Thousand Lakes Outposts
Stonehouse Lake, Ontario — Near Armstrong
Thousand Lakes Outposts, based out of Thunder Bay, Ontario and operated by Dwayne Bolen and Teri Fero, carries a strong reputation built over many years of return visits. Reviews are uniformly positive across both their fly-in fishing outposts and guided moose hunts, with many guests noting they have returned annually for years or even decades. One fishing reviewer mentioned a Minnesota group that had been visiting Kearns and Stonehouse Lakes for 26 consecutive years, and several reviewers themselves describe multiple return trips. The overall tone across reviews is enthusiastic and credible, with guests frequently noting that Thousand Lakes exceeded experiences they had at other outfitters across Canada and beyond.
On the fishing side, Kearns Lake in particular draws consistent praise for exceptional walleye numbers and size, with guests routinely reporting catches of 30 to 75 walleye per day in the 2 to 7 pound range, and trophy fish reaching into the mid-to-upper 20-inch class. Northern pike fishing also receives mention, with one guest reporting a 31.6-pound fish. The low fishing pressure — there are no competing camps on the lakes — is cited as a key reason for the quality. The cabins are described as well-maintained and comfortable, with hot and cold running water, showers, fully equipped kitchens, and ongoing upgrades over the years including remodeled bathrooms, new boats and motors, and a satellite phone. On the hunting side, guides receive high marks for pre-season scouting, local knowledge, enthusiasm, and going beyond what guests expected, including setting up camp, providing detailed maps, and actively calling in multiple bulls over consecutive days.
There are no recurring complaints found in these reviews. The one situational note worth flagging is that weather and water conditions can vary significantly — one trip report describes unusually high water levels and a late ice-out affecting the feel of the season — but this is presented as a natural variable rather than a criticism of the outfitter. This destination appears best suited for dedicated walleye anglers seeking high-volume action in a remote, low-pressure environment, groups of fishing buddies or returning regulars who value consistent year-over-year quality, and archery moose hunters looking for a hands-on, well-guided wilderness hunt. It may also appeal to first-time fly-in guests given the well-appointed cabins and reliable infrastructure.
Small, secluded lake in Northwestern Ontario's Boreal Forest near Kearns Lake. Wind and waves are not a concern due to the lake's size. Guests may also walk 10 minutes to fish Kearns Lake (Jay Vee Lake).
Portage Lakes: Yes - Kearns Lake accessible via 10-minute walk (1 lakes)
Other: Smart TV, electric fridge, cedar log construction, rods/reels/fishing nets supplied, life jackets supplied, first aid kit
Flights to and from cabin (approx. 30-minute flight each way), use of 2 boats and motors, all fuel (gasoline for boats and propane for cabin refrigerator, hot water heater and stove), Starlink wifi, Smart TV
Food and beverages (can be arranged with 30+ days notice at cost + 20% surcharge), fishing licenses, Canadian taxes (HST 13%), hospital/medical expenses, gear overweight fees (over 100 lbs at $1.00/lb)
Access: fly-in
Air Base: Wabagimi Air, Armstrong, Ontario (approximately 2.5 hours north of Thunder Bay by paved road)
Flight Time: 30 minutes
Minimum Stay: 3 days
Spot an error on this page or have a suggestion?