Silsby Lake Lodge & Outposts
High Hill Lake, Manitoba — Near Ilford, MB
Silsby Lake Lodge & Outposts, located in remote northern Manitoba near Thompson, carries a generally positive reputation among fishing guests, with most reviewers describing memorable trips and strong praise for the fishing, scenery, and staff. The lodge is operated by Sam Fett and family, who have decades in the outfitting business and appear to run a tight operation at the main Silsby Lake Lodge. There is one serious and notable exception: a former hunting guest reports that the lodge has held a $3,500 deposit for several years following a COVID-era cancellation, repeatedly promising a refund that has never materialized. This complaint is specific but significant, and prospective guests should be aware of it when considering deposit terms and cancellation policies.
On the fishing side, reviewers consistently praise the trophy pike and walleye opportunities, with catches including fish in the 40-plus-inch range. Walleye fishing is described as reliable and productive, and shore lunches of fresh pickerel are frequently mentioned as a highlight. The main Silsby Lodge with guided packages appears to outperform the self-guided outpost options for trophy pike — one group at High Hill Outpost noted that guests at the main lodge simultaneously landed 17 pike over 41 inches while the outpost group struggled to find large fish. Timing also matters: multiple reviewers suggest June or early July as the best window, with late summer producing fewer trophy-class northern pike. High Hill Outpost received mixed reviews for its physical condition, with minor maintenance issues noted (a broken oven, a clogged toilet), though an on-site camp manager was praised for being attentive and working to improve things. Staff at both the lodge and outposts are described warmly by the majority of guests, and the remote wilderness setting draws consistent admiration.
Silsby Lake Lodge is best suited for groups of fishing buddies targeting trophy northern pike or walleye, particularly those willing to fly in and embrace a remote, rustic setting. Families with children have also had positive experiences at the main lodge, where staff engagement with kids is specifically praised. First-time fly-in anglers may appreciate the guided lodge packages more than the self-guided outpost option, especially if trophy pike are the primary goal. Those considering the outpost camps should go in with realistic expectations about facilities, bring their own electronics, and plan their trip for early season to maximize chances at larger fish.
Picturesque 14-mile long, oval-shaped lake. One of the highest per capita trophy Northern Pike lakes in Manitoba. Spring fishing in Barlow Bay, Omaha Bay, and Bay of Pigs is exceptional. July–September sees large cabbage weed beds holding fat trophy pike. Access downstream to Whitley Lake (8 miles long). Wildlife sightings include Caribou, Moose, Bear, Bald Eagles, and Golden Eagles.
Portage Lakes: Yes - pike, walleye (Whitley Lake accessible via 7-mile river downstream) (1 lakes)
Other: Camp manager on-site; bedding, linens, pillows, comforters provided; refrigerator; oven/range; barbecue grill; deep freeze with ice for cocktails and boat coolers; life vests, nets, boat coolers; FREE St. Croix rods, Shimano reels, and tackle bag
Direct charter flight from Winnipeg to Silsby and return, plus boat transportation to/from High Hill camp; food package with choice of meats; FREE St. Croix rods, Shimano reels, and tackle bag; heated cabin with electric lights, refrigerator, oven/range, barbecue grill; deep freeze stocked with ice; beds with mattresses, linens, pillows, comforters; indoor plumbing (hot showers, flush toilet, full kitchen sink); cooking utensils, pots, pans; 16 ft Alumarine boats with casting decks and new boat seats; 15 hp 4-stroke motors, gas, nets, life vests, boat coolers; marine radios; camp manager
Canadian taxes (RST & GST), overnight stays before/after trip, fishing license, beverages
Access: fly-in
Air Base: Winnipeg, MB
Flight Time: 100 minutes
Flight Distance: 400 miles
Season: May 23 to September 6
Minimum Stay: 3 days
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