Fort McMurray, Saskatchewan
Self-guided fishing camp on Beet Lake in northwestern Saskatchewan, operating since 1996 with access to six lakes and the Clearwater River.
Forest Lake Outfitters is a non-guided, self-directed fishing camp located in a remote area of northwestern Saskatchewan, north of La Loche and northeast of Fort McMurray. Operating since 1996, the outfitter is run by Bev and Doug, who offer guests two accommodation options: a main lodge on Beet Lake and a separate outpost camp on Forest Lake. The operation covers a concession of six lakes as well as the Clearwater River, giving guests access to over 100 miles of combined shoreline.
Forest, Patterson, Beet, and Naomi Lakes are connected through navigable channels, while Vermeersch and Wickenkamp Lakes are accessible by ATV from the Forest Lake outpost. The camp is structured as a light housekeeping operation, meaning guests are responsible for bringing their own groceries, bedding, tackle, and fishing licenses.
Established: 1996
The operation offers lake and river fishing for four main species: Northern Pike, Walleye, Lake Trout, and Arctic Grayling. Northern Pike average 2 to 10 pounds with catches reported up to 30 pounds, while Walleye reach up to around 7 pounds. Lake Trout up to 10 pounds are found in Beet Lake, and Patterson Lake, at 20 miles long, holds Lake Trout reported to 20 pounds. The Clearwater River, accessed by jet boat, provides fishing for Arctic Grayling, Northern Pike, and Walleye. Grayling are best targeted with dry flies such as black gnats or brown hackle, as well as small jigs and spinners. Trolling and jigging are the primary methods for lake species. The outfitter encourages catch-and-release of trophy fish.
Guests staying at the main Beet Lake lodge receive a 16-foot Lund with a 20-horsepower motor; those at the Forest Lake outpost receive a 14-foot Lund with a 9.9-horsepower engine. One boat is provided per every two guests.
The main camp on Beet Lake consists of three modern light housekeeping cabins situated in a sandy bay on the west shore. Each cabin has two bedrooms with a loft, hot and cold running water, a shower, toilet, fridge, and both propane and wood stoves for cooking and heating. Each cabin accommodates four to six guests. The base camp also includes a freezer room, sauna, and 24-hour power. The Forest Lake outpost camp has separate cabins with 12-volt lighting and propane fridges, along with a shared shower house. Both locations are self-catering; guests must bring their own groceries, bedding, and fishing gear. Boats, motors, and fuel are included in the packages. Satellite phone communication is available at Beet Lake and two-way radio at the Forest Lake outpost.
The lodge is accessible by two methods. Guests can drive in from Meadow Lake, Saskatchewan — a journey of approximately six hours along Highway 955 to a rough 11.5-kilometre trail requiring a pickup truck or SUV. Guests driving in are picked up at the Forest Lake outpost and ferried to the main lodge by pontoon boat. Alternatively, guests can fly in by float plane from the float base in downtown Fort McMurray, approximately 100 statue miles away and about one hour by air. Float plane charters through McMurray Aviation are available in Cessna 206 (four passengers) or Caravan (eight passengers) configurations, and arranging flights is the responsibility of the guest.
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