Do I need a fishing license?

Minnesota requires a fishing license for anglers 16 and older; licenses are available for purchase online or at local stores.

Can beginners join this trip?

Absolutely, the trip is suitable for all skill levels, with guides offering instruction for novice anglers.

What if the weather turns bad?

Trips are flexible, and guides will adapt plans to ensure safety and enjoyment.

Participants will learn to prepare meals using their catch; food can also be brought along for added convenience.

What wildlife might I see?

Expect to encounter eagles, loons, and possibly moose in the area.

How do I get to Timber Trail Lodge?

The lodge is located near Ely, Minnesota, accessible by car from major cities and regional airports.

Boundary Waters Fishing Potluck | Fishing in Ely |

The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCA) in northern Minnesota is a haven for outdoor lovers seeking pristine lakes, dense forests, and untouched natural beauty. Timber Trail Lodge stands as a prime gateway to this remote landscape, offering an immersive experience that blends fishing mastery with wilderness skills. Their signature program, the Boundary Waters Fishing Potluck, takes adventurers beyond typical fishing trips by incorporating practical skills like fish cleaning and backcountry meal prep, making it ideal for those looking to deepen their wilderness proficiency. Participants can expect to learn expert techniques for fishing from a canoe, mastering how to cast, identify the best spots, and reel in northern pike or smallmouth bass in crystal-clear waters. What makes Timber Trail Lodge’s offerings unique is the hands-on approach—covering not only angling but also how to prepare your catch over campfires, turning raw fish into delicious, campfire-fresh dishes. The lodge's location provides access to some of the most productive fishing waters in the BWCA, with dense forests and granite outcroppings setting a rugged, photogenic backdrop. This experience is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts of moderate activity level, with sessions lasting a full day or more, depending on your itinerary. You’ll want to come equipped with waterproof gear, layered clothing for varying weather, and a sense of adventure. The lodge is a trusted Outfitter operating near Ely, Minnesota, known for its friendly staff and expert guiding services. The boundary waters area, established as a wilderness preserve since 1978, embodies a conservation ethos that Timber Trail respects and promotes through sustainable practices. It’s more than just fishing—it’s a comprehensive wilderness experience wrapped in the rugged beauty of northern Minnesota, crafted to equip you for future adventures and foster a deep appreciation for this pristine, wild landscape.

About Timber Trail Lodge

Timber Trail Lodge in Ely, Minnesota offers guided trips, courses, and motorboat excursions focused on Boundary Waters skills, fishing, and paddling.

The lodge operates custom half-day, three-quarter-day, and full-day guided fishing trips aboard a 19 ft. motorboat, with beverages and snacks included. Instructional courses cover canoe fishing techniques, BWCA paddling and navigating, campcraft, fish cleaning, and backcountry meal preparation. A hands-on “Boat and Electric Introduction” provides complimentary instruction on motor and electric systems and Farm Lake navigation.

Trips range from short experiences like a two-hour Sunset Cruise to Kawishiwi Falls on Garden Lake to multi-skill BWCA courses such as Boundary Waters Canoeing Potluck and Boundary Waters Fishing Potluck. Timber Trail Lodge emphasizes safety, wilderness navigation, and practical skills including portaging, map reading, wind assessment, and paddling technique. Instruction suits beginners seeking confidence and experienced paddlers refining advanced skills.

The lodge presents its offerings as structured experiences that combine expert guidance with local knowledge of Ely and the BWCA waterways. Each trip description communicates clear objectives: skill-building, personalized fishing strategy, or scenic exploration. Visitors can expect tailored trip times for custom outings and practical amenities during guided motorboat trips.

Timber Trail Lodge maintains a focus on educating guests for independent, responsible exploration of the Boundary Waters. The lodge’s combination of hands-on courses, guided motorboat fishing trips, and scenic excursions supports visitors who want both instruction and memorable outdoor experiences.

Programs prioritize safety, practical instruction, and real-world practice to prepare guests for independent trips in the BWCA and Farm Lake navigation skills.