Outpost
Edgar Lake Outpost
Cochrane Air Service
Edgar Lake, Ontario — Near Cochrane
About This Outpost
Reviews & Reputation
Cochrane Air Service draws a loyal base of repeat customers — some returning for 20 years or more — and the fishing is almost universally praised across all reviews. Walleye, pike, and brook trout action is consistently described as excellent, and many guests consider the remote lakes to be among the best fishing they have experienced anywhere. Staff, pilots, and management (particularly John and Cory) are frequently mentioned in positive terms, described as friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful. A long-time customer noted a meaningful improvement in customer service after a management transition, and first-time fly-in guests have found the team welcoming and reassuring. The operation is owned by Moose Cree First Nation and covers a large number of remote lakes across the region.
However, recurring maintenance concerns appear across multiple reviews and should not be overlooked. Complaints about malfunctioning or poorly maintained outboard motors are the most common issue, with several groups dealing with engines that would not start, required swapping mid-trip, or left boats needing to be towed. Cabin conditions are inconsistent — some camps (like Edgar) are described as clean and comfortable, while others have been reported dirty, mouse-infested, with broken doors, non-functioning refrigerators, missing firewood, and inadequate seating. One reviewer described symptoms consistent with a propane leak and was also sent out without a life jacket. A fuel barrel situated close to a lake shoreline with visible spill signs was flagged as an environmental concern. A mid-week check flight, which some guests considered standard, was absent on at least one trip. One incident involving dock staff taking returnable bottles without permission also left a guest feeling disrespected. The cabin quality and overall experience appear to vary significantly depending on which lake is booked.
Cochrane Air Service is best suited for anglers who prioritize remote, trophy-quality fishing over comfortable or well-appointed accommodations. Groups of friends or fathers and sons with some rustic camping experience will likely get the most out of the trips, provided they research which lakes and cabins are better maintained. It is less suited for guests who expect resort-level amenities, reliable equipment as a given, or consistent service standards across all camps. First-time fly-in guests can have a great experience here — and some have — but would benefit from asking specific questions about cabin and equipment condition before booking a particular lake.
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Lake Information
6 miles long, up to 25 feet deep. Sandy/rocky bottom. Most remote outpost at 89 miles from base. Large camp, plenty of boats for large groups. Trophy northern pike and walleye.
Fish Species
Accommodations
Amenities
Other: Propane stove, propane fridge, propane lights, BBQ grill, cooking/eating utensils, firewood & axe, rubber landing nets, boat safety kit. Large camp with multiple boats.
Boats & Equipment
Meals & Services
What's Included
Included
Round trip flight from Cochrane, boat, motor, gas (1 boat/motor per 2 guests), propane stove, fridge & lighting, basic cooking and eating utensils, BBQ grill, firewood & axe, boat seats with back, boat safety kit, rubber landing nets
Not Included
Personal fishing gear, sleeping bag & pillow, food & beverages, life jackets, insect repellent, first aid kit, towels, soap, garbage bags, fishing license, 13% HST
Getting There
Access: fly-in
Air Base: Lilabelle Lake, Cochrane, Ontario
Flight Distance: 89 miles
Season & Booking
Season: May 20 to October 5
Check-in Day: Any day
Minimum Stay: 3 days
Location
50.33383, -80.40003 — GPS: North 50.20.030, West 080.24.011 — converted to decimal degrees
Contact
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