Is prior fishing experience necessary?

No, this tour is designed for anglers of all skill levels, with expert guidance provided throughout.

What types of fish can I expect to catch?

Common catches include walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass, and crappie.

Is fishing gear provided?

Yes, all bait, tackle, and fishing gear are supplied as part of the tour package.

What is included in the shore lunch?

A fresh-caught fish cookout prepared on a scenic island or beach, along with snacks and cold drinks.

Are there restroom facilities on the boat?

The fishing boat does not have restrooms; however, stops are made onshore when possible.

When does the tour operate?

Trips depart at 9:00 AM and return by 5:00 PM daily, weather permitting.

Kettle Falls All Day Fishing Tour: Ultimate Rainy Lake Angling Experience

Experience a full day of expert-guided fishing on Rainy Lake with the Kettle Falls All Day Fishing Tour, departing from Thunderbird Lodge near International Falls, Minnesota. This pristine freshwater lake is a fisherman’s paradise, straddling the US-Canada border and part of the greater Voyageurs National Park region, known for its expansive waterways and vibrant ecosystems. Known for its clarity and extensive shoreline, Rainy Lake offers anglers access to trophy-sized walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass, and crappie amidst a backdrop of dense boreal forests and glacially sculpted islands.

Your adventure begins at 9:00 AM aboard a sturdy Lund Tyee fishing boat, fully equipped for comfort and performance on these cool northern waters. Whether you're a seasoned angler or casting your first line, you’ll receive professional guidance from a licensed local expert with decades of experience. This inclusive outing offers all necessary tackle, bait, and gear, so you can focus entirely on the thrill of the catch. Throughout the day, your guide adapts the fishing spots and techniques to seasonal fish behavior, ensuring a dynamic and productive experience.

The tour is crafted not just for fishing but as a full immersion into the natural and cultural heritage of Voyageurs National Park’s waterways. Between casts, soak in breathtaking views of the rugged shoreline fringed with towering pines and listen to captivating stories about the region’s history, from Indigenous heritage to logging and early fur trade. Wildlife sightings are common, with chances of glimpsing bald eagles, otters, and loons.

Midday, enjoy a freshly prepared shore lunch featuring your own catch cooked over an open fire on a secluded island or beach, accompanied by cold drinks and snacks. At day’s end, the boat returns to Thunderbird Lodge by 5:00 PM, leaving you with an unforgettable angling experience and memories of Rainy Lake’s wild beauty.

This all-day tour is a standout adventure in northern Minnesota, combining trophy fishing, expert local knowledge, and immersion in one of the continent’s most scenic freshwater landscapes. Travelers based in International Falls will find convenient lodging and amenities nearby, making it easy to add this unforgettable fishing experience to any northern Minnesota itinerary.

About Voyageurs Outfitters

Voyageurs Outfitters is a Ranier, Minnesota outfitter specializing in guided and self-guided water experiences in and around Voyageurs National Park. The company offers kayak, canoe, and stand-up paddleboard (SUP) rentals alongside personalized small-group boat tours and guided fishing trips. Rentals include paddles and personal flotation devices; kayaks have a 300 lb capacity and SUPs support up to 250 lb.

Boat tours range from two-hour interpretive cruises to full-day Kettle Falls excursions that visit Fujita Island and the historic Kettle Falls Hotel. Full-day tours include lunch, wildlife viewing opportunities, and an interpretive hike. Fishing tours use a comfortable boat and professional local guide with gear suited to Rainy Lake’s species.

Self-guided paddling options are available at beginner and intermediate levels, with equipment, route suggestions, and historical information about voyageurs and local landmarks. Canoe rentals are suitable for families and experienced paddlers seeking quiet coves and wildlife viewing. Kayak rentals focus on day use and require return by dark.

Voyageurs Outfitters operates from Thunderbird Lodge and other local launch points, providing convenient access to Rainy Lake and nearby park areas. The business emphasizes safety by supplying flotation devices and quality equipment, and by offering interpretive knowledge through guided trips. Visitors can expect small groups, personalized attention, and outfitters familiar with local waterways. Whether seeking a short wildlife cruise, a full-day fishing expedition, or a self-guided paddle, Voyageurs Outfitters delivers water-based experiences that highlight the natural beauty and history of Northern Minnesota. Reservations and current availability are listed on the outfitters' website directly.