Enjoy world-class fishing at Totem Resorts

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 09/08/2021 (1811 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Did you know the largest fishing resort in North America is a mere three-hour drive from Winnipeg?

Totem Resorts is made up of four distinct fishing properties under one banner, with each situated in an outstanding Lake of the Woods location where world-class fishing experiences are the catch of the day.

Owned and operated by the Brown family for the past 43 years, Totem Resorts on the edge of Sioux Narrows has quietly cultivated multiple generations of good times, traditions, and trophy fish. The list of species found along the 105,000 kilometres of Lake of the Woods shoreline and around the nearly 15,000 islands includes pickerel, northern pike, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, lake trout, muskie, and crappie.

Totem Resorts takes pride in being the only five-star-rated resort in all of northwestern Ontario. Its goal has always been to make their resorts exclusive, comfortable and affordable. Guests can spoil themselves in the woods with lavish cabins, top-of-the-line amenities and superb services such as customized all-inclusive packages, professionally-guided or self-guided fishing, hunting and trap shooting, fly-out backwoods adventures, and more. Their impressive variety of accommodations can host large groups and events, while still catering to small gatherings, families, and couples getaways.

The main resort, Totem Lodge, is the largest of the four properties and sets the standard that visitors have become accustomed to. The 20 private cabins are nestled along the waterfront among a backdrop of pine trees, each with outdoor deck, modern four-piece bathroom, full kitchen or kitchenette, satellite TV, air conditioning, and fireplace. The white sandy beaches feature Adirondack chairs, floating docks, and the use of paddleboards and canoes. There is a restaurant open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and a Cheers-like bar where exactly 30 years ago I spent one unforgettable summer pretending to be a bartender.

Next door, at Yellowbird Lodge and Chalet you’ll discover old world charm in rustic surroundings, complete with panoramic views. The most exclusive property of the four, Yellowbird is open year-round and is ideal for weddings, conferences, or for those just looking to be pampered. The combination of lodge, chalet and cabin accommodations and gourmet meals made from scratch with local, fresh ingredients by the on-site chef create an atmosphere that is both casual and upscale and always exceptional.

Nestled in the heart of Lake of the Woods and accessible only by boat of floatplane, Wiley Point Lodge is the epitome of deluxe wilderness lodges. Unsurpassed fishing is imminent at this secluded angler’s paradise, whether you are master or amateur. Theme nights at the main lodge range from cook-your-own-steak to group pig roasts, with activities like shuffleboard, darts, pool table, or taking in sports on the lodge’s big screen TV. The spacious deluxe cabins even have outdoor decks with hot tubs, and the on-site fitness facility lets you get a workout in even while on vacation.

The French Portage Outpost, also accessible by boat or floatplane, is located 20 minutes south of Wiley Point. This remote, stand-alone cabin is in the middle of muskie territory, surrounded by the beauty of untouched nature, and is also equipped with five-star amenities. Up to 10 guests can stay here, and you can bring your own boat or rent one from Totem Resorts.

One of my favourite memories of that long-ago summer spent working at Totem Lodge has to be the shore lunches. A truly unique rite of passage, there’s nothing quite like relaxing at a gorgeous cookout spot somewhere on stunning Lake of the Woods while your handy guide does it all — starts the fire, fillets your catch, and cooks up a delicious feast of freshly battered fish, potato hash, baked beans, and yummy dessert. It’s definitely an experience you don’t want to miss.

And definitely one I have never forgotten.