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.
Rex Lake is 11 miles long with excellent smallmouth bass and large northern pike, plus islands and reefs marked on provided fishing maps. Walleye fishing available in portage lake Little Rex. Two portage lakes: Little Rex (10-yard portage then 250-yard portage, two 6hp/14' boats, smallmouth bass/walleye/pike) and Moose Lake (120-yard portage, 4hp/14' boat, northern pike). Great for families wanting variety of species and lakes.
Portage Lakes: Yes - walleye, smallmouth bass, pike (Little Rex Lake: 10-yard portage then 250-yard portage, two 6hp/14' boats); pike (Moose Lake: 120-yard portage, 4hp/14' boat) (2 lakes)
Other: Deck chairs, lake maps, landing nets, paddles, minnow and leech buckets, life jackets, propane BBQ, propane fish cooker, 5 gallons drinking water, ice, box spring beds, pillows and mattress pads, kitchen utensils/dishes/pots/pans, stove-top toaster, coffee pot, first-aid kit, fire extinguisher, axe, clothesline/pins, check flights every 2 days, CPAP-friendly, portage lake boats included (6hp/14' boats for Little Rex, 4hp/14' for Moose Lake)
Seaplane flights from Kenora and return; check flights every 2 days (weather permitting); 16' Lund boats with 15hp motors (electric start), swivel seats, life jackets, paddles; all gas, minnow buckets, landing nets, cube ice; electric fridge, stove, hot water heater; solar power with generator backup; hot/cold running water and shower; cooking/eating utensils; twin beds, mattresses and pillows; satellite phone (minutes extra); 5 gallons drinking water
Food/provisions (optional $65 USD/person/day), fishing licenses, tackle, sales taxes, satellite phone minutes, boat and motor insurance (optional $25 USD/boat/day, $500 deductible)
Access: fly-in
Air Base: Kenora, Ontario - Second Street Dock; flight departure at 9AM
Flight Time: 22 minutes
Season: May to September
Minimum Stay: 3 days
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