Halley's Camps
Trapline Lake, Ontario — Near Kenora
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.
Trapline Lake is known for record-book lunker walleye with dark stained water (dark-backed, gold-bellied walleye). Part of a river system with moving water. Dozens of islands. Creek provides access to additional walleye lakes (No Name and Elbow). Three portage lakes: Elbow Lake (5 miles, walleye/pike via creek or trail), North Lake (100-yard portage, 3 miles, walleye/pike), Wilson Lake (20-yard portage, 6 miles, walleye/pike/lake trout). Also a lake trout lake accessible by stone trail.
Portage Lakes: Yes - walleye, pike (Elbow Lake: 5-mile long lake accessible by creek/boat or portage); walleye, pike (North Lake: 100-yard portage, 3-mile long lake, 6hp/14' boat); walleye, pike, lake trout (Wilson Lake: 20-yard portage, 6-mile long lake) (3 lakes)
Other: Deck with lake views, 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' for North Lake, others by boat via creek)
Seaplane flights from Kenora and return; check flights every 2 days (weather permitting); five 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 6AM
Flight Time: 22 minutes
Season: May to September
Minimum Stay: 3 days
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