We woke up early and packed camp up to get to the Snowbank Lake portage early. We had checked the weather the night before and they were calling for wind so we wanted to hit the big lake early to beat it if we could.

NO LUCK! Despite being off the portage by 7:30am the wind was already kicking up. If anyone has ever been on that lake and had to deal with the winds and waves they can appreciate what we dealt with that morning. We soldiered thru tho and made the landing where we waited for Blaine from Williams & Hall to come pick us up. He wasn't surprised about our bear problem on Ensign and referred to the local population there as "circus bears".

It was great getting back to Moose Lake to take a quick shower and have a few complimentary beers from the outfitter. After that we headed into Town to do some shopping before finishing the day at the Ely Steakhouse for dinner.

One more night at Moose Lake and then the next morning we woke early to start the long drive back to Michigan. It was a great trip and my son is excited to get back for another visit.

My key takeaway from the trip was it is a good reminder that the fishing patterns can be completely different despite lakes being in the same area. On Ensign the fish were still shallow, less than 8 feet, and schooled up in shallow dark bottom bays. On Disappointment they were in 14 to 18 foot of water hugging the bottom. Fishing was good on both lakes but based on our experience with both lakes if you want quantity and numbers I would pick Ensign. If a little bit bigger walleyes are your thing then Disappointment would get the nod.

In fact, as I put the finishing touches on this trip report we are leaving tomorrow for Ely and plan on seeing new waters. We are entering at EP23, Mudro, and plan on spending the week on Crooked Lake. I'll try and put a report together before next year!!!