It's trip planning time again and I'm requesting information if anyone would share their thoughts on traveling up the Maligne River to Sturgeon Lake. There appears to be four routes to Sturgeon. North end of LLC around Bell Island. Another parallel route, Martin Bay, just to the south. Ranger Station, Black Robe portage to Minn then North; and McAree to Minn. Anyone travel these and care to share their thoughts?

starwatcher

We exited via the Maligne River last year with a pickup at Bell Island. If you like big river travel, this route may be for you. The current is fairly weak, but it's a long pull and there are half a dozen or so small rapids to portage around. It would not be my first choice for a route to Sturgeon, but I'm not much for big rivers. I prefer the smaller more intimate ones. Fishing was excellent on Sturgeon at the mouth of the Maligne River just above the rapids. We did see a number of other canoe parties in that area. I've heard the north side of Sturgeon offers more solitude, though I've never been there.

Thanks snakecharmer,

I suppose the voyageurs followed the route for a reason. We like to see different scenery, so we will go in one way and out a different route. Still trying to decide.

starwatcher

Yup. I don't believe the voyageurs were as interested in the scenery as us modern day "wannabes". The Maligne is definitely a quick route into and out of the heart of Quetico. I think it would be a nice exit option for you with the current.