Located at the centre of Lake Temagami, approximately 100 km north of North Bay, Deepwater Lodge is an angler’s paradise. You can B.Y.O.B. (bring your own boat), as the Lodge is situated on an island just a quick jaunt across from the public launch at the end of Lake Temagami Access Road. If not bringing your own, that’s okay, too! There are boat rentals on the lake, or you can make arrangements with the Lodge to be picked up.
Feel Right at Home
Jen MacKewn is the host at Deepwater and makes you feel right at home the moment you set foot on the island. After 18 years in Toronto, Jen jumped at the opportunity to purchase Deepwater Lodge two years ago. Growing up in New Liskeard and working at various lodges on the lake over the years, she wanted to get back to her northern roots. Jen runs the lodge with help from her mother, father, and aunt.
Anglers travel from far and wide to stay at Deepwater Lodge. Some guests are even third and forth generation. The lodge sits on 3-acres and consists of seven lovely rustic cabins, each with a full kitchen and bath. In addition there is an 8th A-Frame bachelor cabin with a barbecue, microwave, bar fridge and full bath.
The large docking system can accommodate boats of various sizes and there are power outlets for charging boat batteries. Fuel is available at the nearby marina. Enjoy the lakeside ‘Games Room’ with a big screen TV and pool table for relaxing after a busy day on the water, or just hanging out on a rainy day.
If you want to warm up, there’s a sauna situated on the island that was hand-built by Jen’s uncle. There is no spot on this island that doesn’t provide a picturesque vantage point of the lake and Jen has set up several sitting areas along the shoreline or on the docks to enjoy the scenery or have a campfire.
If you like to hike, take to the trails on the island behind the lodge. Temagami Island (just south of Deepwater) has marked hiking trails that can keep you busy for the day. The lake also has a convenience store, art gallery, marina, and plenty of events taking place at Bear Island, Lake Temagami’s First Nation Reserve.
Fishing for Everyone
According to Jen, anglers visit Lake Temagami primarily for walleye, but there are great lake trout fishing opportunities as well. Other species such as smallmouth bass and northern pike are also popular amongst anglers. Guests are able to catch both species right off the end of the lodge docks! There are great shore fishing opportunities for children and families, as well as a swimming area with a sandy beach. As a side note, Deepwater Lodge is pet friendly. Jen has a couple furry and (super friendly) side-kicks that will greet you with wagging tails.
In addition to hosting anglers and families, Jen offers accommodations and meal services for corporate groups, parties, and functions.
House-Made Dining Options
If fantastic fishing, accommodations, views and amenities aren’t enough, Jen also runs a restaurant at the lodge—and the food is delicious! A comfy sitting room at the restaurant with big leather couches to sink into, a fireplace, and flat screen TV is inviting, and just steps away from the bar. If you’d like to fish through lunch, talk to Jen — she will even pack you a meal to go.
A main dining area connects to a large sunroom overlooking the lake, so guests are able to dine-in with a great view of the lake. Jen can accommodate large groups and also offers buffet-style dining on certain days of the week.
So if you’re looking for a fishing escape up north that’s ‘away from it all’, yet still offers the comforts of home and everything you could need, you will love Deepwater Lodge!
