Bear’s Den Lodge: An Inspiration to Live a Dream
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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 daily operations and maintenance at the lodge located along Highway 69 now 400 North in Alban, Ontario have been managed by owners Art and Brenda Barefoot, along with their son, Joe Barefoot. The Lodge owners were born in two neighboring small rural communities in Southern PA and each were raised in large families. Their families were well-versed in traditional farming, housekeeping, and banking. When Art & Brenda Barefoot were married -- fishing, hunting, farming, and foraging became part of the new family’s way of life. The Dream Long hours and days away from each other lead the Barefoots to seeking an opportunity of hard work to their own entrepreneurial endeavors. ArHow 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 different terminology going as far back as even the 1940s still in use. Some younger generations may see terms like 'European' or 'American' Plans and think well I'm a Canadian, Chinese, German, or any other country they are traveling from and ask, "where's my plan?". [caption id="attachment_2266" align="aligncenter" width="300"] French River Shore Lunch[/caption] American Plan vs Housekeeping
A good way to plan for your Great Canadian escape is to ask yourself what you and your friends or family want to experience? Do you wish to have no restraints on the time you can go out fishing and exploring the Ontario Park or would your rather not worry on having to prepare your own meals? [captiContinuing 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 the spirit of sport fishing alive by adventuring to the French River. [caption id="attachment_1996" align="aligncenter" width="625"] Urs donating his trophy 48 inch French River Muskie from 1986 to Bear's Den Lodge (2016)[/caption] One such family is the Duelbergs whose specialize in Large and Smallmouth Bass fishing. While bass maybe their favourite species to fish, they never miss out on any other opportunities. Urs was one of the first in the family to catch a trophy sized French River musky when he was 13 years old in 1986 while fishing with his father. His son, Mathias, continues in his father's footsteps where the two of them were out bass fishing late evening in the shallows. I31st 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. Montie Pattillo and his family are one such group we wanted to thank with this short post for the National Family Week as they were some of our first clients that helped us grow and become part of the Bear's Den Family. To see them every year is like a family reunion for us as now three generations are enjoying the French River bass fishing, swimming, scenery and much more! They even sport their own custom Bear's Den Lodge jackets with stripes of 31 years! See you next year! Make family memories in Northeastern Ontario! Authored by Joe BarefootNorth 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! [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="768"] French River Guided Tour[/caption] Photo credit to Sean Decory for this amazing photo and check out his work at seandecory.com.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 avid fishermen. That ad sounded interesting and Labor Day Weekend was coming up. The four of us were heading north. We drove down to the Harley Bay Road into the bush. There were lots of twists and turns, lots of trees and rocks before we, finally, were at the marina. We hired a water taxi to the Bear's Den. It was a dark dull fall day. I remember the first view of the lodge. It was very impressive. There it sat, red and white on its perch, high above the water. It looked massive. We landed at the dock, climbed the many stairs and entered the main lodge. The large open area was dominated by the wood burning fireplace, surrounded by stone. A balcony was around the room. They were animals heOutdoor 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 online. Angelo Viola has hosted Sportsnet 590 The FAN's "Outdoor Journal Radio Show" since 1996. Traveling around the world to produce popular television programs such as "The Fish'n Canada Show" and "The Outdoor Journal", Ang and fellow explorer Pete Bowman are no strangers to outdoor life. They use their experience and a unique sense of humour to cover the environmental issues and events that are important to the Canadian Outdoorsman.
Listen to our Online Radio
Outdoor Journal Radio - Bear’s Den LodgeFrench 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 #1 Destination by the New York Times as the 52 Places to Go in 2017. Travel and immerse yourself in the history the French River Delta has to offer. Hike, fish & boat the amazing wilderness travelway lush and vibrant landscapes with our personal guides.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 Calendar TODAY.. Only ($20.00 + postage) Details available at [email protected] and www.gcfa.ca. (function(d, s, id) {
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}(document, 'script', 'facebook-jssdk')); Posted by Great Canadian Female Anglers on Wednesday, November 30, 2016Ladies 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 the last two days of the season all the women caught their break and went home with smiles as no one was "skunked" during the fishing expedition, even if they could not find their own elusive French River trophy fish. They instead found their lines tight with other species of fish and the comradery in fishing together. [caption id="attachment_1640" align="aligncenter" width="625"] Heather's Pike photo by Joe Barefoot[/caption] [caption id="attachment_1638" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Flat Rapids in Late Autumn, photoed by Lori Kenny-Skerritt[/caption] Authored by Joe Barefoot, M.B.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 wonderful activities to reconnect ourselves with nature, there is always a need to stay smart and stay safe. Because of our countless opportunities to be in, around, or even on the water; tragically there are hundreds of Canadians who drown each year according to the Canadian Red Cross and the Lifesaving Society. For those who know me, would understand why I have decided to write this short article. I have had my own experience with near drowning, but what caused me to speak out about these sometimes avoidable accidents was a news article of a 69-year old local man who unfortunately passed away on October, 15th 2016. While I never knew this man, I can empathize for his family. Below, I havNot 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... I finally caught one right off the dock. He came out from under the dock and t boned my swim bait. He was probably the fish that took Alicia's little pike she caught on our first night here. We weren't able to land him then because he wasn't really hooked and we didn't have a big enough net at the time to grab him. A couple days later and he was ready for another "meal"! - T.J. Raytrowsky [caption id="attachment_1572" align="alignright" width="400"] T.J. measuring his French River Trophy. Photo Credit: Alicia Raytrowsky[/caption] [caption id="attachment_1573" align="alignleft" width="400"] Elusive, but only a cast away.[/caption]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 been introduced to over fifteen years ago by members of the Johnson Family, who have been coming to Bear's Den for fifty-one years. We began the week of July 17, 2016 on a positive note with Bob Griffith, State College, PA catching a 52 1/2 " Muskie, his personal best ever. Optimism was high as we fished through the week with several smaller muskies caught. Then on Thursday, July 21, I caught and released a 40" Muskie after a thrilling fight. We fished the next day, Friday, July 22, our last day of this trip, with some nice pike caught, but no muskies. We agreed after a mid-afternoon meal to not fish late (10:00 PM normally) and be back to the lodge by 9:00 PM to pack for our t52.5″ 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!" With a quick measure and photo of the French River musky, Bob Griffith of State College, PA, released his largest muskie to date during the group's 51st stay at Bear's Den Lodge. Since 1989, Bob reports that he has caught other muskies in past, but was concerned about releasing them quickly so "Not all fish were photographed". [caption id="attachment_1538" align="alignleft" width="625"] Larry William's Muskie from released 2 years ago (at the time of writing this).[/caption] [caption id="attachment_1539" align="alignleft" width="625"] Bob Griffith with a previous French River Muskie.[/caption] The 51st Year Johnson Adventure Tour Group from PA have enjoyed many other musky catches andA 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 fished some of their favorite French River muskie holes, but after a long day they decided to troll home during the twilight hours. As the minutes passed so did the casts as they entered into Bear’s Den Bay when Harry’s last cast of the evening had action. A boil of water rose to the surface as Harry was retrieving his suick. His hands quickened as he worked his action, doing all that he could to entice the would be trophy to clench his lure, but to his and Chris’s dismay “she would not take the bait” as she eventually lost interest. Without giving up, Harry cast three more times into the same hole he originally brought her out of and to his surprise he hooked into a different muskiFrench 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 spotty with high winds and choppy waters but no musky can be caught without putting effort into it. In their search for the massive monster, Bill trolls his chartreuse bladed black bucktail and bam, the fight begins!
Within the first two hours after to their arrival to the Bear's Den Lodge Bill hooked into an impressive 45.5 inch Musky, creating the first of another successful muskie hunt. [caption id="attachment_1465" align="aligncenter" width="578"] Bill's first day French River Fishing , an impressive 45.5 inch Musky[/caption]
On day two, just after breakfast at the Lodge, Bill and Nancy went searching for another French River Musky. Once again after several hours of dedication in flailiNatural 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 students venture to the great Canadian wilderness of the French River to explore the classroom for inspiration. During their stay, their project was to document two feet cubed of nature then build a model that would fit snugly inside a two foot cubed container. The model material should be sourced from the Cambridge Rona or Home Depot. As suggested by their professors, it is worth considering that all matter is of the earth. It is also easy to conceive of the two feet cubed that you have documented as nature. While it is more difficult to conceive of the materials of the model as also natural, they are merely natural relations technologically transformed. The natural relations of tNature 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 that of our roots and get connected with nature. However, sometimes the absolute beauty of the French River Provincial Park is not only where you stand but what's surrounds you. To traverse the rugged terrain and watch out over the sparkling water is an aspect many can enjoy, but what so few before could witness is seeing the French River wilderness with a bird's eye view. We decided at Bear's Den Lodge was to help provide a richer experience to an area many have returned to. By reaching out to our friends at Snow Drift Media, Sean DeCory Photography and Monkey & Machine. They collaborated with us to provide an experience all can enjoy, who are planning their vacation for the FrenchFishing 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 are less weary and strike out of instinct; sometimes greedily as they pursue lures meant for large Pike and Musky. While those instances are not unheard of for French River fishing spots, especially during the early spring and fall months, more often than naught, walleye have to be tempted and teased using live bait presentations which account for the vast majority caught. Walleyes, like perch, are a schooling fish. They cluster around structural elements like rock humps, inside turns, break-line transitions, shoals, sunken logs, fallen trees, and docks on the French River Delta. Depending on the time of the season, they will migrate and follow schools of baitfish. Other times, they will laOur 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 are still in the process of working on our project but some brief history of the old logo (left): When Art Barefoot decided to move to Canada, chasing after his dream, Brenda Barefoot decided the Lodge needed to have a logo that represented the spirit of operation. The original logo started as a doodle by Art when he was inspired by his cocker spaniel playing in the yard. After many different renditions of the dog, this one was modeled into a the familiar Black Bear (with brown tones) that many have come to recognize in magazines and TV shows. Art left his mark with his first name hidden in the front left claw, closest to the grass. While this logo will still be seen, the newer and moThe 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 logging camp used to stand. Bud hired Sandy Mower, Sylvester Ritchie and some of the Thompson family to help with the project. Photos indicated that 1924 construction started on site. Two years after the lodge was finished, Mr. Martin was unable to continue to visit the lodge due to his involvement in some financial and legal problems. According to Bill Maxwell, a previous owner of Bear’s Den Lodge, shared that Mr. Martin used the C.N.R. Railroads’ supplies, equipment, and employees that lead to being jailed. His wife, Elizabeth, and her sister turned the property into a commercial resort catering mostly to New York clients who arrived by train wearing “fancy dresses, top-hats aSpring 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 least gaining interest, is the rising concern for the Zika Virus. We have been hearing about it on TV, in newspapers, and even the various social networks. Various media outlets are bringing to light different advisory warnings for those traveling to countries with the outbreaks. While various regions all over the world are still in their winter seasons the virus will have a harder time spreading until spring peaks with the mosquito population. Do not fret! This short article will detail import things you should know about the virus and ways you can stay healthy in the great outdoors! The most common way to contract the virus is from mosquito bites. According to the Centers for Disease CoFishing – 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 the thrill hearing the reel squeal from another fight with a fish. It was paradise and I wanted to be part of it." "Life wasn't always easy growing up in a humble Pennsylvanian farmstead, but I knew after my first voyage north that I wanted to be an outfitter." [caption id="attachment_1093" align="aligncenter" width="625"] Owner & Chef Art Barefoot providing laugher and warm meals[/caption] [caption id="attachment_1094" align="aligncenter" width="625"] Line Class World Record Muskie Holder Art Barefoot explains the Muskie fishery and structure of how to fish the French River to Bill Hamblin (center) and long time guests Chris and Harry.[/caption] "Through high school I wWalleye 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 French River under the protection of slot limits since 1994. Walleyes or Pickerel, as locals call them, grow large and fight hard in this great Canadian wilderness river system. They have large cloudy light sensitive eyes. Walleye have adapted the stained waters of the French River Provincial Park and Georgian Bay. They tend to feed at sunrise, sunset or at night in the clearer water areas. Migrating walleyes head for the Georgian Bay by late summer. They begin to return late August to prepare for spawning in the spring. Many large walleye remain in the French River all summer, providing fisherman trophy walleye fishing all season. We recommend using live bait rigPike 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, weeds tend to die causing these fish to establish new habitats and hunting grounds during the cooler waters of autumn. During this period, they hang over hard bottom with green weeds until vegetation wanes and depletes oxygen necessary for aquatic life. This puts strain on pike in the noxious environment, causing northerns to seek new cover habitats over saddles, points, rocky reefs or shelves that descend into deeper water. [caption id="attachment_1084" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Catching Pike on the Cast[/caption] Weed edges over muddy bottoms normally die faster than solid bottoms. Cast for pike on weed edges of green vegetation. Often times in the fall, trolling spoonsThe 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 and smallmouth bass fishing. However, these waters and fishery are also a home to the pinks, chinook, and coho as they migrate from Lake Huron to Georgian Bay and into the French River Delta to lay their eggs. The salmon make their journey into the system as early as July, but are very rarely seen before September through November. Often times anglers snag salmon while fishing for walleye or even muskie. Fisherman are surprised and often do not recognize their catch and confuse it for a different species, such as trout. Trout normally are not . Average pink salmon weighs 3-5 lbs at maturity and can reach as high as 10 lbs. The fins have large oval black spots onOde 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 granite, the most elegant of rock
One lone mosquito our mood tried to mock.
Parallel lines of pollen, engraved there in gold.
Secrets of past water levels were "outed" in bold.
And now as we leave the magnificent French
The pickerel will be safe from our deadly clench.
So thank you Brenda, Art & Joe
To us, you just won the "BEST IN SHOW"
Lorne M. Evoy
Klaus Kuck
Sept. 28, 2015Would 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 their work and play. Can you feel the soft pine tingling your senses as the gentle breeze brushes pass? Bear's Den Lodge shares a collection of beautiful photos from a long time guest as he was immersed and enraptured by the French River, during his vacation. French River Photography at Bear's Den Lodge, Ontario, CanadaBear’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 place", a "simple life" and to others, it is a "bit of heaven on earth" for the past 90 years. This diamond, or jewel in the North provides you the opportunity to become a part of a significant part of Canadian history some 400 years ago during Champlain's journey through the French River. Imagine journeying these corridors 400 years ago in a canoe with Champlain. New and adventurous waters lay ahead; not knowing what nature had in store. Between these magnificent granite rocks with white quartz blazes were sparkling diamonds in the blue water reflecting the magnificent sky and landscape it enjoyed. Today, being a protected and the first Canadian Heritage Provincial Park it remains much unc
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 daily operations and maintenance at the lodge located along Highway 69 now 400 North in Alban, Ontario have been managed by owners Art and Brenda Barefoot, along with their son, Joe Barefoot. The Lodge owners were born in two neighboring small rural communities in Southern PA and each were raised in large families. Their families were well-versed in traditional farming, housekeeping, and banking. When Art & Brenda Barefoot were married -- fishing, hunting, farming, and foraging became part of the new family’s way of life. The Dream Long hours and days away from each other lead the Barefoots to seeking an opportunity of hard work to their own entrepreneurial endeavors. Ar
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 the spirit of sport fishing alive by adventuring to the French River. [caption id="attachment_1996" align="aligncenter" width="625"] Urs donating his trophy 48 inch French River Muskie from 1986 to Bear's Den Lodge (2016)[/caption] One such family is the Duelbergs whose specialize in Large and Smallmouth Bass fishing. While bass maybe their favourite species to fish, they never miss out on any other opportunities. Urs was one of the first in the family to catch a trophy sized French River musky when he was 13 years old in 1986 while fishing with his father. His son, Mathias, continues in his father's footsteps where the two of them were out bass fishing late evening in the shallows. I
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. Montie Pattillo and his family are one such group we wanted to thank with this short post for the National Family Week as they were some of our first clients that helped us grow and become part of the Bear's Den Family. To see them every year is like a family reunion for us as now three generations are enjoying the French River bass fishing, swimming, scenery and much more! They even sport their own custom Bear's Den Lodge jackets with stripes of 31 years! See you next year! Make family memories in Northeastern Ontario! Authored by Joe Barefoot
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! [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="768"] French River Guided Tour[/caption] Photo credit to Sean Decory for this amazing photo and check out his work at seandecory.com.
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 avid fishermen. That ad sounded interesting and Labor Day Weekend was coming up. The four of us were heading north. We drove down to the Harley Bay Road into the bush. There were lots of twists and turns, lots of trees and rocks before we, finally, were at the marina. We hired a water taxi to the Bear's Den. It was a dark dull fall day. I remember the first view of the lodge. It was very impressive. There it sat, red and white on its perch, high above the water. It looked massive. We landed at the dock, climbed the many stairs and entered the main lodge. The large open area was dominated by the wood burning fireplace, surrounded by stone. A balcony was around the room. They were animals he
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 online. Angelo Viola has hosted Sportsnet 590 The FAN's "Outdoor Journal Radio Show" since 1996. Traveling around the world to produce popular television programs such as "The Fish'n Canada Show" and "The Outdoor Journal", Ang and fellow explorer Pete Bowman are no strangers to outdoor life. They use their experience and a unique sense of humour to cover the environmental issues and events that are important to the Canadian Outdoorsman.
Listen to our Online Radio
Outdoor Journal Radio - Bear’s Den Lodge
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 #1 Destination by the New York Times as the 52 Places to Go in 2017. Travel and immerse yourself in the history the French River Delta has to offer. Hike, fish & boat the amazing wilderness travelway lush and vibrant landscapes with our personal guides.
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 Calendar TODAY.. Only ($20.00 + postage) Details available at 
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 the last two days of the season all the women caught their break and went home with smiles as no one was "skunked" during the fishing expedition, even if they could not find their own elusive French River trophy fish. They instead found their lines tight with other species of fish and the comradery in fishing together. [caption id="attachment_1640" align="aligncenter" width="625"] Heather's Pike photo by Joe Barefoot[/caption] [caption id="attachment_1638" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Flat Rapids in Late Autumn, photoed by Lori Kenny-Skerritt[/caption] Authored by Joe Barefoot, M.B.
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 wonderful activities to reconnect ourselves with nature, there is always a need to stay smart and stay safe. Because of our countless opportunities to be in, around, or even on the water; tragically there are hundreds of Canadians who drown each year according to the Canadian Red Cross and the Lifesaving Society. For those who know me, would understand why I have decided to write this short article. I have had my own experience with near drowning, but what caused me to speak out about these sometimes avoidable accidents was a news article of a 69-year old local man who unfortunately passed away on October, 15th 2016. While I never knew this man, I can empathize for his family. Below, I hav
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... I finally caught one right off the dock. He came out from under the dock and t boned my swim bait. He was probably the fish that took Alicia's little pike she caught on our first night here. We weren't able to land him then because he wasn't really hooked and we didn't have a big enough net at the time to grab him. A couple days later and he was ready for another "meal"! - T.J. Raytrowsky [caption id="attachment_1572" align="alignright" width="400"] T.J. measuring his French River Trophy. Photo Credit: Alicia Raytrowsky[/caption] [caption id="attachment_1573" align="alignleft" width="400"] Elusive, but only a cast away.[/caption]
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 been introduced to over fifteen years ago by members of the Johnson Family, who have been coming to Bear's Den for fifty-one years. We began the week of July 17, 2016 on a positive note with Bob Griffith, State College, PA catching a 52 1/2 " Muskie, his personal best ever. Optimism was high as we fished through the week with several smaller muskies caught. Then on Thursday, July 21, I caught and released a 40" Muskie after a thrilling fight. We fished the next day, Friday, July 22, our last day of this trip, with some nice pike caught, but no muskies. We agreed after a mid-afternoon meal to not fish late (10:00 PM normally) and be back to the lodge by 9:00 PM to pack for our t
"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!" With a quick measure and photo of the French River musky, Bob Griffith of State College, PA, released his largest muskie to date during the group's 51st stay at Bear's Den Lodge. Since 1989, Bob reports that he has caught other muskies in past, but was concerned about releasing them quickly so "Not all fish were photographed". [caption id="attachment_1538" align="alignleft" width="625"] Larry William's Muskie from released 2 years ago (at the time of writing this).[/caption] [caption id="attachment_1539" align="alignleft" width="625"] Bob Griffith with a previous French River Muskie.[/caption] The 51st Year Johnson Adventure Tour Group from PA have enjoyed many other musky catches and
"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 fished some of their favorite French River muskie holes, but after a long day they decided to troll home during the twilight hours. As the minutes passed so did the casts as they entered into Bear’s Den Bay when Harry’s last cast of the evening had action. A boil of water rose to the surface as Harry was retrieving his suick. His hands quickened as he worked his action, doing all that he could to entice the would be trophy to clench his lure, but to his and Chris’s dismay “she would not take the bait” as she eventually lost interest. Without giving up, Harry cast three more times into the same hole he originally brought her out of and to his surprise he hooked into a different muski
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 spotty with high winds and choppy waters but no musky can be caught without putting effort into it. In their search for the massive monster, Bill trolls his chartreuse bladed black bucktail and bam, the fight begins!
Within the first two hours after to their arrival to the Bear's Den Lodge Bill hooked into an impressive 45.5 inch Musky, creating the first of another successful muskie hunt. [caption id="attachment_1465" align="aligncenter" width="578"] Bill's first day French River Fishing , an impressive 45.5 inch Musky[/caption]
On day two, just after breakfast at the Lodge, Bill and Nancy went searching for another French River Musky. Once again after several hours of dedication in flaili
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 students venture to the great Canadian wilderness of the French River to explore the classroom for inspiration. During their stay, their project was to document two feet cubed of nature then build a model that would fit snugly inside a two foot cubed container. The model material should be sourced from the Cambridge Rona or Home Depot. As suggested by their professors, it is worth considering that all matter is of the earth. It is also easy to conceive of the two feet cubed that you have documented as nature. While it is more difficult to conceive of the materials of the model as also natural, they are merely natural relations technologically transformed. The natural relations of t
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 that of our roots and get connected with nature. However, sometimes the absolute beauty of the French River Provincial Park is not only where you stand but what's surrounds you. To traverse the rugged terrain and watch out over the sparkling water is an aspect many can enjoy, but what so few before could witness is seeing the French River wilderness with a bird's eye view. We decided at Bear's Den Lodge was to help provide a richer experience to an area many have returned to. By reaching out to our friends at Snow Drift Media, Sean DeCory Photography and Monkey & Machine. They collaborated with us to provide an experience all can enjoy, who are planning their vacation for the French
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 are less weary and strike out of instinct; sometimes greedily as they pursue lures meant for large Pike and Musky. While those instances are not unheard of for French River fishing spots, especially during the early spring and fall months, more often than naught, walleye have to be tempted and teased using live bait presentations which account for the vast majority caught. Walleyes, like perch, are a schooling fish. They cluster around structural elements like rock humps, inside turns, break-line transitions, shoals, sunken logs, fallen trees, and docks on the French River Delta. Depending on the time of the season, they will migrate and follow schools of baitfish. Other times, they will la
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 logging camp used to stand. Bud hired Sandy Mower, Sylvester Ritchie and some of the Thompson family to help with the project. Photos indicated that 1924 construction started on site. Two years after the lodge was finished, Mr. Martin was unable to continue to visit the lodge due to his involvement in some financial and legal problems. According to Bill Maxwell, a previous owner of Bear’s Den Lodge, shared that Mr. Martin used the C.N.R. Railroads’ supplies, equipment, and employees that lead to being jailed. His wife, Elizabeth, and her sister turned the property into a commercial resort catering mostly to New York clients who arrived by train wearing “fancy dresses, top-hats a
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 least gaining interest, is the rising concern for the Zika Virus. We have been hearing about it on TV, in newspapers, and even the various social networks. Various media outlets are bringing to light different advisory warnings for those traveling to countries with the outbreaks. While various regions all over the world are still in their winter seasons the virus will have a harder time spreading until spring peaks with the mosquito population. Do not fret! This short article will detail import things you should know about the virus and ways you can stay healthy in the great outdoors! The most common way to contract the virus is from mosquito bites. According to the Centers for Disease Co
"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 the thrill hearing the reel squeal from another fight with a fish. It was paradise and I wanted to be part of it." "Life wasn't always easy growing up in a humble Pennsylvanian farmstead, but I knew after my first voyage north that I wanted to be an outfitter." [caption id="attachment_1093" align="aligncenter" width="625"] Owner & Chef Art Barefoot providing laugher and warm meals[/caption] [caption id="attachment_1094" align="aligncenter" width="625"] Line Class World Record Muskie Holder Art Barefoot explains the Muskie fishery and structure of how to fish the French River to Bill Hamblin (center) and long time guests Chris and Harry.[/caption] "Through high school I w
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 French River under the protection of slot limits since 1994. Walleyes or Pickerel, as locals call them, grow large and fight hard in this great Canadian wilderness river system. They have large cloudy light sensitive eyes. Walleye have adapted the stained waters of the French River Provincial Park and Georgian Bay. They tend to feed at sunrise, sunset or at night in the clearer water areas. Migrating walleyes head for the Georgian Bay by late summer. They begin to return late August to prepare for spawning in the spring. Many large walleye remain in the French River all summer, providing fisherman trophy walleye fishing all season. We recommend using live bait rig
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, weeds tend to die causing these fish to establish new habitats and hunting grounds during the cooler waters of autumn. During this period, they hang over hard bottom with green weeds until vegetation wanes and depletes oxygen necessary for aquatic life. This puts strain on pike in the noxious environment, causing northerns to seek new cover habitats over saddles, points, rocky reefs or shelves that descend into deeper water. [caption id="attachment_1084" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Catching Pike on the Cast[/caption] Weed edges over muddy bottoms normally die faster than solid bottoms. Cast for pike on weed edges of green vegetation. Often times in the fall, trolling spoons
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 and smallmouth bass fishing. However, these waters and fishery are also a home to the pinks, chinook, and coho as they migrate from Lake Huron to Georgian Bay and into the French River Delta to lay their eggs. The salmon make their journey into the system as early as July, but are very rarely seen before September through November. Often times anglers snag salmon while fishing for walleye or even muskie. Fisherman are surprised and often do not recognize their catch and confuse it for a different species, such as trout. Trout normally are not . Average pink salmon weighs 3-5 lbs at maturity and can reach as high as 10 lbs. The fins have large oval black spots on
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 granite, the most elegant of rock
One lone mosquito our mood tried to mock.
Parallel lines of pollen, engraved there in gold.
Secrets of past water levels were "outed" in bold.
And now as we leave the magnificent French
The pickerel will be safe from our deadly clench.
So thank you Brenda, Art & Joe
To us, you just won the "BEST IN SHOW"
Lorne M. Evoy
Klaus Kuck
Sept. 28, 2015
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 place", a "simple life" and to others, it is a "bit of heaven on earth" for the past 90 years. This diamond, or jewel in the North provides you the opportunity to become a part of a significant part of Canadian history some 400 years ago during Champlain's journey through the French River. Imagine journeying these corridors 400 years ago in a canoe with Champlain. New and adventurous waters lay ahead; not knowing what nature had in store. Between these magnificent granite rocks with white quartz blazes were sparkling diamonds in the blue water reflecting the magnificent sky and landscape it enjoyed. Today, being a protected and the first Canadian Heritage Provincial Park it remains much unc
"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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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, 2023 - 0ctober 2023. 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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