You know how I alway regale in the fact that I introduced you to Quetico. . . I really get a sense of satisfaction from that as I knew you would LOVE it. Well now it's time to regale in something that YOU introduced me (and others) to. . . Stay tuned as you will soon hear of this. . .
Well, finally here it is. I had to put up Part 2 before I could get to this, but the sentiment is still the same. . . All the Corn Dogs feel this way. ruclips.net/video/eozhu9tr_b4/видео.html
Chris, the pleasure was all mine! I remember looking up on this portage and there you were coming in the opposite direction, gliding down the trail with canoe and pack and making it look effortless, even though it was a long trail. You really have it together and I especially appreciate your positive comments!
Wow Mark, I just love your videos! My husband and I were in Ely about 6 years ago. We camped at Canoe Country Outfitters on Moose Lake and rented a boat from them. Very fun! I would love to see Isle of the Pines someday, but unfortunately my husband and I are very unskilled in wilderness adventures. Thank you so much for your very well done videos!
I remember you from a while back, as we discussed classical music relating to a video or perhaps a music video I had posted. I grew up studying classical piano so I can relate to your love of Chopin but I must confess I never played much of his stuff as it was too difficult for me, generally speaking. Since you are a musician, I should mention that I'm working on a song for the channel which is based upon the old standard: "I'll Sail Upon the Dog Star", but I change it to "I"ll sail upon the Kevlar!" It will be a music video and you'll probably be the only one to recognize the original song. . . On the video topic, Isle of the Pines is not hard to get to from the Canada side, and it's definitely worth the trip. . . I should also mention that your husband is lucky to have a wife who will make these trips. I became a soloist when my wife said she had enough, after about 15 trips which included the most challenging portages and routes in the park, as well as some wilderness expeditions in other provinces. She was a great sport while it lasted so I can't complain. Moreover, I grew to LOVE solo trips and now I find that I actually require a solo trip each season to maintain sanity. Thanks for watching and especially for your comments. Don't hesitate to make that trip--as a paddling couple, you are more capable than you think!
Just found your channel, I'm really enjoying your videos! My group and I will be in northern Quetico all next week. Your videos have been a great way to prepare and awesome reminder of why we love to go. Music is great too!
We had an amazing adventure! Came in through Nym Lake and stayed between McAlpine and Pickerel. Caught mostly bass and some walleye and one laker at 10.4lbs. Fishing was a little slow but we never went hungry, had incredible weather and sunsets and got lots of fun footage. Party of 8, and none of us have laughed that hard in years. We're already planning the next time we can go back! As I was packing through the hardest portage, the music on your video kept running through my head, inspiring me to push on. It truly is a wonderful experience, glad there are others like you that appreciate it so much, thank you!
@@lachlansweeney7959 LOVE IT! If you got some good footage, hopefully you can post some of it. You wouldn't believe how fun and easy it is to do this, and I just know you would be great at it, given your enthusiasm and communication skills. If you do post, please send the link. I just got back myself, did an easy trip on Basswood due to a hip injury and enjoyed the same good weather that you did. Thanks for sharing those great memories. . .
I appreciate that, that sounds like a great idea, I will send you the link when I get it up! Sorry to hear about your hip, hopefully it didn't affect your trip too much and recovery goes well. I look forward to seeing more of what you share, thank you Mark!
Great video Mark. I really enjoy your videos, not sure how I am just catching this one -RUclips must have unsubscribed me. I did my first trip to quetico last June, a modified Hunters Island Loop out of Prairie Portage. Just incredible country! Kawnipi was a highlight and the fishing was incredible! I stayed at the mouth of Kawa bay and was really curious to explore deep into the bay but time didnt allow so it was really cool to here about the wildlife in the area. Ironically I actually saw that couple with the row boat system that you ran into. They were camped just below the rapids on Keats when we ran into each other. A base camp into Kawnipi may be next on my list. Looking forward to part 2.
SoloSchmitty, thanks for watching and especially your interesting comment. It's funny, you ran into that same couple at Keats as that is one of my favorite spots as well (not the island but the 5 Star site just beyond, on the way to the portage). Hopefully you can get further up into Kawa next time and see some of the river country. I can't wait to check out your videos!
@@SoloSchmitty That stretch is one of my very favorite areas of the park. Russell is my number two after Kawnipi. I'm afraid to paddle across Sturgeon, as it got hit really hard by the recent fires. Same goes for the Maligne from Tanner Lake towards Sturgeon, and so many other favorites like Argo, Brent, etc. I get into a real funk when I paddle through burns, even though it's a natural cycle. Thanks for teaching me something new about my favorite waters!
If you would have followed through on your original request, we could have hooked up. You went dark for some reason. . . I even reached out on your channel. Maybe next time--remember you're the one who originally got me questioning conventional canoe paddles and now here I am in a whole new world. And loving it.
@@markpotaczek I made many comments on your page. I wonder why you couldn't see them. I was truly worried you had some health issues. I barely know how to find my page. I think I have maybe 2 or 3 thins posted. Anyways.... I hope the second half of your trip went well. Can't wait to hear more bout the 1000 fish🤪. I did do a short trip to saganagons in my new/used Prism solo. And Werner double bend kayak paddle. The paddle was great. The prism I paddled on a nearby lake for 10 minutes before heading north. I got off at hook island. And used a bubble level to get it balanced. Once I got out into the wind. Quartering from behind. I could not head in my intended direction without turning sideways. So I headed straight down wind to shore and shifted more weight rearward. Great improvement. While traveling or fishing I didn't dare lift my butt off the seat. Squirrely 🤪. The only time I almost tipped was at the Cache Bay customs dock. I went out June 9-12. Came back early. I had a nice tail wind and needed to get some stuff done at home. Caught some nice fish in the old favorite spots. I had not been back there in 11 years. My wife is in New York dealing with a dying brother. And my father 92 is needing more care.. When at customs and anmt the silver falls portage I met two 4 person groups that had been in Mckenzie/ Mac and did well. My email is flugaur@msn.com
Ben: I'll get back to you on the weight question, which is a good one. Sitting low is the challenge when fishing--you always have to have a brace on the boat even just to set the hook. And on more than one occasion I had 20" walleyes, that I hooked right under the boat in 10' of water, jump into my lap. Also had a couple that I dropped after landing (dinner fish) who unfortunately jumped OUT of my lap. It was a real clown show for awhile until I got myself trained. It was very humbling.
Ben, on the weight issue, I had to work backwards because while I didn't write down the weight of each pack, I remember that when I was completely packed, when adding my body weight (160) to the equipment weight, I had over 130 pounds to spare, which if you work the math backwards comes out to about. . . 350 pounds capacity less 160 = 190 pounds less 130 pounds of "excess" weight capacity = 60 pounds of gear and food. This is really an excellent question, so next time I am going to weigh and record each pack. One thing to also consider is that the weight capacity is actually listed as 350-400 pounds, so there is some margin for error.
@@markpotaczek That is actually pretty impressive for such a long trip. I really appreciate the answer it gives me some goals to shoot for on my own trips. I head into Sawbill tomorrow and your videos have me really looking forward to the trip.
Hi Mark. That’s a nice video. Good if you to share so much information on packing and such. I’m still it sold on the solo canoes where you sit on the floor. How much quicker and easier are they compared to your other canoe? Are they easier in the body? Less aches and pains at the end of the day? Looking forward to part 2.
Hey Boyle, I was thinking I might just encounter you guys this year as I was supposed to go in at Beaverhouse, but my outfitter couldn't get me there at the last minute so changed to the NE quadrant of the park. Regarding the floor seat: first couple trips I did experience some lower back pain, but once I adapted (hours in the seat) it never repeated. On this last trip, I paddled 14 miles down Agnes in less than four hours and never left the boat. Zero pain, AND the big thing I neglected to mention is that due to the carbon fiber kayak paddle, carpal tunnel syndrome is practically non-existent!
Chis, not sure what you mean here. . . "Another". . . Is there a typo? Have we paddled before and I'm forgetting. . . In any event, thanks for watching and hope you get up there soon!
@@markpotaczek as Ive watched your trips I just thought how great an opportunity to go with you some time. (another) meant another solo canoe, another wilderness and fish and adventure outdoors enthusiast, another of similar likes and thankfulness for the Quetico beauty; another paddler, you’ve never met
@@chrisconger1905 Chris, as you can tell from the videos, I've met some of my best friends and current paddling partners either on this channel or in the bush. I would love to share some adventures with any kindred spirit who appreciates this region as much as myself, especially somebody like yourself who is in agreement with my philosophies and travel priorities. . . My direct email is markpotaczek@gmail.com. Drop me a line and we should plan something for next year. I go every spring and fall, and soon I'll start going up in the summer as well. Thanks for watching and especially appreciate your comments.
Great video! I’ve never made it to Kawnipi, but I’ve heard it’s a gem for bass and walleye. I especially enjoyed the footage of the old trapper’s cabin. Thanks for posting!
Michael: You're right, the flies were bad that week, worse than most years. You have to help me out with the term "Mozzies". I'm going to learn something here. . .
@@McCaffreyPickleball That's what I thought you meant but wasn't sure. As you know, the flies are the worst, the mosquitos weren't all that bad but I have to tell you that I really love that bug shelter. Definitely worth the carry, in my opinion. I'm finishing up a video to post soon on the SEP trip from last year, with NO bugs. What a difference, but the spring fishing is worth any amount of this pain, thank goodness for our suits and shelters. . . Thanks for watching and especially your comments. Hope you get up there soon!
@@markpotaczekyeah... Might invest in one! I was there last fall. Did a 6-day loop at French lake. My channel is "Outdoor Earthling" if you chew to see my experience in 6 min :)
I always enjoy the photo that explains how the SPOT Signal works on your videos Mark! 👍
You know how I alway regale in the fact that I introduced you to Quetico. . . I really get a sense of satisfaction from that as I knew you would LOVE it. Well now it's time to regale in something that YOU introduced me (and others) to. . . Stay tuned as you will soon hear of this. . .
Well, finally here it is. I had to put up Part 2 before I could get to this, but the sentiment is still the same. . . All the Corn Dogs feel this way. ruclips.net/video/eozhu9tr_b4/видео.html
Hey Mark! Really cool to bump into you in Sunday Lake Portage on Sept 9th. Love your videos. Thanks. Chris, from Florida.
Chris, the pleasure was all mine! I remember looking up on this portage and there you were coming in the opposite direction, gliding down the trail with canoe and pack and making it look effortless, even though it was a long trail. You really have it together and I especially appreciate your positive comments!
Wow Mark, I just love your videos! My husband and I were in Ely about 6 years ago. We camped at Canoe Country Outfitters on Moose Lake and rented a boat from them. Very fun! I would love to see Isle of the Pines someday, but unfortunately my husband and I are very unskilled in wilderness adventures. Thank you so much for your very well done videos!
I remember you from a while back, as we discussed classical music relating to a video or perhaps a music video I had posted. I grew up studying classical piano so I can relate to your love of Chopin but I must confess I never played much of his stuff as it was too difficult for me, generally speaking. Since you are a musician, I should mention that I'm working on a song for the channel which is based upon the old standard: "I'll Sail Upon the Dog Star", but I change it to "I"ll sail upon the Kevlar!" It will be a music video and you'll probably be the only one to recognize the original song. . . On the video topic, Isle of the Pines is not hard to get to from the Canada side, and it's definitely worth the trip. . . I should also mention that your husband is lucky to have a wife who will make these trips. I became a soloist when my wife said she had enough, after about 15 trips which included the most challenging portages and routes in the park, as well as some wilderness expeditions in other provinces. She was a great sport while it lasted so I can't complain. Moreover, I grew to LOVE solo trips and now I find that I actually require a solo trip each season to maintain sanity. Thanks for watching and especially for your comments. Don't hesitate to make that trip--as a paddling couple, you are more capable than you think!
Great video Mark. I really like all the info on equipment.
Wait till you see Part 2 !
Just found your channel, I'm really enjoying your videos! My group and I will be in northern Quetico all next week. Your videos have been a great way to prepare and awesome reminder of why we love to go. Music is great too!
I just got back. Thanks for watching and especially your comment. Please report back on your trip. . .
We had an amazing adventure! Came in through Nym Lake and stayed between McAlpine and Pickerel. Caught mostly bass and some walleye and one laker at 10.4lbs. Fishing was a little slow but we never went hungry, had incredible weather and sunsets and got lots of fun footage. Party of 8, and none of us have laughed that hard in years. We're already planning the next time we can go back! As I was packing through the hardest portage, the music on your video kept running through my head, inspiring me to push on. It truly is a wonderful experience, glad there are others like you that appreciate it so much, thank you!
@@lachlansweeney7959 LOVE IT! If you got some good footage, hopefully you can post some of it. You wouldn't believe how fun and easy it is to do this, and I just know you would be great at it, given your enthusiasm and communication skills. If you do post, please send the link. I just got back myself, did an easy trip on Basswood due to a hip injury and enjoyed the same good weather that you did. Thanks for sharing those great memories. . .
I appreciate that, that sounds like a great idea, I will send you the link when I get it up! Sorry to hear about your hip, hopefully it didn't affect your trip too much and recovery goes well. I look forward to seeing more of what you share, thank you Mark!
Great video Mark. I really enjoy your videos, not sure how I am just catching this one -RUclips must have unsubscribed me. I did my first trip to quetico last June, a modified Hunters Island Loop out of Prairie Portage. Just incredible country! Kawnipi was a highlight and the fishing was incredible! I stayed at the mouth of Kawa bay and was really curious to explore deep into the bay but time didnt allow so it was really cool to here about the wildlife in the area. Ironically I actually saw that couple with the row boat system that you ran into. They were camped just below the rapids on Keats when we ran into each other. A base camp into Kawnipi may be next on my list. Looking forward to part 2.
SoloSchmitty, thanks for watching and especially your interesting comment. It's funny, you ran into that same couple at Keats as that is one of my favorite spots as well (not the island but the 5 Star site just beyond, on the way to the portage). Hopefully you can get further up into Kawa next time and see some of the river country. I can't wait to check out your videos!
@@markpotaczek that poets chain area (I think that’s right?) is really cool. I would like to spend more time there as well.
Can you expand on the "Poet's Chain". Never heard that term before. . .@@SoloSchmitty
@@markpotaczek i believe it refers to the stretch between Shelley Lake to Russell Lake on the Maligne River.
@@SoloSchmitty That stretch is one of my very favorite areas of the park. Russell is my number two after Kawnipi. I'm afraid to paddle across Sturgeon, as it got hit really hard by the recent fires. Same goes for the Maligne from Tanner Lake towards Sturgeon, and so many other favorites like Argo, Brent, etc. I get into a real funk when I paddle through burns, even though it's a natural cycle. Thanks for teaching me something new about my favorite waters!
Excellent Mark. I especially loved your readings, wow.
Thanks brother. Wait till you meet the characters in part 2 and see the finesse fishing. . .
Another great informative video. I enjoy hearing some of the history you add.
Thanks for watching and posting. Hope you get up there soon!
Hey, you are alive.
You have been silent for a while.
I just started your video.
Eureka bug tent is a game changer. Its wirth the extra weight
If you would have followed through on your original request, we could have hooked up. You went dark for some reason. . . I even reached out on your channel. Maybe next time--remember you're the one who originally got me questioning conventional canoe paddles and now here I am in a whole new world. And loving it.
@@markpotaczek I made many comments on your page. I wonder why you couldn't see them.
I was truly worried you had some health issues.
I barely know how to find my page. I think I have maybe 2 or 3 thins posted.
Anyways....
I hope the second half of your trip went well. Can't wait to hear more bout the 1000 fish🤪.
I did do a short trip to saganagons in my new/used Prism solo. And Werner double bend kayak paddle.
The paddle was great.
The prism I paddled on a nearby lake for 10 minutes before heading north.
I got off at hook island. And used a bubble level to get it balanced. Once I got out into the wind. Quartering from behind. I could not head in my intended direction without turning sideways. So I headed straight down wind to shore and shifted more weight rearward. Great improvement.
While traveling or fishing I didn't dare lift my butt off the seat. Squirrely 🤪. The only time I almost tipped was at the Cache Bay customs dock.
I went out June 9-12. Came back early. I had a nice tail wind and needed to get some stuff done at home.
Caught some nice fish in the old favorite spots. I had not been back there in 11 years.
My wife is in New York dealing with a dying brother. And my father 92 is needing more care..
When at customs and anmt the silver falls portage I met two 4 person groups that had been in Mckenzie/ Mac and did well.
My email is flugaur@msn.com
Great video and commentary. What would you say your total packed weight in the canoe was? How did you like sitting so low? Can't wait for part two!
Ben: I'll get back to you on the weight question, which is a good one. Sitting low is the challenge when fishing--you always have to have a brace on the boat even just to set the hook. And on more than one occasion I had 20" walleyes, that I hooked right under the boat in 10' of water, jump into my lap. Also had a couple that I dropped after landing (dinner fish) who unfortunately jumped OUT of my lap. It was a real clown show for awhile until I got myself trained. It was very humbling.
Well Mark it was a great trip and I really like the commentary in your video. Thanks for sharing.
Ben, on the weight issue, I had to work backwards because while I didn't write down the weight of each pack, I remember that when I was completely packed, when adding my body weight (160) to the equipment weight, I had over 130 pounds to spare, which if you work the math backwards comes out to about. . . 350 pounds capacity less 160 = 190 pounds less 130 pounds of "excess" weight capacity = 60 pounds of gear and food. This is really an excellent question, so next time I am going to weigh and record each pack. One thing to also consider is that the weight capacity is actually listed as 350-400 pounds, so there is some margin for error.
@@markpotaczek That is actually pretty impressive for such a long trip. I really appreciate the answer it gives me some goals to shoot for on my own trips. I head into Sawbill tomorrow and your videos have me really looking forward to the trip.
Hi Mark. That’s a nice video. Good if you to share so much information on packing and such. I’m still it sold on the solo canoes where you sit on the floor. How much quicker and easier are they compared to your other canoe? Are they easier in the body? Less aches and pains at the end of the day? Looking forward to part 2.
Hey Boyle, I was thinking I might just encounter you guys this year as I was supposed to go in at Beaverhouse, but my outfitter couldn't get me there at the last minute so changed to the NE quadrant of the park. Regarding the floor seat: first couple trips I did experience some lower back pain, but once I adapted (hours in the seat) it never repeated. On this last trip, I paddled 14 miles down Agnes in less than four hours and never left the boat. Zero pain, AND the big thing I neglected to mention is that due to the carbon fiber kayak paddle, carpal tunnel syndrome is practically non-existent!
Mark. Would consider taking another solo with you
Chis, not sure what you mean here. . . "Another". . . Is there a typo? Have we paddled before and I'm forgetting. . . In any event, thanks for watching and hope you get up there soon!
@@markpotaczek as Ive watched your trips I just thought how great an opportunity to go with you some time. (another) meant another solo canoe, another wilderness and fish and adventure outdoors enthusiast, another of similar likes and thankfulness for the Quetico beauty; another paddler, you’ve never met
@@chrisconger1905 Chris, as you can tell from the videos, I've met some of my best friends and current paddling partners either on this channel or in the bush. I would love to share some adventures with any kindred spirit who appreciates this region as much as myself, especially somebody like yourself who is in agreement with my philosophies and travel priorities. . . My direct email is markpotaczek@gmail.com. Drop me a line and we should plan something for next year. I go every spring and fall, and soon I'll start going up in the summer as well. Thanks for watching and especially appreciate your comments.
Great stuff Mark! You are living the dream my friend. 20 days! Looking forward to part 2.
Great video! I’ve never made it to Kawnipi, but I’ve heard it’s a gem for bass and walleye. I especially enjoyed the footage of the old trapper’s cabin. Thanks for posting!
Hey Mark, I guess you made it home safe! I have some good go pro video for you
Hey Dude, can you DM me at markpotaczek@gmail.com
How were the bugs? Looks like lots of black flies in the day? How 'bout the mozzies at night?
Michael: You're right, the flies were bad that week, worse than most years. You have to help me out with the term "Mozzies". I'm going to learn something here. . .
@@markpotaczek mosquitoes lol
@@McCaffreyPickleball That's what I thought you meant but wasn't sure. As you know, the flies are the worst, the mosquitos weren't all that bad but I have to tell you that I really love that bug shelter. Definitely worth the carry, in my opinion. I'm finishing up a video to post soon on the SEP trip from last year, with NO bugs. What a difference, but the spring fishing is worth any amount of this pain, thank goodness for our suits and shelters. . . Thanks for watching and especially your comments. Hope you get up there soon!
@@markpotaczekyeah... Might invest in one! I was there last fall. Did a 6-day loop at French lake. My channel is "Outdoor Earthling" if you chew to see my experience in 6 min :)
@@McCaffreyPickleball Gonna check it out now!