Has anyone done Quetico offseason?

[beaglefur]

I know it's possible, just wondering what it takes to obtain permits, pay fees, etc. during the offseason when the ranger cabins aren't staffed. I sure would like to go up there some October.

[Jimbo]

Beaglefur,

I've done a few LATE September/early October trips now. Basically, I show up at the Atikokan Park Office the night before, grab a form (kept available outside), complete it, stuff it in an envelope with money (including probable route & dates), and toss the envelope in the box set up for that purpose.

The next morning I drive to the EP & put in. That's about it. Most of those trips have been to the EP's at Beaverhouse.

Pretty easy, really. There really is NO competition or problem obtaining a permit; it's there & you fill it out.

Have fun!

Jimbo

[Yellowbird]

Jimbo,
How to you secure the fishing license? Pick it up somewhere after crossing the border? OR can you do it by mail order?
-YB

[Bannock]

I have been able to buy an Ontario Fishing License by phone from Walt's Dry Goods in Atikokan, [phone].

[Jimbo]

YB,

That sporting goods store on the east end of Fort Frances, just as you are leaving town towards the park, seems to be open long hours. I always pick up my license, etc., right there. Sometimes grab a bite to eat, too, at the restaurant next door.

fyi

Jimbo

[beaglefur]

Cool...sounds good.

I assume it's not as easy to enter the park through Prairie Portage offseason?

[intrepidcamper]

I think Prairie Portage and Cache Bay also have self-serve permits and boxes to leave the fees in, during the off season. The stations are manned ususally from mid-May through mid-September. Remember your border crossing permit RABC. If you can find a resort or an outfitter with boats in the water, and the ice out, you can probably find a tow if you wanted. IC