Excellent Adventures Outposts
Headwaters Lake, Ontario — Near Cochenour / Red Lake
Excellent Adventures Outposts holds a strong reputation among guests, with reviewers consistently awarding top marks and many returning year after year. The outfitter reports roughly 75% repeat business, which aligns with the tone of the reviews collected, where guests describe their trips as standout experiences and express clear intent to return. Owners Faron and Joyce, along with their staff, are frequently credited for the quality and consistency of the operation.
Guests praise several areas in particular: the professionalism and friendliness of the float plane pilots, the quality of the lodging (described as comfortable and well above a basic "roughing it" experience), the food, and the guiding staff for both fishing and moose hunting. Cat Island Lodge is specifically highlighted for combining strong fishing with comfortable accommodations and good cuisine. Hunting guides receive high marks for their knowledge and for handling logistics from start to finish, including meal preparation and transporting harvested game.
Based on the reviews available, there are no recurring complaints or concerns to flag. The feedback is uniformly positive across lodging, staff, food, and the overall experience. This outfitter appears best suited for anglers looking for a fly-in fishing trip with comfortable accommodations, hunters pursuing trophy moose in Ontario's Sunset Country, and guests interested in combining both activities in a single trip. It would appeal to both first-time fly-in visitors and experienced outdoors travelers looking for a well-organized, full-service remote operation.
5.5 miles long, 5/8 mile wide. Part of the Cobham river system. Only cabin on the lake. High-quality Fish Management Program in place — consumption of fish only permitted while staying at the outpost; otherwise catch and release only. No live bait (leeches, worms, frozen minnows only); barbless hooks required.
Portage Lakes: Yes - walleye, pike (Judy Lake: 20-min walk; Cobham River: 2-min walk; 16-ft boats with 9.9 hp Yamaha motors on both portage lakes) (2 lakes)
Other: Propane BBQ on deck; C-pap outlets in bedrooms; pre-cut firewood; marked lake maps; 100 lb weight allowance (Headwaters-specific limit); free advance grocery/beverage delivery with 2 weeks notice; beds with 6-inch mattresses and pillows; all pots, pans, dishes, silverware; full size refrigerator; toilet paper and cleaning supplies; 16-ft boats with 9.9 hp Yamaha motors on both portage lakes
Float plane transport to/from outpost; 14-ft boats with 9.9 hp Honda 4-stroke motors, gas, swivel seats, minnow buckets, anchors, paddles, fish nets; 16-ft boats with 9.9 hp Yamaha motors on both portage lakes; marked lake maps; pre-cut firewood; propane fish cooker; propane BBQ grill; satellite phone and wireless internet; screened-in fish house with running water; cabin with beds (6-inch mattresses and pillows), all pots/pans/dishes/silverware/coffee pot, full size refrigerator and deep freezer, toilet paper/dish soap/cleaning supplies/trash bags, showers, indoor toilet (flush), hot and cold water, gas and solar lights, generator and solar system, CSA approved wood stove; free advance delivery of pop/beer/water (2 weeks notice); 100 lb weight allowance
Ontario fishing license; food and beverages; fishing rods, reels, and fishing equipment; live bait (only leeches, worms, and frozen minnows permitted); no trophies may be taken home; 13% HST tax (added to all prices); gas surcharge may apply
Access: fly-in
Air Base: Cochenour, Ontario (61 McMarmac Rd), 6 miles east of Red Lake, ON; 210 miles north of International Falls, MN
Flight Distance: 120 miles
Season: May to End of October
Minimum Stay: 7 days
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