Piper, Archer, Cessna, Beechcraft Bonanza… these are just a few of the nameplates on the ten personal airplanes that landed on Miminiska Lodge’s 2500 ft grass strip last week. What a great site as the Midwest Flyers Magazine group arrived for their annual “fly and fish” Canadian adventure. Despite the wind and rain, the group of 21 had a great trip with excellent fishing, and many tasty shore lunches.

While most of the pilots are from Wisconsin, there was a new pair of anglers this year from Kansas City – about a seven hour flight for Roger and Ed who claimed, “This is the best fishing of my life, landing over 480 fish in four days.” Helping them along the way was our First Nation Guide, Thomas Nate. By contrast, Pat and John from Sauk City, Wisconsin have enjoyed four fly in trips to Miminiska. Pat’s Walleye success came from a jig and Gulp Minnow combination including a Northern that grabbed a Walleye being reeled in. Tom a returning guest from Appleton, Wisconsin and his flying partner John brought in plenty of Walleye as well, including a nice big Pike, 37-inches long, that Tom landed on a fly rod. This year’s flying group also included three women anglers: Betty, Vikki, and Rosie. Congrats to Betty who caught and released the biggest Northern of the threesome – a 34-incher.

The winds and storms cleared as the week wound down…so we were able to have a bonfire on the beach for the group’s final evening in camp. And if you thinking flying is miracle – there were NO bugs that evening (We have alerted the Guinness people!). The following morning the ten flying machines headed skyward and homeward until next year.

It is always a pleasure to welcome this great group of guests to Miminiska Lodge.