BWCA Gaskin Lake: Easiest Route? Boundary Waters Trip Planning Forum
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rayljr1
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05/07/2019 09:01PM   (Thread Older Than 3 Years)
Looking to go into Gaskin for a six day trip in June. Looking at the maps, I am confused as to what the easiest way to get there would be. Can I go in on entry point 47? If so, do I paddle across from the other side of Poplar? Any help would be appreciated.

Also, any recent info on fishing in that area the last 2-3 years would be appreciated too. Caribou, Horseshoe, and Gaskin all look interesting.

Thanks!

 
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Northwoodsman
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05/07/2019 09:11PM  
Go straight across Poplar to the portage to Lizz. Go south down Lizz and take the portage to Caribou. About 1/3 of the way across Lizz you enter the BWCA. You will see a sign on the west side of the lake. Paddle around the peninsula on Caribou and take the portage to Horseshoe.

Once on Horseshoe, head south from the portage and take the south arm to the west. Take the 100+ rod portage to Gaskin (it's much easier than the three shorter ones through Allen.

Depending on paddle speed, portage speed, the number of trips across the portage, etc. it will take you 2 to 4 hours to get Gaskin. It's a beautiful route that I'll be doing this upcoming Saturday. I don't have any fishing intel to share.
BWfishingfanatic12
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05/07/2019 09:16PM  
I believe all those entry points use the same Poplar lake landing unless you are using an outfitter. You will have to paddle from the east end of Poplar. The two times we were in this area, we went through Lizz and Swamp lakes. We went in late June in 2015 so sorry, four years ago.

We did well on Gaskin for walleye. That was our favorite lake from that trip. Also caught some smallies on Gaskin as well. We caught a couple smallmouth, walleye and northern pike on Horseshoe, but they were all pretty small. Did see some moose on Horseshoe.

We did not fish Caribou at all. I have heard good things about Henson, Pillsbury and those skinny lakes over that way for smallmouth as well.

I am happy to share more specifics if you would like, but I would bring leeches and focus on points, islands, and underwater structure.
05/07/2019 09:32PM  
Fishing is awesome. Walleye and bass in Caribou. Add Northern plus the others in Horseshoe. Same in Gaskin. June fishing is great - the weed beds in the shallows will just be starting - so cast the bays. We've used everything from Rapalas to spoons to Mepps spinners. If you wish to sightsee - troll a line behind. Don't hesitate to take the portage into Winchell - but be aware of the wind on that one. The south arm of Horseshoe into Vista is known for Moose viewing. You'll likely find the area pretty busy - so travel early in the AM. Good luck!
05/08/2019 06:28AM  
Poplar Lake public landing is here in the NW corner of Poplar Lake. If you need to rent a canoe, Rockwood Outfitters is located right on Poplar Lake and you can launch there. Portage like Northwoodsman said.
 
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