. Each of the previously mentioned lakes also were equipped an efficient electric freezer. South Lake saw several improvements starting with a new porch. We then replaced the majority of the propane appliances with electric. A new refrigerator, freezer and lights were installed and powered with an incredibly quiet Honda 2000W generator. Also at South Lake, Yamaha 4 stroke motors replaced our 2 cycle Mercury's. The new Yamaha's thus far have received rave reviews.
Two cabins at Central Lake were updated with metal roofs. Also, a new floating dock was built.
We have several projects were are looking to tackle in 2010. New docks at West, South and Cocos are just to name a few.

Big Hook Wilderness Camps wishes the best for everyone in 2010 and we look forward to seeing you in the up and coming summer months.
-The Hartle Family
Steve, Evie, Ricky and Nathan

Happy Holidays!

2009-12-24T10:30:00.003-06:00

We would like to extend our grateful thanks to everyone who has joined us as a guest and friend at Big Hook Wilderness Camps. Happy Holidays from the Hartle family. We wish you a safe and wonderful Holiday season.

Info on new HST tax in Canada

2009-12-14T09:15:00.002-06:00

Many of you have asked what will happen to the GST rebate that many of our guests receive under the Foreign Convention and Tour Incentive Program when the harmonized sales tax takes effect. We have received confirmation from provincial officials that the rebate guests receive will be half of the 13% harmonized tax or 6.5%. There had been some initial concern that the rebate would apply to the federal portion of the tax only.

We are also continuing to urge provincial officials to lobby the federal government for a return to the old, more flexible visitor rebate program. We don't know how this effort is going at the moment, but we will keep pushing on your behalf.

Although it is still possible for details to change as the legislation is passed and the regulations drafted, it appears at this point that we can count on a 6.5% rebate for guests who qualify under the program. We will provide further updates as new information becomes available.

Steve Hartle

Big Hook Wilderness Camps

www.bighookcamps.com

Big Hook Bowl Pick'em

2009-12-13T07:45:00.002-06:00

Join us in this years Big Hook College Bowl Pick'em. Compete against other fisherman from throughout the USA. Top three places win great prizes. Good luck everyone!
Visit:
http://football.fantasysports.yahoo.com/bowl

Group ID#: 26489
Password: bighook

Happy Holidays from Steve, Evie & Nathan
Big Hook Wilderness Camps

Christmas Deals

2009-12-06T08:25:00.002-06:00

I have done a fair amount of surfing the internet for some blockbuster fishing deals this holiday season. However, I have been ultimately disappointed with fishing tackle manufacturers unwillingness to lower prices this Christmas season. Major brands such as Shimano and Quantum have discounted some lower end reels and rods but I have not noticed any great buys.
Understand, though, it really isn't the fishing season, well...other than ice fishing.

On the other hand, I just noticed Cabelas is offering $20 off purchases of $100 or more.
Visit www.cabelas.com for more details. They currently offering 25 days of deals so I would suggest visiting their often if you are really hunting out a good combo for the 2010 season. Also, their bargain cave every now and again will hold some fishing treasures also.

Other retail giant Gander Mountain, has marked down spools of 300 yd moss green Power Pro for $22.99 and free shipping. Those of you who have fished with braided line knows it usually will run more than $30. Visit:
http://www.gandermountain.com/modperl/product/details.cgi?i=411963&pdesc=PowerPro_Fishing_Line_300_yds_Moss_Green&str=webdeal&merchID=4005
for more details. They are also marking down several of their store brand rods and reels, which personally I am not very keen on.

For Bass Pro current holiday offers visit:
http://www.basspro.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/CFPageC?storeId=10151&catalogId=10001&langId=-1&appID=8500&APPsection=Fishing&cm_sp=ChristmasGiftIdeas2009-11_30_09-_-HM-pos3-_-fishing-swf-chooseacategory

I also suggest visiting your local tackle store for great bargains. The little guys are more willing to negotiate combo offers.

I'll keep my eyes on the Internet and if I find any door busting deals I'll keep you posted.

Happy Holidays everyone!
-Nathan
Big Hook Camps

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-25T08:52:00.002-06:00

Here's to a great Thanksgiving for everyone from all of us here at Big Hook Wilderness Camps. Thanksgiving is a great time of year to get together with family and brag about who caught the biggest fish on the last vacation. Well.....that's what we do in our family.
When everyone is slowing down from gorging on pounds of turkey, Thanksgiving is a great time to drop hints for that new fishing rod or reel that you have been eyeballing on Cabelas.com or seen in Gander Mountain on special. On the next post I'll pick some great fishing holiday gifts that are available at your closest fishing out fitter.

Once again, Happy Turkey day to all.

-Nathan
Big Hook Wilderness Camps

Guest Testimonials-Central Lake

2009-11-20T13:59:00.002-06:00

Here are several guest testimonials we have received about our base camp Central Lake. We appreciate all comments and suggestions.

Only too happy too give my testimony........

"I have been fishing Central Lake for over 15 years and it never gets old or boring and I have never had a situation where I couldn't catch fish. I have fished it just after the ice goes out and as late as August. While I prefer fishing just after ice-out, I have caught just as many fish later in the season. Where and how you catch them changes, but not the quality or quantity. Central Lake, with its 4 portages offers a huge area to explore and find your own secret fishing hole and, you can fish all day without seeing other fishermen.

Oh, one thing that is very important: the hosts really go out of their way to make sure that you are comfortable and that you catch fish.

Lorance Newburn
Martell, Nebraska"

This is REALLY how I feel about fishing at Big Hook. I haven't tried to embellish this at all.

Lorance

Next Testimonial

Hello Big Hook,
We have been to Central for 7 of the last 8 years and have not been
disappointed once. Both Northern and Walleye fishing is fantastic.
With the camp location you can always get out regardless of wind
conditions. There is abundant water on Central, plus portages for
added opportunities of scenery and fishing adventure. With Central
being the main camp you have the safety and security while still
experiencing a truly beautiful remote wilderness camp. Steve,Evie and
Nathan have made us feel part of their family.
Duane Bunting, Eagle, WI

Thank you Lorance and Duane. We look forward to seeing you next year.
Good luck on the water everyone.
-Nathan
Big Hook Camps

Sport Show Schedule

2009-11-16T13:24:00.002-06:00

Here is a list of the sports shows we will be attending this winter. We may add a couple more as the fall/winter progresses.

Chicago - Pheasant Run - January 14th, 2010 -January 17th, 2010

Milwaukee All-Canada - January 21st, 2010 - January 24th, 2010

Green Bay All-Canada - January 28th, 2010 - January 31st, 2010

Other Ontario News

Gun Registration – A bill to scrap the federal long gun registration act passed its 2^nd reading on Parliament Hill, with support from all 3 major political parties. If, the bill passes the 3^rd reading this summer, the federal ministry responsible for registration will be disbanded and all registration papers will be shredded. This does not affect handguns. They are still no-no in Canada. How this will affect gun registration for hunters at the border is still unclear. A hopeful sign is that registration fees for U.S. hunters, at the border may disappear.

For more border crossing information visit:

http://www.freemap.ca/bordercrossing.php

Good luck on everyone's fall fishing adventures. We will see you at the sport shows.
-Nathan
Big Hook Wilderness Camps

A Tasty Dish

2009-11-09T11:09:00.002-06:00

Since it is the off season for us here at Big Hook Wilderness Camps fishing reports from the outposts are pretty much nonexistent. However, most of you may still be getting out on the water and enjoying the mild fall we have been experiencing. Hopefully the waters are being kind and fish are cooperating.
For, those of you who have fish in the freezer and just don't know how to prepare them, have I got a recipe for you. I just stumbled across this tasty fish marinade about a month ago. Ideally it is for stronger tasting fish such as salmon and trout but it does work with walleye and pike. I hope you enjoy this tasty marinade as much as my family has.
Here is a quick link for the recipe at recipezaar.com:

http://www.recipezaar.com/HalibutSalmon-Marinade-10410

Halibut/Salmon Marinade Recipe #10410

Fish Marinade

by Will Mitchell

1 day | 10 min prep

SERVES 4 -6

2 lbs halibut
3 teaspoons butter, melted
2 teaspoons soy sauce
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1/3 cup brown sugar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon ginger
1/4 teaspoon pepper

Mix ingredients together.
Place in flat tupperware container and store in refridgerator.
Marinate 6-24 hours .

After it is done marinading I like to slap it on the grill skin side down or place it in the oven for 30 minutes at 350 degrees. Enjoy!
Good luck on the water to all.
-Nathan
Big Hook Wilderness Camps

Real Outdoor Destinations

2009-10-31T11:56:00.005-05:00

We received some information and promo pictures from Real Outdoor Destinations this past week. This show is trying to promote NW Ontario in it's first season. Real Outdoors is focusing on the true Canadian vacation experience, from televising fly-in outfitters to hunting camps. Big Hook was luck enough to secure the first filming for the show and quickly made a great first impression.
Mark, the producer for Real Outdoor Destinations, sent us a quick update telling us they secured a slot with the Pursuit Channel. They were able to get one of the top rated air time spots available at 8:30 pm Central time on Thursdays starting in Q1 & Q2 of 2010. Each episode will also have two additional airings per week on Mondays 11 am and Wednesdays 12:30 am. The show has signed a contract with Wild TV as well, which primarily airs in Canada.

Real Outdoors is also trying to acquire a prime time slot with the Sportsmans Channel and Fox Sports North.

We shall keep you updated with more information and Big Hooks exact air date as we receive it.
Good luck on the water everyone with your fall fishing endeavors.
-Nathan
Big Hook Camps

Change of Pace

2009-10-19T10:35:00.008-05:00

The two dominate species that inhabit the Opasquia Provincial Parks waters are Esox lucius aka northern pike and Sander vitreus aka walleye. These two species are commonly targeted by anglers, however there are several other species that are often overlooked at Big Hook. These other aquactic species are perch, whitefish and sauger.
Granted, the populations of these species are not as plentiful as walleye and northern. However, fresh perch, whitefish and sauger offer a unique change in flavor for an original Canadian shorelunch. Targeting these species require just a slight change in angling tactics.

Perch (Perca flavescens)
Perch exist in every lake in the Opasquia Provincial Park. They are most plentiful in Burnt Lake and Southwest Lake. Perch is a tasty cousin to walleye and often run smaller in size. A good sized perch is anything over 10 inches. Targeting perch throughout the year usually requires the angler to scale down in tackle. 6# line or less is recommended. Paired with an ultra light rod offers great senistivity. Effective lures are Mepps #0 Agila spinners, Beetle spins and small jigs with twisters. Worms placed on bare hooks and a bobber is another great way to boat perch. Perch are most commonly found around weed beds and creeks. A popular way to fish perch is called "perching". "Perching" is a technique where an angler situates himself in a thick weedbed and places his lure in an opening in the foilage. This is most effective using a bobber and a worm. Since perch are most commonly found in the the thick weeds, targeting them is best in July and August.

Whitefish (Coregonus clupeaformis)
Whitefish is another species that exist in lakes where depths reach deeper than 30+ ft. Whitefish is most often caught in the spring when water temperature are cooler. 60 degree's or less is ideal for this species. Later in the summer, whitefish will descend to deeper and cooler waters. Targeting whitefish at Big Hook can be a little more challenging. This species is often caught by accident while fishing in rapids and shallows in the spring time. Lures that commonly boat whitefish are jigs with worms and small spinners. These fish have soft crappie like mouths that often tear when hooked.
Whitefish makes are great meal. The meat is white and flakey when cooked. When filleting a whitefish make sure to take out the row of Y-bones. Smoked whitefish is also a popular way to prepare this fish.

Sauger
Sauger is most often mistaken for a walleye. They may be distinguished from walleyes by the distinctly spotted dorsal fin , by the lack of a white splotch on the tail fin, by the rough skin over their gill, and by their generally dark color, sometimes almost black or copper. This species exists in most Big Hook Lakes, however they are most commonly found in Favourable and Lemonade Lakes. Targeting a sauger is the same as fishing for walleye. They strike the same baits and prowl similar areas of lakes.

A unique voyage.

2009-10-06T10:36:00.003-05:00

Written by Evie Hartle:

On Saturday October 3rd, Steve and I had the opportunity to participate in a tour of the Experimental Lakes Area (ELA). The tour began with a ride 30 KM down a restricted access gravel road on a school bus. This remote location, not far from Vermilion Bay, ON, has been in operation for over 40 years. The "ELA" has gained an international reputation for leadership and excellence in freshwater research. Every month, this unique facility hosts scientists from around the globe. Scientists worldwide come to NW Ontario to participate in various studies of the ecosystem and discuss results of hundreds of ongoing tests. Many studies analyze the effects of various chemicals introduced into aquatic ecosystems.

Steve and I enjoyed our day long field trip and learned a lot from the students and scientists. For more information on the Experimental Lakes Area, check out their web site at

www.experimentallakesarea.ca .

This was quite the eye opening experience. We never knew how important this site is and these studies simply would not be possible elsewhere.

Top Performing Lures

2009-09-28T12:02:00.000-05:00

Over the course of the summer certain lures seem to out fish most others. Every winter I venture to various fishing stores, pluck a lure from the shelf and convince myself a trophy pike or walleye is sure to enjoy this tasty morsel. However, I would estimate about half the time that lure goes back in the tackle box without even a tooth mark on it. With all these lures clouding my ever so heavy tackle box, I now tell myself "Lures catch the fisherman and not the fish." For example, this spring I purchased a Sebile white suspending broken back crankbait. I was sure this was the next great lure for the Opasquia Provincial Park. My enthusiasm was rewarded the first time out with a 37" pike. "Oh boy!" I thought to myself, time to get on the web and order at least a dozen. Now looking in hindsight, I am glad I didn't. Over the course of the summer and after 1000000000 casts with this lure I am pretty sure I only boated one other small 20" pike. Now mind you this Sebile is one of the most expensive in my tackle box, which I believe is why I wanted it to work so well. Price dictates usage right? Most fisherman will think to themselves "Well this darn lure cost me $20 bucks! It better catch me something!"
With all that said, I guess my message is when fishing gets tough, don't go to the glitz and glamour of "new and improved" lures; stick to the basics such as the good ole jig and twister for walleye and the Johnson silver minnow for pike.

After conversing with hundreds of guests this summer I can confidently list the top five lures for each species, that being walleye and northern.
Lures listed in no particular order.

Northern Lures:

Johnson Silver Minnow 3/4 oz-1oz with a white twister tail trailer

Copper or Orange Bladed bucktail. Skirt color seemed to make little difference.

Bulldawg-medium size, not the magnum. Black, white, brown were all effective

Jig and twister-go figure, some of the biggest pike this year were caught jigging for walleye

Buzz bait-probably the most entertaining way to fish for northern.

Walleye:

Jig and twister. No surprise there. Popular jig heads 3/8 oz black, flour orange, pink, red.
Tails: white, yellow, black, pumkinseed, flouro orange, any color Gulp.

Worm harness. Simple rig with various color blades. Attach spilt shot, worm and your in
business.

DOA Tiny Terror-eyze. A new lure that is awesome only in the spring when fish are shallow.

Rapala RS suspending. A great trolling bait in about 12 ft of water. Blue and silver the best
color.

Rattle Trap. Small sized silver and blue rattle traps were a great casting/trolling combo.

Good luck on the water to everyone this fall/winter.
-Nathan
Big Hook Wilderness Camps

Thats a wrap.

2009-09-15T09:56:00.000-05:00

September has shown us that summer is still holding on. This month has been the most pleasant of the summer for us here at Big Hook Wilderness Camps. In all the nineteen years we have operated at Big Hook, this September has been the best. Temperatures have been averaging 74 degrees and light winds have made flying a delight.
In the past, September has always been a gamble for weather and fishing. Cooler temperatures during this month can cause lake turnover and shut down the fishing. On the other hand, a pleasant September can ignite the trophies and some of the biggest fish of the summer are caught.
This September, the fish have been responding quite well with the great weather. Both walleye and pike are deep, 20+' of water. Guests at Central, the week of 8/29-9/5, did very well vertical jigging in 20-25' with a 3/8 oz jig and twister. The hot twister tail color was a Yamamoto Blue. It was the first time I ever used that color of tail and it dominated the bite. When vertical jigging for walleye it is crucial to tie the jig directly to the line, DO NOT use a leader. It is a risk of getting bit off by a pike but you will catch many more fish.

This was our last week at Big Hook and now the boats are being flipped, the cabins painted and the year end projects are wrapped up. In the process of closing camps, I have had a chance to fish at Burnt and West. Both lakes produced an excellent pike bite. Using mostly a orange bladed bucktail with a black skirt, I managed to boat a 40.5" just west of the cabin at Burnt Lake.
Last Wednesday Dad, Andre and I worked putting a new foundation under South West Lake. Utilizing several jacks, the original foundation was ripped out and replaced with concrete block and pressure treated logs.

I would like to personally thank everyone for visiting us this summer. I know in a recession, times are tough and money is tight. However, I have found fishermen will persevere and continue to stalk the trophy pike and walleye despite the conditions. Once again, thank you everyone for a great 2009 season.

Good luck on the water in your fall/winter fishing expeditions. Please send us pics of your 2009 vacation and I can post them here on the blog.

-Nathan
Big Hook Wilderness Camps

One Last Hoorah!

2009-09-01T10:59:00.000-05:00

Our season is winding down here at Big Hook Wilderness Camps. We have entered our final weeks for the 2009 season. Mother nature is giving us a great send off with warm temperatures and sunny skies. After a really cool July and August the blue skies and warmth is greatly appreciated. Blueberries and raspberries are now ripening and litter the forest and bald rocks with vibrant blue and red colors. In my opinion, there is nothing better for breakfast before a long day of fishing than fresh blueberry pancakes.
The water temperatures are back on the rise with the pleasant weather. I see myself jumping in the lake this afternoon, following a sauna of course.

Looking outside at the moment, I would never guess that in two weeks we will have the chance to see snow falling from the sky. Weatherwise, the month of September is really unpredictable. Several years ago forest fires ravaged Sandy and Deer Lake. Whereas, last year we could not cut enough fire wood to stay warm.
Fish this time of year are normally the biggest, however they are not schooled up like in earlier summer months. A risk about fishing in later September is the lake turnover. Usually mid September the cool water on the surface will get replaced with the warm water from below. This causes the water clarity to drop and cloud up.

Currently, the walleyes are at their deepest depths of the year. When the walleye are at depths of 20 ft+ the most effective technique is vertical jigging. Most crankbaits have trouble reaching waters deeper than 20 ft. When the sun is out and shining I'll switch to lighter colors. Yellow twister tails are probably my favorite lure followed closely by Berkley Gulp flouro orange.
Pike are on their fall feed and are striking as big of baits as you can possibly throw. Really effective lures right now are bucktails with a #8 colorado blade, and 1 0z Johnson silver minnows while fishing in the weeds. Remember to always place a twister tail on your silver minnow, it increases it's effectiveness ten fold. Trolling large crank baits like a Bomber magnum or a Believer around reefs can yield surprising results.

Attached right, is a pic from West Lake of the 41" pike that jumped in the boat. Just imagine that monster jumping at you, reminds me of the movie Jaws. Pictured left, is Kathy from Cocos Lake with one of many trophy pike that she has caught and released over the years.

Good luck on the water everyone! Remember to put the big ones back. All walleye over 18" must be released and all pike over 27.5" must be put back,
-Nathan
Big Hook Wilderness Camps

Fall Feed

2009-08-26T08:23:00.000-05:00

This time of year Big Hook Camps in the Opasquia Provincial Park both pike and walleye are aggressively feeding to pack on pounds for the coming winter months. Larger fish can weigh several pounds heavier in late August versus early June. The declining water temperatures and shortening days both trigger this feeding frenzy. The outside air temperature has been cool this week, hanging around the mid fifties with dark skies. The water temperatures have followed suit and have declined to around 60 degrees. The last four days dense lake fog has limited boaters visibility until about 9 am.
For current weather in the Opasquia Provincial Park/Sandy Lake area visit:

http://www.weatheroffice.gc.ca/city/pages/on-129_metric_e.html

During the fall feed fish are more apt to strike larger baits. For pike, big baits like Suick's, Bulldawgs, Top Raiders, Tadem Bucktails, Swimmin Joe's, and Bomber Magnums are all common to use this time of year. Bigger baits mean you need to bulk up on bigger gear. Medium heavy 6'6" rods are a minimum. I like to use 50# Power Pro with a 9 inch titanium leader. For walleye, larger Reef Runners, Rapala Shad Raps, and jigs with 4" tails are great baits.

It is often a pike will strike a large walleye boatside and will refuse to let go. Guests last week at West Lake even had a 41" pike jump in the boat after a walleye! The Pomilia group was fishing weed bed in the fish bowl (southern half of West Lake) when David Pomilia hooked a 16" walleye and proceeded to lift the fish into the boat. As he was hoisting the walleye over the side, a huge pike exploded from the depths in hopes to strike this walleye before it disappeared into the boat. David recoiled quick enough and stared in disbelief as a 41" pike was flopping at his feet. Grateful he didn't loose a hand to this fish, David got a quick picture with his "semi caught" trophy and a prompt release was made.

Every camp last week was lucky enough to boat and release a pike over 43". More proof the big boys are looking to pack on some winter weight.
Walleyes are prowling deeper waters 15-25ft are average depths. Jigging is the easiest way to reach these deeper waters. The dark skies this past week have made darker lures more effective.

Good luck on the water everyone. Remember to throw the big ones back. All walleye's over 18" must be thrown back and all pike over 27.5" must be released.
-Nathan
Big Hook Wilderness Camps

Deeper Waters

2009-08-21T08:14:00.000-05:00

The walleye's here in the Opasquia Provincial Park are beginning to descend to deeper depths. Most fish are being caught in 15-25 ft. Dark skies have dominated the past week, meaning darker colors have been very effective. Pumkinseed, brown and black twisters have all out fished traditional white, yellow and orange.
Water temperature's have been driven down with the dark skies and cooler temps. Temperature's are hovering in the lower 60's down from the low 70's last week.
Pike are scattered in all depths. Fishing rocky points with deeper diving crankbaits or burning a topwater bait over the weed beds have all been effective techniques for catching nice pike.
Lure's of the week: for walleye I still can't turn down the 3/8 oz jig with a dark twister. YUM baits make great dark color twisters. For pike, the surface bite has been great with the dark skies and calm waters. The Hog Wobbler boated the 43" pike pictured below on Tuesday at Central Lake. The Mepps Agile #5 copper blade has been another top pike producer.

From the Big Hook outposts
Central Lake : walleye's are deeper 15ft+. Many nice 24" fish have been caught on reefs on the north end. Several pike over 40" have also been boated and released, mainly in the weeds. (Pictured below: a nice 39" pike I boated last Friday on a black bulldawg on the south end of Central.)
South Lake: Guests last week caught 40 walleye's over 25" and many of those were between 29" and 30". (Pictured above is a awesome walleye measuring 30" caught the 5th of August.)
Southwest Lake: reported boating over 100 fish a person almost everyday of the week. "The weather certainly didn't slow the fish down" quoted one guest.
Burnt Lake: Walleye's were stacked on the windblown shorelines in as shallow as 6 ft. Many nice pike were caught in the weed bed on the NW end of the lake.
West Lake: The fish bowl continue's to produce monster pike. The north end of the lake has been a consistent producer of huge walleye.
Favourable Lake/Lemonade: Guests reported amazing fishing for the week. A great balance of large walleye and big pike were reported.

Good luck on the water everyone. Remember to put the big one's back. All walleye's over 18" must be released and all pike over 27.5" must be released.
-Nathan
Big Hook Wilderness Camps

5000 fish! Guest testimonial

2009-08-16T08:25:00.000-05:00

Written by Jack Woolsey

Kath Woolsey---Milestone 5000th Big Hook Fish

In 1990, a week before our first trip together to Big Hook I taught my new bride how to use a spinning reel in our back yard. In 30 minutes she was hitting the middle of a tire from 75 feet nine out of ten times and I knew she was going to do extremely well at Big Hook. However, I never could have dreamt that she would one day amass over 5000 boated fish. Over the years since 1990, we missed one year when Kath was thrown from a horse and shattered her knee 3 days before we were to leave for the trip. Since then we have now totaled 19 trips and I've kept stats for every day of every week we've spent for all of the trips. I can tell you what lures or rigs we were using on every big fish we've ever caught and the times of day when we caught them. As for Kaths 5000th fish this year it was a 20" Walleye caught at Burnt Lake on a green,quarter-ounce,Thumper jig. Her all-time Big fish are a 44" Northern caught on a gold Johnson Silver Minnow and a number of 26" Walleyes. This year she caught her 120th Northern over 30" and 92 of them have been 35" and over. Next Year she will boat her 3000th Walleye. This remarkable woman is a 5 foot, 105 pound beautiful blond with blue eyes and a smile that melts your heart and the personality to go with it. I would seriously doubt that there's been any other woman to date who has caught as many fish at Big Hook and in my book its an unbelievably amazing feat. One more thing for the record, over the years she has out fished me by 680 fish but she does give me credit for running the boat, netting her fish and being her guide. My hats off to my wife, my best friend and the Best Lady Fisherman I've ever seen or heard about. See you all next year and lets hope for better weather in 2010.

Heat Wave

2009-08-11T10:41:00.000-05:00

August is letting us know that summer is still trying to hang around. We finally have had some sunny skies and warm temperatures. Weather has been hot the last three days, hanging around 85-90 degree's in the sun. It is amazing how fast the water temperature's sky rocket after just a few days of sunshine. Water temperatures have blasted up from 64 to about 72 on the surface.

The fish have responded to the warmer temperatures by sinking to deeper depths. We have been catching walleye's from 12-25 ft. Some of the bigger female's have been caught in the deeper waters by trolling larger crankbaits such as: White reef runners and Rapala fire tiger husky jerks. Otherwise, my favorite method is still vertical jigging on the deeper reefs. The wind blown shores are mainly where the fish are congregating. Just try to find a reef or point that has had the wind pounding it for a couple of hours. Pike are scattered between deeper weed beds and rocky reefs. During these hot hot days pike action has been better from 2 pm to 7 pm, when the sun is off the peak. We have had some tremendous surface bite's when the wind calms down in the evening. Effective lures this week have been: Mepp's Agila #5 copper blade and a Swimmin Joe, oh and I can't forget the Shallow Dawg for pike. For walleye, 3/8 oz jig and a pumkinseed Gulp tail and a blue and silver Hot N Tot.

We just wrapped up filming a TV segment for Real Outdoor Desinations. We filmed for two days and got some great footage. Several big pike were caught and many many walleye. I mostly jigged with a 3/8 oz pink head and a pumkinseed Gulp tail, while Tas (the host) casted a Swimming Joe for pike. The show is looking to air around the beginning of January on the Sportsman's channel and the Persuit network. I'll keep everyone posted on the details. ( Picture right: Tas, hostess of Real Outdoor Destinations, and I work on filleting fish for a shorelunch.)

On the fishing front.
Guests last week at West boated many pike over 35" up to 40.25". Most fish were caught in the horseshoe near camp. South Lake had a great night shortly after a thunder storm boating and releasing a 28" and a 30" walleye back to back. Two gentlemen at South West Lake tallied 597 walleye for the week. Central Lake found many honey hole's of walleye's in the 21"-24" range. The weeds in the narrows on Central are holding many big pike.

Good luck on the water everyone. Remember to put the big one's back. Please note Big Hook has a NO TROPHY TAKE OUT policy, meaning all walleye over 18" must be released and all northern over 27.5" must be released.
Nathan
-Big Hook Wilderness Camps

Top Water Bonanza

2009-08-04T10:01:00.000-05:00

It is getting to that time of year where the top water pike action can be amazing here at Big Hook Wilderness Camps. The month of August is a great time of year where pike are actively seeking prey so they can pack on pounds for the winter months. Calm cloudy days are my favorite time to unleash my top water lures. Evenings around 5-8 pm is another time where the pike are really focusing on the surface.
One factor to keep in mind while utilizing surface lures for pike is that strikes are often erratic and not to set the hook too quickly. I'll be the first to admit that I have many a time sent my lure whizzing past my head setting the hook to early on a splash. The key thing is to feel the fish before your hook set.
A couple of my favorite lures are: Top Raider (loon color), Dancing Raider, Zara Spook Magnum (white), Buzz Bait (any color). Most of these lures are "walk the dog" styles.
They take a little practice to get the optimal slash and dash action if you haven't fished this style of bait before.
Weed bed are the best place to start a top water feeding frenzy. The thicker the weed bed the better. Once that fish strikes, get ready to haul and torque that fish through that underwater foliage. Heavier line can help you combat those thick weed beds.

From the fishing front.
South Lake: is still producing big female walleyes in about 12-20 ft of water. Guests the past few weeks are using jigs and Berkley Gulp. Guests yesterday boated and released an impressive 39.5 inch pike on 6 pound test and a jig. That's a fun battle!
Central Lake: Walleyes are hanging a bit shallower. I guided yesterday and found many fish hanging on the edge of wind blown weed beds, around 7 ft. The only problem with jigging the edge of weed beds is you have to be ready to get bit off by the random pike.
West Lake: Guests last week boated and released many walleye in the 24-28" range, mainly on jigs. A dandy 43.5" pike was caught in the fish bowl (pics soon to follow).
Southwest Lake: Fishing within 1/2 mile of camp has been hot. Several points just to the east of the camp are holding massive amounts of fish.
Burnt Lake: "Fish are everywhere on this lake!" was the response of one of the guests. Many fish are hanging in the entrance to the north narrows in about 10 ft of water.
Cocos Lake: Fish are stacked up under the first set of rapids on the left or the right. Fishing in the current is a little difficult right now due to the high water levels. The second set of rapids is high and flowing fast, be careful shooting this set with the high water cause the current is extremely strong. Guests boated many impressive walleye just on the edges of weed beds near the rapids.
Favourable Lake: Pike alley is still a great spot to track down that next trophy pike. Guests are having lots of luck trolling deep diving crank baits along the south edge of the Three Sisters.

Weather has been cool and rainy the past three days. Winds have been blowing steady out of the north at about 10 mph. Water temps have actually cooled down during this time to the lower 60 degree range. We are still waiting for summer to show up, future forecast for later this week looks good.

Good luck on the water everyone. Remember to put the big ones back.
-Nathan
Big Hook Wilderness Camps

Dark Days, Dark Colors

2009-07-29T09:11:00.000-05:00

I am a firm believer, that the color of the lure should match the weather patterns. I always say "Dark days, dark colors and light (sunny) days, light colors." The past several days here at Big Hook Camps we have had cloudy days and cool weather. After guiding the past two days at West Lake, I noticed a pattern that the guests using black twister tails where out fishing the flouro orange tails 2:1 for walleye. What was even more convincing was the pike. We boated 12 pike between 30-38". Of those fish, only two were caught on a silver spoon or brighter color lure, the others were caught on a black skirted bucktail or a black Bulldawg.
Also, the fish have responded to the cool dark weather by holding in somewhat shallower depths. Walleye's are hanging in 6-12 feet, with the occasional fish in 18+. Pike are now finding some weeds to shelter themselves. Weeds are finally reaching the surface. Although it isn't a great weed growth year, they are still holding fish. Water temps are still hovering around the 65 degree range. I unfortunately don't see much change in the water temperature's according to the weather forecast. For current weather at Big Hook visit:

http://www.weatheroffice.gc.ca/city/pages/on-129_metric_e.html

Hot lures: 3/8 oz pink jig head with a black and red flecked twister for walleye. Black and orange medium sized Bulldawg for the pike.

I was able to chat with several of the guests from the past week and here is a quick fishing report from the camps:
South Lake: Guest's last week boated and released four 28" walleye. The four fish were in surprisingly deep water, around 30 ft, according to the guests. Many fish in the 25" range were found shallower, mainly around 12 ft. Jig and twister are still the most effective lures.
Burnt Lake: The four guests at Burnt Lake last weeks tallied 1500 fish. Several lunker pike were recorded at 42", 38", 37" and several at 34" inches.
West Lake: After guiding there the past couple of days we boated and released a dozen pike between 30-38". Most pike were hanging in the south west corner of the fish bowl, others were in the horseshoe. Saw a couple of monsters in the northeast corner of the fish bowl. We also released a 28" and a 25" walleye. Both were in 6 ft of water on the north end of the lake.
Central Lake: Walleye are now beginning to concentrate on reefs and points. The Moore party caught a dandy 41" pike on the north end of the lake near the shore lunch island.

On a final note, we will be filming a TV segment August 8th-10th with Real Outdoor Destinations. I'll keep you posted on when the show will air and on what station.

Good luck on the water everyone. Throw the big one's back!
-Nathan

A picture is worth a 1000 words.

2009-07-22T08:25:00.000-05:00

We are on the tail end of the May Fly hatch here at Big Hook Wilderness Camps. The bite is improving day by day. Water temperatures are beginning to creep up into the higher sixty's. Yesterday I recorded 65 on the surface at Central Lake. Walleye's are still hanging in the 8-12 foot range. Pike this year are hanging on points and reefs due to the lack of weed growth. Soon the walleyes will begin their decent into depth's of 15-20 ft. I have been catching some in that range vertical jigging with a white twister and 3/8 oz jig head.

Some great lures this week have been: Rapala Husky Jerk Mag, fire tiger and green color and Rapala Suspending Shad Rap Blue and Silver.

Weather has been mild. For the past several days we have seen sun in the morning and pop up thunder storms in the afternoon. Temperatures have been hanging in the high 60's and lower 70's.

I spoke with the guests at South Lake and they have recorded nice catches of 25", 26", 28" walleye. Southwest guests were amazed catching walleye "every cast" 200 yards from the cabin. Who said the best fishing in on the far end of the lake?
At Central the East rapids is still the hot area for walleye and The Rock on the north end of the lake has been producing quality size fish.

Attached are some pics that have been emailed. (Top right: 29.5 walleye caught at South Lake. Lower left: a beauty 42 inch pike caught on Cocos by Geo. Lower right: Another nice Cocos catch from Joe S with a 25" walleye. )

Outpost Communications

2009-07-16T09:58:00.000-05:00

All of our outposts here at Big Hook Wilderness Camps have various types of communication to contact us at the base camp Central lake. We encourage our guests to contact us whenever needed whether it is for supplies or questions and concerns. Should you need supplies, let us know ahead of time and we can bring it to you on the next trip. Keep in mind, since we are a fly-in camp, weather plays an important factor in our ability to reach the camps.

South Lake, West and Cocos incorporate the use of radio phone's similar to a CB radio. Operation is simple, just turn on the volume switch and turn it up. We are listening everyday on the other end between 5:00-5:30 pm.

Favourable, Burnt, and Southwest utilize sat phones for communication. Once again, operation is easy. We have two different types of satellite phones: Globalstar hand held phones and Glentel base phones.
Globalstar phones operation is similar to a traditional cell phone. Simply stand outside in a clearing with a southern view, rotate the antenna, press power and wait for a signal. Dial Big Hooks number 905-963-1260 when you receive a signal. Keep in mind it can take a couple of minutes to acquire a signal, so be patient.
Glentel base phones operate slightly different. Just place the dome outside in a clearing, connect the positive and negative lead to the battery, press power, and wait for the phone to acquire a signal. Once a signal is recieved, dial Big Hooks number 905-963-1260 and press send.
If we happen to miss your call and you recieve the voicemail, please leave us a message. We check our voicemail regularly.

Good luck on the water everyone.

Small hatch

2009-07-15T14:30:00.000-05:00

We have noticed a small hatch beginning for the May flies over the past couple of days. This is good news because I believe that is all we are going to see for the year in the greater Big Hook region (knock on wood). With the hatch so late in the season could mean the May flies will be nonexistent for the summer.
I spoke with the guests at South and West Lake today. West reported an excellent pike bite in the "fish bowl" half of the lake using various plastic baits. South Lake has been boating and releasing numerous walleye's flirting with the 30 inch range.

The fish are slowly moving into deeper waters averaging around 12 feet of water for walleye. The pike are holding more on rocky points and current areas due to the fact weed development is slow this year. Soft plastics have been getting great results for pike such as: the Storm Swim Shad and medium or small sized Bull Dawgs.
For walleye, I still believe you can't beat the good ole fashion jig. It may sound boring but it has proven results. 1/4 oz or 3/8 oz jigs, the jighead color really doesn't matter, it's the twister color that counts. We have tried every color under the sun this past week and the only color that HAS NOT been effective is the clear see through chartreuse green. Every other color was walloping the walleye, yes even pink was doing well.

Good luck on the water everyone. Remember to put the big one's back!
-Nathan
Big Hook Wilderness Camps