Jeremy Smith and Jeff Simpson head to Bakers Narrows in northern Manitoba for a fall fishing adventure, where they catch pike, walleye, and Lakers.
Nonstop Action: Northern Waters Lake Trout Fishing, Walleye, and Pike
Adaptability, excitement, and the pure delight of hauling in one fish after another define northern fishing excursions. This mid-September excursion to Lake Athapapuskow at Baker’s Narrows Lodge has been exactly that—a dynamic adventure bursting with unceasing action. Although our initial intention was to pursue lake trout, the often shifting conditions resulted in an amazing session of casting for northern pike, or “jacks,” and dragging in some amazing walleyes the route.
The Excitement of Pike Hunting
An actual adrenaline rush is pike fishing in northern Minnesota and Canada. These waters have an amazing abundance of fish, hence every cast offers a chance for a hit. We discovered that these aggressive fish will strike nearly anything using baitcasting gear used for bass fishing. From soft plastics to classic Canadian fishing tools like the ageless spoon, the possibilities are unlimited. 
For this trip, a six-inch Big Bite Baits tube on a half-ounce flatshed head was among the best decisions. This configuration gives pike a compelling, slow-gliding motion by combining jig and jerkbait action. Another go-to was the Rapala X-Rap, a flexible lure that works remarkably in these waters. Ultimately, though, faith in the bait you are using is crucial; timing and location are more important than the particular lure.
Traditional Lures Designed for Deliver
Among the tried-and-true baits, the basic spoon is still a first choice. While still retaining its famous efficacy, a basic change—replacing the normal treble hook with a barbless sidewash hook—ensures a safer and easier release. Fishing across large weed flats, the spoon moves almost like a weedless frog, skimming over ground and luring forceful strikes from big pike. Northern pike is one of the most beautiful freshwater fish thanks to their brilliant marks and vivid fall hues, which accentuates the thrill of every catch.
The Unexpected Bonus for Walleyes
Although pike still dominated the attention, the walleye activity proved too good to overlook. September’s transition times cause these fish to migrate randomly, but we discovered success by focusing on neck-down areas heading into shallower waters. To add variation to an already thrilling day on the water, jigging raps over deeper humps and gently working baits across shallower flats produced nice walleyes.
Especially unique is twilight walleye fishing. Following a filling dinner at the lodge, a quick expedition gave consistent action as we marked and caught fish. The combination of several species that all move in readiness for the changing season makes fishing during this time of year beautiful.
Fishing for Lake Trout
Lake trout stayed a main objective even with the pike and walleye success. Covering water and finding these deep-dwelling fish turned out to be best accomplished by trolling. We could spread out our lines and maintain exact depths by using snap weights and planer boards. Adjusting weight sizes from 12 ounces to a full pound was essential to bring lures into the strike zone since fish ranging from 30 feet to over 100 feet.
Two-dimensional sonar and mapping technology was absolutely essential for deep-water fishing. We tracked and improved our knowledge of the underwater terrain constantly using AutoChart Live and a Zero Lines SD card. Every trolling pass gave a better view of the structures below, which guided us to good locations for trout-holding. Clear water conditions and spotting fish as they approached the surface gave every fight even more excitement.
The Appropriate Tools for the Task
Targeting large lake trout in deep Canadian waters calls for specific gear, which makes all the difference. A requirement are snap weights; bigger leads are necessary to descend distances above 60 feet. Though additional lead weights ranging from four ounces to a full pound ensure flexibility in deeper zones, Offshore’s snap weight kits are a wonderful beginning point. Changing weight and lure location becomes a quick procedure with a basic snap-on mechanism, freeing more time for fishing instead of tinkering with gear.
Lodge Baker’s Narrows: A Real Trophy Location
Top-notch fishing location Baker’s Narrows Lodge in Manitoba presents world-class possibilities for a range of species. For anglers, this dream spot boasts large walleyes and plenty of pike. This resort is still among the greatest spots to target huge lake trout during the open season, even if seasonal closures protecting spawning fish caused us to find none on this trip.
One of the main features of this place is the possibility to hunt several species depending on the circumstances. Anglers can maximize their approach for any scenario with the correct specialized gear—planer boards, heavy lead, and trolling rods like the St. Croix Encore series. Having the correct tools makes a big difference whether managing big musky-sized baits with super mag planers or walleye boards for smaller configurations.
This visit to Baker’s Narrows Lodge will live in memory. The meals and lodging were first-rate; pike fishing was unrelenting; we found many of walleyes. We had success despite the lake trout restrictions, and we are already organizing a return trip to target these enormous fish over the ice.
Baker’s Narrows Lodge should be at top of your list if you’re searching for a fantastic northern fishing location. Anybody angler can find success here with trophy-class fish and a continuously changing but always fascinating surroundings.
