Great Lakes Bass Fishing Forum

i'm looking for a place to stay for a week in late june -early july that's not too crowded, rice lake is full of amish at this time so looking for something closer.
 
i live in northern indiana and want to mostly catch smallies, thanks guys

I've stayed at Island View Resort in International Falls, MN on Rainy Lake several times. We would rent a cabin & boat for a week and usually 4-6 would make the trip. We always went in mid-late May. Great fishing very close to the resort for smallies, walleye, & pike. We also ventured into the Canadian side of the lake on most days since it's also very close to the resort. Of course we would always bring a ton of gear with us, but looking back at our trips, I would bet 75% of all the fish & species we caught were taken on jerkbaits and the olive green rapala x-rap always seemed to produce for us. Over the trips we've taken, we've caught a 29" walleye, 42" pike, nearly 7 pound smallie, and a master angler sized crappie. I really enjoyed these trips because you never really knew what species was tugging on the other end and we always caught a lot of fish. I know the resort would pick us up at the airport and I believe the boats were standard Lund 16' with 40hp outboards, trolling motors, & fish finder. Last time I was there was almost 10 years ago so not sure how much has changed but might be worth checking out.

If SM is your forte check out Lake Simcoe Cabin Rentals near Orillia. Simcoe is similar to St Clair in size so lots of room to spread out. And it's probably one of your best chances to catch some truly trophy sized fish. Many say it's better than Erie & St Clair if that gives you some indication of it's potential.

A couple places I've always wanted to go to!