A Railway to Fishing Heaven & A Ride in Algoma

Happy Long Weekend! Not only are we excited about a 3-day weekend but we've got 2 fantastic travel stories we want to share with you!
 
The first is a train-in fishing story written by The Fish'n Canada Show entitled "Train to Algoma: A Railway to Fishing Heaven". Below is an exerpt from the story.

Ang Viola of Fish'n Canada with a beautiful Speckled Brook Trout.

...
Walleye, Northern Pike and Speckled Trout are our favorite species from these lodges along the line with the Walleye and Specks being our top 2 (simply personal choices). The unique thing about these 2 Algoma species is that the Trout which you would normally suspect as a colder water fish than the Walleye should be farther to the north. Not so...and in fact, the Speck fishing in the southern portion of Algoma rivals almost any other Canadian destination for this painterly species. Imagine taking a train-in fishing trip and having a great chance at a true 5lb Algoma Brookie??? Well people, it's a reality.
... 

Now the second story is for our motorcycle riders who are looking for a fantastic weekend of touring (and perfect for this weekend!). Check out "The 2013 Ontario Motorcycle Tour of the Year: The Grand Algoma" written by Mike Jacobs. And of course we have a teaser exerpt of the story: 

Riding Hwy 129 Mississagi Valley.

... 
Highway 129 continues north through several provincial parks until it meets Highway 101 just south of Chapleau. It's worth a stop in town for lunch at the classic diner Gus's Family Restaurant. Explore the area's logging and railway history at the Museum, then head west on Highway 101 to Wawa. If it's a hot one, stop at Potholes Provincial Park to soak your feet in the ice cold river.

In Wawa, plan to spend at least an hour at Young's General Store, chockablock full of intriguing gift ideas, local snacks, fishing accessories, and a giant pickle barrel. It's a must-see, from the stuffed moose on the porch to the jalapeno fudge. And don't forget to snap a photo at the iconic Goose on your way out of town. If you choose to stay the night, the Wawa Motor Inn offers motel style accommodation or private housekeeping cabins, and caters to riders with a newly paved parking lot.
... 

You can read the rest of the stories on the Northern Portal e-zine at www.northernontario.travel/algoma-country

Happy May Long Weekend everyone! Remember to get out and enjoy Ontario's incredible outdoor adventures! :)

Smelts Starting to Run in Algoma

Lake Lauzon Resort in Blind River just broke with the latest news on Facebook that the smelts are running and we thought we would share. Smelt fishing is a special treat each year in Northern Ontario. 

If you are new to smelt fishing, below are some tips to help you get started: 

• Smelts run in shallow, sandy beach areas, or areas with small grained gravel.
• Ask local bait shops for advice and info of where to find good smelt fishing – they are the most knowledgeable. 
• Dress warm and make sure to wear high boots. 
• Use a long handled scoop net with fine mesh. 
• A bucket. 
• Lanterns.   

Here are 2 simple smelt recipes:

Recipe One:
Dust cleaned smelts in flour and deep fry. 
Simple and a classic way to cook smelts! 

Recipe Two: 
Soak cleaned smelts in beer. Dust with dry pancake mix. Fry in butter or margarine or oil.
Pour beer in bowl (any brand, cold or at room temp).

Add enough dry pancake mix to make a thin batter. Beat batter well to remove all the lumps.
Dip cleaned smelt into batter, and deep fry in hot oil for about 2 minutes, or until nicely browned.
Salt fish and drain on paper towelling — serve hot, with tartar sauce if desired. This is a great recipe if you like the smell of pancakes!

For more information about fishing in Algoma visit our website www.algomacountry.com

Paddling Superior's Sunshine Coast

We've definitely had a long winter in Algoma which created the perfect conditions for an extended snowmobile season (check out the article and vid here), as well as some awesome ice fishing. But for our friends that love to paddle, we're sharing an article written by James Smedley called "Paddling Superior's Sunshine Coast" to get you excited about Algoma's summer adventures!

Lake Superior's rugged coastline photography by James Smedley

. . .
The entire coastline is gnawed down to bare rock sloping up to a stunted tree line ravaged by a booming surf. Bulbous rocky islands are worn smooth and rounded by wave action. Our first campsite is at the mouth of the Makwa River where black flowing water is squeezed between a long granite point on one side and a cobble beach on the other. We land amidst bowling-ball-sized rounded rocks and carry our gear up a steep incline of progressively smaller cobble spread beneath an expanse of driftwood. 

A spicy chicken stir fry unites the group under the shade of a tarp overlooking the waters of the river mingling with the still lake. Fresh air and exercise accentuates our guide's well developed culinary skills. Any trepidation about paddling with complete strangers is quickly washed away with a chocolate fondue and a splash of premium bourbon Stephen produces from his pack.
. . .

You can read the rest of James' article on the Algoma section of the Northern Portal e-zine at: http://www.northernontario.travel/algoma-country/paddling-superior-s-sunshine-coast

This e-zine is a great resource site to learn more about Algoma and Northern Ontario. 

Professional photographer and writer James Smedley's contributions to US and Canadian books, magazines and newspapers have earned him over 40 National and International awards. James is an assignment and stock photography represented by several top agencies. In addition to teaching photography workshops, James is Travel Editor at Ontario OUT OF DOORS Magazine. Visit James at www.jamessmedleyoutdoors.com

2013 List of Motorcycle and Motorsports Events in Algoma

This is a complete list of 2013 Motorcycle Rallys and Motorsports Events happening in Algoma this year. Check back as we will be updating the list.

Algoma Ride for Autism
June 1 2013 Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario
Starting at Strathclair Field in Sault Ste. Marie. Registration begins at 10am with the motorcycle ride starting at 11am. All proceeds stay in the community in support of autistic children and their families. Ride fee: $20 per rider and $5 per passenger. Food, Raffles and Prizes. For more information visit on Facebook Algoma Ride for Autism, email algomarideforautism@gmail.com Sponsored by Stobies Family Restaurant in Desbarats, Ontario.
Accommodations and local touring routes: www.algomacountry.com

Elliot Lake Motorcycle Rally
June 8 2013 Elliot Lake, Ontario
The “Ride for Dad” event returns for a second year with all proceeds going to Prostate Cancer Research. Although a one day event, this easily becomes a great weekend getaway. Scheduled events are the Poker Run (2 routes), Show & Shine, BBQ, Live Classic Rock Music, Prizes. Camping is available. Accommodations can be found in Elliot Lake and Blind River.
For more information email Mark at mark@hutchinsonmotorcycles.com, Facebook Elliot Lake Motorcycle Rally
Recommended Route: Deer Trail Tour

Northern Ontario Ride for Sight
July 12 to 14 2013 Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario
The longest running motorcycle charity in Canada is back in the North and this year takes place at Searchmont Research just north of Sault Ste. Marie. This beautiful location will play host to Live Entertainment, Motorcycle Parade, Bike Games, BBQ & bonfire and more. Camping is available. How to Take Part: Raise a minimum of $75; proceeds in support of the Foundation Fighting Blindness. Online fundraising now open: Register Here
For more information visit www.rideforsight.com
Some Must Sees: Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre, Ride Lake Superior, Old Woman Bay

NAPA Northshore Challenge
July 11 to 14 2013 Elliot Lake Ontario
Northern Ontario’s biggest motorsports event is held at the Elliot Lake Airport Dragway, a 1/8 mile drag race. This weekend event offers thrilling race action with Jet Car Races, the Nostalgia Nitro funny car, kids zone, Car Show, Live Music and more. Food, Beverages and Merchandise on site. Weekend Pass: Adult $40, Child $15. Day Pass: Adult $25, Child $10. VIP Tickets available. Camping and hotel accommodations available.
For more information visit www.elliotlakedragway.com Find accommodations at www.algomacountry.com 

Northern Nationals Drag Races
August 9 to 11 Wawa, Ontario
Hosted at the Wawa Municipal Airport, Northern Ontario’s newest drag race is an exciting opportunity for drag racers and fans. See 1/8 mile head-to-head bracket racing at its best. Northern National has the richest Super Pro purse in history of the “Show Me The Money Tour” including a $1,000 prize for Jr. Dragster. Family entertainment on and off the track.
For more information visit www.wawadragway.com Find accommodations at www.algomacountry.com
Some Must Sees: Wawa Goose Monument, Young’s General Store, Sandy Beach

Looking for more motorcycle events across Ontario? Check out the Complete 2013 List of Motorcycle Events.