2016 Ontario Sunset Country Travel Guide 2016 Ontario's Sunset Country Travel Guide | Page 39

Remote Fly-in Fishing In the Wild There’s nothing quite like fishing, except when you're miles off the beaten path without any disturbances to hinder your concentration. Dense with lakes and thick back-woods, many outfitters in the Patricia Region offer fly-in fishing. Allow the droning props of a Beech 18 or a Beaver to lull you into a fantasy of catching a lunker as it sweeps you off to your dream lake. Prepare to have a hunting experience unlike any other. The further north your travel in Sunset Country, the deeper you dwell into moose territory. This massive, highly illusive animal is the epitome of all northern hunting. Along side regular deer, or bear hunting, many outfitters in the north offer moose hunting as part of their accommodation for hunters looking to tackle the largest of game. Anchors Up and Away Architecturally Sound Renting a cabin has it’s perks, but there’s nothing quite like taking out a houseboat on Lac Seul for to enhance your travel experience. Never wake up in the same place twice as you travel from shore to shore; searching for the perfect spot to moor so you have the perfect view to compliment your trip. Rentals are available from Ear Falls or Hudson. The rocky surfaces and multiple lakes in Northwestern Ontario requires local architects to come up with some inventive ways to close the gap. Cross the Roy Wilson Suspension Bridge in Dryden. This bridge spans over 100’ across the rapids of the Wabigoon River and is a perfect example of modern Canadian architecture. Take a walk on the hiking trails in the surrounding park. a Glimpse Into the Past Flowing Water Open year-round, the Red Lake Regional Heritage Centre is a place where you can indulge your inquisitive side by learning about a history as old as Canada itself. From aboriginal cultural, to immigration, gold rush and fur trade, the centre offers a wide variety of topics likely to peak your interest. There are many interactive displays including one about prospecting in the early days. There lies a boundary in Sunset Country that dictates the direction of flowing water. All rivers to the south of the partition flow into the Great Lakes, whereas rivers and lakes north, such as Raleigh Falls in Ignace, flow into the arctic ocean. The height of the point at which the river systems switch is known as the Arctic Watershed and is located between Ignace and Thunder Bay. COMMUNITIES Dryden Dryden is the largest city in the Patricia Region and is an important service centre for area residents and tourists. Catch the TbayTel Walleye Masters Fishing Tournament and visit the museum – home to the “Dryden Buck”. Fish nearby lakes such as Wabigoon, Dinorwic, Rugby or the south end of Lac Seul. dryden.ca Ear Falls Located on the western shore of incredible Lac Seul, Ear Falls is a gateway to endless fishing and hunting adventures. Catch the Trout Forest Music Festival held every August at the Waterfront Park. earfalls.com Pickle Lake Located literally “at the end of the road”, Pickle Lake is definitely worth the trip. Incredible fishing on Lake St. Joseph and some of Ontario’s best moose hunting can be found here. picklelake.ca Red Lake Red Lake not only offers access to great fishing, hunting and paddling opportunities, it is home to one of the largest gold mines in North America. Make sure you take in the Norseman Festival in July and visit the Red Lake Regional Heritage Centre. tourismredlake.ca Ignace Located right on Agimak Lake and with two public beaches, Ignace is a great place to stop and relax. If you take the time, you can view centuries old native pictographs or Raleigh Falls. town.ignace.on.ca Sioux Lookout/Hudson Up Hwy 72 are the towns of Sioux Lookout and Hudson. Marvel at the beauty of Pelican and Abram Lake. Rent a houseboat in Hudson where you can cruise on Lac Seul. Don’t miss the annual Blueberry Festival. Learn about First Nations history at the Sioux Lookout Museum. siouxlookout.com Perrault Falls Perrault Falls with its access to Wabaskang, Perrault and Florence Lakes is well known as a great fishing destination. Stop at the waterfalls along Hwy 105 and walk down the trail for the best view. perraultfallsarea.com Vermilion Bay/Eagle River If you want to explore Eagle Lake then the towns of Vermilion Bay and Eagle River are fantastic jumping off points. This area of Sunset Country is home to many lodges offering access to Eagle Lake's outstanding fishery. visitmachin.com 2016 Sunset Country Guide | 39