We secured an OM permit from Moose Lake for July. We will be traveling via Prairie Portage to Basswood. I am familiar with Pipestone & Jackfish bays, but not the east side of Basswood. Couple questions -- 1) What are the general things I should know about the east side of Basswood? Anything to make sure we do/don't do? 2) Can I make it via motorboat to Pipestone bay via portage in Back Bay in July, or is the water too low? I know about Canada & restrictions and all that... Thanks for your help!

The portage in Back Bay is not affected by water levels, it is over land. However with a motor boat you will need portage wheels.

Thanks for the update. Yes we will be bringing portage wheels no doubt. Do most people who travel through prairie portage head over to Pipestone and Jackfish, or is it worth staying on the east side of Basswood?

If going through Prairie Portage I have not gone across into Pipestone or Jackfish. It's a bit easier to get to from the Fall lake entry.

Fishing on the east side is great. The falls right by Prairie Portage can provide a nice mixed bag and a good chance for a decent sized fish too.

Wind Bay, Back Bay, Frog Bay are all good locations to try. Work around the islands and any pinch points in between. Get a topo map and look around for sunken structure close to points. So many options in that lake!

Good luck, I hope you have a great trip!

Haven't done an OM on Basswood, but we did Wood Lake to Basswood, the eastern part you're speaking of.

Wind Bay, Hoist Bay and Back Bay are all really lovely with excellent fishing. You could also stay at the site that was the former Basswood Lodge, which is one of the best sites I've seen in the BWCA.

What area is that site