Permits: To get a Cache Bay permit you should make plans early in the year. They begin taking mail-in reservations on the Monday closest to January 15th and phone-in reservations on the Monday closest to February 1st. The reservation number is 807-597-2735. If you are using an outfitter, for a launch or other services, they can make this reservation for you.

Customs: As of 1998 the customs station on Sag is closed along with most other remote stations. You must have an RABC (Remote Area Border Crossing) permit in your possession to enter Canada and the Quetico. These are obtained by mail and should be done a minimum of 30 days in advance. You may call 807-964-2095 to have a permit sent or download one from their web site. They require personal background data and a signature and should cost you about $22.00/US.

Camping: Quetico Park charges a camping fee of $10.00 per person per night (Canadian). Depending upon the current rate of exchange you will pay about $7.50 per person per night. You may pay in cash or by Visa/Mastercard. Permit reservations are not required in early May or later September. But, if you come before the ranger station opens (the day before the Ontario walleye opener) or after they close (Labor Day itself), you are required to paddle to the station dock and drop your camping fees in the drop box at the dock.

Fishing: Your best bet for an Ontario fishing license is their seven day conservation license for $15 (U.S.). The conservation license limits your possession but it's still more than ample to feed hungry paddlers. You may buy these at the ranger station and pay with cash or Visa/Mastercard.

Clean-up: Remember that the Quetico does not use latrine boxes or fire grates like the BWCA. You should bring a small trowel, or shovel, for latrine purposes and a steel grate to cook on. The maximum group size in the park is also nine people.

Outfitters: Five outfitters currently offer launch service across Saganaga. Prices are approximately $22 per person one way and $38 round trip. Savvy paddlers know to reserve their tow in advance to ensure prompt service.

Fly-ins: Most folks use Kashabowie Airways, out of Shebandowan, for fly-ins. You must meet the float plane at the now defunct customs station on the eastern side of Sag. Your outfitter can make flight arrangements for you in addition to a launch ride.

Driving: From Duluth take Hwy. 61 to Grand Marais. In Grand Marais take the Gunflint Trail (#12) to its end near Saganaga Lake. Services are limited at the end of the Trail so call ahead to find out about supplies, lodging, and meals.

This article first appeared in Boundary Waters Journal.

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