Summarized Review Highlights
Hearst Air Service, based in Northern Ontario, has built a strong reputation among fly-in fishing and hunting clients over many years. The overwhelming majority of reviews are five stars, with guests frequently returning for multiple trips — some for nearly two decades — and bringing family members or expanding their groups. The operation is run by the Veilleux family, with Melanie and George mentioned repeatedly by name as responsive, organized, and patient with first-time clients. The consistent theme across reviews is that the outfitter delivers exactly what it promises: reliable logistics, well-maintained aircraft (including a turbine Beaver, Otter, and Cessna Caravan), and remote access to lakes that see very little fishing pressure.
Guests consistently praise several specific elements. The fishing is described as exceptional across multiple lakes — walleye, northern pike, and yellow perch are the primary targets, with pike exceeding 40 inches reported at lakes like Napken and Pym Island. One group of three anglers tallied 600 fish in a single week. Cabins are noted as basic but well-equipped, clean, and solid — better than many reviewers expected for such remote locations. Boats and motors receive positive mentions for reliability. Mid-week supply check-ins, including delivery of ice and bait, are appreciated. The staff, including pilots, are called out for being skilled, friendly, and professional. The outfitter also accommodates hunting trips, with a moose hunt group reporting a successful harvest and seamless logistical support. French-speaking guests have also reviewed the service positively, suggesting some bilingual capacity.
Honest caveats from reviews are minor but worth noting. Cabins are rustic and outpost-style — typically three rooms with an external outhouse — which suits some guests perfectly but is worth understanding before booking. Weather in Northern Ontario can be unpredictable; one reviewer noted a bumpy flight due to conditions, and July temperatures can swing cold enough to require a fire. One reviewer mentioned a bear entered partway into the cabin during the night, which is part of the remote wilderness context. Fish size at some lakes skews toward average rather than trophy-sized — walleye in the 13–21 inch range and pike up to 30 inches are common, with larger fish possible but not guaranteed at every lake. This destination is well suited to groups of friends, fathers and sons, couples, and repeat anglers looking for high-volume action in genuine wilderness. It also works well for first-time fly-in guests given the thorough pre-trip communication. Serious trophy pike anglers may want to ask specifically about lakes like Napken or Quantz, which are mentioned as more consistently producing larger fish.
Summary generated May 25, 2026
Read all 14 reviews
Brian S
Aug 1, 2025
TripAdvisor
Great fly in experience
Mel had everything set up and delivered as discussed. Pilots were great and helpful loading and unloading the gear. Fishing was second to none. Lots and lots of action all week long. Cabin was clean and had everything we needed.
Outfitter overall
Michael D
Jul 1, 2019
TripAdvisor
Heart Air Fishing Trip: Sunshine Lake
Just got back from a week of fishing at Sunshine Lake with Hearst Air Service. I took my sons, ages 20 and 17, for their first Canadian fly-in outpost fishing trip. This was our first time with Hearst Air Service. I cannot say enough good things about this outfitter! From the earliest planning to service during the trip, Hearst really delivers. Melanie was great and very helpful in planning. All of the staff are very friendly and welcoming. Our pilot, Ian, was skilled (and very funny) and the aircraft were well maintained. They provide you with all the information needed to plan a successful trip. The equipment at the cabin was first rate. The engines worked every time! The fishing was fabulous. There are many, many fish in this lake. The weather was hot, bright and sunny when we got there. The walleye were a little slow on the bite but then it was cloudy for a couple of days with some rain and the walleye turned on. The pike fishing was great. The average pike were sizable. We caught a number greater than 30 inches. Lost a large pike right at the boat, I would estimate about 45 inches. But we got a good look at it and the fight was amazing. All in all, a great lake to fish. Looking forward to another trip with Hearst in the future. I give this outfitter my highest recommendation. If you're looking for a great trip in Northern Ontario, look no further. Mike DuBartell
This lodge
Mike M
Oct 1, 2016
TripAdvisor
Amazing once-in-a-lifetime (that I will do again!)
Fair Warning - if you do a trip like this, expect to lose your taste for fishing for a while... read more to find out why!
I have always wanted to do a fly-in fishing trip, and this year things just worked out with my dad and brother. We looked at a LOT of outfits, but settled on Hearst because of the great reviews and great pricing.
First off - they are a class act. Professional, friendly, they were nothing but helpful through the entire process. We booked Sunshine lake for late August - kind of a crapshoot weather wise - but they assured us that we would enjoy regardless - and we did!
Melanie put up with several emails and phone calls as a nervous-first-time flyin'er (me) bugged her about all the details - but I will advise you now - there is no need to worry. The cabins are, if anything, OVER outfitted with equipment - just pay attention to what the welcome email says, and you will be golden.
The cabin exceeded my expectations. I have been to many cottage-resorts for fishing - and while it is basic (3 rooms and an external outhouse) it was very well built and solid - unlike some of the shacks in more "civilized" cottage resorts!
What can I say about the fishing? Well, it really ruined fishing for me for the rest of the year. Between 3 people we caught exactly 600 fish during the week (yes we kept track - and you should too!!!) - it was mind blowing. The fish were all about an average size, except the Perch (they were HUGE). Apparently the big fish were off the bite - we were told that there have been some monsters caught there - and while we did not catch monsters, we were never bored fishing! Heading out to the local river to pluck 1 or 2 out over the day now seems pointless in the face of that kind of fishing...
Every hiccup we had was handled perfectly by Hearst (there were a couple - but nothing that ruined the experience by far!)
What was a once-in-a-lifetime has become a quest to introduce more friends to an amazing experience, with an amazing company! I would not hesitate to recommend Hearst to anyone looking for remote, cell-phoneless, fishing.
This lodge
Bill R
Jul 1, 2016
TripAdvisor
Great fly-in fishing
Having flown with Hearst Air many times to different lakes (Hillmer, McLeister, Wanzatika, Napken, Martison, Sunshine), I can unreservedly recommend this outfitter for anyone looking for a memorable fishing trip. The Veillieux family has always provided friendly & efficient service, and the camps, equipment, boats, motors, ... are reliable and in good working order. The log-style outpost cabins are roomy & comfortable, although necessarily basic given their location.
Most lakes offer incredible walleye & pike fishing, yellow perch, and the opportunity for a trophy. Because the fishing is so consistently good, a lot of tackle / gear is unnecessary. Basic light-medium spinning outfits and a M-H bait caster (for pike) will suffice.
Depending on skill / experience levels and personal preferences - big lake or small - Hearst Air has a fishing hole that will satisfy every angler, hunter or vacationer.
Outfitter overall
Jody H
Jul 1, 2016
TripAdvisor
Fly-In Fishing Trip-Outpost Cabin
We had the pleasure of flying with Hearst Air this summer and staying in a log cabin for an entire week. We thoroughly enjoyed our time! The staff were excellent, from the ease of booking the trip, the helpful packing tips, the talented pilots who flew us in and out, and the warm reception upon our return. The cabin was stocked with everything we needed and was a great home-base after our days of fishing. And the fishing! Excellent! This was our second trip with Hearst Air and we won't wait so long to do another. Highly recommended!
Outfitter overall
Rob C
Jan 1, 2016
TripAdvisor
Amazing fishing
I have flown into 5 different lakes with Hearst Air and have loved every spot! It's my personal heaven on earth being out in these remote locations! Just you and the beauty of nature oh and the fantastic fishing of course! Latest trip was too Pym Island in July of 2015 and what a time that was! Find a nice Walleye hole and your in for a shore lunch in noo time! The Pike are voracious and hitting up a calm Bay in the evening with a top water was so intense! Seeing a 40"+ Northern completely jump out of the water to grab a lure is something special! I hope to be back again soon!
Outfitter overall
johndC4750PG
Oct 1, 2015
TripAdvisor
SHORT BUT OH SO SWEET
I have been fortunate to partake in many fly-in hunting and fishing trips over the past 32 years and with many different outfitting services in North and North Western Ontario. With the many years of experience I have had, one thing is for certain, there are great fly-in services and some not so great. What really separates Hearst Air Service from any other that I have dealt with is the customer service, quality of their aircraft, location and doing what they say they would do. With that said, my latest experience was the best I have ever experienced. My wife, daughter and I flew into a small lake with our own gear for a moose hunt. After I made the booking that came available due to a cancellation, I was constantly updated in regards to times for us to arrive, local butchers that would prepare the harvested game if we were lucky enough to harvest one, what to bring etc. and when we did arrive at the base at the designated time of 7.00 a.m., our gear was weighed and loaded and we where off and away as scheduled after being greeted by Melanie and George who I drove crazy with many phone calls leading up to our hunt. Everything was so organized and there was no surprises. Flying depends on weather and our scheduled camp check came as promised and our daughter harvested her first moose on the first day so we decided to come out early and they accommodated our wishes and arrived exactly as scheduled. Stephen the pilot assigned to us was very helpful, friendly and helped calm the nerves of our daughter and was one of the first pilots ever to go over the safety list in regards to emergency exits, life jacket and medical kit locations. Their fleet of aircraft are in great condition with a turbine Beaver, Otter, and Cessna Caravan. This was a spur of the moment holiday that came together after having to cancel a hunt in Quebec due to a family situation. To sum it up, you know how good a business is when you talk to a group of hunters on the dock awaiting their flight in and they have been repeat customers with Hearst Air for 38 years. If you are looking for a great fly-in/outfitting service, look no further, Hearst Air Service is a good as it gets and we cannot wait to go back next year.
Outfitter overall
David M
Jul 1, 2015
TripAdvisor
Great get-away!
Fished Hearst Air for 2nd time with group of eight. Went to Wanzatika Lake both times and had enjoyable time. Went early July both times and caught walleye with a dozen different lures and styles. The pike were also very aggressive. The quantity of both, no one should be able to complain about about. As for the quality, you get what they advertise. Walleye were all between 13-21". Pike were between 8-30" Nothing too big but still fun. Seen 3 bears (one came half way into the cabin one night), a cow Moose & calf, at least 4 bald Eagles flying around, and a Golden Eagle. Melanie and Emily are great to work with. Goerges was fun to fly with. I recommend!
This lodge
Matt M
Aug 1, 2014
TripAdvisor
Outstanding outfitter for remote fly-in fishing outposts
5 guys camped & fished Hillmer for 7 days early Aug 2014. Had a great week of fishing for walleye, pike, and yellow perch. Cabin is very roomy, could accommodate 10, but 4-8 would be ideal. Fridge and stove worked great. Motors were very reliable all week. Boats were fine. Mid week fly-in check was very thorough and delivery of more ice and more nitecrawlers was very appreciated. Melanie and the entire crew at Hearst Air were outstanding!
This lodge
Miconi M
Aug 1, 2014
TripAdvisor
Once you fish those lakes, you'll be back again and again...
My second time going with Hearst Air, 2013 we went to Napken lake this year we chose Hillmer lake. Words can't describe it, you have to experience what's going on up there for your self to fully understand what everybody is talking about...huge pike, walleye and perch. Cabins are more than u can expect from something that is 100-200km from any civilization...camps sites are clean and well taken care of. Boats and motors are in excellent condition. I would recommend Hearst Air to everyone... Call Melanie or George at Hearst Air and experience it your self... We'll see you guys next year! "The Serbian crew"
This lodge
TammiOntario
Aug 1, 2013
TripAdvisor
Heaven on Earth
Back from our 5th trip with Hearst Air...amazing, great bunch of people, looking forward to next year to celebrate my 50th...a little piece of heaven on earth!!!!!!!!
Lots of fishing...walleye, pike and perch. Relaxing, quiet, and fun.
Our first trip was to Hillmer, and the last four years have been to McLeister, next year we are going to Wanzatika Lake, trying somewhere different.
The plane ride is pretty good, but I have to take a little something for motion sickness, but we only ever had one trip where it was bad..the weather made it a little bumpy trip.
I am a woman that likes her girly things and this is a great relaxing trip that women should take with their hubbies.
Check the weather before you go, it was a little chilly, so take extra clothes and blankets, we had a fire on for 4 days in July..but there is nothing like a roaring fire on a cool night.
We loved every minute of our trip...again looking forward to next year.
A good vacation is when you pull out of the parking lot and thinking about next year! Tip: Take bug spray!!!!!!!
This lodge
Blaine K
Sep 1, 2012
TripAdvisor
Heaven Here Now !!!
We have flown out of Hearst Air for nearly 20 years. The fishing is everything that is advertised plus much more. Their service is prompt and reliable. If you are looking for that "once in a life time" walleye, northern pike or trout fishing trip -- Hearst Air is the place to start and end your search. Last year we did the moose hunt out at Pym Island --- four bull tags --four bulls. This year we did a quick 3 day fly In for walleye and pike to Hillmer Lake. Our goal was to catch enough walleye for three fish dinners while in camp and 6 walleyes to take home. We had our goal within an hour and a half of being at Hillmer Lake. So, we just did the "catch and release" for the rest of the three days ... GREAT. Give Melanie V. a call she'll set you up for the best flying fishing trip of your life.
This lodge
The New Fly Fisher (Colin & Bill)
Blog
Hearst Air Service delivers unique experience
If you're looking for honest shots at trophy pike and walleye, Hearst Air has something for you. The 'air service' specializes in delivering anglers to remote lakes rarely seen by other anglers. They will help you pick the lake that best serves your angling needs and deliver you right to the doorstep of your own camp. Two of the more consistent camps trophy pike lakes are Quantz and Napken! This spring Colin and Bill travelled to Napken lake in search of trophy Northerns and they were not disappointed! It was shortly after ice-out and the pike had finished spawning. They were still shallow and on the hunt. Bill and Colin spent a lot of time casting streamers and poppers into dark bottomed shallow bays in search of pike on the prowl. The fishing was so good, even Cameraman Ryan got in on the action! Colin released the big fish of the trip taping out at an incredible 44"!! DIY is truly such a unique experience it really should be on every angler's bucket list. Hearst Air Service are pros at logistics, delivery and safety in their field. They cater to all angling abilities, angler's wishes and have comfortable rustic homes in many lakes in Algoma Country.
This lodge
Pêche miraculeuse en pleine nature
Voyages de pêche les plus beaux, que j'ai fais. Beaucoup de poissons, cabines tout équipé. Beau lac à nous seul. 8 ou neuf lacs avec cabines privées. On peu aussi faire du canot camping sur la rivière Sutton qui mène à la baie d'Hudson. (Poissons, sont du doré, truite saumonée, brochet, perchaude.) en quantité. Le personnel est excellent, très bon service. À faire pour les amateurs de pêche. Ça fait 8 fois que j'y vais et je retourne cette année.
Outfitter overall
