Trips, author John Steinbeck noted, can continue "long after movement in time and space have ceased.'' So it is that we yearn to relive the best of our travels. Not only in our imaginations. But on the same highways and byways. Or, as below, on the same waters. Three trips to take again:
Poohbah Lake, Quetico Provincial Park
This giant lake is hard to get to and a heartbreaker to leave. Walleyes patrol its shallower areas, while lake trout are plentiful in the deeper water. Island camp sites feature statuesque red and white pines, perfect for a lone tent, or two or three. The challenge is reaching this gem through Poohbah Creek or, alternatively, over long portages from other directions.
International Falls to Crane Lake via boat
A leisurely five-day motorboat journey here, with walleyes — and northern pike and smallmouth bass — at nearly every stop. Bring a tent or check in to a different resort every night. Begin in Rainy Lake, jigging a leech or other bait atop reefs and along drop-offs. Angle though Brule Narrows to the Kettle Falls hotel at the juncture of Rainy and Namakan lakes. From there, point your bow eastward, then south through Sand Point lake to Crane Lake.
BWCA winter fishing by dog sled
Make this a day outing or an overnight or multi-night adventure. Outfitting is available out of Ely or along the Gunflint Trail. Lake trout fished deep are the primary quarry, though quests for giant northern pike also are available. Anglers can take charge of their own canine teams or bump along on snowy trails as passengers. Either way, upon reaching the desired frozen lake, a shoreline campfire is made and the wait begins for tip-up flags to "tip up," signaling fish on.
(This is part of the Big List here)
DENNIS ANDERSON
