In the summer of 2009, Pete and his crew ended up at Trout Rock Lodge on Great Slave Lake; a serendipitous turn of events after the camp they had originally booked failed to open. Trout Rock Lodge, a remote retreat just one and half hour drive, or 15 minute float plane ride, from Yellowknife along the lake’s North Arm, happens to be an ideal location with endless fishing opportunities. The long warm season brings endless daylight, perfect for the traveling angler.
The group was met by ex-marine turned wilderness expert, Ragnar Wesstrom, owner of Trout Rock Lodge. Over the next few days, Ragnar provided the crew with everything they would need to ensure a comfortable and memorable stay.
“My buddy and I caught 775 pike over nine and a half days with 91 fish of 40 inches or better. We were amazed. There are tons of protected islands, lots of excellent early bays as well as later fishing when weed beds develop. Ragnar runs large custom John boats that are super Pike-fishing platforms, stable and comfortable. And due to the protection afforded by the islands, you can easily travel from spot to spot, making good time, and not getting beat up doing so.”
Pete has fished many Pike locations, but Trout Rock Lodge tops his list. So naturally, he had to return. In 2013, he arrived early for four days of fishing before the official start of Ragnar’s season. Those four days were exceptionally successful.
“We caught 388 fish with 52 fish at 40 inches or better. The ‘better’ included multiple fish in the 47- to 48-inch range. My buddy got his first 50-inch Northern on a small Reaction Strike Fathead Minnow. Plus, we saw two other fish in different areas of the waters we fished that made his 50-inch fish look small.”Big fish aren’t always looking for a big supper, and that trip proved it. Stories like Pete’s are cherished in the sport fishing community, thrilling and educating anglers about prime locations and fish behavior in the NWT. Impressed by his friend’s catch, Pete was more determined than ever to land his own trophy Pike.
He had a fish up on a “figure 8,” a technique often used for Muskies, where the lure is pulled through the water in a roller coaster fashion next to the boat before being lifted out for another cast.
“I had a fish up on a ‘figure 8’ at the boat that was not only very long but had the heaviest shoulders I have ever seen on a Pike. It turned itself inside out chasing my large Reaction Strike Fathead Minnow, but it wouldn’t eat it!” The excitement of that fight made that spot unforgettable. Three days later, after the rest of the group arrived, they returned.
