Border Lakes Wilderness Fishing Tournament

 August 19-23, 2023

Zup’s Fishing Resort
Lac La Croix, Ontario, Canada

What

Anglers will be testing their skill on the remote Lac La Croix. Zup’s Resort is securely nestled on the shores of a protected bay deep in the quiet solitude of Lac La Croix. The resort and trading post facilities are a complement to the greatness of the lake, for they too, are of an outstanding quality. Though isolated, you’ll find the camp to be an “oasis” in this fishing paradise. You will find no finer resort on the border lakes. Lac La Croix is one of the premier lakes in the region and offers excellent fishing for walleye, northern pike, lake trout, smallmouth bass and crappies. All the fishing guides are experienced and familiar with Lac La Croix. Some of them will be capable Ojibwe Natives who are members of the Lac La Croix Guide Association. You will find all guides are knowledgeable of the area and will have great fishing experience. Each day you will lunch with them, enjoying the fresh Walleye caught that morning.

Supporting

Proceeds from the fishing tournament go to support Northern Tier’s Outreach, providing paddling programs to youth that might not otherwise get the opportunity. Northern Tier continues to grow the Outreach program, serving six Councils. The programs include Northern Tier sending staff to each of the Councils to provide a shake down and training for Scouts that would be attending. The crews then received a 6-night trip at Northern Tier, all equipment provided. The crews may also experienced a day in Ely, sight seeing and participating in educational opportunities.  Northern Tier continues to grow this program, expanding our reach to additional Councils.

Fee

$4,000 per fisherman.
$1,000 is due at the time of registration.

Remaining $3,000 is due on August 1st.

Additional Details

Zup’s Fishing Resort is located on Lac La Croix in Canada. Current Canadian and USA border crossing and COVID requirements will be in effect

Schedule

Day 1 – Sat Aug 19:

  • Check into Grand Ely Lodge by 4:00 pm
  • Visit Northern Tier for facility tours.
  • Receive trip, gear and safety briefing 
  • Enjoy a cookout and opening activities at Northern Tier’s General Manager’s residence.

Day 2 – Sunday Aug 20:

  • Depart for Zup’s after breakfast.
  • Lunch at Zup’s following a scenic boat ride from Crane Lake.
  • First round of fishing in the afternoon.

Day 3 – Monday Aug 21:

  • Two periods of fishing
  • Shore lunch with fresh fish from the morning’s catch
  • Dinner and Guide Auction in the Lodge

Day 4 – Tuesday Aug 22:

  • Two periods of fishing
  • Shore lunch with fresh fish from the morning’s catch
  • Dinner and Awards in the Lodge

Day 5 – Wednesday Aug 23:

  • After early breakfast all fishermen high-speed boated to Crane Lake for departures home.
  • Late afternoon flights out of Duluth or Minneapolis (best option) easily doable for travel home.

Helpful Planning Information

Frequently Asked Questions

Where will we be?

We will be fishing in the waters Lac La Croix – the most beautiful of the many Minnesota – Canadian border lakes.  Zup’s Resort is located on the Canadian side of the border.  Please check out their website to get a taste of the place, zupsresort.com .

 

Is there cell signal or wifi at the resort?

There is no cell signal at the resort.  They do have wifi in the main lodge.  

Do I need a fishing license?

During the registration process we will be collecting all pertinent information from you to book your Ontario Fishing License.  We will have the required documents when your arrive.  The cost of the license is included in your tournament fees.

Should I bring my own fishing gear?

We will have all of the necessary fishing gear and the resort will provide all of the required bait.  If you have a favorite fishing pole or lure, you are welcome to bring them along!

What type of clothing should I bring?

We recommend ‘Ely Casual’ as the dress code.  Anglers should wear long sleeve, light-weight shirts, light-weight pants and hiking boots (or sturdy shoes).  Anglers should also have sunglasses and a wide brimmed hat.  Every angler will receive Fishing Tournament Shirts.

Make sure to pack rain gear, pants and jacket, as August can be very wet.  Weather can turn chilly or even cold, so also pack a fleece jacket and warm pants, a stocking cap and gloves.

Do I need a passport?

Yes, you will be travelling into Canada and will be checking in through a customs check point.  All anglers must have a valid passport.  The passport will also be required to check back into the US at the end of the tournament.