Let me answer some of your questions even before you book your fishing trip:
How am I responding to COVID 19?
We entered uncharted waters do to Covid-19. Everything is uncertain and guidelines are
constantly changing. These are challenging times. I'm committed to everyones safety
and well being. My boat and equipment will be thoroughly cleaned and wiped down after
every trip. Hand sanitizer and sanitizer wipes will be available on the boat. Non latex
gloves will be available for clients to wear.
At this time shore lunch will be looked at on a case by case basis. If the group feels
comfortable and safe partaking in a shore lunch, we can discuss having it.
The bottom line is I want to ensure you a quality and fun trip. While providing all
safe mitigation measures are adheared to.
Who am I?
I was born and raised in northern Minnesota. Growing up Lake Vermilion wad our summer home,
so needless to say, days were filled fishing and exploring Vermilion and Trout Lake. I
think I was probably in my early teens when I did my first guide trip. After high school
I went on to have a very fulfilling career of over 30 yrs in Forestry with the US Forest
Service. After retiring I moved back to Lake Vermilion and I started guiding full time.
I'm active with the Lake Vermilion Association, helping with the shore lunch site maintenance
and rough fish removal. I'm also member of the Lake Vermilion Guides League and a BWCA guide
outfitters permit holder. I offer fully guided fishing trips on both Trout Lake and Vermilion
Lake. My Vermilion guide boat is an Alumacraft Voyageur powered by a Yamaha. The Trout Lake
boat is an Alumacraft Escape powered by an Evinrude E-Tech. I use Lowance electronics.
All my rods are Fenwick with Shimano or Daiwa reels which will match the presentation we're using.
I want my guests to have a productive and educational experience and learn as much as you can
about the fisheries, the lake and the area. But most important is to have fun and enjoy the day.
My goal would be for the day to exceed your expectations.
How long are our fishing days and what time do we fish?
Normally 1/2 day trips are about 4 hours and full day trips are eight hours. They may
go longer depending how the fishing and the weather. Start and ending times are flexible.
Children are welcome and encouraged to come along.
What should you bring?
#1 should be a camera (besides fish, there is a wide variety of wildlife we may see),
appropriate clothing for the weather (including jackets, hats and gloves), and good
rain gear (even if it looks like favorable weather). Don't forget the sunscreen and your
valid fishing license. If you have a favorite personal life preserver, bring that too.
I have several extras in my boat.
What kind of fishing gear do I need?
I will provide all high quality rods, reels, tackle, and bait. But if you have
your own favorite rod/reel, please bring it. Please make sure you have new
fishing line on the reel.
Are you interested in a trip to Trout Lake?
Trout Lake is entirely within the BWCA, via a portage operated by an ATV.
The boat is transported from Lake Vermilion over land to Trout Lake.
Because this lake is part of the BDCA, there are no lake homes or other
structures and it is one of the few lakes in BWCA that allows motor boats.
The motors are limited to 25hp, so you'll not encounter large pleasure
boats or personal watercraft. There is a daily quota on the number of
users so you won't see a large number of boats. What draws most of my
guests is also the fishing? The walleye averages a larger size than
adjacent lakes and catching those trophy size walleye are a realistic
possibility. The smallmouth bass fishing is world class! A day on
non-stop bass fishing is a possibility. As the lake implies, it hosts
lake trout. I target these species early season when they are shallow
and can be caught using light tackle for a challenging fight. So if
you're looking for a unique experience, consider booking this trip!
If your visit allows, book a trip on both Trout Lake and Lake Vermilion.
What are the guide's rates?
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1/2 DAY
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6 HOUR DAY
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FULL DAY
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Trout Lake Trip
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$ 350
(third person - $ 50)
(follow boat - $ 50)
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$ 400
(third person - $ 75)
(follow boat - $ 75)
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$ 450
(third person - $ 100)
(follow boat - $ 100)
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$ 475
(includes portage fee)
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(Children under the age of 16 years old fish free!)
Where do we meet?
I will pick you up at your place or resort. Otherwise we'll find a favorable place to meet.
What if we cancel the fishing trip due to the weather?
In the event the trip is cancelled prior to departure in the morning,
there will be no charge. If the trip is shortened do to bad weather the
cost will be fairly and honestly negotiated. If it is possible, we
can re-schedule.
On a full day trip, how about lunch?
There are a few options. Along with fresh fish, your choice includes fried
potatoes, baked beans and a vegetable. we can plan this ahead of time.
I offer gluten and dairy free fish coating mixes for people that are on
restricted diets. There is a $15.00 per person charge with discount for children under 12 yrs old for the shore
lunch. Bring snacks and beverages - I supply a cooler with bottled water.
What do I do with the fish we catch?
I will clean and package all your fish to meet Minnesota DNR transportation
legal requirements. If I pick you up somewhere other than where you are
staying, please bring a small lunch size cooler for transportation
(I'll provide ice!). In the event of catching a trophy fish you may decide
to keep it for mounting, I'll personally transport it to where you are staying.
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P.O. Box 303, Cook MN 55723 -- Cell: 218-780-7939