We have 6 people and 1 dog heading out this weekend with a restricted Mudro permit (can't camp on Horse). We have a 7 day trip planned, where we paddle for two days, camp for three, and then head back the way we came. What we haven't decided is which way we would rather go when we get to Gun. I had a great time at a site on Gull a few years ago and we could head back that direction, or we could continue exploring lakes we haven't visited before and head up towards Crooked lake.

We don't fish at all. We explore, swim, and hang out at camp. Clear water is always a favorite, as are sites with easy access to the water for a swim.

Any input on the area for us?

I have been to this area several times . I would advise to go to Crooked Lake Big water pretty area , however not as many portage, there would be a fair bit more paddling - you can head west on Crooked toward Curtain Falls then head back the way you came. This may be a bit long to have a Three day layover - maybe two day. Or make a loop of it- head east toward Horse River but going on the Loop would not allow a Three day layover .

Phil offered a couple of good options.
The catch (pun) for me would be the 327 rod out of Gun and the creek north to Friday Bay. The portage is a steady up and then back down with a rise of about 40 ft. though it is a good path and currently, the water levels are fairly high which, could be to your benefit.
This area is one of our favorites and - (Basswood Falls, Curtain Falls, Pictographs on Irving Island)
If you are planning to lay-over for 3 days - you might want to stay on Beartrap or Thunder. Good site on south side of Beartrap with 3 decent tent sites.
If you are up for travel - I suggest going east from Friday Bay to Lower Basswood Falls and south on the Horse River to exit back at Mudro. This will avoid a shuttle.
Have a great trip - looks like good weather for the weekend! Enjoy!

Avoid going South out of Crooked on the Horse River as the water is high and it will be a struggle.

My vote is Beartrap.

quote BasecampMom: "My vote is Beartrap."

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quote Grandma L: "Phil offered a couple of good options.
The catch (pun) for me would be the 327 rod out of Gun and the creek north to Friday Bay. The portage is a steady up and then back down with a rise of about 40 ft. though it is a good path and currently, the water levels are fairly high which, could be to your benefit.
"

I've only done that portage once, last year in late August, but it would be a shame to skip out on the beautiful clear water of Friday bay just because of that portage. It is a mile, but it's about the easiest mile you'll ever portage - quite flat, smooth, no real obstacles or issues, just a mile in the woods with a canoe on your back. Especially compared to the crazy portages south of there, it's really not an issue.

I like Grandma L's suggestion of going to Crooked and going east to Lower Basswood and back through the Horse River. Some very nice area. The Horse River current is not really a factor at this point, was just there last week. The long portage that is mentioned is long but quite easy. And besides, wouldn't it be nice to say you took a portage that long and landed on the Canadian border? It can't be too hard---a few years ago in my early sixties I ended up doing the route in reverse in two long days and one night----on a solo. I did not plan on doing it that quickly but very severe weather warnings were out so I just kept going.