So, I've been going to the BWCA for several years now. I prefer to not depend on an outfitter besides renting canoes and perhaps a shower after the trip... Due to unnecesary cost's. Don't get me wrong, I have used them in the past and have been pleased with what they have to offer.... I'm getting off the topic.

What do I need to do in order to go into Quetico via a rout through the BWCA and also be able to fish there? I know there is the issue of a Canadian Fishing license... are these available for purchase in the US? Customs? Permit for border crossing?

If, for some reason we want to be dropped off/towed/planed in... what kind of cost am I looking at for say 2-6 people?

Keep in mind, I get surf controlled from several web sites due to big brother at work so links don't always work.

Thanks in advance
Hexnymph

I've been to BWCA the last two years and have yet to use an outfitter for more than a bunkhouse, shower and permit pick up spot. Go to bwcaw.org and you can apply for a permit lottery to be held on Jan. 15,2004. After that you can apply for permits and have them sent to the outfitter you are renting from. This site also has all the rules and regulations. I know there is a similar site for Quetico but am not sure of the address. You can get Quetico fishing liscense information from the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. Ph. 807-597-2735. Get a copy of Boundary Waters Journal magazine and you will be able to get all the information you need. It's amazing what you can learn if you are willing to read and research.

I feel the same way you do about giving the outfitters my money. My wife complained about the cost of my gear when I bought it but now I can canoe BWCA and only spend money for gas, two nights in a bunkhouse, permits and food.

OK, so I've got nothing....

Can I get a fishing license for Canada through an Outfitter in the States?

What kind of cost am I looking at to get a fly-in package from an Outfitter? (Tow in?)

My maps show "Customs" stations on the border between the B-W and Quetico... if I go through one of these do I need an RABC permit? If not, does my whole party need RABC permits?

Getting a permit into the BW isn't a problem... Is there anything else I need for border crossing?

Thanks in advance
Hex

The customs station at prairie portage is closed so you will need a RABC. I think all of the customs stations along the border are closed except maybe Crane Lake-Call one of the Crane lake side outfitters to confirm this. Every person entering Canada needs an RABC. Yours can include your family, but not those that are not part of your immediate family. make sure to apply for the RABC at least 60 days before you enter. If you can apply shortly after your birthday as the permit is good for two years from your next birthday. So if your birthday is April 1st wait until after 4/1/04 and it will be good until 4/1/06. Apply on 3/1/04 with and April birthday and it will only be good until 4/1/05.

You can not get a Canadian fishing license at the outfitter you can get it at the ranger station along with your camping permit and pay your fees.

If you are only paddling in the BW and not overnight camping, you do not need a reservation for the BW portion of the trip, only fill out a day permit for your day in and out. You can work with the outfitters or your self to get the permit reserved by calling the outfitter or by calling the park 5 months before you want to go in and applying for the entry you want.

Fly-in fees I am not familiar with.

Tows from Moose Lake outfitters to Prairie Portage are approx $20.00 per person each way. So if you need a tow in and out it would be about $40.00. Tow beyond PP and the rates go up. Those are last years rates, may be higher.

Hope this helps

Thanks for the help... I'm set to go the 28th of May.... 4 more months to go... how am I going to make it?

Hex in da U.P.