Fall or Snowbank with Kids?

[tbreuhl]

We're heading up to Ely this weekend and I promised the kids we would formally go into the BWCA for a day trip.  Normally we do Basswood but it doesn't look like there are any permits available.  I don't know many other lakes that well but it looks like Fall (not beyond it) and Snowbank have some permits left.  Does anyone know if the fishing has been good on those lakes lately?

Thanks for any help as 3 kids in a small boat needs to be well planned!!!!

Edited July 22, 2015 by tbreuhl

[I fish, therefore I lie]

Last I checked, day use permits were almost always available. you're not confusing an overnight camping permit with a day use permit are you? I'd contact the USFS in Ely for clarification.

[tbreuhl]

I should have clarified - we are looking for a day use motor permit.

[monstermoose78]

Newton for walleyes that is just one easy portage from fall. You could head into South Farm for walleyes as well.

[tbreuhl]

I would have liked Newton but no permits available to go beyond Fall Lake and nothing for South Farm.

[monstermoose78]

Little Long will give you action for bluegills.

[JBMasterAngler]

Snowbank is a nice lake. Very scenic and full of smallies. You'll also catch a few rock bass, maybe a pike, and even a largemouth bass. Lake trout could be a bonus also. Lot's of water to explore. Not that there's many people on the lake, but most of the boats stay on the south end, fishing for walleyes. So if you chase bass on the north end, you'll just about have that whole side to yourself (not including canoers).

[Surface Tension]

  You can't leave Snowbank with a motor boat and if the wind is blowing its not the best lake for a small boat.

I think Fall lake would provide you with more options but it not like your going to portage the boat out of the entry lakes anyway.  Personally I wouldn't limit myself to a BWCAW entry point lake.  There is nothing different about them but a lot more restrictions and maybe a more paddlers.

[tbreuhl]

Snowbank would be a little bit of an adventure for them and me as I have never been on that lake before.  Thanks for all your feedback.  I will post some news on where we went and how we did when we get back!!!!!