I know that this question is somewhat subjective but I am throwing this out there. I want to try a different Outfitter in Ely area. Feel free to throw in recommendations for outfitters in other areas of the BWCA
I have been to almost all areas of the BWCA and a couple trips into Quetico.
I have used a number of Outfitters with mixed experiences In Ely ; Sawbill and along the Gunflint.
Over the years I have primarily gone out of Ely. (It may be time for me to explore a bit more off The Gunflint Trail or other areas but that is a different topic)
We normally Drive up from the Dallas TX area that is why the propensity to go to Ely - a bit closer. I have used one Outfitter in the Ely Area they are good - ok . However they have done nothing much to lose my business , but I feel I want a bit more service for what we have paid.
I know what people want from Outfitters is an individual thing some want quick Canoe Rental and that is all, some what full Service. I have needed both extremes
Listed below is what I am looking for

- Fishing information (what they personally know or what they have been hearing from customers)
- Good Advise ie personal experience
- Good Choice of Rental Canoes
- Quality Gear to Rent - Tents , Packs , Kitchen et ( not Gear that looks like it has been around since 60's
- Bunkhouse to rent
- Showers
- Transportation to Entry Points
- Convenient location
- Services ie Permits et.

After a long trip up, you will not likely do better in the sleeping department than Hungary Jack Outfitters bunkhouses mid way up the Gunflint Trail. 8 to 10 inch top quality flippable mattresses which you would be happy to have on your bed at home.

Cliff Wold's Canoe Outfitters does a great job. I'd forsure give them a try!

Life long customer of Canoe Country Outfitters. Can't say enough good things about them.

The north shore drive up to the Gunflint Trail is a bit farther, but worth the investment.
Like the op, I desire good service, and have never been disappointed with any of the BWCA options. I have learned if I want something not on the "menu", just ask. Most have come with no charge.

Have had great luck with both Tuscarora and Rockwood. In each I’ve rented bunkhouses for the gang to rendezvous the night before and get an early start in the morning. Tuscarora even cooked us a breakfast really early , pre-covid.

Rockwood did great for us this year, gave them the keys to my van and they moved it as we didn’t do a circle route, just went from the cross bay EP to their place for our trip.

BIG shoutout for Ely Outfitting Company. I’ve used Jason’s services twice and have been super pleased both times. Nothing but good things to say.

I’ve used a few of the outfitters out of Ely. No real issues ever. Most all of the gear and boats Piragis rents is new at the start of year. They sell it off after the season and bring in new stuff. They have the widest selection of canoes to rent in the area.

That said, if you are looking for something a little different I really like Anderson’s out of Crane Lake for a number of reasons:
1. it’s the fastest way for me to get deep into the parks quickly. I get a tow to Bottle Potage or McAree. These are Quetico entry points but you can get dropped off at Bottle and stay in the BWCA (LLC, Iron Lake, Crooked Lake areas). I’m on the water by 9:30 AM usually.
2. They have a motel at Anderson’s, nice and inexpensive. And if we are a group of 4 it seems they usually put us up in the house next to the motel, very spacious which makes it easy for any final packing of gear.
3. The tow is great. Nice experience...if you haven’t done it, it’s worth doing at least once. A couple mechanical portages. About 1.5 to 2 hours total, and they take you through customs (no need for an RABC pass) and the Q ranger station on the way, if going to Quetico.
4. They rent NorthStar canoes (switched from Wenonah maybe 5 years ago) and I find they are alway in good shape.
5. I haven’t rented any gear from them but I’ve been towed in/picked up with other parties that have and it all looked good to me.
6. Where you leave your car, etc is all real easy.
7. You can arrange for them to bring you cold beer when they pick you up.
8. My best and most consistent fishing has always occurred during trips to this area. Perhaps less pressure, certainly less crowded than the Ely area entry points. We typically go in this way into Quetico in late May. McAree, Argo, and other accessible Q lakes In this area hold Lake Trout and we alway catch them at that time of year. I’ve never not caught walleye at Rebecca Falls. But I’ve done US side only trips up onto Iron and Crooked and those have been equally productive
9. Mark Anderson is great, he has great insight on the fishing in the area I’m describing. He grew up there. It use to be his Dad’s place.

Harv: "Cliff Wold's Canoe Outfitters does a great job. I'd forsure give them a try!"

2nd that.

LaTourell's on Moose lake is also good. Bob will take care of you.