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Big North Lodge

Big North Lodge & Outposts

Gun Lake, Ontario — Near Minaki

Max Guests 30
Access drive-in
Season May – October
Pricing $

About This Lodge

Cedar main lodge with 6 air-conditioned cottages situated along shoreline on Gun Lake in Minaki. Family-operated since 1978. Offers American Plan and Housekeeping Plan packages.

Reviews & Reputation

Summarized Review Highlights

Big North Lodge & Outposts has earned a strong reputation among guests, with the overwhelming majority of reviewers describing their trips as memorable, well-organized, and worth the journey. The operation is run by a hands-on team — Alex, Pat, and Zach are named repeatedly — who are credited with making guests feel welcome and well looked after from the planning stage through departure. Returning guests note that the camps have improved consistently over the years, with upgrades like solar lighting and electric-start motors reflecting ongoing investment in the experience. First-time fly-in groups in particular appreciate the guidance and attentiveness they receive throughout their stay.

Guests consistently praise the fishing, the cabin quality, and the food. Rogers Lake and the main Big North Lodge both draw strong comments for walleye, smallmouth bass, and pike, with several guests describing catches as exceptional in both size and quantity. Cabins are described as clean and comfortable relative to their remote wilderness setting. The float plane flights to outpost camps are mentioned positively as well. The main lodge food receives high marks. The one recurring note of caution from reviewers is that pricing is on the higher end, though those who flag it generally still rate the overall quality as good.

Big North Lodge is best suited for groups of friends or family — including fathers and sons or multi-generational trips — who are looking for a remote Ontario fly-in fishing experience targeting walleye, pike, and bass. It works well for first-time fly-in anglers who want attentive staff support, as well as repeat visitors comfortable spending at a premium level for a well-run, improving operation. Those on a tight budget may want to factor in the cost before booking.

Summary generated May 25, 2026

Videos — 2 clips from YouTube

Long Lake Outpost Fishing Trip (Big North Lodge) - YouTube

Long Lake Outpost Fishing Trip (Big North Lodge) - YouTube

YouTube
Big North Lodge Long Lake Outpost - YouTube

Big North Lodge Long Lake Outpost - YouTube

YouTube

Lake Information

Part of Winnipeg River System, accessible from main lodge docks, excellent fishing May to October

Lake Name
Gun Lake
Province
Ontario, Winnipeg River System
Lake Structure
River system, rock shorelines, rapids

Fish Species

walleye muskie pike

Portage Lakes: Yes - Five fishing lakes (Gun Lake, Little Sand Lake, Big Sand Lake, Rough Rock Lake, Pistol Lake) accessible by boat without portaging (5 lakes)

Accommodations

Lodging Type
Cottages
Max Guests
30
Total Rooms
6
Amenities
Electricity: Yes - electric
Running Water: Yes
Hot Water: Yes
Drinking Water: Yes
Shower: Yes
Sink: Yes
Toilet: flush
Heat: Yes - electric and propane
A/C: Yes
WiFi
Satellite TV at main lodge

Other: Pool room, guest lounge, satellite TV, daily maid service (American Plan)

Boats & Equipment

Boats Included
1
Boat Length
17 feet (Crestliner) or 16.5 feet (Lund Angler)
Boat Brand
Crestliner or Lund Angler
Motor
50 HP
Motor Start
Electric start
Motor Brand
Yamaha
Seat Type
Pedestal seats
Gas Included
5 gallons per day
Fish Cleaning Station
Fish Freezer
Tackle Shop: Yes - live bait, lake maps available
Shore Lunch Kit: Yes

Meals & Services

Meal Plan
American Plan or Housekeeping
Meals Included
American Plan: all meals including shore lunch, dinner night of arrival, breakfast day of departure
Guide Service
optional
Guide Cost
$250 US/boat/day

What's Included

Included

Cabin, linens, towels, electricity, heat, running water, boat and motor, gas (5 gal/day), fish freezer service, ice

Not Included

Fishing license, bait, gratuities, HST (13%)

Getting There

Access: drive-in

Air Base: Minaki

Season & Booking

Season: May to October

Check-in Day: 2:00 PM

Location

49.929, -94.703 — Gun Lake location via Winnipeg River System

Contact

Big North Lodge & Outposts
Minaki, Ontario

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