2017 Sport Show Shedule

Spirit of the Wilderness Canoe Outfitters will be at Sport Shows in March & April. This is a great time to get some face to face BWCA trip planning with us. We are happy to help plan and book your 2017 summer BWCA canoe trip at any of the shows. 

We will have seminars at all the shows. Watch for reminder posts on Facebook about the seminar dates and times. 

Sport Show & Seminar Schedule:

• Canoecopia - Alliant Energy Center in Madison, WI - March 10-12, 2017, Booth #N11
• Friday, March 10 - 5:30pm - Fishing the BWCA
• Friday, March 10 - 7:30pm - Packing and PLanning for a BWCA Canoe Trip
• Sunday, March 12 - 11:30am - Fishing the BWCA
• Sunday, March 12 - 1:30pm - BWCA Sites to Visit
• The Ultimate Sport Show - Devos Place in Grand Rapids, MI - March 16-19, 2017, Booth #1300
• Seminars to be announced
• The Great Waters Fly Fishing Expo - Hamline University in St. Paul, MN - March 17-19, 2017, Booth #19
• Saturday, March 18 - 3:45pm & 4:45pm - Fly Fishing the BWCA
• The Northwest Sport Show - Minneapolis COnvention Center in Minneapolis, MN - March 23-26, 2017, Booth #637
• Friday, March 24 - 1pm - Unique BWCA Sites to Visit
• Sunday, March 26, Noon - What to Pack for your BWCA Canoe Trip
• Midwest Moutaineering Outdoor Adventure Expo - Midwest Mountaineering in Minneapolis, MN April 28-30, 2017
• Seminars to be announced

Can't make it to a show? Call us at 218-365-3189 or 800-950-2709 or email us at info@elycanoetrips.com.

BWCA permit lottery Deadline for 2017

Tomorrow, January 11, 2017 is the last day to submit your application for the BWCA Permit Lottery.

   

This is the time to submit a lottery permit application for Moose Lake and Fall Lake Overnight Motor permits, Day Use Motor Permits and Overnight Paddling Permits.  The deadline to get your permit applicaiton in is Wednesday, January 11, 2017.  

If you want a motor permit for this summer you will need to enter the permit lottery by tomorrow.

Spirit of the Wilderness can correctly submit your lottery applications.  Just give us a call today or tomorrow.

All other BWCA overnight paddling permits can be reserved starting 9 AM central time on Wednesday, January 25th, 2017.

Contact Spirit of the Wilderness at 218-365-3149 or 800-950-2709  OR email us at info@elycanoetrips.com

2017 Sportshows Spirit of the Wilderness will attend

March 16-19, 2017 - Ultimate Sport Show Grand Rapids in Grand Rapids, MI 

- Come visit our booth and talk about your trip. 

- Watch for updates on seminars we will be doing

March 10-12, 2017 - Canoecopia Paddle Sport Show in Madison, WI 

-We will have a booth & ready to book your BWCA & Quetico adventures for the summer.

- Steve & Ginny will be giving a couple seminars - Fishing the BWCA, Top 10+ Unique BWCA Sites to Visit & Packing and Planning for a BWCA canoe trip.

March 23-26, 2017 - Northwest Sport Show in Minneapolis, MN

-Stop by the booth for great early BWCA trip booking deals.

- Steve will again be presenting a seminar about BWCA trips - to be confirmed.

April 28-30, 2017 - Midwest Outdoor Expo - Midwest Mountaineering in Minneapolis, MN

- Seminars to be confirmed

Summer BWCA Outfit Special

With plenty of fish to catch and other wildlife to see, the BWCA is the perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors. Start your wilderness adventure in Ely, MN, canoe capital of the upper Midwest. Easy access to a place where you can listen to the silence and slow down the pace of life.

Spirit of the Wilderness is offering a 3 day 2 night complete outfitted canoe trip in the beautiful Boundary Waters.

• Only $225 plus tax per person! 

This special offer includes but is not limited to:

• Straps, pads and the loading of your canoe
• Kevlar canoe, yoke with pads, life jackets and paddles
• Food, cook kit and utinsils, stove with fuel and dining tarp
• Tent, sleeping bags and pads
• Additional days available at a discounted rate

Limitations:

• There must be a minimum of 2 people
• BWCA permit and usage fees are not included
• Reservation with deposit are required
• Must start trip by September 30, 2016
• Black-out dates July 24 - August 13, 2016

The Boundary Waters is Calling You!

Call today and let Spirit of the Wilderness, Ely MN outfit you for a exciting summer canoe or hiking trip in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area.

Ph: 218-365-3149 or 800-950-2709

email: info@elycanoetrips.com

How has the Boundary Waters Affected You?

How has the Boundary Waters affected you? Many of our guests comment on the positive effect traveling the BWCA has on them.

1865 landscape architect Fredrick Law Olmstead looked out over the Yosemite Valley and saw a place worth saving. He urged the California legislature to protect it. He was convinced green space should exist for all people to enjoy. "It is scientific fact" he wrote, "that the occasional contemplation of natural scenes of an impressive character...is favorable to the health and vigor of men and especially to the health and vigor of their intellect." Don't know about the science basis, but I'm sure it is not only men that receive a benefit.

Join us this summer for another wilderness adventure starting at Spirit of the Wilderness Outfitters, Ely MN

Used Canoes, Kayaks & SUP Board Sale - October 2015

End of the season used kevlar canoe, kayak 

and Stand Up Paddle Board sale

Spirit of the Wilderness has a number of Wenonah and Bell Northstar kevlar reconditioned canoes as well as Current Design kayaks for sale. 

Each canoe has been properly prepared and coated with the correct resin...the type the canoes are made of!  Not a spar varnish that will peel and flake off within 1-2 years. 

Using the correct resin ensures longevity of the canoe and provides a protective coat over scratches that occurred when the canoes were used for rental. Our reconditioning will last the average paddler 5 - 8 years. Whereas a spar varnish will last 1-2 years, at best.

Wenonah canoes:

• Minnesota IIs, 
• Spirit IIs, 
• Boundary Waters
• Champlains
• Solo canoes; Prism and Encounter
• 3-seated Senecas and Minnesota 3

Bell Northstar canoes:

• Northwind 17
• Magic

Current Design kayaks:

• Kestral 120
• Kestral 140 w/rudder

Call Spirit of the Wilderness today at 800-950-2709 for pricing and 

reserve your kevlar canoe or kayak today

Flexible payment plans available

Stand Up Paddle (SUP) Boards are also available for sale. Used 1 or 2 seasons, lengths include:
10 ft 6 inch, 11 ft 6 inch, 12 ft 6 inch. Styles include RAVE Sport Lake Cruiser and RAVE Sport Touring  models. Priced well under suggested retail.

Call Spirit of the Wilderness today at 

800-950-2709 or email us at info@elycanoetrips.com

October hours: 8 am - 5 pm daily

Travel the Boundary Waters - Fall Special 3 days / 2 nights

The Boundary Waters is calling you!  

Fall is one of the best kept secrets for canoeing or hiking the BWCA of northern Minnesota;

• Warm days, cool nights
• Fewer people than mid-summer
• Good fishing
• Hear the call of loons, see wildlife
• And more…

The BWCA is one of the top 50 places in the world National Geographic recommends you visit in your lifetime.


Start your wilderness adventure in Ely MN, canoe capital of the upper Midwest . Easy access to a place where you can listen to the silence and slow down the pace of life.


Spirit of the Wilderness Outfitter/Outdoor Store is ready to outfit your needs and help you make lifetime memories.

Experience the wilderness for 3 days/2 nights with a complete outfitting package at a reduced rate. Spirit of the Wilderness is ready to serve you and help you make lifetime memories of a Boundary Waters adventure.

3 Days/ 2 Nights Complete Outfitted Canoe Trip

• $199.00 per person, minimum 2 people (regularly $285.00/person)

Includes:

• Kevlar canoe, life jackets, paddles, food (2 breakfast,3 lunch, 2 dinners), packs, tent, sleeping bags w/pads, cook kit w/utensils, stove w/fuel, matches, TP, water filter, detailed map and more.
• BWCA permit and usage fees not included
• Trip must start after August 16 and end by October 31, 2015
• No other discounts apply
• A $100.00 deposit per person required to confirm reservation
• Additional days available at discount rate

           

Call today and let Spirit of the Wilderness, Ely MN outfit you for a Fall canoe or hiking trip in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area.

Ph: 218-365-3149 or 800-950-2709

email: info@elycanoetrips.com

Secret Shopper Visits Ely, October 2014

We had a secret shopper in our store today inspecting fishing rods. A very discriminate buyer. She clearly knew her fishing rods and what to look for. She liked our selection of G Loomis, Shimano, Fenwick and other name brands.  However, she commented on the great seats we provide to our customers. Our shopper is Sadie Ann, 11 months old, and our #2 granddaughter. 

Visit Spirit of the Wilderness Outfitters & Bait Shop for all your Boundary Waters fishing needs. Located at 2030 E. Sheridan St, Ely MN.

New Lake One Campsites, Sept 2014

The USFS just announced two new campsites have been developed on Lake One; SW corner of section 15 and north central area of section 22. See fisher map #F31 cutout below.

September into October is a great time to visit and travel the Boundary Waters. there a fewer people, Few if any bugs and the fishing is good. start your mornings off in your jacket and be in shirt sleeves by afternoon. We are also coming up to the most colorful time in northern Minnesota with maples, oak, birch and ash trees changing colors.

Spirit of the Wilderness Outfitters and Outdoor Store will be open until mid-October. Our hours will change as the day's sunlight shortens. Checkout our great end-of-the-season sales on Columbia sportswear and footwear, TEVA sandals,  BWCA sweatshirts and T-shirts and more.

Used canoes & gear
End of the season is a great time for picking up some used gear. We offer quality gear that is not junk; Granite Gear packs, Alps and Kelty tents, life jackets, wood bentshaft paddles, kevlar canoes, SUP boards, Canaks and more.  Call for pricing and availability.

Spirit of the Wilderness Outfitters and Outdoor Store. 2030 E. Sheridan Street Ely MN

Phone:218-365-3149 or 800-950-2709.
Email: info@elycanoetrips.com
www.elycanoetrips.com.\
www.BWCAshop.com

Boundary Waters Rescue June 12, 2014

A successful rescue in the BWCA was done on Thursday by DNR, St Louis and Lake County, USFS, and Latorell Outfitter staff. Thank you to all who responded. Check out this report from a Duluth TV reporter.

http://www.wdio.com/article/stories/S3472797.shtml?cat=10335

This is a prime example of why everyone should wear their life jackets every time they are in a boat, canoe, kayak, SUP board and other watercraft. Also, with high gusting winds and crossing big water, it is okay to wait out the high winds until they die down. Be safe to travel the wilderness again!

Live Bait at Spirit of the Wilderness

We are now stocking Super Jumbo Leeches as well as mixed size (ungraded), large, and jumbos. Buy them by the dozen, 1/2 lb or l lb quantities. Spirit of the Wilderness is your only Ely location for Super Jumbos Leeches.

Our minnow selection continues to be excellent with Fathead Chubs, Shiners, Pike Suckers, Light Northern Suckers, Heavy Northern Suckers and our popular Walleye Mix; combination of fatheads, shiners and pike suckers. Even the area guides are choosing this combination.

Our night crawlers are plump and active. We repack them in Fat & Sassy pre-moistened bedding that keeps them fresh and living longer. We package them in dozens, 4-dozen boxes, 1/2 flats as well as flats.

Bait Happy Hour
Be sure to stop in for bait happy hour (hic!) Tuesday and Wednesday 5-8pm. Buy 2 dozen live bait, mix or match, get 1 dozen at no charge.

Call us at 1-800-950-2709 if you want to have us set aside a quantity of leeches, minnows or night crawlers and we will have them ready for your arrival. Or stop in at our shop 6 am - 9 pm daily.

Good fishing and see you in Ely soon.

Mid-october in the BWCA...don't miss it!

Spent a few hours on Bass lake to Low lake yesterday and the leaf colors were still good, the waters were smooth as glass. I was the only one on the lake except for 2 young loons. They flapped their wings as I got close to them and wailed a bit as if to say "we're here for a few more days and then flying south."

The portage from the Echo Trail to Bass lake is about 270 rods, wide and easy to walk. Took about 15 minutes as I needed to stop to enjoy the colors and smell the Fall leaves.Used a Wenonah Canak. You should try this boat sometime. Easy to carry with a pedestal yoke, weighs 42 lbs, center sliding seat and has excellent glide. I used a kayak paddle. The Canak tracks fairly straight, easy to maneuver.

Have you canoed, kayaked or hike the BWCA this time of the year? There are less people, no bugs, the crisp air is so refreshing, the juncos (birds) will be skittering along the shoreline guiding you as you move, eagles and loons are still here. One does have to come prepared for a change in the weather. Bring hats, gloves, warm socks, jacket, and step gingerly at the portages trying to keep your feet dry.

Canak - not a canoe/not a kayak

Bass lake

Dry Falls

Spiny Waterfleas confirmed in Shagawa Lake, Ely MN

Spiny waterfleas, an invasive species, have been confirmed in Shagawa lake as reported by the Ely Echo newspaper September 14.

Here are a few notable points made in the article;

Samples were confirmed by the MN DNR. Spiny Waterflea is a small planktonic crustacean that competes with small fish for food of microscopic animal plankton. The waterflea is not eaten by small fish.

Rich Rezanka, DNR aquatic invasive species specialist said "It is critical for anglers to remove spiny waterfleas from all equipment because their eggs can live out of water for more than 12 hours and be transported to other waters." When populations are high, anglers can experience frustration with masses of spiny waterfleas clogging fishing and downrigging lines and other equipment

Burntside lake, upstream from Shagawa, was designated infested in 2010. Shagawa and Fall Lakes will now be added to the list of infested waters. There is the likelihood of infestation spread.

Due to the discovery of spiny waterfleas bait harvest for any purpose is prohibited in Shagawa and Fall lakes.

Be sure to remove all aquatic plants, zebra mussels, and other prohibited invasive species, drain water from all water equipment including bait containers, drain bilges and livewells by removing the drain plug before leaving the boat landing.

Used Kevlar Canoe Sale; August - September, 2013

We are selling a number of our kevlar canoes used 1-4 seasons. These include Wenonah and Bell brands.

Wenonah

• Spirit II
• Minnesota II
• Champlain
• Boundary Waters
• Seneca (3 person)

Bell Works

• Northwind 
• Seliga 

Canoes are priced according to the amount of use and condition. Prices range from $1500-$1800.


Call Spirit of the Wilderness Outfitters today at 800-950-2709 or email us at info@elycanoetrips.com for availability.

Check out this video

 A. Martin from the Chicago area shared this video of his recent solo trip entering at Fall Lake and traveling up through Newton into Pipestone. A solo trip is an unique adventure. Looks like this was a trip that made lifetime memories.

https://www.dropbox.com/s/a0fbo5g6452wux7/Voice-Over%20Test%20%20-%20Mobile.m4v

Share your story
do you have a Boundary Waters adventure you want to share? Email it along with any photos or video to Spirit of the Wilderness Outfitters, Ely, MN at: info@elycanoetrips.com . If we publish it on our blog we will send you a Spirit of the Wilderness  t-shirt as a thank you for your contribution. We will be sending A. Martin a t-shirt this week.

Moose Sighting in the BWCA

It is such a thrill to see a moose these days especially since the numbers are declining so quickly in Minnesota. Patricia Perone, a customer of Spirit of the Wilderness, stopped in and she told about a moose encounter near Island River entry point (#34) near Isabella Lake, as she and her partner were kayaking. They heard a large crash and stopped paddling to hear and see what was coming through the woods at them. A moose came rushing through the woods headed for the water...nothing was going to stop her! The flies were covering her back and biting her. She was determined to make it into the water for relief.

As this all unfolded, Patricia was quick enough to snap some action shots. Thank you Patricia for sharing your adventure. Great shots.

Send us your story
Email us your Boundary Waters wildlife encounter or canoeing story and photos to Spirit of the Wilderness Outfitters at info@elycanoetrips.com. If we publish it on our blog we will send you a Spirit of the Wilderness T-shirt as a complimentary thank you.  Be sure to include your name, address, phone number, and shirt size.

Used canoe sale

Be the proud owner of a Spirit of the Wilderness 

kevlar canoe this year

Are you looking to purchase a used kevlar this Fall?  Look to Spirit of the Wilderness, Ely Mn for your first and last stop when shoppig for a used kevlar canoe. We recondition our kevlar canoes the right way...we use the right resin, no spar varnish! You will be proud to own and use a canoe bought from Spirit of the Wilderness.

Kevlar canoes come with ash carrying yoke w/pads, internal skid plates,external skid plates when needed, new coat of resin on outside, all rivots are tight, and Minnesota registration.


Wenonah kevlar canoes available:

• Spirit II
• Champlain
• Boundary Waters
• Minnesota II
• Minnesota 3

 Bell Works kevlar available;

• Northwind
• Seliga

To hold a canoe we request a $300.00 deposit. Canoes will be released for pick up after September 2. Canoes can be transported to the Twin Cities area for an additional $25.00 transportation fee.

Call 800-950-2709 or email: info@elycanoetrips.com for pricing and availability.

Spend Time in the Boundary Waters

Two Fall Specials as Seen in the Star Tribune

August - September 30, 2013

Call Spirit of the Wilderness, Ely MN, today to reserve your

Boundary Waters Adventure

Hegman Lake Pictographs

Special #1
3 days / 2 night Complete Outfitted BWCA Canoe Trips
Ideal for a long weekend in the Boundary Waters, a quick fishing trip or a family outing

$199.00 per person (regularly $290.00)




  Includes:

• kevlar canoe w/wood bentshaft paddles, life jackets, carrying yoke w/pads, straps and pads to attach onto your vehicle for transporting to entry point
• 7 meals while on the trail: 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners + snacks
• Sleeping bags w/thermorest pads
• Tents
• Packs
• Cook kit w/utencils
• Stove w/fuel
• Dining tarp
• Matches, TP, water filter and more

Limitations

• Must reserve outfitting in advance of BWCA entry permit date (allows us to have everything ready for your arrival)
• USFS BWCA permit and usage fees additional
• Maximum 9 people/4 water craft to a permit
• Trip must start no later than September 30, 2013
• No additional discounts apply
• Additional days available at regular rate

 ----------------------------------------------

Special #2
BWCA Canoe Rental

Rent either kevlar or aluminum canoe for 2 days, get third day FREE (must rent 2 or more canoes)

Includes:

• Kevlar or aluminum canoe
• Paddles, life jackets, carrying yoke w/pads
• Straps and pads to attach canoes to your vehicle for transporting to entry point

Limitations

• Must rent 2 or more canoes for same trip
• Rental days must be consecutive
• Advanced reservation required
• USFS BWCA permit and usage fees additional

Call Spirit of the Wilderness, Ely MN today to reserve your

Boundary Waters Adventure

800-950-2709 or email: info@elycanoetrips.com

New product - Darn Tough Socks

We have been looking for a high quality sock that is comfortable to wear, has a great fit and looks good.  Darn Tough socks is a good choice. I have been wearing them for the past two month (Yes, I do change into clean ones) and they have lived up to everything the manufacturer claims. 

Darn Socks comes with a manufacturer unconditional lifetime guarantee..."If you can wear these socks out, we will replace them. Free of charge. No questions asked. For life. When you're really serious about something you make it yourself."

According to the manufacturer website:

Made in Vermont   We live and work in Vermont. Our backyard is the perfect testing ground to make the finest Premium All Weather Performance Socks. We ski, snowboard, hike, bike and run in the most unforgiving climate in the lower 48. It is under these conditions that we design, test and manufacture our socks.
High Density Knitting   More knit stitches per inch equates to durability and cushioning without bulk.
Performance Fit  From form fitting toe boxes to sculpted heel pockets and knit-in elastic support at the arch, our knitting techniques produce the finest fitting performance sock available.
Merino Wool Our custom count, shrink treated Merino wool enhances the comfort and durability that outdoor enthusiasts have come to expect from this fiber.
Coolmax®  Because wool is not for everyone. We use an exclusive Coolmax® blend to create a sock with exceptional softness, durability and superior moisture management.
Full Cushion  Full Cushion socks have dense terry loops that surround the entire foot creating maximum cushioning and warmth without bulk.
Cushion  For those who prefer a sock with less cushioning. Our cushion socks have dense terry loops on the bottom of the foot producing cushioning and warmth without bulk.
Ultra-light  Flat jersey construction to meet the demands of both the shell-fit customer and the Nordic athlete.
Mesh  Open knit mesh construction is lightweight and extremely breathable. It's one fast sock.
Ribbed Knit  Form fitting to the contours of your calf, shin and ankle ensuring a custom fit.
Ribbed Ankle Support  No Slipping. No Bunching. Helps prevent blisters.
Elastic Arch Support   Knit into the arch of all of our socks to provide added endurance.
Ring Toe Construction  Terry loops surrounding the toe create a comfortable invisible seam.

Spirit of the Wilderness Outdoor store and Outfitters, Ely, MN carries a wide selection of Darn Socks and other outdoor clothing and camping gear for you wilderness adventure. Open 6am-9pm daily for you convenience.

May 8, 2013 Ice Out report from US Forest Service

                 Superior National Forest Ice Update

                                                                        May 8, 2013

                                                                       

Current Ice Conditions:

From FS pilots: They flew a west patrol yesterday from Jackfish west and south to Birch and Vermilion Lakes.

•       Everything was still frozen. Many lakes were still frozen right to the shoreline. 
•       Fall Lake had the most open water around the edges but was still 80% ice covered. 
•     Birch, Vermilion, Burntside, western Basswood including Pipestone and Jackfish Bays, S. Farm, and White Iron were frozen. 
•       There was a little open water near the bridge on the northern end of White Iron and a little open water on the southeast end.

Reports from others:

•         Rivers are running hard but the lakes are not open. 
•          Some people are venturing out over the ice (very dangerous!) only to find themselves confronting more ice. 
•          A few smaller lakes are very black and may open with rain or wind. 
•          Sawbill Lake had 23 inches of ice on it yesterday.

Sorry to spread such cold, hard news.