Red Lake Fall Classic

Red Lake Fall Classic on Red Lake in Ontario - Courtesy of RLFC

The catch & release walleye tournament is held In Red Lake on September 3rd and 4th, 2011. The Red Lake Fall Classic is held each Labour Day with the top anglers taking home cash, merchandise and some bragging rights. Last year's winners of the Red Lake Fall Classic were Joe Barron and Lonnie Lundmark. With a day one total of 14.22 lbs and 13.70 lbs on day two, the 27.92 lb total was enough for first place. The big fish of the walleye tournament came on day two and was a nice 7.82 lb walleye caught by Wayne Cerven and Stan Cerven.

2011 Red Lake Fall Classic prizes, based on 140 teams, are as follows:

• First $11,000
• Second $5,000 & 2 Humminbird Trolling Locators
• Third $3,000 & 2 MinnKota Trolling Motors
• Fourth $2,300
• Fifth $1,700
• Sixth $1,300
• Seventh $1,200
• Eighth $1,100
• Ninth $1,000
• Tenth $900
• 11th - 15th $300
• 16th - 20th $200
• 21st - 25th $100 & 21st - 24th get a tackle box

There are also prizes for Mystery Weights, Big Fish each day, Mixed Team & Ladies Team Big Bag each day,  Low Weight with Ten Fish, Team Finishing in 51st Position - Randy Brownlee Memorial Award, Big Fish Over All, Big Bag each day and Overall Big Bag, Big Charge to the Top 25 placings, Big Charge Award, and Top Team with Lund Boat.

Here's a short clip of anglers waiting to weigh in at the 2010 Red Lake Fall Classic. Courtesy of L.A. Varga. If you like to watch the boats take off or come in, the anglers leave in 3 flights between 7:00 and 7:30 am. Saturday they come back between 4:00 and 4:30 and Sunday anglers arrive to weigh in between 3:00 and 3:30pm.

There is a Junior Championship on Saturday September 3rd from noon-2pm at the Government Dock. All participants win prizes. Last year Isabeau Laverdure won first prize with a 0.72 lb Rock Bass. The Kids Tournament is open to children under 12.

Check back next week to see updates on who won the 2011 Red Lake Fall Classic Catch & Release Walleye Tournament. Visit Sunset Country's website to see a listing of other fishing tournaments in Northwestern Ontario.

UPDATE:

Red Lake Fall Classic Day 1 Results as per the Red Lake Fall Classic website:

Top five anglers

1. Dave Cryderman & Dan Daciw - 17.53 lbs
2. Dennis Wintle & Kevin Szachury - 17.06 lbs
3. Dominic Dodic & Andy Willis - 15.35 lbs
4. Doug Skomoroh & Keith Rutter - 15.19 lbs
5. Kevan Bassingthwaite & Harry Spence - 14.83 lbs

UPDATE #2, September 4th:

Unofficial results of the 2011 Red Lake Fall Classic are:

1. Dennis Wintle & Kevin Szachury  D1-17.06, D2-14.89, Total: 31.95
2. Dave Cryderman & Dan Daciw  D1-17.53, D2-13.34, Total: 30.87
3. Patrick MacMillan & Catherine Farley  D1-14.54, D2-13.99, Total: 28.53
4. Kevan Bassingthwaite & Harry Spence  D1-14.83, D2-13.27, Total: 28.10
5. JP Kennedy & David Koss  D1-13.92, D2-13.53, Total: 27.45
6. Dean McDonald & Scott Gardiner  D1-14.45, D2-12.58, Total: 27.03
7. Dominic Dodic & Andy Willis  D1-15.35, D2-11.54, Total: 26.89
8. Doug Skomoroh & Keith Rutter  D1-15.19, D2-11.62, Total: 26.81
9. Jerry Woods & Jake Teichroeb  D1-13.79, D2-12.69, Total: 26.48
10. Jason Leblanc & Tim Szaflik  D1-14.58, D2-11.80, Total: 26.38 

Big Fish Day one: Dave Cryderman & Dan Daciw with a 8.72 lb walleye.
Big Fish Day two: Warren Kujansuu & Ron Kujansuu with a 6.19 lb walleye.
Junior Championship: Garrette Peloquin won the Kid's Tournament with a 1.46 lb Northern Pike.

For a complete list of winners, please visit the Red Lake Fall Classic website.

4 of the Best Hunting Opportunities in Sunset Country

Sunset Country consists mostly the boreal forest and thousands of freshwater lakes. The cities and urban areas are sporadically placed within the forests. Northwest Ontario is ideal for hunting; the area is large and the animals are abundant. Four of the best hunting opportunities include Black Bear, Moose, Deer, and Birds (Waterfowl, ducks, grouse etc).

Ontario Black Bear Hunting:
Ontario has to be one of the most accessible areas in Canada for quality black bear hunting. Our forests and lakes make it a perfect habitat and a plentiful food supply for these industrious animals. As a result, Ontario has one of the largest black bear populations in North America. Since it is hard to accurately count bear populations, estimates as to their numbers vary widely. In the southern part of Sunset Country, around Rainy River, Fort Frances and Atikokan, there are about 40-60 bears/100 sq. kms. Around Kenora, Dryden, Ignace, Red Lake and Sioux Lookout, there are approximately 20-40 bears/100 sq. kms.

The opening of hunting season for black bears in Ontario is in the late summer and fall. Season opens on the 15th of August for most Wilderness Management Units and September 1st or 7th in others. Consult the MNR Hunting Regulations Summary for open season dates for the area you plan to hunt. Opening day may be different for residents and non-residents. Non-residents of Canada must use the services of a licensed tourist outfitter with two exceptions. Non-residents are not required to use the services of a tourist outfitter if they own property in the WMU they are hunting and if that WMU has an open black bear season for non-residents or, if they are hunting with an immediate relative who is licensed to hunt black bears in a WMU with an open season for non-residents.

In Sunset Country, the bear hunting is excellent and our Travel Association has many tourist outfitters who have rights to Bear Management Areas (BMA) and who can offer guided or un-guided hunts. Bow and rifle hunts are the most common and non-residents obtain their licenses and access through the tourist outfitter. There are a wide variety of accommodation choices from fully-guided American Plan hunts to un-guided hunts where you rent a housekeeping cabin. You can also fly in to a remote outpost cabin and hunt in BMAs that have no road access into them. Whatever package you choose, your chances for a successful hunt are very good. For more information on fall bear hunting packages visit our special website dedicated to Ontario Bear Hunting.

Ontario Moose Hunting - You won't be disappointed!

Ontario Moose Hunting:
Northwest Ontario's Sunset Country has more moose than any other region in Ontario. Moose are the ultimate in big game with many bulls sporting 50 plus inch racks. Fully-guided moose hunts are available from our member outfitters. Bow hunts as well as traditional rifle hunts are available or, for something uniquely different, try an old-fashioned black powder hunt. Non-resident moose hunts are available based on tags allocated to our individual outfitters - a system that ensures stable and healthy moose populations while affording hunters the opportunity to bag a trophy bull. Cow and calf tags are also available.

There are few settings as wild or as beautiful as Northwestern Ontario to come moose hunting. Endless tracts of boreal forests, rock ridges and wide open meadows make up the topography of this 60,000 square mile area of Ontario. As you hunt, you'll find the setting to be to your liking and in itself a big part of the experience. Your accommodation choices are many and varied. Full American Plan lodges where meals are part of the package are available or for the more independent hunter, a housekeeping package where you do your own cooking is the best choice. Many hunting lodges are accessed by car or boat or you can try a fly in moose hunting trip in remote parts of Sunset Country. Our member outfitters offer both guided and unguided hunts. For more information on moose hunting in Northwest Ontario, visit our website dedicated to Ontario moose hunting.

There are numerous Whitetail Deer in Sunset Country

Ontario Deer Hunting:
Large populations of whitetail deer can be found in the southern end of Sunset Country. They are mostly found around and below the Trans-Canada Highway which runs across Sunset Country. This is the part of Ontario where the famous "Dryden Buck" was shot at the end of 2003. The illegally shot deer was an Ontario record with a score of 223 gr 199 7/8 net green score. The deer in Ontario are large-bodied and can be found in great numbers. Hunters can access the services of a deer hunting guide if they wish or venture out on their own (some areas must use a guide if you are a non-resident). The biggest bucks are generally deeper in the bush so if you are thinking of going after the real trophy animals you should be prepared for it. There is also an excellent population of does.

Deer hunters enjoy a high success rate with full support services from our hunting outfitters. You can stay at a full-service hunting lodge or rent a housekeeping cabin for your Canadian deer hunt. For more information on deer hunting in Northwest Ontario visit our website dedicated in Ontario Whitetail Deer Hunts.

Duck decoys on Rainy Lake

Ontario Duck, Bird and Waterfowl Hunting:
The sheer numbers of ducks, Canadian geese, other waterfowl and game birds in the Sunset Country region of Ontario, Canada make it a bird hunter's paradise. Located directly north of the State of Minnesota and with its thousands of lakes and water systems, Sunset Country is along a major migration flyway for several species of waterfowl. Extensive beds of wild rice on the many lakes provide important forage for hungry, migrating birds and the ideal setting for a fall waterfowl hunt. Bring your hunting dog, hunt remote areas accessible only by hovercraft and enjoy the natural beauty of the backcountry areas of Northwest Ontario. In addition to several species of ducks, there is also excellent hunting opportunities for Canada Geese and game birds such as Ruffed and Spruce Grouse.

The options for a great hunt are virtually endless! You may want to even combine your hunt with a fall fishing trip. For more information on duck hunting in Ontario visit our website dedicated to Ontario Duck Hunting Trips.

You can download the Ontario Hunting Regulations Summary off the MNR website. It's nicely broken up into species so it's easy to find what you are looking for. They also have a link to a Map of the Wildlife Management Unit Boundaries in Ontario. If you want additional information on hunting, the Sunset Country Travel Association also produces a 84 page Travel Guide that includes a poster-sized map of the area. Click here to order your FREE copy or call us toll free at 1-800-665-7567.

Visit our newest hunting website - huntsunsetcountry.com where you can link to hunting outfitters and suppliers, get information and tips and strategies on hunting in Sunset Country and more. You can even show off and upload photos of your prize.  We love seeing photos.

What do Mike Richards and Chris Pronger have in common?

Chris Pronger Playing for Team Canada at the 2010 Winter Olympics - Courtesy of www.VancityAllie.com

They both come from Northwestern Ontario! With a small population to choose from, Sunset Country has a surprisingly high number of great athletes. Not surprisingly though is the fact that we produce great hockey players up here in the Northwest. Many children learn to skate almost before they can walk. Two of the best are Chris Pronger and Mike Richards. These two hockey greats even had the chance to play together on Team Canada and bring home Olympic Gold at the 2010 Olympic Games in Vancouver. Duncan Keith who grew up in Fort Frances also played alongside the pair ensuring Northwestern Ontario was well represented at the Olympics. Sunset Country even can boast having won the Stanley Cup. The Kenora Thistles won the Stanley Cup in 1907. Read on for more hockey great hailing from Sunset Country.

Chris Pronger hails from Dryden, Ontario. Chris began his NHL career with the Hartford Whalers (now Carolina Hurricanes). He was Hartford's first pick and #2 overall in the 1993 Entry Draft. In 1995 he was traded to the St. Louis Blues for Brendan Shanahan. Chris won the Hart Trophy and the Norris Trophy for the 1999/00 season, the first defenseman to do so since Bobby Orr in 1972. Chris has helped Team Canada to win Olympic Gold twice, once in 2002 and also in 2010. Pronger played for the Blues until the 2004/05 NHL lockout. He was then traded to the Edmonton Oilers for defencemen Eric Brewer, Jeff Woywitka and Doug Lynch. In 2006, Chris became the first player in NHL history to score a penalty shot goal in a Stanley Cup Final game. In 2006, Chris was traded to the Anaheim Ducks and played an important role for the Ducks as they won the Stanley Cup that year. At the end of the 2008/09 season, Pronger was traded to the Philadelphia Flyers and consequently played alongside fellow Northwest Ontarian, Mike Richards. Chris Pronger is a member of the prestigious Triple Gold Club - hockey players and coaches who have won an Olympic Games gold medal, a World Championship gold medal, and the Stanley Cup.

Mike Richards was raised in Kenora, Ontario. The Kitchener Rangers picked Mike in the 2001 OHL Priority Selection. Richards began his OHL career in 2001/02 and helped win the Memorial Cup in 2003. He led the team in scoring during the regular season with 87 points. Richards was drafted by the Philadelphia Flyers Round 1 #24 overall in the 2003 NHL Entry Level draft. Mike scored his first career NHL hat trick, which included two shorthanded goals, against the New York Islanders in 2006. In 2008, Richards was named the 17th Flyers Captain. He played for the Flyers in the NHL from 2004-2011. Philadelphia traded Mike Richards (the Flyers Captain) and Rob Bordson to the LA Kings for Brayden Schenn, Wayne Simmonds and a second-round draft pick in 2012. Mike played in the 2010 Winter Olympics and helped bring home the Gold for Canada.

Mike Richards playing for the Philadelphia Flyers - Photo taken by Rhys Asplundh

Duncan Keith moved to Fort Frances, Ontario when he was just two. His father was transferred to British Columbia where Duncan earned a spot on the Penticton Panthers. Keith played parts of two seasons with the Michigan State Spartans before joining the Kelowna Rockets in the early parts of 2002/03 season. His last stop before playing for the NHL was playing for Norfolk of the AHL. Duncan Keith started with the Chicago Blackhawks during the 2005/06 season. Keith won gold in the 2010 Olympics and then returned to the NHL  to go on to win the Stanley Cup during the 2010/11 season. He was playing against Flyers Mike Richards from Kenora in the finals who was also hoping to win a Gold medal and the Stanley Cup in one year.

Sean Pronger first played with Kenora's Boise Cascade AAA Midgets and the Thunder Bay Flyers. He played next for Bowling Green State University in 1990 and was then picked up by the Vancouver Canucks in the 3rd round of the 1991 Entry Draft, going 51st overall. Signed as a free agent by the Anaheim Mighty Ducks, he joined their AHL farm team, the Baltimore Bandits. A standout player, he was called up to the Ducks for seven games during the 1995/96 season. He moved into the NHL for 39 games in 1996/97 and remained with the Ducks for most of the 1997/98 season. He also played for the Los Angeles Kings, New York Rangers, Boston Bruins and Columbus Blue Jackets. He ended his hockey career after the 2004/05 season with over 700 professional games to his credit, including 260 regular season and 14 playoff games in the NHL.

Cameron Mann was raised in Balmertown Ontario. Mann first gained attention as a top player for Kenora Thistles in 1992/93. Next he played for the Peterborough Petes of the OHL and was selected 99th overall by the Boston Bruins in 1995. He returned to the juniors and helped the Petes reach the Memorial Cup final in 1996. Mann was named to the tournament all-star team, voted the MVP of the Memorial Cup, and placed on the OHL first all-star team in 1996 and 1997. Mann appeared in 94 NHL games with the Boston Bruins and the Nashville Predators. Since the 2003/04 season Cameron has played professional hockey in Europe.

Mike Allison playing for the Toronto Maple Leafs - Courtesy of the Northwestern Ontario Hall of Fame

Fort Frances' Mike Allison was the number one OHL draft pick for Sudbury in 1978. The fan favourite was selected 35th overall in the 1980 NHL Amateur Draft by the New York Rangers. In his first ever NHL appearance, Mike made a goal with his first shot on net just 46 seconds into his first shift playing in Boston against the Bruins. His second NHL game was even more spectacular as he made a hat-trick against Toronto at the Maple Leaf Gardens. That first season with New York Mike broke a Rangers' record for most points by a rookie with 26 goals and 38 assists in 75 games. Mike was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1986, then was traded to Los Angeles during the 1987/88 season. He played for the LA Kings for three seasons before retiring with a 10 season NHL record that included 102 goals and 166 assists in 499 regular season games. 

Mark Vermette played youth hockey in Cochenour, Ontario until age 15, then playing for the Notre Dame Hounds. Mark's hockey career took off while playing for Lake Superior State University in his third year when he scored a circuit-leading 45 goals in just 46 games.
Mark went on to play seven years of professional hockey including 67 NHL games with the Quebec Nordiques.

Rick St. Croix started his hockey career by being one of the top goalies in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League playing with the Kenora Muskies for three seasons. Next, Rick played in the OHA for the Oshawa Generals. The Philadelphia Flyers picked Rick as their third choice in the fourth round of the 1975 Amateur Draft, going 72nd overall. After signing with the Flyers in 1977, Rick played for the club's AHL Affiliate, the Maine Mariners. During the 1979/80 season, Rick was named to the AHL First All-Star team was the co-winner of the Harry (Hap) Holmes Memorial Trophy for outstanding goal tending in the AHL. Playing for the Flyers in 1980/81, Rick appeared in 27 games posting a 2.49 goals against average. He also recorded his first NHL playoff shutout against Calgary. In 1983 Rick was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs where he played until he retired from professional hockey in 1985.

Wayne Muloin was the first hockey player from Dryden to play in the NHL. After developing his skills in the minor leagues in Dryden, Wayne joined the Edmonton Oil Kings Junior A Hockey Club in 1959. He was made Captain in his third and final season with the Oil Kings. Wayne enjoyed a successful professional hockey career that saw him play for the Edmonton Flyers, Cincinnati Wings, St. Paul Rangers of the Central Professional Hockey League, Vancouver Canucks of the Western Hockey League, and the Providence Rhode Island Reds American Hockey League Club. He joined the NHL full-time in 1969, at the age of 29, with the Oakland Seals. He was was traded in March of 1971 to the Minnesota North Stars. From Minnesota, Wayne went on to the Cleveland Barons of the AHL, then to the Cleveland Crusaders of the newly formed World Hockey Association. After a season with Edmonton he returned to Rhode Island in the AHL retiring with them in 1977 rounding out close to two decades of a professional hockey career. 

Wayne Muloin Playing for the Oil Kings - Courtesy of the Hockey Hall of Fame

Keith 'Huffer' Christiansen played Junior Hockey with the Fort Frances Royals and then continued on to play at the University of Minnesota in Duluth. He was named the Bulldogs Rookie of the Year in 1963/64 and went on to become the team's lead scorer in all of his 4 seasons. The 1966/67 season was stellar; he was a WCHA first team all-star, scoring champion, league MVP, NCAA All-American and named UMD's Outstanding Senior Athlete. He was a member of the US National Hockey Team from 1969-71. In 1972 he was named co-captain of the US Olympic Hockey Team and helped his newly adopted country win silver at the Olympics that year.

Gary Bergman, born in Kenora in 1938, played intermediate hockey with the Kenora Thistles and then played for the Memorial Cup champion Winnipeg Braves. From 1960-64 he played with Buffalo, Cleveland and Springfield of the AHL, then moved to the NHL's Detroit Red Wings in 1964/65. Bergman was a defenceman with the Red Wings for 10 seasons and was voted their most valuable defenceman from 1971-1974. He was traded to the Minnesota North Stars for the 1974/75 season, but returned to the Wings later that season. In 1975/76 he jumped to the Kansas City Stars of the World Hockey League where he played out the rest of his hockey career. He is also remembered for being selected as a member of Team Canada for the epic 1972 Canada-Russia series.

Ed 'Sonny' Kryzanowski was the first hockey player from Fort Frances, Ontario to make it to the NHL. After a season with the Fort Frances Canadians senior team, Ed played defense for the Varsity Blues at the University of Toronto from 1945-48. Ed joined the Boston Bruins in 1948. He was a versatile hockey player and played every position but goalie while service in the Royal Canadian Navy, Ed played defense for the Varsity Blues at the University of Toronto from 1945-48. Ed was such a great hockey player that he joined the Boston Bruins in 1948. He was a versatile hockey player and many every position but goalie while he played for the Bruins. He was acquired by the Chicago Blackhawks in 1952 and then afterward played in the AHL with the Providence Reds and the Hersey Bears.

Johnny Gallager played defense for the Kenora Thistle Juniors from 1925-29. Next Johnny played for Montreal AAA and in 1929/30 claimed the illustrious Allan Cup. The Montreal Maroons, having sponsored his senior team, felt that they had first claim on him. Johnny, however, had entered into negotiations with the Toronto Maple Leafs and it cost the Maroons $12,500 to get him on board for the 1930/31 season. This was the beginning of his 7 year NHL career. After a serious injury, Johnny played in the IHL during the 1934/35 season. Moving back into the NHL for the 1936/37 season Johnny's dream became a reality, winning the Stanley Cup with the Detroit Red Wings. Not bad for a guy who started out as a mascot. He played his final two years in the NHL with the New York Americans, retiring in 1939 with a NHL record of 205 games played, 14 goals and 19 assists.

Charles 'Rabbit' McVeigh played with the Kenora Thistles Senior team in 1918/19 before making his way west to play for the Winnipeg Victorias, Moose Jaw Maple Leafs and the Regina Capitals. Charley joined the Pacific Coast Hockey League in 1924 playing for Portland Rosebuds in Oregon. When the PCHL disbanded, the Rosebuds became the Chicago Black Hawks. In 1926 the Black Hawks were admitted into the NHL and Charlie played for them until 1928 when he was traded to the New York Americans. Charlie's nine seasons with the NHL included 84 goals and 88 assists in 397 games. 

1907 Stanley Cup Champions

The Kenora Thistles Win the Stanley Cup in 1907

In January of 1907 the Kenora Thistles challenged the Montreal Wanderers  for the Stanley Cup. The Thistles traveled to Montreal and won both games to claim the Stanley Cup. Kenora was the smallest town to ever win the Stanley Cup and boy, were the townspeople ecstatic. People across Canada were awed by the performance of the small-town boys. Visit  the Lake of the Woods Museum website to read some of the Newspaper excerpts after Kenora won. Some of the local men on the Thistles winning team were Silas "Si" Griffis,
W.G. 'Billy' McGimsie, Tom Cooper, and Tommy Phillips.

Blue Rodeo to Christen 'HarbourDome'

Blue Rodeo will be first concert at Kenora's HarbourDome.

Blue Rodeo is playing for the opening of Kenora's new Harbourfront tent. The yellow and black tent that has been a staple on the Harbourfront for many years is no more. Last Monday a strong gust of wind lifted the tent and down it came. As I walked by a day or two later it was a sad sight to see the tent laying in a crumpled heap. The end of an era I guess.

Luckily for Kenora residents and visitors, contractors have been hard at work last year and this summer building  the new 'HarbourDome'. The new permanent, year round tent will be bigger and better. The tent is one part of the massive renovation down at the Kenora Harbourfront. I for one can't wait to see it completed. This is the second phase of the downtown revitalization. The first phase was done a few years ago with Main Street being gutted and the roundabout being built.

Blue Rodeo is set to christen the tent performing live on September 16th. Tourism Kenora is selling tickets online and you can either get them mailed to you or you can pick them up at the new Discovery Centre on Lakeview Drive. Tickets are either $50, $70 or $90 plus a $4 service fee and tax.

Kenora, often promoted as the 'Events' city has just announced that the Stampeders are booked to play two weeks later on October 2nd. The Juno Award-winning classic rock group is best known for it's 'Sweet City Woman' hit. Tickets are $45 and can be bought at www.mygolive.com It looks like the new tent with a capacity of 2000 people will be bringing bigger names in the future. Personally, I am hoping for the Tragically Hip one day. The Stampeders are also set to play in Fort Frances and Dryden. On September 30th you'll find them belting out tunes at the Townsend Theatre in Fort Frances and then at the Dryden Cultural Centre on October 1st.

For other events in Sunset Country visit our Events Calendar on our Facebook page.

Where Does One Find Stock Car Racing and a Horse Show?

Stock Car Races at the Emo Speedway - Courtesy of the R. R. Valley Agricultural Society

At the Rainy River Valley Agricultural Fall Fair! Catch the action in Emo, Ontario August 18-20, 2011

The Rainy River Valley Agricultural Fall Fair takes place at the Fairgrounds in Emo. There is so much to do at the fair this year. The popular Stock Car Races run on Friday and Saturday nights. Hotlaps start at 6pm and racing starts at 6:30pm. Racing is held at the Emo Speedway. The Borderland Racing Association holds a Pancake Breakfast August 19 from 7-10am where the members serve up a great breakfast of pancakes, and sausages with coffee or juice.

The Horse Show at the Rainy River Valley is one of the few horse shows in the area. So if you are a horse lover, be sure to make your way down to watch. There are a variety of classes and events including miniature, draft and light horses. On Friday the Horse Show starts at 9am and Saturday it begins at 8am sharp. Look for the horses in the northwest corner of the Fairgrounds.

Rainy River Valley Fall Fair Horse Show - Courtesy of the RRVAS

As for the exhibitions, anyone can be an exhibitor. Just become a member of the Rainy River Valley Agricultural Society and then you can enter lots of your great handiwork, garden produce, chickens, goats, rabbits, homemade delicacies and much more. Download the Fair Book to see what you can exhibit. There's a whole lot more to do than enter or view exhibits. See the 4-H displays of completed projects in the 4-H Exhibition Hall. Enjoy a beef burger, homemade French fries or locally grown corn on the cob at the 4-H Food Booth. Take a walk to the barns to visit the animals and pets that the 4-H members have raised as 4-H projects this year. The motto of the 4-H Club is “Learn to do by doing".

The Beef Show has been a tradition since the very beginning of the Fall Fair.  It's great competition and a good time. Often there are exhibitors not only from Rainy River Valley, but Dryden, Thunder Bay and Manitoba as well. There are classes for all age of cattle, male and female including a Jackpot Heifer Class and Open Showmanship  (if you are walking through the barn and decide you would like to try showing you just need to ask to borrow a animal and you can compete in this class), Breeders Herd, Andy Carpenter Memorial Herdsman Award, and a special class for kids that are too young for 4-H.  Ever see a cow have a bath and a haircut? Take a few minutes and visit the barn to see this spectacle.

Midway Rides for the Young and Young at Heart

Select Shows brings their midway to Emo from Thursday to Saturday. Thursday the midway runs from 2pm-midnight. Friday and Saturday the rides are open from noon to midnight. There are rides for both young and old. Younger children will enjoy the smaller rides while the older children and adults can feel the exhilaration of a larger, scarier ride. I find if you are stressed, a fast-paced scary ride where you yell at the top of your lungs always helps. Everyone will enjoy some of the treats like a candy apple or cotton candy.

The RRVAS Parade held on Saturday at 12:00pm sharp. The Parade route begins in front of the Emo Hospital then follows Front Street, turns onto Queen Street, then crosses Highway 11/71 and ends at the grandstand. This year's parade theme is anything Disney.

The Loggers Competition is sure to impress. All events are in front of the grandstand. Competitions include speed power saw, 2 man cross-cut, chair carve, pole felling, buck saw, axe thros, pulpwood toss, axe chop, tea boil and Jack & Jill events.

What would a Fall Fair be without a Queen? You can meet the Queen candidates at a supper and fashion show on Monday August 15th starting at 6pm. This year's contestants are Chelsey Mosley, Kaylee Heyens, Sarah Glover, Hailey Trimble and Liz Steele.  The crowning of the RRVAS Fall Fair Queen takes place on Thursday.

Mini King & Queen Contest - Courtesy of the R. R. Valley Agricultural Society

Each year the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 99, Emo, sponsors a Mini-Queen and Mini-King pageant. Several boys and girls compete in the Mini-Queen and Mini-King pageants ages 3-6 years of age. The pageant takes place Thursday at 7:30pm in the arena during the Queen Contest.

The Song Star Showcase is an amazing lineup of 12 local singers from the Rainy River District. They will be preforming on the small stage from 2-5pm Friday and Saturday. Come out and enjoy what the local singers have to offer. Saturday night Centreline takes the stage performing hits from the 60s, 70s and 80s. The dance will be from 9pm-1am.

Visit the Rainy River Valley Agricultural Fall Fair's website for a complete list and schedule of events and attractions. For more information on Emo, visit the Township of Emo's webpage or go to www.ontariotowns.net/Emo/ for things to do and places to stay in Emo.

"The Funnest Bass Tourney in the Northwest"

Boats waiting to take off in the morning. Courtesy of the ABC.

The Atikokan Bass Classic is held on August 12-13, 2011. Last year's $10,000 first place winners of this fishing tournament were Darwin King and Guy Legarrie. The pair were eighth place after day one and then catapulted into first place with a huge catch of 20.04 pounds on Saturday. Who will come home with the big prize this year?  Payout is 96% of Team Entry with the first place finish netting approximately $10,000. Besides the top 10 teams, prizes will also go to the best Parent & Child, Grandparent & Child, All Women, Male/Female Teams and for the biggest fish. There are four flights each day. The tournament fishing hours on Friday and Saturday are:

• First flight: 7:00am to 3:00pm
• Second flight: 7:15am to 3:15pm
• Third flight: 7:30am to 3:30pm
• Fourth flight 7:45am to 3:45pm

Access into Marmion Lake is at the Anderson Dam Landing. Anglers must fish the Upper and Lower Marmion Reservoirs in accordance with the Official Tournament Map. Entry fee is $500 per team, maximum two (2) people per boat. Competitors are provided a free steak supper the Friday night of the tourney. The Atikokan Legion Branch #145 and Legion Ladies Auxiliary are catering the meal.

Nice bass caught in the Atikokan Bass Classic - Courtesy of ABC.

Besides the fishing tournament, Atikokan goes all out and has a Bass Classic Family Fishing Festival. Some events started on August 6th but there is still a lot going on. Tuesday night there is a camp-out at the Atikokan Public Library from 6:30-8:00pm (registration required, ages 10-12), the Atikokan Bass Classic Dart Tournament at the Legion and a Poker Bike Ride at the Charleson Recreation Area. On Wednesday there is a Pow-wow under the Big Tent, Couples Golf, Game Night at the Atikokan Public Library from 6:30-8:00pm for ages 12 & up and fireworks at dusk at the White Street Ball Park.

Atikokan Bass Classic Boat Parade. - Courtesy of ABC.

Thursday is jammed packed with activities: A Farmer's Market at the Atikokan Foodland Parking lot from 10am-5pm, Artisan Tent at the greenspace beside CIBC, Funtastic Castle Kid's Event, Outdoor Games at the Library, Beer Gardens, the Parade of Boats on Main Street at 6pm and the ANFC Fish Fry under the Big Tent and more. The actual Fishing Tournament is on the Friday and Saturday (August 12-13). Friday also has a Bake-off, Beer Gardens, Movie Day at the Library and Country Singer Chris Janson in the evening. Day 1 weigh-in is at 3pm under the Big Tent. The festival ends Saturday with a day of fishing, Jumper Fun at the corner of Main & White Streets, Beer Gardens and a Street Dance featuring Night Train. Day 2 weigh-in for the Atikokan Bass Classic is at 3pm. For a complete schedule of events and more information on each event visit the Atikokan Bass Classic website.

With so much going on, there's surely something that will peek your interest. For more information on Atikokan or places to stay, visit the Atikokan Economic Development Corporation, the Town of Atikokan, the Atikokan Chamber of Commerce or www.ontariotowns.net/Atikokan

Stay tuned for the 2011 Atikokan Bass Classic Results!


UPDATE: Results of the 2011 Atikokan Bass Classic

Kevin Rissanen of Atikokan and Cory Nephin of Geraldton blew the competition away with a total of 42.62 lbs. Second place went to to Kim and Aaron Wiens of Atikokan with 36.54 lbs.  It was a fairly close race from second place all the way to sixth place. The big fish on day one went to Doug and Greg Sampson with a 5.75 pounder. Day two had a heavier big fish with Ed Gouliquer and Jim Bauler bringing in a nice 6.19 lb bass. The big fish on day one helped Doug and Greg Sampson to catch the biggest bag the first day. Their total was 22.09 lbs which would be the biggest bag of the fishing tournament. The biggest catch of day two went to winners Kevin Rissanen and Cory Nephin with a total of 21.21 lbs. Consistency was key for Rissanen and Nephin as the first day they also had a good day of bass fishing bringing in a total of 21.41 lbs. 

The top 10 anglers at the 2011 Atikokan Bass Classic:

1. Kevin Rissanen, Cory Nephin - 42.62 lbs
2. Aaron and Kim Wiens - 36.54 lbs
3. Joe and Rick Machura - 36.34 lbs
4. Doug and Greg Sampson - 36.2 lbs
5. Leroy and Mike Wilson - 36.08 lbs
6. Shane Manford, Cuffy Kehl - 36.01 lbs
7. Glenn Leroux, Trevor Zimak - 35.64 lbs
8. Dave Williams, Scott Manford - 34.99 lbs
9. Pete Politis, Shawn Anderson - 34.69 lbs
10. Kevin and Curtis Ritchie - 34.06 lbs

2011 Category Prizes:

1. Best Parent & Child under 16 - Jody and Jeremy Shypit
2. Best Grandparent & Grandchild under 16 - Austin and Larry Loew
3. Best All Women Team - Debbie Coulson and Cathy Dayman
4. Best Male/Female Team - Rene and Deb Cadence
5. Hidden Weight Day One - Dave Galusha and Vic Alberts
6. Hidden Weight Day Two - Jody and Jeremy Shypit
7. Young Angler Award - Jeremy Shypit

 For more results visit the Atikokan Bass Classic website.

Bennett and Libitka Win the 2011 KBI

The KBI, which is now actually the Shaw Kenora Bass International, so the SKBI wrapped up with an exciting finish. The two leaders after day two were only 0.01 lbs apart. They were the last two in the parade of boats and the anticipation of who would win was high. Both teams seemed happy with their catch and both said they caught some largemouths. Dave Bennett and Mike Libitka were first to weigh in. They had a total of 17.91 lbs. Jeff Gustafson (Gussy) and Chris Savage were next, would they have enough? The bass were weighed and the crowd watched on. It was not, however, enough to topple Bennett and Libitka from top place which earned them over $22,600.

Anglers on Lake of the Woods Waiting to Get Weighed-In

Day one started out to be a beautiful day. However as the morning progressed ominous clouds began to appear over Lake of the Woods. The rain came and pounded the lake for a few hours. Not to have their spirits dampened by the storm, the anglers pushed on. The afternoon in Kenora cleared up and it turned quite hot. I thought maybe the weather might have really made the fish hard to find but as the anglers started to weigh in I saw they made out just fine. Many familiar names were found in the top 10 on day one. Alex Keszler and Wayne Wagner were first after the first day of bass fishing on Lake of the Woods. Gustafson and Savage who have won top place in the KBI twice before were in fourth place. Brian McNanney and Matt Rydberg of Sioux Narrows who won the KBI in 2009 were in second place with 18.76 lbs. A total of 1551.43 lbs of smallmouth and largemouth bass were caught on the first day the Shaw Kenora Bass International. The biggest bass of the day a 5.05 pounder was caught by Behn Carlson and Jon Pearson both of Kenora. Alex Keszler (Winnipeg, MB) and Wayne Wagner (St. Andrews, MB) had the biggest catch of the day with 18.79 lbs.

As it does in most fishing tournaments, the leader list changed after day one. Gustafson and Savage had a second solid day with 16.42 lbs, enough for them to take the lead. They took the lead by only 0.01lbs though! What a close tournament so far. Friday was a hot day in Sunset Country and the total amount of fish caught was slightly down with only 631 compared to 657 the day before. The biggest bass of the tournament was caught on day two though. Joe Pritchett of Kenora and Hiram Archibald of Sioux Narrows landed a 6.02 lb largemouth bass to have the honour of biggest fish for day two and the biggest fish to come out of the tournament. The catch also pushed them into having the biggest catch of day two - 18.33 lbs.

Catch of the day!

Day three of the Kenora Bass International started out cooler than the other days and was cloudy and probably very comfortable on the water. There was chatter about town today. Who was going to win today? I know there were many friends and family hoping for their favourite to win. The crowd was larger today down at the Harbourfront and the tent was jam packed as the anglers were having their bass weighed. Jess Swenson and Mike Reid had a great day with a catch of 18.68 lbs and a three day total of 47.83 lbs. They were in the hot seat, the ones to beat, as the boats paraded into the tent. Boat after boat weighed in and they were still at the top. It all came to an end though as the last two boats pulled through the tent. The Bennett and Libitka team took the top seat after weighing in at 17.91 for day three. Gustafson and Savage came up short with a total of 17.76 lbs. The lost by 14/100 of a pound. That must sting, but not as much as in 2009 when they lost to McNanney & Rydberg by only 0.02 lbs. They are all good sports though and seem to wish the best for each other. Bennett and Libitka's three day bass total was 50.67 lbs. Bennett and Libitka had the biggest bass of the day, a largemouth weighing in at 5.44 lbs. Jay Samsal of Kenora and Troy Norman of Fort Frances had the biggest catch of the day (and of the tournament) with 18.92 lbs.

There's a friendly competition between Team Canada and Team USA each year. This year, Team Canada took top honours with 210.41 lbs. The Team USA had 206.86 lbs. Better luck next year guys.

All Bass Are Carefully Released Back into Lake of the Woods

During each day of the tournament 83 children participated in the KBI Kids Fishing Tournament. Day one's fishing was cut short by the storm, but the following two days had great weather. There were lots of prizes for everyone. It really is a great time for the children - the future of SBKI was right there on the docks on Lake of the Woods. I am sorry I don't know the name yet of the boy who won, but he has taken top honours 3 times at the Kids KBI. Look out Gussy!

One last thing to note is a big THANK YOU to all the volunteers. It is a huge effort to put a tournament on of this size. Great job Directors and volunteers. The Top 10 Boat Parade was televised live today on Shaw.  You can see it again on Shaw Sunday evening in case you missed it.

Visit the KBI website for a complete listing of the overall standings and tournament results. If you are interested in other fishing tournaments in Sunset Country, visit our fishing tournaments in Northwest Ontario page.

Ontario Provincial Parks in Sunset Country

Ontario Provincial Parks in Northwestern Ontario

Aaron Provincial Park
Aaron Provincial Park is located on the Trans-Canada Highway east of Dryden. Whether you are just passing by or staying for a while, the park offers camping convenience and active outdoor adventure. Hike through the white cedar and aspen forest, splash in the waves of Thunder Lake or picnic on the grass. Thunder Lake is a distinctive reminder of the ancient glaciers that covered Ontario thousands of years ago. Be on the lookout for an impressive number of nesting birds. In late afternoon or early evening, the haunting call of the loon provides background music for tall tales around the campfire.

Enjoy the summer pleasures of swimming and boating in the warm waters of Thunder Lake, hiking the tree-lined trails and picnicking by the shore with friends and family. Take the children to the beach near the picnic grounds where the clean, shallow water is perfect for the whole family. Launch your boat at the ramp in the north end of the park to or cast a line for lake trout, walleye, northern pike and smallmouth bass. Pick up self-guiding trail brochures at the park office for background information on the sights and sounds of nature.

There are 98 campsites. Electrical hookups are available at 39 of them and all sites are suitable for tents or trailers. Choose a private, wooded site or spread out in a spacious, open area. Picnic tables and fireplaces are provided at each site and a central comfort station with toilets, showers and laundry facilities makes you feel at home. For more information on Aaron Provincial Park call the park office direct at 807-938-6534 (May to October) or 807-223-7535 (November to April).

Blue Lake Provincial Park
Blue Lakes's crystal clear water and sandy beaches offer a wide range of choices for a fun-filled vacation. Special geological conditions have combined to give Blue Lake some special features: water so clear you can see the bottom of the lake at a depth of six metres (20 feet) and an abundance of fine sand on a beautiful beach. Stop by the Visitor Centre located in an old log cabin near the campground to view displays of plant, rock and animal specimens. Sign up for other interpretive programs including environmental games and conducted hikes, provided by park naturalists. Launch your boat from the ramp in the park, or rent a canoe from the nearby store. Cruise through Blue Lake's numerous connecting waterways while fishing for walleye, lake trout, northern pike, muskie or bass.

Camp at one of 196 tent and trailer sites - 104  of them have electricity. The beach, firewood, a shower building and comfort station are all nearby. Each site has a parking space and a picnic table as well as an individual fireplace for barbecueing your day's catch. Blue Lake Provincial Park is located on Highway 647 nine km (5 mi) north of the Trans-Canada Highway and Vermilion Bay and 48 km northwest of Dryden. For more information call the park office direct at 807-227-2601 (May to October) or 807-223-7535 (November to April).

Caliper Lake Provincial Park
Camp amid a stately stand of red and white pine, explore the rocky outcrops and picnic in the gently sloped open fields of this remote northern wilderness.Caliper Lake rests in an environment of natural northern beauty. Its 147 hectares are characterized the the lush woodlands embedded in the rich soil left behind by glacial deposits. The diverse natural habitat shelters many plants and animals. Squirrels, rabbits and groundhogs live in the forests and fields of the park. See white-tailed deer bounding towards the trees for cover.
Keep an eye open for interesting birds too. Eagles and osprey soar overhead and grouse race across the forest floor - its muted colours camouflaged by the vegetation. Spot the loon resting on the shores or listen for the hoot of a barred owl. White pelicans are seen more frequently these days and are sure to be a highlight of your visit.

You can pitch your tent or camp your trailer at any one of 83 campsites - 27 with electrical hookups. For your comfort, there are showers, toilets and a modern comfort station nearby. Organized groups of up to 40 people can take advantage of the group camping space available - call ahead to reserve the space. Recreational opportunities in the park include boating, canoeing, swimming and hiking. Canoes, kayaks and paddleboats are available to rent. You can also enjoy a wilderness picnic with your family or friends. Fishing on Caliper Lake is excellent - smallmouth bass, northern pike and walleye can be found in large numbers. Caliper Lake Provincial Park is located just off highway 71 and is south of Nestor Falls and northwest of Fort Frances. For more information call the park office direct at 807-484-2181 (May to Sept.) or 807-468-2669 (Oct. to April).

Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park
Known as the "Niagara of the North", Kakabeka Falls located just west of the City of Thunder Bay are truly a marvel of nature. The park itself provides you with breathtaking scenery where you can camp, cycle, hike or just enjoy the region's sheer natural beauty. Located in a gorge on the Kaministiquia River, Kakabeka Falls plunge 39 metres (about 120') over a cliff of slate into the river below. The rocks of Kakabeka fall are like a stone book. The youngest stones (several millions of years old) are at the top of the falls. These rocks get older and older as you descend down the falls to the bottom. Rocks along the base of the falls are over a billion years old! Each layer of rock tells its own story and some of the fossils discovered here are the oldest found anywhere at 1.6 billion years.

Aside from the falls, the park offers many other opportunities to explore nature. Beyond the developed area of the park are large tracts of forest and fields that are home to many species of birds and animals. Woodland flowers blossom in every colour imaginable. The park's two campgrounds have 169 campsites. The 90 campsites with electrical service are located in Whispering Hills Campground where there are also several pull-through sites to accommodate large trailers and recreational vehicles. Picnic areas on both sides of the Kaministiquia River offer spectacular views of the falls. Bring your bathing suit for a swim at a third picnic area further upriver. For more information on Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park call the park office at 807-473-9231.

Ojibway Provincial Park
Ojibway Provincial Park on Little Vermilion Lake, offers good swimming, a sandy beach and fine musky fishing. Trails weave through pine forests carpeted with lady’s slipper orchids and along shorelines past wild rice. There are several walking trails - from an easy 30 minute walk to a 2.5 hour hike.There are 45 camping sites, including 26 electrical sites. Have a picnic and spend the day at the beach where children can swim and play in the sand or climb the nearby play structure.

The park has one group camping area that can accommodate 10 tents or anywhere from 20-25 people. Water and toilets are available on site. The site is located just minutes from Little Vermillion Lake and the Boreal Walking Trail, a 1.5 km trail leading to the island. Fish for lake trout, muskie, bass, walleye and perch in Vermilion Lake, Minnitaki Lake and Lac Seul. Two boat launches provide access to Little Vermilion Lake. If you feel up to a paddle, the lakes in the park link to several district canoe routes. Venture into the park interior and you might see moose, black bear or otters. Ojibway Provincial Park is located on Highway 72 north of the Trans-Canada Highway and Dinorwic and southwest of Sioux Lookout. For more information call the park office direct at 807-737-2033 (May to September) or 807-223-7535 (October to April).

Pakwash Provincial Park near Ear Falls

Pakwash Provincial Park
Secluded and serene, this northern park has a sandy beach and shallow, warm waters ideal for swimming, fishing and canoeing. Watch for birds and other wildlife on a 5.1 km (2 hour) nature trail that meanders past beaver ponds, through wetlands and forest. Nine interpretive stops along the way explain the flora and fauna. Pakwash Lake is teeming with smallmouth bass, walleye, whitefish and northern pike. Park staff will point out the best canoe routes in the area. Ask them about Canoe Route 74, a 233-km route paddled by natives, fur traders and prospectors. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including moose, black bears, deer, otters, minks, bald eagles and ospreys. The shallow, clean waters of Pakwash Lake and the park's 1.5 km sandy beach are ideal for family swimming. Play soccer or baseball on the large playing field in the day-use area or take the children to the playground.

There are 69 camping sites, of which 26 are electrical sites. Pakwash Provincial Park is located north of Ear Falls on Highway 105. For more information call 807-222-3346 or 807-223-7535 (October to April).

Quetico Provincial Park
Quetico Provincial Park is a protected, pristine wilderness retreat of international acclaim just north the Canada-U.S. border above Minnesota's Boundary Waters and south of Atikokan, Ontario. The park's tangled network of lakes once formed water routes traveled by Ojibway and fur traders. Now it is primarily the destination of canoeists seeking solitude and rare glimpses of wildlife by cascading waterfalls, glassy lakes and endless forests. The park is accessible at four points by canoe and two by car (Dawson Trail Campground and Lac la Croix Ranger Station). Motorized boats are not allowed into Quetico, ensuring that you will have a peaceful, serene wilderness canoe trip. The interior of the park is home to 2200 backcountry campsites. 

In this article I will refer to the Dawson Trail Campground at French Lake. It is the only entrance in Quetico Park for drive-in camping. My next article in this blog will be about camping in our Wilderness Provincial Parks where I will go into more detail about backcountry camping in Quetico. The 107 campsites, 49 of which have electricity, are close to comfort stations, showers, a laundromat and other amenities.The Dawson Trail Campground has a Picnic and Day Use area, showers, flush toilets, a laundromat, a playground in the Pickerel Beach day-use area, a park store and a Visitor Centre. You can cool off in the summer months at the beaches along French Lake. The Quetico Information Pavilion at Dawson Trail provides information and large-scale maps to help you plan your canoe trip. Nature lectures, slide shows, displays and other programs are offered regularly at Dawson Trail throughout the summer.

Reservations can be made online or by calling 1-888-668-7275. Ontario Parks has a great webpage showing you the two camping areas within Dawson Trail Campground. You can see which campsites are available, and which ones you can and can't reserve ahead of time. For more information on Quetico Provincial Park call 807-597-2735 ext 223.

The Falls at Rushing River Provincial Park

Rushing River Provincial Park
Rushing River officially became a Provincial Park in 1958. The park is very family-oriented offering a wide variety of activities for children and adults alike. Kids will love the Natural Heritage Program which offers a variety of nature-based activities designed for young people. Activities all about bugs, bats, wolves, canoeing and more are part of this program. The intention is to get children to learn about nature through active, sensory-oriented activities. The main goal is for children to have fun! At Rushing River Park, something happens every day during July and August. All the activities in the park are free to those with a camping permit or day use fee.

High above the lake in a grove of jack pine, pitch a tent or park your trailer on any of 217 campsites - 84 with electrical hookups. Washroom and shower facilities are conveniently located in the campgrounds. Group camping can be arranged by contacting the park office in advance. While your morning coffee is perking, take a refreshing dip in the clean waters of the lake. Four sandy beaches provide excellent swimming areas, one with a shallow roped off section for children. After breakfast set out for a scenic walk along the Beaver Pond or Lower Rapids Trails. Take along a blanket and picnic basket and stop for a leisurely lunch at one of the picturesque points along the way.

Set out by canoe to paddle among the many islands of Dogtooth Lake and Rushing River. A short portage leads to an extensive system of interconnecting lakes. Three canoe routes are easily accessible from the park and printed guides are available. You can launch your boat from two ramps located in the park. Bring along your gear to take advantage of the fine fishing - walleye, pike, smallmouth bass and lake trout inhabit the nearby waters. To complement your visit, park naturalists organize a variety of programs such as guided nature walks and evening films in the park amphitheatre. The Visitor Centre also features a series of exhibits that introduce you to the area's notable features. Rushing River Provincial Park is located on Highway 71, southeast of Kenora. Groceries and camping supplies can be purchased in nearby communities or at facilities closer to the park. For more information call the park office direct at 807-548-4351 or 807-468-2669 in the winter.

Sandbar Provincial Park
Sandbar Lake, the largest of 10 lakes in this park just off the Trans-Canada Highway, has a fine sandy beach with spotted sandpipers, and excellent walleye and pike fishing. The lakes in and around the park are filled with northern pike, walleye and smallmouth bass. A fish-cleaning station, with lights, running water and cutting tables, is located by the boat launch. All boats are allowed on Sandbar Lake with this caveat: high winds turn this shallow lake into choppy waters. From Sandbar Lake, you can paddle numerous challenging canoe routes, including the 160-km Sandbar-Press Lake Loop, which takes between 9 to 12 days to complete and passes several pictograph sites. You can rent canoes at the park.

For those that like to hike out into nature, there's the Silhouette Trail a 1.5 km (1 hour) moderate trek. This trail weaves through jack pine woods, aspen forests and wetlands. A short side trail (0.7 km) leads to Savitsky Lake. Keen-eyed visitors have glimpsed the elusive lynx as well as the more conspicuous moose, white-tailed deer, beaver, otter and painted turtle. Watch for spotted sandpipers darting across the beach, loons on the lake, grouse underfoot and Canada jays, red-winged blackbirds and woodpeckers above. A sandy beach, shallow water and a buoyed area make Sandbar Lake ideal for family swimming. There are 74 camping sites, of which 37 are electrical sites. Sandbar Lake Provincial Park is located southeast of Dryden off Highway 17 (Trans-Canada Highway). For more information call the park office direct at 807-934-2995 (May to September) and 807-223-7535 (October to April).

Sioux Narrows Provincial Park

Sioux Narrows Provincial Park
Visitors flock to this park on Lake of the Woods for some of the best fishing in Ontario. Fish for walleye, northern pike, lake trout, muskie, bass and more. The area is also great for boating, swimming, sailing and canoeing. A sandy beach slopes gently into the clean, cool water of Lake of the Woods. Launch your boat at the park ramp for cruising, fishing or waterskiing. A 10-minute cruise down the lake takes you to centuries-old native pictographs and petroglyphs. Lake of the Woods was an historic water route travelled by parties of explorers on their way west. Paddling on the lake is fantastic. The Sioux Narrows Loop is 96 km (6-8 days) with 12 portages. This flat water route is 5 km south of the park. For land lovers, there's a 2 km nature trail starts at the beach and loops towards the lake shore and back. Chipmunks, squirrels and snowshoe hares populate this park along with white-tailed deer or a few black bears. Bald eagles, ospreys and cormorants breed on the nearby islands. The beach and shoreline are good places to spot loons, great blue herons, white pelicans and sapsuckers.

There have been many upgrades to the park in recent years. There are 56 campsites including 19 electrical sites. Half of the sites are situated along the shoreline of Lake of the Woods. Sioux Narrows Provincial Park is located south of Kenora on Highway 71 in the community of Sioux Narrows. For more information call the park office direct at 807-226-5223 or 807-226-5241 in the winter.

For more information on any of the Ontario Provincial Parks you can call 1-800-ONTARIO. You can make reservations online or call 1-888-ONT-PARK (1-888-668-7275).

There are also Wilderness Provincial parks in Sunset Country, but I'll save those for another blog post. They include Albany River, Brightsand River, Kopka River, Opasquia, Otoskwin-Attawapiskat River, Pipestone River, Quetico, Turtle River/White Otter, Wabakimi, Winnange Lake and Woodland Caribou Wilderness Park.

There are also many of our members that offer camping. Whether it be tent camping or RV/Trailer camping, there are plenty to choose from. There are stand alone campgrounds as well as many of our resorts and lodges also offer campsites. Summer camps for children are also popular in the region. Please visit www.ontariocampgrounds.net for a complete list of campgrounds in Northwest Ontario.

12 of the Best Golf Courses in Northwest Ontario

Beauty Bay Golf Course on the shores of Black Sturgeon Lake

Northwestern Ontario has some excellent golf courses, many of which give a whole new meaning to the saying "play it as it lies". With our Canadian Shield topography, the courses out here wind through craggy rocks, pine trees and border the Boreal Forest with all it's potential hazards. Here you may take a swing from the tee and not see where your ball landed because of a large rolling hill. If you are going to shoot a low score, you need to be on your game.

Here's an overview of some of the Sunset Country Golf Courses:

Ear Falls Golf and Country Club
Great little 9 hole course located in the Township of Ear Falls, Ontario on the shore of beautiful Lac Seul. This challenging course, amid stunning scenery, is located just minutes from downtown. It features medium-sized greens that occasionally offer some slope and has narrow tree lined fairways that are generally flat. You can stay at area lodges or at the local motels.

Red Lake Area Golf & Country Club

Red Lake Area Golf & Country Club
Known as the most northerly 18 Hole golf course in Ontario, the Red Lake Golf and Country Club will challenge the most accomplished golfer. The course measures 6359 yards from the blue tees and has a slope rating of 68.8. The course is situated on the scenic shores of beautiful McNeely Bay on Red Lake. The Red Lake Area Golf & Country Club is a great combination of rolling hills, tree-lined fairways and breathtaking lake vistas. Find local accommodations in the Municipality of Red Lake.

Sioux Lookout Golf Course & Curling Club
This beautiful and strategic 9 hole course has stunning visuals and some very challenging holes. The most challenging hole is also the most scenic, the par three 8th at 181 yards from the back tees. This tee shot is over water to a large green and plays longer than the length on the score card as it is uphill and into the prevailing wind. Water will come into play on 3 holes and the greens roll between 8.5 and 9 on the stimp meter. The Club dates back to the early 60s. The Municipality of Sioux Lookout is a recreation seeker's dream. There are many places to stay in Sioux Lookout.

Sioux Lookout Golf & Curling Club

Beauty Bay Golf Course, Kenora
Known locally as the "Diamond in the Rough", Beauty Bay is located along the shores of Black Sturgeon Lake and offers a real challenge. Over the last several years the golf has been nurtured into of of Northwest Ontario's best 18 holes golf courses. It's rolling terrain and numerous water hazards combine to make breathtaking scenery. Carved out of the Canadian Shield, this course is a true test for golfers of all levels. Visit the Beauty Bay Golf Course's website to see each hole and the scorecard. This Par 72 golf course is located just 15 minutes from downtown Kenora, Ontario where you can find accommodations.

Kenora Golf & Country Club
Situated only minutes from downtown Kenora on the shores of Lake of the Woods, the Kenora Golf and Country Club boasts a challenging 18 hole course accessible by land or water. From the higher elevated holes, you can see beautiful views of the lake as you play. Don't be surprised if you see wildlife on the course. Whether it is a deer, bear or fox sighting, it just adds to the total golf experience. The course's terrain varies from level to hilly. Tall, mature trees outline the fairways and water comes into play on 7 holes. There are 3 sets of tees with distances ranging from 5206 to 6333 yards.

Dryden Area Courses
Dryden has three courses you can choose from. Eagle's Landing is located on the shores of Wabigoon Lake. The 9 hole, Par 36 course is set in scenic surroundings. Every hole has at least one sand trap and 4 of the holes contain water hazzards. The Evergreen Golf Course on Wabigoon Lake Road is a fully licensed 9 hole golf course. It is an excellent facility to host golf tournaments for 35-70 people. Anderson's Homestead Golf Course is the third golf course in Dryden. There are lots of hotel and motel accommodations in Dryden to choose from during your stay.

White Moose Golf Course in Sioux Narrows

White Moose Golf Course, Sioux Narrows

The White Moose Golf Course is a 9 hole, Par 35 course and is located about 7 kms north of Sioux Narrows off Highway 71. Like many other golf courses in Sunset Country, many holes overlook the lake. If you are fishing Lake of the Woods and want a break from the boat, come in and play a round of golf. Call 807-226-5319 for more information. Visit Sunset Country's website to find out more about Sioux Narrows.

Spruce Creek Golf Course, Morson
The Spruce Creek Golf Course is Morson's newest recreation opportunity. This 9 hole course, designed by Grant Golf of Winnipeg, Manitoba is a Par 36, 3397 yards from the blue tees, 3218 from the white tees and 2767 yards from the red tees. The course has rolling fairways set amongst the rugged terrain of the Canadian Shield. The course is 2.6 kms east from the junction of Highways 621 and 619.

Kitchen Creek Golf Course, Fort Frances
Great course set up with a length of 6424 yards from the Blue Tees and Par 72 with a 68.9 rating. This 18-hole first opened in 1976. At Kitchen Creek, don't expect the rock outcrops that you see at most of the golf courses in Sunset Country. Most holes, particularly the front nine resemble a prairie course with flat fairways and wide open spaces. The creek comes into play on 12 out of the 18 holes and with a good selection of sand bunkers you will encounter a  variety of tactical challenges during your round of golf. Accommodations available in nearby Fort Frances, Ontario.

Heron Landing Golf Course, Fort Frances
The Heron Landing Golf Course is located just minutes from downtown Fort Frances and the International Bridge. It is located on the east end of Fort Frances on Couchiching First nation 3.1 kms (2mi) down Frog Creek Road on beautiful Rainy Lake. This 18 hole course is one of the newer golf courses in Sunset Country. The sixth hole is a tough par 3 that requires an accurate tee shot over a finger of Frog Creek to an angled green protected by a large bunker to the left and a severely slope grassy swale to the right. The eleventh hole is probably the most scenic hole on the course as it overlooks Rainy Lake. Long-iron tee shots must be played to a large green that has deep bunkers on 3 sides. The green crowned in the middle makes the back right tee position hard to find. For a complete description of all the holes, the Heron Landing website has great write-ups of each hole.

Golfing in Sunset Country

Little Falls Golf Course, Atikokan
The Little Falls Golf Course in Atikokan is frequently described as the most challenging course in Northwestern Ontario. It is a double teed nine-hole course carved out of the boreal forest. Water can come into play on six of the nine holes and one tee is elevated some twenty meters above the fairway, providing a spectacular view of the course and of the waterfalls. This course has a tight playing layout with narrow fairways framed by dense trees. Failure to keep your ball straight will add strokes quickly to your score. The well kept greens are some of the finest in the Northwest. They are small in size and have slopes that deliver interesting breaks and tend to putt true. Little Falls welcomes all to play on it's beautiful golf course located in Atikokan.

Ignace Golf and Country Club
The Ignace Golf and Country Club is a 9 hole golf course with a driving range and is located in scenic Ignace. They have a new 2,500 sq ft club house that will also double as a year-round, multi-purpose recreation facility.  For more information call 807-934-6871.

Sunset Country is known for it's fishing and hunting, but once you've played golf here, you won't forget it. You'll be talking about your golf game and the course almost as much as you talk about 'the one that got away'. The courses are anything but boring and all have a great view of the area. You can easily spend a week touring beautiful Sunset Country in Northwestern Ontario and playing some challenging golf at the same time. If you are heading to Sunset Country, bring your clubs along with your fishing gear and play a round of golf. Most golf courses rent clubs in case you didn't bring yours along. If you require any more information you can call the Sunset Country Travel Association at 1-800-665-7567.