EAGLENEST TRAVELGRAM

THE DRIVE!

When driving in from the US the majority of our guests will overnight in Fargo, Grand Forks or Winnipeg. This makes it an easy day for arrival at Eagle Nest, with only a 5,4 or 2 hour drive for the 4 pm pickup. We have arranged for a special rate at the Town House, in Grand Forks (701•746•5411). Cabelas is only about 6 blocks away and you may find all kinds of things you didn’t even know you needed. If you are interested in spending time in Winnipeg, we have a reduced rate at the Radisson Hotel (204•956•0410) which is one of the finest downtown hotels connected with a skywalk to Portage Place for some excellent shopping and restaurants. We can also make arrangements for you at the Lakeview Hotel in Lac du Bonnet (204•345•8661), which is only 30 minutes from our Base; ideal for our 10 am pickup. Your vehicle is parked on site at our home, and will be well taken care of.

Flying:

Commercial flights into Winnipeg are becoming very convenient and affordable with more airlines competing for your dollar. We work with Canada One Travel (1•866•401•9900) for flexible, economical airfairs. In most cases the best arrivals for our scheduling are between 1 pm and 4 pm, and departures are best between 11 am and 2 pm. As a rule, all airfares are under $600 to Winnipeg. Please call us if you are having difficulty. We can accommodate any itinerary you put together, so go for the most convenient flight for your needs. Lac du Bonnet recently upgraded their air strip so it is now hard topped with over 3500 ft of runway. If you have your own plane, it is a great way to see us at Eagle Nest. We will float plane you over to the Lodge in 30 minutes, and departures are around 4 pm. Parking is safe and secure, call Adventure Air for details 204•345•8322.

CUSTOMS:

There have been many questions about ID and Passports for traveling into Canada, and the situation is as follows. As of January 2007 if you are flying into Canada, you need a passport to return to the United States.Anyone that is driving into Canada can use a birth certificate and a picture ID such as a driver's license. Passport requirements for those driving across the border have been put off until at least 2009, but acquiring a Passport for today's travels is planning ahead and a good idea. If you are traveling as a single parent, children must have both their birth certificates and it is recommended that you have a note from your spouse regarding your travels. As a rule customs are very helpful and appreciative of your visit, so don't be negligent with your entry preparations. A no nonesense approach will make your entry quick and simple. You are allowed to bring 40 ounces of liquor or 24 beer, and either 50 cigars or 200 cigerettes per person. Those flying in with their own aircraft can clear customs at the internation airport near Piney, Manitoba. It is a simple procedure and you will soon be on your way. If you have questions do not hesitate to call us, or at Canada Customs at 1•204•983•3500. Check out this helpful site on border crossing information at www.canadawelcomesyou.net.

LUGGAGE:

We do not have any luggage restrictions. If you can fit it in your vehicle, we can fit it in our large transportation boats. Those of you flying in, a reasonable weight in baggage is appreciated..

CLOTHING:

In May, June and September, we recommend layers, for temperatures can range from 40º to 90º, and sometimes in one day! One pair of long underwear, along with undershirts, sweaters, light jackets, and good rainwear or Gortex is ideal. Don’t fuss over appearances; this is a time to be comfortable. Good footwear and a quality sock is important on any given dates. July and August average in the 70’s and you can do with a little less of the heavy wear, and may even get by with the cut-offs.

EQUIPMENT and TACKLE:

We suggest 2 rods and reels; light action (6 to 8 lb.) line and a medium action (10 to 12 lb.) line. It is very likely that the tackle you own is suitable for Eagle Nest. Our fish aren’t too fussy. Your success is more likely to be influenced by smooth operating tackle and equipment. We do carry items that are a must, such as #4 & 5 Mepps, 3” spoons, buzz baits, spinner baits, 3/8 & 1/2 oz. jigs, rattle traps and top water Bass plugs. Gold, white and chartreuse are popular colours. Nine inch steel leaders are needed for our ferocious Pike. To keep up with some of your bad habits, we also carry beer, pop, beer, chips, beer, bars and Eagle Nest shirts. For more information on tackle visit our Tackle Tips.

YOUR FISH:

Large Pike, large Walleye and all Smallmouth Bass are to be released, and we have attractive fibreglass replicas on site for you to purchase as a reminder of your trophy catch. We encourage that Pike are released or kept for shore lunch only. Your take home limit for Walleye is four fish. Pike 22''-26'' (two) may be taken if you can assure us that they will not go to waste. A small soft tote cooler is useful for your daily beverages out on the water and for your take home fish.

COMMUNICATIONS:

We now have high-speed Internet at the Lodge for those wanting to bring their own Laptop. We do have a Laptop and airtime for rent at a reasonable fee. We also have a satellite phone (and a mobile phone for back up) for you to call out at any time at your convenience. We do not permit incoming calls. Important messages can be passed on by phoning our Base at 204•884•2301. Also a satellite dish for sports and financials is on site.

PAYMENT:

The final balance is due on arrival, except hunting packages which are due 30 days prior to arrival, unless you have been to Eagle Nest before and set up a method of payment with us. We do accept Visa, Mastercard and American Express, but there is a 3% surcharge. Take care, and thanks for fishing at Eagle Nest!

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