Fall River Fishing Tips for Largemouth Bass
READ MORE >
Fall is a fantastic time to fish in many of Ontario’s rivers, especially the French River Delta. You don’t have to be a professional to catch trophy Largemouth Bass at this time of year! F ...Understanding Walleye Rods, Reels & Lines
READ MORE > The most sought after gamefish in Ontario is the Walleye. Their meat tends to be sweet and savoury, while being simple to filet. Walleye are also known as Pickerel in Canada, they are the largest mem ...Differences Between Massasauga Rattlesnake vs Northern Watersnake
READ MORE > Vacant and cold reptilian eyes with reflexes that can lunge themselves half a foot in 70 milliseconds. Snakes have captured our thoughts, imaginations and even stories since their first appearance ap ...Northern Pike French River Fishing Tips
READ MORE > Trophy Northern Pike fishing in Canada is among the most exciting experiences any angler should hook into. In my experience fishing the French River, Pike that grow to 28+ inches develop personalitie ...How To Properly Hold & Release Fish
READ MORE > Canada has held a long tradition of conservation. It first started with First Nations (Native Americans). Next, was the movement of university-trained foresters and industry leaders near the end of t ...Largemouth vs Smallmouth Bass: A River Between Two Fishes
READ MORE > Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass are North America’s two favourite sunfish and are among the most popular freshwater game fish. Many fishing tournaments occur annually, along with many fishing shows ...Knowing Your Sunfish: Bluegill & Pumpkinseed
READ MORE > One of the most popular freshwater fish species in North America, are different members of the Sunfish (Centrarchidae) family that come in a huge collection of shapes, colours and sizes. Because of s ...Pike vs Pickerel: Differences You Should Know
READ MORE > What’s the difference between Pike and Pickerel? A seemingly simple question but one that can have confusing answers depending on where you are. I grew up in a fishing camp in Northeas ...Muskie vs Northern Pike: Know the Differences
READ MORE > Muskie and Northern Pike are North America's two favourite trophy game fish. Both swim silently through the turbid waters of the French River, Ontario. Before exploding into action, striking unsuspec ...Come Staycation with Us: Discover French River
READ MORE > What Is A Staycation? The term, Staycation, was originally coined in a market crisis in 2008 in our neighbor across the border. However, since Covid-19 has dictated the need for tourism to be ...How Do You Select a Good Bass Fishing Rod?
READ MORE > Selecting the right bass fishing rod will help you be a better angler. The fishing rod is one of the most important tools for catching and landing bass. The fishing rod is the foundation of your enti ...Walleye vs Sauger: How to Spot the Difference
READ MORE > Every fishing season, many Ontario anglers who went jigging for walleye (pickerel) may have caught sauger without ever blinking an eye. Sauger are great impersonators of their larger cousins. Often s ...Ontario Staycation Tax Credit 2022
READ MORE > It’s official! Starting from January 1st to December 31st of 2022 the province of Ontario will award individuals and families a tax return for ‘staycationing’ at one of Ontario’s many hotels, ...French River Spring Pike Fishing
READ MORE > Spring is a lively and a prime fishing time for northern pike on the French River. In Northern Ontario, after the spawn is a period that offers excellent odds for catching trophies; as well as catchi ...Safe Boating Awareness Week, May 22-28 2021
READ MORE > "The Government of Canada remains committed to keeping Canadians safe, particularly during these unprecedented and challenging times. Each year, the launch of the North American Safe Boating Awarenes ...Five Simple Tips for Spring Largemouth Bass Fishing
READ MORE > “Fishing is much more than fish. It is the great occasion when we may return to the fine simplicity of our forefathers.”Herbert Hoover For avid anglers, spring is the most wonderful time o ...Spring Black Crappie Fishing
READ MORE > "The water you touch in a river is the last of that which has passed, and the first of that which is coming; thus, it is with time."Leonardo Da Vinci Spring is often ripe and plentiful of fres ...Celebrate World Water Day with Canada’s French River
READ MORE > World Water Day World Water Day, March 22, recognizes the importance of how essential water is to our lives, families, home, and ecosystem – our abundant fishery and our wildlife. In 1993 ...How to Make Lip Smacking Dressing
READ MORE > The holiday season is the perfect time to reflect on what we have to be thankful for and seek out ways to make life better with our family and friends. With holiday cheer it opens our hearts and mayb ...Come Staycation with Us: Discover French River
READ MORE > What Is A Staycation? Staycation is a term that was originally coined in the market crisis of 2008. Now in 2020, Covid-19 has dictated the need for public health and tourism to restrict travel ...How to Cook the Juiciest and Tastiest Roast Turkey
READ MORE > With the holidays being near, now is a good time to impress your family with one of the juiciest and tastiest Turkey Dinners. While there are other methods of cooking from deep fry, slow cook or gril ...Experience Bear’s Den Lodge a “New Norm” with COVID – 19 & FAQ
READ MORE > ACCOMMODATIONS: Our accommodations at the Bear’s Den Lodge, a remote access resort, are provided in your own private modern cottages. We offer a fully equipped facility for your comfor ...Covid-19 & Us Part 2
READ MORE > For those asking, we will open when permitted by Public Health Ontario and Ontario Parks. Bear's Den Lodge will be updating facilities and adding hand sanitizing stations. Health & Safety ...Covid-19 and Us
READ MORE > We are not open yet but the Covid-19 situation seems to be improving. "Private parks, marinas, golf courses, and animal boarding facilities can reopen on Saturday [May 16, 2020]." - Doug FordYahoo ...Experience Fishing – How to Teach Your Child to Cast
READ MORE > The Value of Experience of Fishing Have you
watched the excitement in a child’s eyes when you share the experience of
fishing? They are overjoyed with the
opportunity to learn how to f ...Spring Opening Walleye Season
READ MORE > Warm weather is near as the ice begins to melt, we say our
heartfelt goodbyes to winter as we pack away our ice fishing tackle. To warm
our hearts with the fiery ambition to catch trophy spring walle ...Bear’s Den Lodge: An Inspiration to Live a Dream
READ MORE > Bear’s Den Lodge, a number one tourism full-service business in the French River, Municipality of Killarney area, has gone through a major transformation over the past 35 years. Since 1986, the dai ...Fall Walleye Fishing on the French River
READ MORE > As days become shorter and the leaves begin to change, walleye fishing too turns over a new leaf. Fall is a fabulous time for walleye fishing on the French River! Schools of walleye return from the G ...Five Casts & A Lifetime of Memories
READ MORE > Life is a journey that can be full of challenges and unexpected surprises hiding behind even the most simple rock structures. For Chris and his son Austin, they visited the lower French River Delta f ...Hooked on the French River
READ MORE > We just wanted to say 'Thank You' again for the wonderful hospitality! Had a great week at Bear's Den Lodge. We love it there….. Morning Glory It’s so peaceful and beautiful and you are ...Photos from the Fishest Group
READ MORE > We did not have too many highlights this year, but here are a few photos from our 37th year. The first 2 photos are of the biggest pickerel caught (and released), a 23", by my boat partner, Terry ...Three Quick Tips for Spring Walleye
READ MORE > Spring walleye fishing in Canada is bountiful and a great start to any angler’s fresh fishing season. Although there’s much more about walleye fishing than this brief tips and tri ...Musky Historical Report of the French River 1961 – 1994
READ MORE > Guess what we found? As we were cleaning out our old files we stumbled upon this old report. We thought we should share these significant historical records supplied by Bear's Den Lodge and compiled b ...Testimonial 2018
READ MORE > Dear Brenda, Art, Joe and Mike: We just finished the long drive home to Western Massachusetts and, thanks to you, our canoe camping trip to the French River ended on a positive note. I wish there ...Fall Fishing: French River Musky
READ MORE > One of the best times to fish for French River Musky is in the fall season (from late-August to October). The cooler autumn days bring about a change in the musky’s behaviour – going from a territ ...Welcome Back to the French River
READ MORE > Welcome back to the French River! The fishing has been excellent with smiles galore. The trees are picture perfect in the windswept landscape. Come see for yourself what your next adventure ent ...A Trip He Will Never Forget!
READ MORE > On his first trip to Bear’s Den Lodge, 10 year old Tommy L. caught this 24 pound, 47” musky on a white spinnerbait. In addition, a total of 131 pike were boated by the group in 3 days of fishin ...Father’s Day Hook
READ MORE > "Some People come to fish for a fish, I fish for fish. It's not a contest, big small and in between. I just fish for fish. It didn't count my muskie I caught on a spinnerbait, it was just another fish ...Amazing Fishing Tales from the Den
READ MORE > First French River Sturgeon for the Thall's group after 27 years of fishing the French River, during their annual trip. The four foot fish was caught on a hook and a worm after on 6lb test and an hour ...Picky Pickerel
READ MORE > In early spring, right after ice has thawed, walleye will spawn shortly after. The next ten days from pickerel spawn, they become rather lethargic - not wanting to go very far from their ...Travel Tips and Vacation Safety
READ MORE > Friends and family vacations can be adventurous, exciting, and memorable when planning for a successful safe French River wilderness adventure. This may be that once in a lifetime dream holiday and Be ...Strategies for Spring Pike Fishing
READ MORE > 4 Tips for Spring pike fishing from local legendary French River fisherman & guide, Art Barefoot - owner of Bear's Den Lodge. 1. Look in the shallow dark bottom bays along the edge of emerg ...Spring Fishing Tips 2018
READ MORE > As the long winter is nearing its chilly end and the warm spring around the corner, many anglers are preparing their fishing gear for the new year. On the third Saturday, May 19th, Walleye and Norther ...How to Personalize Your Stay
READ MORE > Where do I start?
There are so many options and choices for those who wish to travel and select a "plan" or "package" for your stay in Northern Ontario. It becomes very confusing when seeing differen ...Sculpted by Ice – French River
READ MORE > "What's So Great About The Great Lakes?":
Picture the world as it was 12,000 years ago where the land was covered by melting mile-thick glaciers. This amazing sculpture of ice, carved the land and cr ...Experience Fishing French River
READ MORE > Would you like to Experience Fishing? Did you know that Bear's Den Lodge is a pilot site for this exciting program to help educate "women, children and new Canadians"? What about adul ...Ten Days, Ten-Thousand Casts Fishing for French River Musky
READ MORE > “Most of the world is covered by water.
A fisherman’s job is simple: Pick out the best parts.” – Charles W. Waterman
It’s a passion that etches itself into an individual’s spirit. E ...Ashley Rae – She Loves To Fish
READ MORE > Ashley Rae of shelovestofish.com, is a multi-fish species female angler and an accomplished well known Canadian outdoor writer from Ontario. Between the times writing as a newspaper/magazine columnist ...Why is the Bowfin Green?
READ MORE > Can you guess why the bowfin is emerald green? Bowfin or sometimes referred to as "Dogfish" come in a variety of shapes and at times colours. Their bodies are generally cylindrical and eel like i ...Five Tips for French River Bass Fishing
READ MORE > With higher waters this season on the French River Delta, many guests who have an interest in bass fishing have been asking where to go and how to fish these waters in Northern Ontario.
Here' ...Continuing the Family Tradition – Duelberg Family
READ MORE > National Fishing Week, encourages families come together and celebrate one of Canada's oldest family pastimes. Sometimes its new families that wish to tie new bonds and other families that are keep th ...31st Year – Pattillo Family & Friends
READ MORE > Bear's Den Lodge has been operating for past 32 years under the ownership of Art & Brenda Barefoot. We owe much of our success to fantastic groups that have wanted to return on a yearly basis. Mon ...Celebrate National Fishing Week in Ontario Canada – Canada 150
READ MORE > Join us to celebrate National License Free Fishing Week (July 1-9, 2017) for all Canadian families. Celebrate in the heritage and culture in Northeastern Ontario for Ontario's 150 as well with seve ...Spring Walleye Fishing in High Waters
READ MORE > Ready for the spring fling? Ontario Spring Walleye Many seasoned fishermen are currently relining their reels and sharpening their hooks for the anticipation of the Walleye Opener for May 20th ...Spring Opening Repairs
READ MORE > Every spring is always an exciting time, full of new opportunities of trophy fishing and the well welcomed warm summer days that makes the memories of winter melt away. However with each thaw and ice ...North Shores – Sean Decory Photography
READ MORE > Some amazing places and sights to behold on the French River and Georgian Bay area. Big adventures await those who love to explore and step back in history. Join us for Canada 150 celebration! [cap ...Excerpt Memories of Bear’s Den Lodge 1967-1973
READ MORE > It was a 1967, Canada's centennial year. Our neighbor, Ross Hoover, was selling real estate. He had a listing for fishing lodge on the French River. Ross, his wife Pat and my husband, Don, were all av ...Outdoor Radio Journal
READ MORE > The Outdoor Journal Radio Show is live every Saturday morning 8:05AM EST. If you're in southern Ontario (Canada), tune your radio to Sportsnet 590 The FAN AM or visit www.odjradio.com and listen live ...French River – A Park of Remarkable Proportions
READ MORE > Leave the city behind and challenge yourself with a remarkable French River Provincial Park getaway for Canada 150. Would you like to experience fishing in Ontario Parks? Canada was nominated as # ...Spring Pike Fishing
READ MORE > As every fishing enthusiast can tell you, every fish is a predator. Northern Pike are no exception to this rule as their primeval morphology has not drastically changed over the 60 million years. ...French River Places in Muskies Inc. Records of Men’s Top 25 for 2016
READ MORE > It's official, French River makes the record books again! Dick Sprenkle's musky is recognized by Muskies Inc. for the Men's Top 25 for 2016. Dick's 54 inch French River trophy fish was successful ...Happy Holidays & Happy New Year
READ MORE > Bear's Den Lodge would like to say thank you to all our valued customers and friends who had the opportunity to share your experiences with us this past season!
May your seasons be merry with tight l ...GCFA 2017 Calendars Available
READ MORE > More women are enjoying the sport of fishing. Consider taking your daughter to enjoy the great outdoors. Support the Great Canadian Female Anglers by ordering your 2017 Great Canadian Female Angler's ...Bear’s Den Pumpkin Gingersnap Cheesecake
READ MORE > List of ingredients needed: Pumpkin Gingersnap Cheesecake: 12 ounces gingersnaps
1/2 cup pecans, finely chopped* (optional)
6 tablespoons salted butter, melted
2 tablespoons pa ...Ladies Finish Bear’s Den Lodge’s 2016 Season
READ MORE > The women who fish from the Great Canadian Female Anglers finished out the 2016 season for Bear's Den Lodge, braving the late autumn chill with their favourite Musky Guide, Joe Barefoot. For th ...Fall Water Safety
READ MORE > From swimming to fishing, every year Canadians and tourists alike experience the abundance of aquatic activities through thousands of different waterfronts. Of those who experience and explore these w ...New Line Class World Record – Bowfin
READ MORE > Fishing the French River contains many hidden surprises for avid anglers. Many of us have our interests from the baits we cast to the fish species we prefer to catch. But it's always good to remember ...Not So Far from Home – French River Musky Fishing
READ MORE > I must say that Alicia Moir-Raytrowsky and I have really enjoyed our time at #BearsDenLodge on the French River. Today I managed to catch my first musky! After searching all over for one... ...Fish of a Lifetime
READ MORE > Our party of four from various parts of Pennsylvania (PA) traveled north for a week of fishing on the French River Delta near Hartley Bay, Ontario. Our destination was Bear's Den Lodge which we had ...52.5″ Musky for 51st Year Group
READ MORE > "It hit in three to four feet away from the boat. It was raining. The muskie gave me a real fight, it ran three times taking my black and chartreuse eagle tail under the boat. What a fight!" Wi ...A Musky for Father’s Day
READ MORE > "Nothing like catching musky in your front yard!" said Chris Burnette to the start of his and Harry Haddix’s week at Bear’s Den Lodge. The seasoned West Virginian muskie hunters had fishe ...French River Produces a Musky a Day
READ MORE > Returning to the French River Bill and Nancy Hamblin talk to the lodge owners, Art & Brenda Barefoot, before the hunt for the elusive French River Muskie. The weather conditions for the day were s ...Natural French River Architecture – University of Waterloo
READ MORE > TECHNOLOGY IS NOT THE MASTERY OF NATURE BUT OF THE RELATION BETWEEN NATURE AND [HUMANITY]—Walter Benjamin NATURAL RELATIONS TECHNOLOGICALLY TRANSFORMED University of Waterloo - Architecture s ...Nature from A Bird’s Eye
READ MORE > Have you ever wondered what birds see? Imagining yourself flying over any obstacle and taking in the vastness that is the open skies? We always look for ways to immerse ourselves, to reconnect with ...Fishing for Walleye in the French River!
READ MORE > Walleyes (a.k.a. Pickerel) are known to be a finicky fish. Some anglers describe walleye feeding habits as something of a constant “tap-tap” feeling or a bump. But, there are occasions when they ...Dear Art and Brenda,
READ MORE > Just a short note to let you know I had a super time at "The French". Your hospitality, as always, is overwhelming. It was nice getting to know you both better, as well. My trip home went smooth, b ...Canadian Trophy Fishing
READ MORE > Canadian outfitters, experts specializing in the adventure outdoors- world class, Canada trophy fishing for northern pike, walleye, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, muskie, catfish, sturgeon, black c ...What the Outdoor Writers are reporting:
READ MORE > Bear's Den Lodge, French River, Canada is listed as the "Premier Fishing Lodge" in the sports section of the Chenango County Hometown Daily, August 3, 1995 by Bob McNitt, Outdoor Writer lists and stat ...Our Logo
READ MORE > After 31 years of ownership for the Bear's Den Lodge, Art, Brenda, & I thought it would be best to make some revisions and follow through with a New Year's Resolution of revitalizing ourselves. We ...The Cozy Main Lodge
READ MORE > Bear's Den Lodge, a "historical" museum, was built in 1925 for a New York Banker, H. Martin. Mr. Martin hired Bud West, local tourist lodge operator, to build a lodge on the property were an old logg ...Spring Peaks & Zika Seeks
READ MORE > Are you planning for a camping trip this year? Already shopping at your favourite retailers and outdoor suppliers? Are you prepared? Something that I’m sure has been bothering many, or at lea ...Fishing – The Job that Hooked My Heart
READ MORE > "Ever since I was a young boy I always had fond memories heading north and fishing with my brother in Ontario," says Art Barefoot (Co-Owner of Bear's Den Lodge). "From the people, the sights, and even ...Walleye Fishing French River
READ MORE > Walleye fishing in the French River Delta and Georgian Bay has one of the highest rod hours in Ontario Canada. Ever increasing numbers, these fish naturally spawn in the Delta of the F ...Pike Fall for this Hook, Line and Sinker…
READ MORE > Know Your Cast, Fall Pattern Fishing. Northern Pike are an aggressive freshwater fish with an attitude of its own. These predators chase, attack lures and are very territorial. As fall approaches ...The French River Salmon Run Wild
READ MORE > A Pink Salmon Ends the Fall Season
Fishing on the French River Delta is home to some the most diverse freshwater species of game fish, known most predominantly for its muskie, walleye, pike, large an ...Ode to the Bear’s Den
READ MORE > The water was still; the scene just sublime
with rock and trees, our mood did combine
The cusp of the season lay just ahead
Trees green and gold, were shocked by the red.
Billion year old granit ...Would You Like to Visit the French River?
READ MORE > Imagine waking to the sounds of song birds chirping happily in the first rays of your summer morning. Splashes rippling through the crisp mirror reflection, while the busy beavers and otters continue ...Bear’s Den Lodge Inspired by Nature for 90 Years – A Diamond in the Wilderness
READ MORE > French River Delta landscape of granite rock, pine trees and more to appreciate. Does nature inspire you? If yes, Bear's Den Lodge would like to share an inspiring "place" some call a "special pl ...Gone Were the Days of Wooden Boats, a Labor of Love , But Not Forgotten
READ MORE > Looking at some old photographs, I remember the pride in purchasing the very first wooden boat for Bear's Den Lodge some thirty years ago, it was the brightest pride and smoothest, fastest ride in t ...French River, Ontario History 1600 to Current – 400th Year Anniversary of Champlain
READ MORE > French River History: reveals early explorers were looking for a shorter route to the West. Hence, the French River was the main "Water Highway to the West in Canada, from 1600 to the mid 1800’s." ...Holiday Gift Ideas for the Outdoor Lover
READ MORE > Do you have that special outdoor lover and need a special gift for the holidays? Have you bought every lure possible for the tackle box? Christmas is closing in quickly and still don't know what to do ...Welcome to the Bear’s Den Lodge Blog
READ MORE > Welcome to the Bear's Den Lodge Blog. Bear's Den Lodge posts will take you on a journey from the history of the French River, to stories, nature, fishing tips, great food, adventures and just p ...
Fall is a fantastic time to fish in many of Ontario’s rivers, especially the French River Delta. You don’t have to be a professional to catch trophy Largemouth Bass at this time of year! F ...
The most sought after gamefish in Ontario is the Walleye. Their meat tends to be sweet and savoury, while being simple to filet. Walleye are also known as Pickerel in Canada, they are the largest mem ...
Vacant and cold reptilian eyes with reflexes that can lunge themselves half a foot in 70 milliseconds. Snakes have captured our thoughts, imaginations and even stories since their first appearance ap ...
Trophy Northern Pike fishing in Canada is among the most exciting experiences any angler should hook into. In my experience fishing the French River, Pike that grow to 28+ inches develop personalitie ...
Canada has held a long tradition of conservation. It first started with First Nations (Native Americans). Next, was the movement of university-trained foresters and industry leaders near the end of t ...
Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass are North America’s two favourite sunfish and are among the most popular freshwater game fish. Many fishing tournaments occur annually, along with many fishing shows ...
One of the most popular freshwater fish species in North America, are different members of the Sunfish (Centrarchidae) family that come in a huge collection of shapes, colours and sizes. Because of s ...
What’s the difference between Pike and Pickerel? A seemingly simple question but one that can have confusing answers depending on where you are. I grew up in a fishing camp in Northeas ...
Muskie and Northern Pike are North America's two favourite trophy game fish. Both swim silently through the turbid waters of the French River, Ontario. Before exploding into action, striking unsuspec ...
What Is A Staycation? The term, Staycation, was originally coined in a market crisis in 2008 in our neighbor across the border. However, since Covid-19 has dictated the need for tourism to be ...
Selecting the right bass fishing rod will help you be a better angler. The fishing rod is one of the most important tools for catching and landing bass. The fishing rod is the foundation of your enti ...
Every fishing season, many Ontario anglers who went jigging for walleye (pickerel) may have caught sauger without ever blinking an eye. Sauger are great impersonators of their larger cousins. Often s ...
It’s official! Starting from January 1st to December 31st of 2022 the province of Ontario will award individuals and families a tax return for ‘staycationing’ at one of Ontario’s many hotels, ...
Spring is a lively and a prime fishing time for northern pike on the French River. In Northern Ontario, after the spawn is a period that offers excellent odds for catching trophies; as well as catchi ...
"The Government of Canada remains committed to keeping Canadians safe, particularly during these unprecedented and challenging times. Each year, the launch of the North American Safe Boating Awarenes ...
"The water you touch in a river is the last of that which has passed, and the first of that which is coming; thus, it is with time."Leonardo Da Vinci Spring is often ripe and plentiful of fres ...
The holiday season is the perfect time to reflect on what we have to be thankful for and seek out ways to make life better with our family and friends. With holiday cheer it opens our hearts and mayb ...
What Is A Staycation? Staycation is a term that was originally coined in the market crisis of 2008. Now in 2020, Covid-19 has dictated the need for public health and tourism to restrict travel ...
With the holidays being near, now is a good time to impress your family with one of the juiciest and tastiest Turkey Dinners. While there are other methods of cooking from deep fry, slow cook or gril ...
ACCOMMODATIONS: Our accommodations at the Bear’s Den Lodge, a remote access resort, are provided in your own private modern cottages. We offer a fully equipped facility for your comfor ...
For those asking, we will open when permitted by Public Health Ontario and Ontario Parks. Bear's Den Lodge will be updating facilities and adding hand sanitizing stations. Health & Safety ...
We are not open yet but the Covid-19 situation seems to be improving. "Private parks, marinas, golf courses, and animal boarding facilities can reopen on Saturday [May 16, 2020]." - Doug FordYahoo ...
The Value of Experience of Fishing Have you
watched the excitement in a child’s eyes when you share the experience of
fishing? They are overjoyed with the
opportunity to learn how to f ...
Warm weather is near as the ice begins to melt, we say our
heartfelt goodbyes to winter as we pack away our ice fishing tackle. To warm
our hearts with the fiery ambition to catch trophy spring walle ...
Bear’s Den Lodge, a number one tourism full-service business in the French River, Municipality of Killarney area, has gone through a major transformation over the past 35 years. Since 1986, the dai ...
As days become shorter and the leaves begin to change, walleye fishing too turns over a new leaf. Fall is a fabulous time for walleye fishing on the French River! Schools of walleye return from the G ...
Life is a journey that can be full of challenges and unexpected surprises hiding behind even the most simple rock structures. For Chris and his son Austin, they visited the lower French River Delta f ...
We just wanted to say 'Thank You' again for the wonderful hospitality! Had a great week at Bear's Den Lodge. We love it there….. Morning Glory It’s so peaceful and beautiful and you are ...
We did not have too many highlights this year, but here are a few photos from our 37th year. The first 2 photos are of the biggest pickerel caught (and released), a 23", by my boat partner, Terry ...
Spring walleye fishing in Canada is bountiful and a great start to any angler’s fresh fishing season. Although there’s much more about walleye fishing than this brief tips and tri ...
Guess what we found? As we were cleaning out our old files we stumbled upon this old report. We thought we should share these significant historical records supplied by Bear's Den Lodge and compiled b ...
Dear Brenda, Art, Joe and Mike: We just finished the long drive home to Western Massachusetts and, thanks to you, our canoe camping trip to the French River ended on a positive note. I wish there ...
One of the best times to fish for French River Musky is in the fall season (from late-August to October). The cooler autumn days bring about a change in the musky’s behaviour – going from a territ ...
Welcome back to the French River! The fishing has been excellent with smiles galore. The trees are picture perfect in the windswept landscape. Come see for yourself what your next adventure ent ...
On his first trip to Bear’s Den Lodge, 10 year old Tommy L. caught this 24 pound, 47” musky on a white spinnerbait. In addition, a total of 131 pike were boated by the group in 3 days of fishin ...
"Some People come to fish for a fish, I fish for fish. It's not a contest, big small and in between. I just fish for fish. It didn't count my muskie I caught on a spinnerbait, it was just another fish ...
First French River Sturgeon for the Thall's group after 27 years of fishing the French River, during their annual trip. The four foot fish was caught on a hook and a worm after on 6lb test and an hour ...
In early spring, right after ice has thawed, walleye will spawn shortly after. The next ten days from pickerel spawn, they become rather lethargic - not wanting to go very far from their ...
Friends and family vacations can be adventurous, exciting, and memorable when planning for a successful safe French River wilderness adventure. This may be that once in a lifetime dream holiday and Be ...
4 Tips for Spring pike fishing from local legendary French River fisherman & guide, Art Barefoot - owner of Bear's Den Lodge. 1. Look in the shallow dark bottom bays along the edge of emerg ...
As the long winter is nearing its chilly end and the warm spring around the corner, many anglers are preparing their fishing gear for the new year. On the third Saturday, May 19th, Walleye and Norther ...
Where do I start?
There are so many options and choices for those who wish to travel and select a "plan" or "package" for your stay in Northern Ontario. It becomes very confusing when seeing differen ...
"What's So Great About The Great Lakes?":
Picture the world as it was 12,000 years ago where the land was covered by melting mile-thick glaciers. This amazing sculpture of ice, carved the land and cr ...
Would you like to Experience Fishing? Did you know that Bear's Den Lodge is a pilot site for this exciting program to help educate "women, children and new Canadians"? What about adul ...
Ashley Rae of shelovestofish.com, is a multi-fish species female angler and an accomplished well known Canadian outdoor writer from Ontario. Between the times writing as a newspaper/magazine columnist ...
Can you guess why the bowfin is emerald green? Bowfin or sometimes referred to as "Dogfish" come in a variety of shapes and at times colours. Their bodies are generally cylindrical and eel like i ...
With higher waters this season on the French River Delta, many guests who have an interest in bass fishing have been asking where to go and how to fish these waters in Northern Ontario.
Here' ...
National Fishing Week, encourages families come together and celebrate one of Canada's oldest family pastimes. Sometimes its new families that wish to tie new bonds and other families that are keep th ...
Bear's Den Lodge has been operating for past 32 years under the ownership of Art & Brenda Barefoot. We owe much of our success to fantastic groups that have wanted to return on a yearly basis. Mon ...
Join us to celebrate National License Free Fishing Week (July 1-9, 2017) for all Canadian families. Celebrate in the heritage and culture in Northeastern Ontario for Ontario's 150 as well with seve ...
Ready for the spring fling? Ontario Spring Walleye Many seasoned fishermen are currently relining their reels and sharpening their hooks for the anticipation of the Walleye Opener for May 20th ...
Every spring is always an exciting time, full of new opportunities of trophy fishing and the well welcomed warm summer days that makes the memories of winter melt away. However with each thaw and ice ...
Some amazing places and sights to behold on the French River and Georgian Bay area. Big adventures await those who love to explore and step back in history. Join us for Canada 150 celebration! [cap ...
It was a 1967, Canada's centennial year. Our neighbor, Ross Hoover, was selling real estate. He had a listing for fishing lodge on the French River. Ross, his wife Pat and my husband, Don, were all av ...
The Outdoor Journal Radio Show is live every Saturday morning 8:05AM EST. If you're in southern Ontario (Canada), tune your radio to Sportsnet 590 The FAN AM or visit www.odjradio.com and listen live ...
Leave the city behind and challenge yourself with a remarkable French River Provincial Park getaway for Canada 150. Would you like to experience fishing in Ontario Parks? Canada was nominated as # ...
As every fishing enthusiast can tell you, every fish is a predator. Northern Pike are no exception to this rule as their primeval morphology has not drastically changed over the 60 million years. ...
It's official, French River makes the record books again! Dick Sprenkle's musky is recognized by Muskies Inc. for the Men's Top 25 for 2016. Dick's 54 inch French River trophy fish was successful ...
Bear's Den Lodge would like to say thank you to all our valued customers and friends who had the opportunity to share your experiences with us this past season!
May your seasons be merry with tight l ...
More women are enjoying the sport of fishing. Consider taking your daughter to enjoy the great outdoors. Support the Great Canadian Female Anglers by ordering your 2017 Great Canadian Female Angler's ...
List of ingredients needed: Pumpkin Gingersnap Cheesecake: 12 ounces gingersnaps
1/2 cup pecans, finely chopped* (optional)
6 tablespoons salted butter, melted
2 tablespoons pa ...
The women who fish from the Great Canadian Female Anglers finished out the 2016 season for Bear's Den Lodge, braving the late autumn chill with their favourite Musky Guide, Joe Barefoot. For th ...
Fishing the French River contains many hidden surprises for avid anglers. Many of us have our interests from the baits we cast to the fish species we prefer to catch. But it's always good to remember ...
I must say that Alicia Moir-Raytrowsky and I have really enjoyed our time at #BearsDenLodge on the French River. Today I managed to catch my first musky! After searching all over for one... ...
Our party of four from various parts of Pennsylvania (PA) traveled north for a week of fishing on the French River Delta near Hartley Bay, Ontario. Our destination was Bear's Den Lodge which we had ...
"It hit in three to four feet away from the boat. It was raining. The muskie gave me a real fight, it ran three times taking my black and chartreuse eagle tail under the boat. What a fight!" Wi ...
"Nothing like catching musky in your front yard!" said Chris Burnette to the start of his and Harry Haddix’s week at Bear’s Den Lodge. The seasoned West Virginian muskie hunters had fishe ...
Returning to the French River Bill and Nancy Hamblin talk to the lodge owners, Art & Brenda Barefoot, before the hunt for the elusive French River Muskie. The weather conditions for the day were s ...
TECHNOLOGY IS NOT THE MASTERY OF NATURE BUT OF THE RELATION BETWEEN NATURE AND [HUMANITY]—Walter Benjamin NATURAL RELATIONS TECHNOLOGICALLY TRANSFORMED University of Waterloo - Architecture s ...
Have you ever wondered what birds see? Imagining yourself flying over any obstacle and taking in the vastness that is the open skies? We always look for ways to immerse ourselves, to reconnect with ...
Walleyes (a.k.a. Pickerel) are known to be a finicky fish. Some anglers describe walleye feeding habits as something of a constant “tap-tap” feeling or a bump. But, there are occasions when they ...
Just a short note to let you know I had a super time at "The French". Your hospitality, as always, is overwhelming. It was nice getting to know you both better, as well. My trip home went smooth, b ...
Canadian outfitters, experts specializing in the adventure outdoors- world class, Canada trophy fishing for northern pike, walleye, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, muskie, catfish, sturgeon, black c ...
Bear's Den Lodge, French River, Canada is listed as the "Premier Fishing Lodge" in the sports section of the Chenango County Hometown Daily, August 3, 1995 by Bob McNitt, Outdoor Writer lists and stat ...
After 31 years of ownership for the Bear's Den Lodge, Art, Brenda, & I thought it would be best to make some revisions and follow through with a New Year's Resolution of revitalizing ourselves. We ...
Bear's Den Lodge, a "historical" museum, was built in 1925 for a New York Banker, H. Martin. Mr. Martin hired Bud West, local tourist lodge operator, to build a lodge on the property were an old logg ...
Are you planning for a camping trip this year? Already shopping at your favourite retailers and outdoor suppliers? Are you prepared? Something that I’m sure has been bothering many, or at lea ...
"Ever since I was a young boy I always had fond memories heading north and fishing with my brother in Ontario," says Art Barefoot (Co-Owner of Bear's Den Lodge). "From the people, the sights, and even ...
Walleye fishing in the French River Delta and Georgian Bay has one of the highest rod hours in Ontario Canada. Ever increasing numbers, these fish naturally spawn in the Delta of the F ...
Know Your Cast, Fall Pattern Fishing. Northern Pike are an aggressive freshwater fish with an attitude of its own. These predators chase, attack lures and are very territorial. As fall approaches ...
A Pink Salmon Ends the Fall Season
Fishing on the French River Delta is home to some the most diverse freshwater species of game fish, known most predominantly for its muskie, walleye, pike, large an ...
The water was still; the scene just sublime
with rock and trees, our mood did combine
The cusp of the season lay just ahead
Trees green and gold, were shocked by the red.
Billion year old granit ...
French River Delta landscape of granite rock, pine trees and more to appreciate. Does nature inspire you? If yes, Bear's Den Lodge would like to share an inspiring "place" some call a "special pl ...
Looking at some old photographs, I remember the pride in purchasing the very first wooden boat for Bear's Den Lodge some thirty years ago, it was the brightest pride and smoothest, fastest ride in t ...
Do you have that special outdoor lover and need a special gift for the holidays? Have you bought every lure possible for the tackle box? Christmas is closing in quickly and still don't know what to do ...
Welcome to the Bear's Den Lodge Blog. Bear's Den Lodge posts will take you on a journey from the history of the French River, to stories, nature, fishing tips, great food, adventures and just p ...
“Fishing is much more than fish. It is the great occasion when we may return to the fine simplicity of our forefathers.”Herbert Hoover For avid anglers, spring is the most wonderful time o...
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From swimming to fishing, every year Canadians and tourists alike experience the abundance of aquatic activities through thousands of different waterfronts. Of those who experience and explore these w...
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World Water Day World Water Day, March 22, recognizes the importance of how essential water is to our lives, families, home, and ecosystem – our abundant fishery and our wildlife. In 1993 ...
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French River History: reveals early explorers were looking for a shorter route to the West. Hence, the French River was the main "Water Highway to the West in Canada, from 1600 to the mid 1800’s."...
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“Most of the world is covered by water. A fisherman’s job is simple: Pick out the best parts.” – Charles W. Waterman It’s a passion that etches itself into an individual’s spirit. E...
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The NOHFC promotes economic prosperity across Northern Ontario by providing financial assistance to projects – big and small, rural and urban – that stimulate economic recovery and growth, job creation and skilled workforce development.
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Since 1982, the Ontario Trillium Foundation has been dedicated to supporting Ontario’s non-profits who drive positive change.
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Destination Northern Ontario is one of 13 not-for-profit regional tourism organizations funded by the Ontario Ministry of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries. We are the largest tourism region in geography, the second largest in expenditure and the only region that includes sub-regions.
Destination Northern Ontario coordinates, aligns and invests in sub-regional programs and leads in identified pan-northern management functions; co-ordination of marketing, product development, workforce and industry training, and investment attraction with the ultimate goal to significantly increase tourism revenues in Northern Ontario. Increased visitation and yield are achieved by delivering programs designed to enhance existing tourism products and developing new tourism opportunities for the North. -
CFN is all about showcasing Canadian Fishing & fishing responsibly. If you have the same passion, join our mission. Supply us with articles, pictures or videos and whenever possible join us at shows and help spread the love of fishing.
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Parry Sound & Area Food Collaborative. Healthy & Sustainable Food System.
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Events, news, visiting French River, Ontario & Land of the Voyagers.
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Conservation & Education Georgian Bay Biosphere.
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The Great Canadian Wilderness, Just North of Toronto. Head Out for Adventure!
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Welcome to the Northern Ontario Tourism Industry information website.
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TNO is the largest of 13 Regional Tourism Organizations (RTOs) funded by the Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport
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North America’s Premier Fishing & Destination Show!
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From the French River to the James Bay Coast, there is no denying our Northeastern region is BIG.
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Great cities, great attractions, great outdoors – so many possibilities in all four seasons. Explore the possibilities in Northern Ontario.
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GCFA has had the pleasure of teaching & sharing fishing experiences with female anglers from all over Canada.
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Explore fishing, cottages & resorts on the French River, Canada.
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A river of national historic significance, the French River is the first designated Canadian Heritage River
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Welcome to Destination Canada’s official travel guide to Canada. Bienvenue dans le guide touristique officiel de Destination Canada.
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Situated at the entrance to the North Channel amidst sparkling white quartzite peaks and pink granite
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Make sure you check the Ontario Parks before heading out
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YOUR Canadian COTTAGE FOR YOUR NEXT GETAWAY! French River Cottages available May, 2022 - 0ctober 2022. 3 day minimum charge per person applies. Prevailing rates available for shorter stays. Less than 3 days have added charges and are available. Make memories with family and friends on the French River, arrive as guests and leave as family!
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Your hosts, Art & Brenda Barefoot
Bear's Den Lodge
2870J Hartley Bay Rd.
Alban, Ont. P0M 1A0
Tel: (705) 857-2757
Winter Address:
124 Shagbark Rd.
Alum Bank, PA 15521
Tel: (814) 839-2443
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