Witch Bay is located on a secluded bay on the giant one-million-acre Lake of the Woods. The seven-mile drive off the highway winds through beautiful Ontario terrain with its closest neighbour 12 miles away, a rarity for a drive-to lodge in this part of Ontario. Owners Steve and Gail Hockett will make you feel right at home, like they have been for over two decades. Steve actually started working here when he was just 21 years old. Their daughter, Caitlin, also works at the camp. And their son, Mike, has worked there as well. We had the pleasure of spending some time on the water fishing with both Steve and Mike. Mike has some pretty awesome stories during his many seasons of muskie guiding. There is a lot of history in the area besides the fishing, including the nearby Wendigo Gold Mine, which ran from 1899 to 1943.
For accommodations, they offer both modern and rustic cabins. We stayed in a spacious new log cabin. And the added touch of having coffee delivered to your cabin each morning made it even better.
Walleye is the main target here, along with the GIANT TROPHY MUSKIE. We're talking 50-inch-plus fish-of-a-lifetime! Looking through their annual brochure, it is filled with huge muskie from the previous year. It's not uncommon when walleye fishing to get into some jumbo perch, too. Did I mention all the smallmouth that populate the countless shallow rock piles and weed beds?!
The boat fleet is armed with 17 to 18-foot Lund and Crestliners, fully outfitted with electronics, trolling motors, live wells, life jackets, and landing nets. The dock staff tops off the boats with fuel each evening and plugs them in to ensure a full charge for the electronics and trolling motor.
Make sure your stay includes a Wednesday! Every Wednesday is the camp's shore lunch, and every Thursday is steak night. Fortunately, we were there to get a taste of both. All lodging packages include all-you-can-eat meals, three a day. Bring an appetite!
Something very unique they offer is the "Witch Bay Fishing Program", included at NO ADDITIONAL CHARGE with your stay! This is a great way to get the lay of the land and hit the ground, err water, running when you venture out on your own. Their seasoned, knowledgeable guide staff will show you the how-tos to maximize your time there. This includes going over a map in detail to mark fishing areas, different fishing presentations, and answering any questions you may have.
Nearly 85% of the people who stay at Witch Bay Camp return again, according to Steve. It is a very good bet you will be able to add me to that list. Roughly an eight-hour drive from Minneapolis, and depending on traffic, a one-day drive from Milwaukee or Chicago is possible. A drive-to destination, not far across the border from Minnesota, for great food, great lodging, and incredible fishing! The extended season is available for Housekeeping rates in October and then in November for whitetail deer hunts.
For more information, visit www.witchbay.com
