Five stars isn't enough for this crew. We fish with Craig at Lake Vermilion Fishing Guides just…read moreabout every year, and our Boundary Waters trips into Basswood are the ones we talk about all winter. From the first phone call he asks the right questions about what you want out of the day, then builds the whole trip around it. Getting into the BWCA on your own takes real planning, but Craig handles all of it, and once you're out there you've got world-class fishing with almost nobody around. He reads the water, adjusts constantly, and genuinely cares that everyone on board catches fish. He handles the big fish with real care too, quick photos and healthy releases. This is what a professional guide service should be. We're already planning next year's trip.

I don't have enough great things to say about Steve and Ginny and the rest of the crew at Spirit of…read morethe Wilderness. We were out on Knife Lake on Tuesday July 14 2026 (the day of the closure and evacuation of the wilderness). I had rented a one way Spot and picked up my permit from Spirit. Unfortunately with the device we had no one could communicate with us, but the crew at Spirit was tracking us and keeping everyone back home aware of our situation. After we got back into Ely, they even offered a bunkhouse for us to stay the night before heading home.

We spent 4 wonderful days and 3 nights in the BWCA with an amazing guide, Dave Freeman, whose…read moreknowledge, experience, and hospitality made this a trip an experience of a lifetime. Due to his extensive time in the BWCA he knew each river, lake, portage path, and campsite. He carefully chose our daily route based on our needs and the water and weather conditions. Dave taught us about the animals we saw and heard. He also provided tips on canoeing. And each wilderness meal he prepared was delicious. We traveled from California to visit Lake Superior and knew we wanted to experience the beauty of the Boundary Waters wilderness with experienced guides. After some research, we chose Ely Outfitting Company and were so glad we did. The Ely Outfitter team helped us select a route and guided us through the permit process. They were always available for questions or revisions via email and phone calls. We chose the fully guided option as we were flying in and didn't want to hassle with all the equipment. From the thoroughness of the gear provided to the menu that the Ely Outfitting team put together based on our selections, the experience came off without a hitch. We highly recommend booking a trip with the Ely Outfitting Company. We're already considering how and when we might return to travel this magical place with Ely Outfitters.

Ely Outfitting Company should be your only choice for any Boundary Waters Canoe Area adventure…read more I recently booked a fully outfitted, professionally guided trip through EOC, and every aspect was exceptional. The gear was top-of-the-line, well-maintained, and spotlessly clean--tents, sleeping bags, pillows, all of it! The food was plentiful, delicious, and offered a surprising variety for a backcountry trip. What truly sets EOC apart, though, is the people. Amy in the office was kind, responsive, and efficient--before, during, and after our trip. The outfitting team that got us set up and checked us in afterward was equally friendly, knowledgeable, and professional. And then there's our guide, Dave Freeman. I expected a skilled and experienced leader when I heard he was a National Geographic Explorer of the Year--but that title alone doesn't capture how perfect he was for our family. This trip was a memorial journey to honor our dad, and we had some very specific hopes for the experience. Dave truly listened and helped us make every part of it meaningful. He kept us safe, made it fun, and became part of our family along the way... even if he does cheat at Uno. Ely Outfitting Company--and especially Dave Freeman--are the absolute best in the BWCA. I wouldn't go with anyone else.

Been renting cabin for years. Entire family goes there. Bruce takes care of us at the cabin. It…read moreis quiet and easy assess to the lake. Great fishing. They also have camping spaces and RV spaces

My Boy Scout troop had an amazing experience in the Boundary Waters (June 2025) with the fantastic…read morehelp from Canoe Country Outfitters. From taking care of our permits, to preparing our gear, food, and everything, CCO was the best from start to finish. They made planning the trip so easy for my group. The food they provided us for 1 week in the Boundary Waters was great and easy to carry and prepare. At the end of our trip when one bag was left at the final portage, Brian took a boat back and found it for us. What amazing service and care! Thank you to the whole CCO team for organizing our trip.

We found Voyageur North via yellow pages years ago. We've been coming back every few years…read morewithout even checking other outfitters. The new owner maintains the torch-of-excellence. It has to be 25+ years and 2023 was my 7th trip. Every single trip has been spectacular in one way or another, from newsworthy storms to unprecedented heat and cold and wind and even the good weather. here are a few pointers: * Voyageur North are authentic. They're not wearing $80.00 tshirts that say outdoors. The whole crew is out in the BWCA every free minute. Look at their hands. * Decide and work with them on the trip YOU want and they'll make it great. Go full Monty with food or just take ride service. Rent some extra stuff if needed. They'll do it. Summer trips can vary from expedition treks to relaxing base camping to fishing to all else. Example. If you're a cooler, hammock and inflatable toy camper, pick base camp and day trip. We are remote types so they helped us streamline the pack and find a lake for ourselves. * They won't upsell anything. If you need something you might need to ask. * Let them help pick the right permit. Call in winter to make summer plans to get better choice. Popular permits might not be what you need for your trip. * If you're a good fisher, then bonus. You're in good hands. They will do that expert fishermen-talking-codeword stuff. We are amateurs. I followed their expert advanced PhD instructions to capture a giant toothy flapping trophy fish on a pointy, very pointy lure - out of my league. now I know. my bad, not theirs. fish lived thank goodness. My fingers will heal. *these folks are not nags. Follow the rules to keep BWCA weird, rare and beautiful. HOPE THIS HELPS R.

Absolute BEST outfitter in Ely, they take care of you completely, any issues, they will fix them…read more!!!! H I G H L Y recommend for any and ALL your outfitting needs in the BWCAW!!!

Best outfitters ever. Been going to the same place for 30 years. Will keep going back. Everything…read moreis high-quality, especially the canoes.

This is the best outfitter in Ely. We have been coming here for a very long time and they still…read moretake great care of us. I went out for a 3 day with my 8 year old son and we had everything we needed to have a safe and fun time. I highly recommend Canadian Waters.

Great customer service! The canoes were in perfect condition and the people take pride in their…read morework here! Would definitely recommend to people coming to the boundary waters!

Cliff Wolds made our boundary waters trip the best trip ever! We had exactly what we needed and…read morePLENTY of food! They were so friendly and gave us advice that we were so thankful for! Cliffs is the way to go!

First of all, there's very little "Surplus" here, as during my recent visit, the merchandise looked…read moreall well stocked and new. The person at the counter subsequently informed me that the current owner kept the name when it was purchased from the previous occupant. Nonetheless, I found what I needed quickly, thought the price was reasonable, and was pleased both as I left, and subsequently when I put them to use. What did I buy? Knee high rubber boots. Our Moose Track Adventures canoe trip guide had a pair on that I admired, and since I needed a pair for an upcoming trip to the Peruvian Amazon, that was good enough for me. At the end of the Amazon trip, we were asked whether we wished to donate the boots. I liked the fit, comfort, and versatility of my LaCrosse boots so much that I declined in favor of my next Earthwatch adventure.

An excellent place to go for the basics when you're up north. Every time I'm in Ely, I swing by…read more Prices are generally better than your typical REI, etc. Not exactly what I would call "surplus" since most of the items seem to be new. The space is also pretty small, so it can seem cramped with other people in the store.