Halley's Camps
Umfreville Lake / English River, Ontario — Near Minaki
Halley's Camps draws overwhelmingly positive reviews across multiple platforms, with the vast majority of guests describing their stays as exceptional or among the best fishing trips of their lives. The reputation that emerges from most reviews is one of a well-run, professional fly-in operation with a loyal repeat clientele, including guests who bring multiple generations of family members back year after year. One negative account does stand out, however, in which a reviewer describes a hostile confrontation on the ice with an individual they identified as the owner, including a physical threat. This incident is worth noting for prospective guests, though it stands in stark contrast to the experience described in every other review.
Guests consistently praise the quality of the fishing, which appears to be the central draw. Species mentioned include Northern Pike — with at least one catch reported at 45.5 inches — smallmouth bass, walleye, and pike on the English River. The float plane access to remote lakes is frequently highlighted as a major part of the appeal. Beyond the fishing itself, reviewers speak highly of the lodging, describing cabins as modern, well-maintained, and comfortable. Staff and guides receive repeated compliments for being friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely enthusiastic. Shoreline shore lunches with freshly caught fish are specifically called out as a memorable part of the experience. Boats and equipment are also mentioned positively.
Based on the reviews, Halley's Camps appears best suited for groups of friends or family looking for a guided fly-in fishing adventure in Ontario's backcountry, particularly those targeting Northern Pike and smallmouth bass. It also appeals to multigenerational groups, as several reviewers mention bringing children, grandchildren, and adult family members. First-time fly-in anglers may find it approachable given the guided format and well-appointed accommodations, while experienced anglers will likely appreciate the access to remote, productive waters. Anyone sensitive to the one reported conduct concern may want to look into it further before booking.
Nestled at the southeastern tip of Dufault Island on Umfreville Lake on the English River. Surrounding waters dotted with islands and rich structure, full of fish May to September. Many nearby lakes and waterways accessible by boat. Great walleye, pike, and smallmouth bass fishing close to the island.
Portage Lakes: Yes - walleye, pike, smallmouth bass (Umfreville, Gib, Twelnor, One Man, and more by boat)
Other: Screened-in deck, 2 refrigerators, propane kitchen stove, propane fish cooker, propane BBQ, deck chairs, lake maps, landing nets, paddles, minnow and leech buckets, life jackets, depth finder in boats, 5-gallon jugs of drinking water, ice provided, woodstove, box spring beds, pillows and mattress pads, kitchen utensils/dishes/pots/pans, coffee pot, first-aid kit, fire extinguisher, axe, clothesline, supply boat delivery every other day, bait pre-order available, CPAP-friendly
Transportation to and from outpost by shuttle boat from Caribou Falls Landing; 18' Lund boats with new 25hp motors (electric start/tilt) with swivel seats, life jackets, paddles, minnow buckets, and depth finders; all gas, ice, and 5-gallon jugs of drinking water; fully equipped kitchen with dishes, utensils, electric fridge, propane stove, fish cooker and BBQ; solar power with generator backup; supply boat every other day with ice/water
Food/provisions (optional provisioning $65 USD/person/day), fishing licenses, tackle, sales taxes, satellite phone minutes, boat and motor insurance (optional $25 USD/boat/day, $500 deductible)
Access: boat-in
Air Base: Caribou Falls Landing (boat-in, 10 min / 5 miles); optional fly-in 20 minutes from Kenora
Flight Time: 20 minutes
Season: May to September
Minimum Stay: 3 days
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