Discover the peaceful waters of BWCA with a guided canoe fishing experience at Timber Trail Lodge. Perfect for outdoor lovers eager to learn, fish, and connect with nature.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4–6 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate physical activity, some paddling and casting involved
Wildlife
History
BWCA has been protected since 1978, preserving its wilderness for generations of anglers and adventurers.
Conservation
The area is managed sustainably to maintain water quality and habitats, ensuring future generations can enjoy this pristine environment.
Timber Trail Lodge
Discover the peaceful waters of BWCA with a guided canoe fishing experience at Timber Trail Lodge. Perfect for outdoor lovers eager to learn, fish, and connect with nature.
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.
Location
Ely, Minnesota
Gateway to the Boundary Waters
Tours Offered
12 trips
Guided courses and custom trips
Motorboat
19 ft motorboat
Used for custom fishing trips
Signature Experience
Sunset Cruise to Kawishiwi Falls
2-hour cruise on Garden Lake
Book a custom fishing trip, paddling course, or sunset cruise — expert-led outings designed for learning, safety, and lasting memories.
Wear layered clothing
Dress in moisture-wicking layers to stay comfortable on the water regardless of weather.
Bring waterproof gear
Protect electronics and gear with waterproof cases or bags.
Fish early morning
The best bites often come just after dawn, so plan your fishing around sunrise.
Practice paddling techniques
Familiarize yourself with paddling form to reduce fatigue and improve efficiency.
Paddle or canoe
A sturdy paddle or canoe suited for lake waters is essential for efficient and safe navigation.
Fishing rod and tackle
Bring a well-equipped fishing rod matching local species for the best success.
Weather-appropriate clothing
Dress for variable weather conditions to stay warm and dry.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Bug spray and sunscreen
Protect against insects and sun exposure during long hours on the water.
summer|fall