I am looking to make another trip into Lac la Croix in August next year. The last trip we went with Piragis and they supplied everything I expected short of knowledge about the area. We asked the guy checking us in about the area and he answered that he was a golfer.

Other than Piragis, we have gone out of Sawbill and they have always had great information about fishing and low/high water areas.

Are there other outfitters out of ELY that you would recommend? We are looking to go in EP 16 and stay in for five days or so. Hope to catch some lakers on Oyster, then push on to Lac la Croix.

I'd recommend Spirit of the Wilderness. They are both knowledgeable about fishing and have good customer service. The family who owns the place is very personable and humble. I've used them since 2006 and will continue too. I get the feeling they cared about my well-being, not just my pocket book.

I usually use Canoe Country Outfitters. Great info, great service and a great stay in their bunkrooms or apartments.

I know you said you want to go out of Ely, but I would still make another recommendation. Go out of Crane Lake and go through Anderson’s. Mark will definitely give you all the information you need. Plus you have the option, if you wish and are willing to spend the money, to get a tow to LLC. He can give info on a number of the lakes just off LLC if you wanted to try them. Even if you still use EP 16 the drive is a little quicker in the morning from Crane Lake, but about the same distance.

YaMarVa: "I'd recommend Spirit of the Wilderness. They are both knowledgeable about fishing and have good customer service. The family who owns the place is very personable and humble. I've used them since 2006 and will continue too. I get the feeling they cared about my well-being, not just my pocket book. "

Another vote for Spirit of the Wilderness. We have known Steve and Kathy and their daughter Ginny for decades and they always do a great job of making you feel welcome and sharing their wealth of information. It doesn't matter if all you need is bait or if you are getting fully outfitted by them - they will give you their undivided attention and answer all your questions.

papalambeau: "

YaMarVa: "I'd recommend Spirit of the Wilderness. They are both knowledgeable about fishing and have good customer service. The family who owns the place is very personable and humble. I've used them since 2006 and will continue too. I get the feeling they cared about my well-being, not just my pocket book. "

Another vote for Spirit of the Wilderness. We have known Steve and Kathy and their daughter Ginny for decades and they always do a great job of making you feel welcome and sharing their wealth of information. It doesn't matter if all you need is bait or if you are getting fully outfitted by them - they will give you their undivided attention and answer all your questions."

My go to outfitter in Ely as well.

cowdoc: "I usually use Canoe Country Outfitters. Great info, great service and a great stay in their bunkrooms or apartments. "

My 20+year favorite.

Anderson's in Crane Lake cover that end of the Echo trail. Mark knows the area.Hotel right across from his shop. Can easily get you there by shuttle and rent you boats and gear, I think.

cowdoc: "I usually use Canoe Country Outfitters. Great info, great service and a great stay in their bunkrooms or apartments. "

We always use CCO. They are great! Prices are right, equipment might not be what you get at perogies. But it's good and they are good people. We have did a number of trips out of EP16 using them. Each out of you have specific questions on that area.