Back to All Lodges
Camp

Sutton River Brook Trout Float Trip

Hearst Air Service

Sutton River, Ontario — Near Hawley Lake (starting point)

Max Guests 6
Access fly-in
Season Late July – Early September

About This Camp

World-renowned self-guided float trip on the Sutton River through Polar Bear Provincial Park. At least 7 days to float the river in its entirety; 9–10 days is ideal. Hearst Air supplies return flight from Carey Lake to Hawley Lake, 17' Royalex canoes (1 per 2 people), and shotgun permits for the park. Guests supply all camping equipment, food, paddles, fishing gear, GPS, and personal items. Crystal clear water, pebble bottom, up to 100 fish per day. Both native and sea-run speckle trout. Strict 320 lb weight limit per person (body weight plus gear).

Reviews & Reputation

Summarized Review Highlights

Hearst Air Service, based in Northern Ontario, has built a strong reputation among fly-in fishing and hunting clients over many years. The overwhelming majority of reviews are five stars, with guests frequently returning for multiple trips — some for nearly two decades — and bringing family members or expanding their groups. The operation is run by the Veilleux family, with Melanie and George mentioned repeatedly by name as responsive, organized, and patient with first-time clients. The consistent theme across reviews is that the outfitter delivers exactly what it promises: reliable logistics, well-maintained aircraft (including a turbine Beaver, Otter, and Cessna Caravan), and remote access to lakes that see very little fishing pressure.

Guests consistently praise several specific elements. The fishing is described as exceptional across multiple lakes — walleye, northern pike, and yellow perch are the primary targets, with pike exceeding 40 inches reported at lakes like Napken and Pym Island. One group of three anglers tallied 600 fish in a single week. Cabins are noted as basic but well-equipped, clean, and solid — better than many reviewers expected for such remote locations. Boats and motors receive positive mentions for reliability. Mid-week supply check-ins, including delivery of ice and bait, are appreciated. The staff, including pilots, are called out for being skilled, friendly, and professional. The outfitter also accommodates hunting trips, with a moose hunt group reporting a successful harvest and seamless logistical support. French-speaking guests have also reviewed the service positively, suggesting some bilingual capacity.

Honest caveats from reviews are minor but worth noting. Cabins are rustic and outpost-style — typically three rooms with an external outhouse — which suits some guests perfectly but is worth understanding before booking. Weather in Northern Ontario can be unpredictable; one reviewer noted a bumpy flight due to conditions, and July temperatures can swing cold enough to require a fire. One reviewer mentioned a bear entered partway into the cabin during the night, which is part of the remote wilderness context. Fish size at some lakes skews toward average rather than trophy-sized — walleye in the 13–21 inch range and pike up to 30 inches are common, with larger fish possible but not guaranteed at every lake. This destination is well suited to groups of friends, fathers and sons, couples, and repeat anglers looking for high-volume action in genuine wilderness. It also works well for first-time fly-in guests given the thorough pre-trip communication. Serious trophy pike anglers may want to ask specifically about lakes like Napken or Quantz, which are mentioned as more consistently producing larger fish.

Summary generated May 25, 2026

Lake Information

The Sutton River is world-renowned for trophy brook trout. Both native and sea-run speckle trout present. Crystal clear water and pebble bottom. No rapids or white water; 80% wadeable. Up to 100 fish per day; 3–5 lb brookies on fly rods or spinning reels. Best time is last week of July through first week of September when sea-run trout are present. Polar bears present in the area.

Lake Name
Sutton River
Province
Ontario, Hudson Bay Lowlands / Polar Bear Provincial Park
Water Clarity
Crystal clear, pebble bottom
Lake Structure
River - no rapids/white water, 80% wadeable
Fishing Pressure
Very low - extremely remote

Fish Species

brook trout brook trout

Accommodations

Lodging Type
Tented camping (self-supplied)
Max Guests
6
Amenities
Electricity: No
Running Water: No
Hot Water: No
Drinking Water: No
Shower: No
Sink: No
Heat: No
A/C: No
Cell: No
Satellite communicator recommended (guest-supplied)

Other: Designated camping stations with platforms, overhangs, firepits, and drying areas (noted for Attawapiskat; Sutton has open camping along river). Shot gun permits for Polar Bear Provincial Park included.

Boats & Equipment

Boat Length
17 ft
Boat Brand
Royalex canoe
Tackle Shop: No

Meals & Services

Meal Plan
Housekeeping
Meals Included
No
Guide Service
not available

What's Included

Included

Return flight from Carey Lake to Hawley Lake and back, 17' Royalex canoes (1 per 2 people), towing to first rapids from Hawley Lake, shotgun permits for park

Not Included

Camping equipment, food, fishing gear, paddles, maps, GPS, personal items, shotgun (suggested 1 x 12-gauge per canoe), bear bangers/flares, fishing licence, 13% HST

Getting There

Access: fly-in

Air Base: Carey Lake, Hearst, Ontario (17 miles west of Hearst on Hwy 11)

Flight Time: 150 minutes

Season & Booking

Season: Late July to Early September

Minimum Stay: 7 days

Contact

Hearst Air Service
Hearst, Ontario

Spot an error on this page or have a suggestion?

More from Hearst Air Service

Attawapiskat River Trophy Fishing Trip

Camp • Attawapiskat River

View Details →
Hillmer Lake Outpost Camp

Outpost • Hillmer Lake

View Details →
Martison Lake Outpost Camp

Outpost • Martison Lake

View Details →
McLeister Lake Outpost Camp

Outpost • McLeister Lake

View Details →
Napken Lake Outpost Camp

Outpost • Napken Lake

View Details →
Quantz Lake Outpost Camp

Outpost • Quantz Lake

View Details →
Sunshine Lake Outpost Camp

Outpost • Sunshine Lake

View Details →
Wanzatika Lake Outpost Camp

Outpost • Wanzatika Lake

View Details →