Camp
Sutton River Brook Trout Float Trip
Sutton River, Ontario — Near Hawley Lake (starting point)
About This Camp
Accommodations
Amenities
Other: Designated camping stations with platforms, overhangs, firepits, and drying areas (noted for Attawapiskat; Sutton has open camping along river). Shot gun permits for Polar Bear Provincial Park included.
Fish Species
Lake Information
The Sutton River is world-renowned for trophy brook trout. Both native and sea-run speckle trout present. Crystal clear water and pebble bottom. No rapids or white water; 80% wadeable. Up to 100 fish per day; 3–5 lb brookies on fly rods or spinning reels. Best time is last week of July through first week of September when sea-run trout are present. Polar bears present in the area.
Meals & Services
Reviews & Reputation
Hearst Air Service, based in Northern Ontario, has built a strong reputation among fly-in fishing and hunting clients over many years. The overwhelming majority of reviews are five stars. Guests frequently return for multiple trips (some for nearly two decades) and bring family members or expand their groups. The operation is run by the Veilleux family, and guests repeatedly name Melanie and George as responsive, organized, and patient with first-time clients. Guests consistently say the outfitter delivers what it promises: reliable logistics, well-maintained aircraft (including a turbine Beaver, Otter, and Cessna Caravan), and remote access to lakes that see very little fishing pressure.
Guests consistently praise several specific elements. The fishing is exceptional across multiple lakes. Walleye, northern pike, and yellow perch are the primary targets, and pike exceeding 40 inches come from lakes like Napken and Pym Island. One group of three anglers tallied 600 fish in a single week. Cabins are basic but well-equipped, clean, and solid, better than many reviewers expected for such remote locations. Boats and motors are reliable. Guests appreciate the mid-week supply check-ins, including delivery of ice and bait. Guests call the staff, including pilots, skilled, friendly, and professional. The outfitter also accommodates hunting trips, and a moose hunt group reported a successful harvest and smooth logistical support. French-speaking guests have also reviewed the service positively.
The caveats are minor. Cabins are rustic and outpost-style, typically three rooms with an external outhouse, which suits some guests perfectly but is worth understanding before booking. Weather in Northern Ontario can be unpredictable. One reviewer noted a bumpy flight due to conditions, and July temperatures can swing cold enough to require a fire. One reviewer mentioned a bear entered partway into the cabin during the night, which is part of the remote wilderness context. Fish size at some lakes skews toward average rather than trophy-sized. Walleye in the 13 to 21 inch range and pike up to 30 inches are common, with larger fish possible but not guaranteed at every lake. This destination is well suited to groups of friends, fathers and sons, couples, and repeat anglers looking for high-volume action in genuine wilderness. It also works well for first-time fly-in guests given the thorough pre-trip communication. Serious trophy pike anglers may want to ask specifically about lakes like Napken or Quantz, which more consistently produce larger fish.
Videos — 3 clips from YouTube
What's Included
Included
Return flight from Carey Lake to Hawley Lake and back, 17' Royalex canoes (1 per 2 people), towing to first rapids from Hawley Lake, shotgun permits for park
Not Included
Camping equipment, food, fishing gear, paddles, maps, GPS, personal items, shotgun (suggested 1 x 12-gauge per canoe), bear bangers/flares, fishing licence, 13% HST
Getting There
Access: fly-in
Air Base: Carey Lake, Hearst, Ontario (17 miles west of Hearst on Hwy 11)
Flight Time: 150 minutes
Season & Booking
Season: Late July to Early September
Minimum Stay: 7 days
Location
Contact
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