How to Successfully Release a Fish

Many lakes, including Burntwood Lake, participate in catch and release fishing programs. While catching a fish is typically straightforward, the releasing part of fishing may be difficult for those who are new to the sport.

To practice successful catch and release, follow these steps:

  1. When handling a fish, wet your hands or put on rubberized gloves so you help maintain the slime coat on the fish. The slime coat you tend to see helps protect the fish from infection and helps with swimming.
  2. After preparing your hands, hold the fish horizontally whenever you can since that is the way fish naturally swim when in the water. Try not to drop the fish onto any hard surfaces.
  3. It’s important to keep your fingers away from the eyes and gills of the fish and avoid squeezing fish around the belly since that can damage their internal organs.
  4. To minimize handling, use a release tool such as de-hookers or recompression tools, if needed.
  5. Although you may want to take photos of your big catch, remember time is the essence! Release the fish as soon as you are able to and release the fish head first into the water so water is forced through the mouth and over the gills. This helps to resuscitate the fish. .
  6. Last but not least, know the current fishing regulations that apply to the state you are fishing in and accurately measure the fish in order to abide by the regulations. Here at Burntwood Lake Lodge, we practice a catch and release policy of all Northern Pike over 30”.

We want you to have a great experience on the water but we also encourage anglers to be responsible and knowledgeable. If we now have you feeling eager to fish, book a stay with us today by calling 1-877-358-2259.

Go Fish! Take Your Children Fishing

Have you been contemplating whether or not you should go on a fishing trip with your children? After reading about the benefits your children can gain from some good ole’ fishing, you’ll find yourself booking a trip with us sooner rather than later.

Fishing isn’t just a way to pass the time; it can increase your children’s appreciation of nature, allow them to unplug from technology and learn patience.

Appreciation of nature

The more time spent in the great outdoors, the more your children will realize the beauty of our great world. Encourage them to take in every moment because it’s not often that kids these days get out in the fresh air. Grab your pole, put some sunscreen on and head outdoors.

Unplug from technology

Getting your children away from their screens once in a while will help them see that they don’t need to be playing on a computer or video games in order to have fun. If there is no technology present, you can appreciate nature and have a truly relaxing day with your family.

Patience

Going fishing teaches children to be patient and to wait quietly for the things that they want. We live in a world of instant satisfaction and “wanting it now” so fishing really tests patience, which is a great skill to have. Children also learn that not every fishing trip will be as successful as they are hoping. After all, the sport wouldn’t be any fun if we caught a fish every time we put our line in the water.

Come visit us at Burntwood Lake Lodge and experience great walleye fishing with your children. We are sure you will create memories on the water that will last a lifetime.

The Importance of Getting Fresh Air

FishingSome industrial cities are so polluted that you’ll have a hard time finding fresh air there. Then there’s the infamous “sick building syndrome,” whereas office workers get headaches and have all sorts of respiratory problems because the building they work in is so poorly ventilated.

Getting fresh air into your lungs is important for your overall health and well-being.

Most people spend the majority of their time indoors these days, staring at computer and TV screens. This is not good. Think about our ancestors– they spent the majority of their time outdoors, didn’t they? Now think back to your childhood. Most likely, you spent a lot more time outdoors than you do now, doing things like walking in the woods, swimming in pools, going for bike rides and picking flowers for your mom.

Fresh air is good for you and your body. When you’re surrounded by nature, far from industrial waste, you’re able to breathe in fresh air which helps boost your immune system and reduce your stress levels. At places like Burntwood Lake Lodge in Manitoba, you’re surrounded by trees and water. It smells good in the wilderness and makes people feel calmer and happier than being stuck in highway traffic in the big city– no wonder several companies make a “fresh air scent” spray.

Think about the last time you were away from the polluted city. Imagine the trees, bushes, flowers, walking paths, streams, rivers, and lakes. Didn’t nature make you feel more relaxed? Didn’t you want to take big bucketful gasps for all that fresh air to fill your lungs?

Simply put, spending time in the fresh air, outdoors, energizes us. Being in nature is good for the soul.

Burntwood Lake Lodge is a Canadian getaway where you can enjoy lots of fresh air. It’s also home to some of Canada’s best hunting and fishing areas. As a fly-in resort, Burntwood Lake Lodge is nice and remote– all the better for fresh air fun!

 

The Health Benefits of Eating Fish

Walleye Near Burntwood Lake Lodge there are over 1000 miles of pristine shoreline. Located in the Canadian wilderness in a remote part of Manitoba, Burntwood Lake Lodge is the place to stay when you want to go fishing for Walleye and Trophy Pike.

If you like to fish, and you like to eat fish, you’ll be happy to know that fish are among the most healthy foods you can eat. It’s no wonder that people have been fishing for centuries, and fish has helped sustain human life across the globe.

Loaded with protein, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids, fish are good for both your body and your brain. Interestingly, fatty fish like trout, salmon and tuna are especially good for you because they’re high in fat-based nutrients– the good kind of fat, by the way.

Did you know that eating fish can help you have a healthier heart? Studies have shown that those who eat fish regularly (at least once a week) have a lower risk of heart attacks, strokes, and death from heart disease.

Fish can also help children during their important phases of development, and expectant mothers/nursing mothers should consider eating fish so their child receives much-needed omega-3 fatty acids from fish. Note, however, that some fish may be high in mercury, which is not good for brain development, so moms should avoid raw, uncooked fish (including sushi) as well as fish high on the food chain.

Have you heard people telling you they take fish oil/eat fish for their brain? Since our brain function tends to deteriorate as we age, people have found that fish helps slow the rate of cognitive decline. Interestingly, fish eaters seem to be less depressed than most people. Imagine that– fish can make you a happier person!

Want to have the ultimate fishing trip? Call 1-877-358-2259 or email burntwood@burntwood.com to plan your dream vacation at Burntwood Lake Lodge in Manitoba.

The Health Benefits of Eating Fish

Walleye Near Burntwood Lake Lodge there are over 1000 miles of pristine shoreline. Located in the Canadian wilderness in a remote part of Manitoba, Burntwood Lake Lodge is the place to stay when you want to go fishing for Walleye and Trophy Pike.

If you like to fish, and you like to eat fish, you’ll be happy to know that fish are among the most healthy foods you can eat. It’s no wonder that people have been fishing for centuries, and fish has helped sustain human life across the globe.

Loaded with protein, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids, fish are good for both your body and your brain. Interestingly, fatty fish like trout, salmon and tuna are especially good for you because they’re high in fat-based nutrients– the good kind of fat, by the way.

Did you know that eating fish can help you have a healthier heart? Studies have shown that those who eat fish regularly (at least once a week) have a lower risk of heart attacks, strokes, and death from heart disease.

Fish can also help children during their important phases of development, and expectant mothers/nursing mothers should consider eating fish so their child receives much-needed omega-3 fatty acids from fish. Note, however, that some fish may be high in mercury, which is not good for brain development, so moms should avoid raw, uncooked fish (including sushi) as well as fish high on the food chain.

Have you heard people telling you they take fish oil/eat fish for their brain? Since our brain function tends to deteriorate as we age, people have found that fish helps slow the rate of cognitive decline. Interestingly, fish eaters seem to be less depressed than most people. Imagine that– fish can make you a happier person!

Want to have the ultimate fishing trip? Call 1-877-358-2259 or email burntwood@burntwood.com to plan your dream vacation at Burntwood Lake Lodge in Manitoba.

When To Start Booking Your Summer Fishing Trip In Manitoba

Fishing Trip In ManitobaWho doesn’t love to go on a fishing trip with the family or just the guys? We know that this activity is so relaxing and so many people can’t wait till the season begins each year.

It is important for everyone to know the times that the season begins and when you should reserve your trip to come and fish with us.

The fishing this year will begin on May 21, 2016, according to Manitoba’s Angler Guide since we are in the Northwest Division of Manitoba. The general closure is from May 1, 2016, to May 20, 2016.

Here are a few other regulations from Manitoba’s Angler Guide for anyone that has not fished with us before:

  • Barbless hooks must be used.
  • From April 1 to and including April 30 and from May 21 to and including May 31, the walleye limit is 4.
  • No live baitfish
  • All lake trout over 65 cm must be released.
  • All pike over 75 cm must be released.
  • All walleye over 55 cm must be released.

We offer fishing package rates for 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7-day trips as well as Direct from Winnipeg travel options as well for 5 night/4 day and 7 night/6-day trips.

To see pricing, as well as what is included and not included, visit our Fishing Page.

Your license fee is not included in the price of your trip. This fee varies depending on age and residency status. Here is a quick breakdown:

65+ Manitoba Residents

  • Conservational License: Free
  • Regular License: $25.10

Manitoba Resident – Ages 16 – 64

  • Conservational License: $19.20
  • Regular License: $25.10

Canadian Resident – Age 16 and over

  • Conservational License: $28
  • Regular License: $47.65

Nonresident – age 16 and over

  • Conservational License: $37.85
  • Regular License: $62.35

If you are ready to book your trip, we would recommend contacting us at Burntwood Lake Lodge, 1-877-358-2259, as soon as possible to book for this season since we are only a few short weeks away from opening day.

Year Round Fishing Conditions

Year Round Fishing ConditionsFishing is one of few outdoor sports that you can engage in year round. With the exception of winter where you will ice fish, in all three others seasons of the year, you can fish from a boat or side of a stream, river or lake.

The success of your fishing depends on the type of fish biting during that time of year, the temperature of the water and heat of the sun.

We can’t also forget that the time of day plays a large role in successful fishing. Before the sun sets high in the sky, some fish prefer the cooler water, which makes early morning fishing better than midday.

Some fish species like dark and murky water, making an early evening or nighttime fishing a good time.

Here is a breakdown of what you can expect for seasonal fishing.

Remember, though, this is just a guide and not an absolute. Some research ahead of time on the type of fish you’re after is the best solution for a successful fishing excursion.

Spring – this is typically when fish begin spawning. Since water temperatures take a while to hit a decent 65 degrees, many fish species will swim at the surface of the water, where the sun has warmed the top layer or close to shore.

Summer – many fish species have released their offspring by now and due to the rising heat of the water temperature, you’ll find much fish to swim deep below the surface where it is colder and darker.

Fall – water temperatures are much cooler by now, making the fish really active to locate the warm spots in the water. The colder the water, the hungrier the fish are, which makes it easier to catch a fish.

Winter – while the quantity of fish is lower in the winter, the quality of fish is increased. Fishing trips in the winter tend to be shorter days with fewer fish, but the fish you catch will be well fed.

At Burntwood Lake Lodge our unique location boasts over 1000 miles of pristine shoreline to fish from and is scattered with weed beds, hidden reefs and much more; perfect for trophy Walleye and Pike Fishing. Being a Manitoba fly-in only resort we provide a large selection of tackle and bait in our souvenir store. For more information, contact us today!

A Fishing Trip Checklist

Is there anything better than a fishing trip?  A fishing trip provides the ultimate escape, as few things are more relaxing, enjoyable and memorable than traveling to fish with your friends and/or relatives.  Countless fishermen choose to go to a new place every year, seeking a new adventure and challenge.  Others like to stick to tradition, departing to the same fishing spot year after year.  Whatever your ritual may be, there are few things to look forward to more than a fishing trip.

For novice fisherman, packing your first bag for a fishing trip can be exciting, but it can also cause some minor anxiety as you fret over what to bring and what to leave behind.  The worst-case scenario is arriving at your destination and either realizing you forgot something at home, or chose not to pack something that you ended up needing.  Below are 4 things that you should always pack for your fishing trip.

1)    Clothing for all weather possibilities.  This should include a jacket and extra layers for when it’s cold out, a reliable rain suit, waterproof shoes and something comfortable to wear when it’s warm out.

2)    Bug spray, sunglasses and sunscreen lotion.  All three of these things are borderline necessities, as you do not want bugs to drive you crazy or a sun burn/sun poisoning to prevent you from having the best possible time.

3)    Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant and other bathroom toiletries.  A necessity for any type of vacation.

4)    Proper fishing equipment.  Either talk to the place you are staying at, or to a more experienced fisher to see what type of rods, reels and other equipment that you will need for the trip.

This is just a brief list of what one should pack for their trip.  Figuring out meals, sleeping arrangements and other mitigating factors will also affect what you decide to pack.  Luckily, some places take care of that for you.

And don’t forget your passport if you are leaving your country for a unique fishing trip!

 

 

 

What Exactly Do You Need To Enter Canada?

In summer of 2009, U.S. laws changed to stricken the requirements for entering our neighboring country, Canada. Ever since then, there has been confusion and speculation as to what you need to enter and exit Canada.

Documents

Age, transportation, and motive all affect which documents you will need. Customs officers are entitled to refuse entry to either country at any point. Having the incorrect documentation could throw a gigantic wrench in your vacation, so we have provided you with a checklist. Ensure members who are traveling with you have everything that he or she needs according to their demographic.

•    Traveling by air, for adults and children, passengers are required to have a U.S Passport and a Nexus Card.

•    For Adults arriving by land or by sea, a U.S passport is required.

•    In MI, NY, VT, and WA, an Enhanced Driver’s License is acceptable for entry to and from Canada.

•    For vacationers on cruises, which begin and end on the same port, passengers may provide a driver’s license and a birth certificate. However, some cruise liners are stringent in order to protect their assets, so check with them first.

•    For kids arriving by land or sea, under the age of fifteen may present only a birth certificate, as they have no photo ID.

For more information please visit http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/tourist.asp.

Being Prepared to Hunt

With hunting season in full swing, it is important not to overlook the basics. Before you head out on your hunting trip, look over the 2012 Manitoba Hunting Guide for some important information about rules, regulations and guidelines for the hunting season. In the guide, you will find a wide range of information from changes in the laws, to general information about hunting on public and private land, to big game hunting regulations and even tips for handling and preparing wild meat.

In addition to reading over important material and keeping up-to-date with the latest hunting rules and regulations, before you head out, make sure you have all the necessary items to make sure your hunting trip is a safe and enjoyable one. Below you will find an outdoor travel checklist from the Manitoba Wildlife Federation

Hunting Checklist:

•    Have a map of area and a compass- and make sure you know how to use them!
•    Bring a large orange-colored plastic bag – this is useful as emergency shelter, signaling device or rainwear.
•    Do not forget a flashlight and spare batteries.
•    Bring extra food and water.
•    Make sure you pack extra clothing – clothes for rain and wind, toque and gloves, sweater and warm pants, and proper footwear.
•    Pack sun protection including sunglasses, sunscreen, hat, long-sleeved shirt and pants.
•    Always have your pocket knife with you
•    Remember to bring waterproof matches and/or a full lighter.
•    Check weather forecasts prior to departure.
•    Have a first aid kit  on hand and know how to use it.

Some other things to bring: whistle, small lightweight ground insulation, projectile-type flares, tarp, space blanket, flagging tape, notebook and pencil.

 (http://www.gov.mb.ca/conservation/wildlife/hunting/pdfs/hunting%20guide_2012_web.pdf)

Stay safe this hunting season!