We've been back 2 days from our first trip in 9 years (or first ever for my wife) and we're already looking forward to the next one.

We did what I'd call an intermediate route for difficulty. Decent length loop with a variety of sights, lake sizes, creeks, 2 portages of a mile or more, etc. Our next one we want to be a little more relaxing with good fishing for walleyes, smallies, northerns, etc. Don't care about lakers.

We're thinking maybe a day or two in, basecamp for 3-4 and a day or two back out. (not necessarily the same way) Not opposed to a tow either. We're thinking BW but a Q trip isn't out of the picture. We'd like to bring some others along that may not be up for super long portages, but if the fishing is worth it I'll listen.

We were on Crooked for a couple days this trip and loved it. I'd like to get back but it doesn't quite fit the description of this trip. Any ideas? It would be nice to get away from the crowds, but obviously a day or two from an entry or tow doesn't get you real far depending on where you go.

Nothing? I'll start checking the DNR surveys and see if anything pops out. Any areas to avoid? I've only taken one trip off the Gunflint and we did not have the greatest fishing, later to learn those were some deeper lakes mainly for lake trout. (dang)

Last sept we departed from Clearwater and portaged into mountain . Headed east into moose. The smallest walleye I caught was 24 inches! A real quiet area. Downside would be the campsites. I rate them marginal at best. We got smallies there too. Safe travels to you!