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Boundary Waters Quetico Forum :: Fishing Forum :: BWCA vs. The Q (Smallmouth)
 
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QueticoMike
02/04/2020 05:28PM
 
Tristian5431: "QueticoMike: "I have always caught bigger and more smallmouth on the Quetico side. I think it is mostly due to fishing pressure. I started in the Quetico and continue to fish the Quetico and Boundary Waters each at least once a year."



When you fish in the Q do you use an outfitter or do you primarily use your own gear?"



I only use an outfitter for a bunkhouse stay the night before a trip and tow to and from PP.
 
Tristian5431
02/04/2020 11:14AM
 
QueticoMike: "I have always caught bigger and more smallmouth on the Quetico side. I think it is mostly due to fishing pressure. I started in the Quetico and continue to fish the Quetico and Boundary Waters each at least once a year."


When you fish in the Q do you use an outfitter or do you primarily use your own gear?
 
Tristian5431
02/04/2020 10:17AM
 
I am looking for input from people who are diehard smallie fisherman. Is there a huge difference in the quality and quantity of smallmouth in Quetico vs. BWCA. Taking a june trip (looking like the middle of the month) and I am interested to hear from people who fish for smallmouth and have fished in Quetico and the Boundary Waters. I am also aware of the fact that: forage, weather, time of year, etc all affect this answer. Did you start in the BWCA and now only fish in the Q or opposite. I am not looking for specific lakes. I am looking for your perspective. I know that is more expensive to go to Quetico (I am not worried about that). This is another "its winter time and I am getting cabin fever" question. Thank you to those who respond.


 
PineKnot
02/04/2020 10:43AM
 
I spent my first 10-15 years in BWCA, then started splitting time with the Q and the last 12 years solely in Quetico. The size and quantity of smallmouth are better in the Q without a doubt, mainly due to less fishing pressure, although there are some really exceptional smallmouth areas in the BWCA. I focus on Q now despite the cost, because I can find more seclusion and it just seems more wild. For me, mid-to-late June is a great time for Q smallies, except for when I see really cold and wet conditions from mid-to-late-May into June....then later June into July is better. Sometimes, it seems when the mosquitos are at their worst the smallmouth action is at its best....
 
Tristian5431
02/04/2020 11:14AM
 
Do you use an outfitter or tend to use your own gear?
 
QueticoMike
02/04/2020 10:51AM
 
I have always caught bigger and more smallmouth on the Quetico side. I think it is mostly due to fishing pressure. I started in the Quetico and continue to fish the Quetico and Boundary Waters each at least once a year.