True North Airways
Otterpelt Lake, Ontario — Near Azilda
True North Airways — operating under the name Sudbury Aviation and based near Azilda, Ontario — carries a strong overall reputation among fly-in fishing guests, with the large majority of reviewers rating their experience at the top of the scale. The outfitter is repeatedly praised for its professionalism, reliability, and the warmth of owner Marg and her staff. Guests with 15 or more years of repeat business describe it as among the best fly-in operations in the province, and several reviewers note specific operational details that build trust: a confirmed mid-week check-in flight where staff actually land and verify conditions, and consistent punctuality on fly-out day. The floatplane service itself is described as courteous, safe, and well-maintained.
Fishing is the clear draw, and guests report strong numbers across multiple species — walleye (pickerel) in the 16–20-inch range, smallmouth bass up to 3–4 pounds, northern pike, and occasional larger fish. Lakes like MacSmith are described more as numbers fisheries than trophy destinations, though the consistent action — anglers reporting 30–40 fish over seven days — is a major point of satisfaction. Cabins are universally called clean, functional, and well-equipped with propane appliances, wood stoves, bunk beds, and on-site saunas. No one describes them as luxury accommodations, but the consensus is that they deliver exactly what a remote fishing camp should.
The one honest cautionary note comes from a detailed mid-range review: the MacSmith camp was found to be missing some basic kitchen items, had no oars or boat safety kits, and lacked enough certified PFDs for all guests. Anglers are advised to confirm equipment details in advance and consider bringing their own personal flotation devices to be safe. Beyond that specific concern, complaints are rare across the reviews. This destination is best suited to groups of fishing buddies or pairs looking for a true remote outpost experience — particularly those targeting walleye, smallmouth bass, or pike — and to repeat fly-in anglers who value reliability and a well-run operation over amenities. It is not positioned as a family resort or a trophy-hunting destination, but for anglers who want consistent action, solitude, and a no-fuss bush camp, the reviews point consistently in one direction.
A most interesting lake with many arms, bays and islands to explore. Tea-coloured water full of pike with walleye in several locations. Little Otterpelt Lake is accessible by boat through a narrow channel for more walleye and pike. Rocky shoreline with deep holes and shoals.
Portage Lakes: Yes - walleye, pike (Little Otterpelt Lake accessible by boat through narrow channel) (1 lakes)
Other: BBQ, canoe, large campground, propane refrigerator, stove, cooking/eating utensils, ice and ice box, free midweek check flight
Cabin, 12-14 ft aluminum boat, Yamaha 8HP 4-stroke outboard motor, unlimited fuel, propane refrigerator, stove, lights, cooking/eating utensils, ice and ice box, live bait upon request, free midweek check flight
Food, beverages, fishing tackle, rods, reels, sleeping bags, pillows, life jackets, toiletries, towels, fishing license
Access: fly-in
Air Base: Whitewater Lake, Azilda, Ontario (1 Airport Road, Azilda, ON)
Flight Distance: 56 miles
Check-in Day: Saturday or Wednesday
47.276765, -81.688119 — Coordinates extracted from embedded Google Maps iframe on camp page
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