Flint Wilderness Resort: What to Bring for a True Northern DIY Adventure

Everything You Need for a Seamless Trip to the Northern Backcountry.

Northern Pike fishing in Ontario.

Photo credit: The New Fly Fisher

By Jeff Parks Jeff is a full-time fly fishing guide and has been running Calmwaters Fly Fishing for 8 years. He's passionate about bringing fly anglers to fish in south central Ontario.

March 13, 2026

Flint Wilderness Resort, located near Longlac in Northern Ontario, is a dream destination for anglers who want a true do-it-yourself experience. With easy access to lakes full of aggressive northern pike and remote rivers holding wild brook trout, this area offers a perfect mix of boating, hiking, and backcountry exploration. The lodge provides clean, comfortable cabins and solid boats, but to get the most out of the adventure, you need to arrive prepared.

Here are three essentials every angler should bring to Flint Wilderness Resort:

fly rod — Photo credits: The New Fly Fisher

1. Rods and Flies for Pike and Brook Trout

For northern pike, bring a 9-weight rod and plenty of big, colourful flies with lots of movement. These fish destroy flies, so bring at least three of each pattern. If you find that one “magic fly,” you’ll be glad you brought duplicates because pike will shred them.

For brook trout, pack a 5- or 6-weight rod. You’ll be fishing strong rivers and heavy rapids, so you need enough backbone to control your drift and manage powerful fish in fast water. Bring a generous selection of streamers, nymphs, and dries. Some days they want big, flashy streamers; other days they’re keyed in on tiny nymphs. Bring options.

2. Waders and Comfortable Wading Boots

If you want to experience the incredible backcountry around Flint, good waders and comfortable wading boots are essential. You’ll be scrambling over logs, boulders, and uneven shoreline, so avoid waders that are too tight and restrict movement. Bring boots with solid tread and minimal wear; this is not the place for a pair that’s close to falling apart. A blown-out sole in the northern bush is the kind of problem you don’t want to be dealing with.

3. Bug Repellent

Spring and early summer in Northern Ontario mean black flies and mosquitoes. Don’t head out without bug spray or repellent wipes. We used wipes, and they worked great. With them, the bugs weren’t an issue; without them, the trip would have been a lot less enjoyable. Simple item, huge difference.