Kimmers,
No you're not asking a lot.

Via Prairie Portage:
#1. Lost Bay off the north end of North Bay, Basswood Lake. You can carry thru Burke it's outlet to North Bay, Paddle directly across (mind the reef NE of the Island @ the end of the last portage) North Bay, take the first left. Option: Motor tow to Washington Island, North, then turn right. Cross to the north shore of North Bay, take a left, and then the next left. Camp on the north shore after the channel opens into Lost Bay. GREAT campsite. Fish the point at the end of the channel, and the rock directly across from it. Directly west of the campsite are several islands. The smallest is surrounded by channels that hold bass and walleye. The island that looks like part of the mainland has a reef on it's northwest corner, and is rubble all around. Holds bass and occasional walleye.
There are other campsite options out on North Bay, but wind can keep you ashore. But, shore fishing can be had on North Bay.

Another Basswood option: White Island. Easier to reach than Lost Bay. No portages, and good to great fishing options from boats (many protected bays or behind islands) or shore. Campsites aren't the greatest, but can be found. Wind is a BIG factor 'cause of the open water to the west.

This is all big water and I know you don't really want that, but if the wind isn't a factor, then it's like paddling on a farm pond.

#2. Carp Lake. You don't even portage to Inlet Bay and the Ranger Station. From the landing @ Prairie - come back south and take the first left. Follow Birch Lake to the portage (1/4 mile, flat, but glaciated. Watch your footing on the sliced up rock). Continue East: you'll see a "parting of the ways - stay to the left and aim for a channel with an island in the middle. This is also relatively big water, but you can hide if you must. Paddle through the channel; continue to the next narrowing. Good campsite on the S side of the channel; great fishing in the channel. This is a hiway, but it's fairly convenient, and you can shore fish if the wind comes up. There are more isolated sites on Carp if you choose to move during your visit.

Wind can be a factor on this route, but wind is always a factor. Plan your moves to allow for wind conditions, especially on your return as the prevailing wind direction will be directly in your face. There are campsites on Birch if you need to return early due to weather.

I wouldn't recommend Cache Bay as yet - Silver Falls is a significant portage. There are worse, but this isn't the best way to start off your first trip

Ask your outfitter for other suggestions or clarifications of my suggestions.

Posted by Skip Guyer on January 09, 2001 at 08:43