Sylvania Outfitters

Sylvania Outfitters' owner Bob Zelinski, one of the most knowledgeable people around when it comes to the Watersmeet area, both out-of-doors advice and the rich history of the region.

This year-round outfitters offers canoe and kayak rentals ($26-$32/day) and trips in Sylvania and on the Ontonagon River's Middle Branch (a clear trout stream) around Watersmeet and Paulding. Proprietor Bob Zelinski knows the area intimately. His father was a guide and caretaker at a fishing retreat just outside the Sylvania Tract. Bob reads up on area history, plus science and other things, when he isn't driving a school bus, substitute teaching, maintaining his church, and helping raise four children. He has been an outfitter for over 30 years — a pioneer in eco-tourism.

Rentals can be taken anywhere on a customer's rented cartop carrier. The slow, scenic Brule river near Iron River is a family favorite. River trips are by reservation only. Reservations are recommended in any case, but walk-ins are sometimes possible.

The small shop here sells USGS and lake maps, tackle, bait, freeze-dried foods, and field-tested accessories like cooking kits, foam pads, paddles, clothing, etc. and makes referrals for area fishing guides. Complete outfitting options for camping are available. For details, see www.sylvaniaoutfitters.com. It has a good Sylvania map and overview of its policies.

Canoes in four sizes, from 13 to 18 feet, and kayaks rent for from $24 to $32 a day, including vests, carrying yoke, and car-top carrier. New Kevlar canoes, best for more experienced canoeists, only weigh 43 pounds, a boon for portaging.

Trips with dropoffs cost from $15 to $25 for several canoes. Two Sylvania day trips are offered: Clark and Loon Lake (no motors, isolated beaches, catch-and-release fishing) and Crooked and High Lake. Scenic, twisting Crooked Lake allows electric motors and normal fishing. Short, hilly portages connect with several other lakes, but many twists and turns make good navigational skills a must. Group rates available.

River trips include the different day trips on the Ontonagon River's Middle Branch described below. Some canoeists rent car-top carriers or trailers to take Sylvania Outfitters' equipment to the Brule and Paint rivers near Iron River, which lacks an area canoe livery. The Brule is well suited to beginners and families.

In winter, no-wax cross-country skis plus boots and poles can be rented. Reservations are advised during busy times like Christmas week. Snowshoes & bindings are $10/day. The shop sells Iverson snowshoes, wax, and more.

On U.S. 2 & Ontonagon River Middle Branch, 1 mile west of Watersmeet. (906) 358-4766. Open daily year-round. 8-8 in summer, 8:30-6 in spring and fall, 10-5 in winter. Handicap accessibility: call.
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