At Black Bear Lodge, our guests typically come for the thrill of fishing for the main species, including Walleye, Northern Pike, Lake Trout, and Small Mouth. However, they’re in for a delightful surprise with the presence of Burbot, Perch, and Whitefish in these thriving fishing environments. These diverse fish provide an excellent opportunity for our visitors to mix up their angling experience. Fishing for these species offers a welcome break from the typical catch, adding an element of excitement and challenge as they aim to land a new species. The variety of fish at Black Bear Lodge ensures that our guests can enjoy a well-rounded fishing adventure, making every day on the water a unique and rewarding experience.

Burbot
In the waters of Red Lake, Burbot, also known as “poor man’s lobster,” are a fascinating and often overlooked species. These freshwater fish have a distinctive appearance, resembling a cross between a catfish and an eel. Burbot lack traditional scales, with an elongated body adorned in mottled or marbled patterns along their olive to brownish skin. Typically ranging from 18 to 36 inches in length, with some individuals reaching even greater sizes, they are a substantial catch. Burbot are bottom feeders and are often found in the deep, cooler waters of Red Lake, where they thrive. When filleted, burbot provide a unique culinary delight, offering two rows of delicious white meat that is perfect for boiling and dipping in melted butter. These characteristics make burbot a hidden gem for those who appreciate their distinctive taste and texture, often making for a satisfying and flavorful addition to any angler’s catch.

Perch
Perch are a common sight in the pristine freshwater lakes of the Red Lake, Ontario region. These fish display an elongated body with a coloration that often ranges from olive green to golden-yellow, which helps them blend into the clear waters and lush aquatic vegetation of the area. Perch in Red Lake typically feature a series of distinctive dark vertical stripes along their sides. They are a relatively small species, with most individuals growing to lengths of 6 to 10 inches. However, guests at our lodge have even caught perch as big as 14 inches. With a sportsman license, you are allowed to keep up to 50 perch, which means you can bring home a substantial haul for a delightful fish fry back home. We will show you on the map exactly where these vibrant fish are most plentiful, making it easier for you to enjoy the excellent fishing opportunities Black Bear Lodge has to offer. Renowned for their delectable, flaky white meat, these perch are cherished by our guests.

Whitefish
Whitefish are a common and captivating species in Red Lake, Ontario. These fish boast an elongated body, with the average size on our lake being 18-22 inches and our biggest catch on record measuring an impressive 27 inches. Their coloring can vary, but they often have a silvery sheen with pale, iridescent scales that sparkle in the clear, freshwater environment. Whitefish are well-adapted to their habitat, primarily residing in the deeper and colder areas of the lake. Though many of our fishermen don’t target these, those that do have great success and go home with plenty. Red Lake’s whitefish not only provide a thrilling fishing experience but also offer a delightful flavor experience especially when smoked.