Last we checked, some of the lakes have 10 hp limits, some have 25 hp limits and some do not have limits. Canoe trips are very popular in this area and there are many canoe outfitters that can help you plan a great trip to the Boundary Waters. I highly recommend you find a professional that has a lot of experience guiding these waters, so you can maximize your time on the water up here. For your safety, it’s probably best to do your first trip up here with a guide. Many people come to this area year after year and they hire a guide every time they come back, but there are plenty of people that rent a canoe and do it without the help of a guide. However you plan to do it, do your research and enjoy your time on the water.
Motor Restrictions
The Ely, Minnesota area has several lakes that allow fishing with a boat and motor. This area is also where many anglers come to experience the Boundary Waters Canoe Area where motors are not allowed. Most anglers don’t want to plan a week fishing vacation and have to fish from a canoe the entire week, so the lakes that allow fishing with a boat and motor will give you the option to experience the Boundary Waters Canoe Area while also fishing in a boat and motor. Some of the lakes that have fishing resorts with boat rentals are Big Lake, Burntside Lake, Garden Lake, White Iron Lake, Farm Lake, Birch Lake and Bear Island Lake.
