Best Bass Baits for Lodge Trips

Sure-fire baits and techniques that have resulted in success at Northern Ontario fishing lodges
KARL KALONKA - algoma_05.JPG

So, this is the year you’re finally making the journey to Northern Ontario to experience the world-class bass fishing everyone else is raving about. You have heard about our pristine wilderness lakes and rivers that inhabit both numbers and trophy-sized bass that sometimes never see a lure pass their nose all year long!

The same lakes that countless bald eagles soar and glide above, the same lakes that the mighty moose and whitetail deer quench their thirst, the same lakes black bear and lynx swim across and offer bass anglers jaw-dropping photography opportunities.

Kalonka-Lures-01

Northern Ontario bass fishing experiences are filled with memory-making moments that inspire visitors to return year after year.

The incredible bass fishing is only part of the entire adventure.

There is so much to discover in Ontario’s north country for the travelling bass angler, yet the task of preparing for a trip can be a little overwhelming in deciding on which artificial baits and lures to bring.

Which techniques and tactics catch the most bass?

What baits catch the biggest bass?

Here is a quick rundown of some of the sure-fire baits and techniques that have resulted in success on each trip to a Northern Ontario fishing lodge.

Kalonka-Lures-02

Due to the earlier open season opportunities in these areas, it is best to check local regulations before booking your bass adventure and ensure each location you consider has the earlier open season you wish to experience prior to putting down the deposit for your vacation.

Some of our most successful bass fishing road trips to Northern Ontario have taken place in either late spring from mid-May to late June and again in early September to late October when some of the biggest bass of the year are caught with regularity.

Kalonka-Lures-03

Baits of choice would include noisy topwater hard baits like poppers, prop baits, and walking-style baits that provoke bass to strike on just about any lake you wish to fish. Suspended jerk baits and tight wobbling crankbaits find bass fast. Soft-bodied shad baits twitched below the surface are absolutely lethal in northern Ontario. Throw in some tube jigs, three to four-inch soft-bodied minnow baits, and imitation crawfish baits rigged on small jig heads and you have the arsenal to dominate just about anywhere you decide to vacation.

Kalonka-Lures-04

Kalonka-Lures-05

You do not have to bring the entire kitchen sink of bass baits that could weigh you down if flying into a remote location for world-class trophy smallmouth bass. Stocking up instead on the aforementioned baits in some of the colours that give you confidence will catch bass.

Kalonka-Lures-06

Some of our favourite tones include browns, greens, and baitfish tones like perch or silvers.

Keep it simple.

Keep it light.

And, you will be well-armed to catch bass from sunrise to sunset on your Ontario vacation.

About Karl Kalonka

It's possible Karl's love for fishing began as early as the age of five. His parents took the kids on weekend trips across Ontario fishing for panfish, catfish, and bass. "I started with a bobber and worm from the time I was five years old," says Karl. These days, he has the enviable task of doing what he loves for a living, travelling across Ontario fishing, filming and producing two outdoor series, Extreme Angler and Crappie Angler TV.

Recommended Articles

Sandy Beach Cottages on Lake Clear

Pet-friendly cottages and everything you need to have a worry-free holiday!

Fantasy Fishing For Walleye

Catching up to 100 walleye a day at Clark's Resort & Outpost Air Service.

Beyond the Walleye: Cracking the Code on Timiskaming’s Coffee-Coloured Giants

High-tech sonar and pink lures uncover a world-class smallmouth fishery.

Elmhirst's Resort

Outstanding Vacations for the Whole Family

Hawk Lake Lodge

A Father & Son Fishing Trip in Northern Ontario

Adventures on the Nipigon River

Anglers can target Chinook Salmon and Steelhead in this body of water—but most come for the trophy Brook Trout.

Delawana Resort

Bass Fishing on Southern Georgian Bay

Multi-Species Action

With so many lakes in Ontario, it's hard to narrow down the best multi-species lakes. We're here to help!

20 Years With Fish TV!

Fish TV discusses their favourite Ontario catches

Summertime Walleye

Fish for Walleye, Muskie or Smallmouth on the Indian Lake Chain.

Top Flies for Northern Pike

Try These Go-to Flies and Tips on Your Next Trip

Steelhead and Salmon of Northern Ontario

Ontario's north is home to tributaries of Lake Superior and Lake Huron—and many species of salmon and steelhead

Level Up Your Fly Fishing Game

Embrace the art of fly fishing with these 5 easy tips from a seasoned angler.

Pot of Golden Walleye

Fishing at Whitefish Lodge in Ontario's Algoma Country

Terrestrial Flies for Brook Trout

These fish feed like crazy and look for opportunities for a big protein meal.

Eagle Lake Island Lodge

A Boat-to Ontario Lodge Experience

Birchland Cottages

Fly fish for giant smallmouth bass.

Igniting the Spark

Don't Overlook Carp Fishing in Ontario

Magpie Reservoir

Excellent Drive-to Angling to Hook Big Walleye

Manotak Lodge

A Fishing Paradise in Northwestern Ontario