Been around the block a few times with dozens of trips to each. Thinking of taking my son to some great fishing lakes in the BW (with work)-- portaging etc. this Spring- or a houseboat trip on Rainy.- (more comfort and tech ) We've done both before but not in Spring. BW offers more seclusion - Rainy ( houseboat or camping) offers less work and serious electronics ( own boat) to find fish ( I have it) - and imo that helps in own boat - Rainy is better (in spots) than most BW lakes fishing from a canoe (imo) - esp walleye for size. ( most that haven't fished Rainy will not understand) BWCA- is - simply awesome and can't be beat with all it comes down to. What you give up in seclusion and work - might be better for fishing "overall" on Rainy. Time spent fishing is key. FWIW- I know spots that "produce" on both sides. Being able to move your camp (houseboat) is much easier than a fully equipped base camp via canoe in the BW. Moving a HB from point A to point B is as simple as moving- moving a base camp in the BW involves serious time on both sides as well as moving (wind/etc). Talking to the fishing freaks only- what would you do? I know many here know Rainy - that's all I'am asking if it's worth it. Peace.

I think Rainey would be more fun once the border lakes open back up so you could fish both sides of border.

Fishing trip - Rainy